• Best Routers For Mac Users
• Best Router For Macbook

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus

Superior protection, low system impact

To find the best wireless routers for most situations and budgets, we looked at reviews at sites such as Small Net Builder, PCMag, CNET, Tom's Guide, TweakTown, Hot Hardware and Wirecutter, as well as others with similarly strong expertise in testing and evaluating routers. Currently, the best wireless router is the Google Wifi System. Wiki researchers have been writing reviews of the latest wireless routers since 2015.

Kaspersky Internet Security

Most everything you need

Kaspersky Total Security

Still top of the class

Plenty of Windows users believe they don't need to pay for antivirus software. Many Mac and Android users think they don't need protection at all. Windows' high profile makes it the biggest target, but macOS and Android are also vulnerable to malware, even if they don't encounter as much of it.

We believe it's worth paying for Windows antivirus software, because even the best free software leaves out some protection features we consider essential. But you don't have to spend a lot. Many antivirus products are sold online for much less than their list prices. Mac and Android users have other options: Some of our favorite Mac AV products cost nothing, and most Android security apps have free versions.

Different Types of Antivirus Software

Latest Security Alerts and Threats

—The Android PDF-creation app CamScanner was corrupted with adware, despite being in the Google Play app store. CamScanner's developers may not have been aware. ADVICE: Delete CamScanner from your Android device until a new version appears in the Play Store, and run Android antivirus software.

—Spammers have been sending emails to inject scam or malicious messages in regular people's Google Calendar pages. ADVICE: Follow our instructions to stop phony Google Calendar notifications from happening to you.

—Diagnostic software loaded onto most Lenovo Windows computers made between 2011 and 2018 could be used to hijack a PC. ADVICE: Uninstall Lenovo Solutions Center from your Lenovo PC., and run Windows antivirus software.

How We Tested

Our evaluations were based on an antivirus product's interface, performance, protection and extra features. Was the interface intuitive and user-friendly? How badly did malware scans slow performance? How well did the program detect and remove malware? Does the program have any additional tools, and are they useful?

All of our Windows tests were performed on the same Asus X555LA laptop running 64-bit Windows 8.1 (later upgraded to Windows 10), with an Intel Core i3 processor, 6GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive containing 36GB of files. To assess a program's impact on system speed, we used our custom OpenOffice benchmark test, which matches 20,000 names and addresses on a spreadsheet. The longer it took the laptop to finish the test, the heavier the performance impact. For smartphones, we used the Geekbench 3 benchmarking app.

Our Mac evaluations were conducted on a late-2013 MacBook Pro running OS X El Capitan 10.11. The Mac had a 2.6-GHz Intel Core i7 CPU, 8GB of RAM and 23GB of data on a 512GB SSD. For Android, we used a Nexus 6P smartphone running Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow.

For malware-detection scores, we've used the results of four independent testing labs: AV-TEST in Germany, AV-Comparatives in Austria, SE Labs in England and our own labs in Utah. Each lab subjects the major antivirus brands' products to stress tests involving thousands of pieces of malware, including hundreds of previously unseen samples.

Windows Antivirus Software Types

Most antivirus makers have three or four tiers of Windows products, with each price bump adding extra features, such as parental controls or cloud backups. But because each company uses a single malware-detection engine for all its Windows antivirus software, the cheapest item — even a free one — in any product line usually finds malware just as thoroughly as the priciest.

Not all users will need premium suites, or even midrange products. If you don't have kids, or if you already have backup software, the basic product may be enough.

MORE: How to Buy Antivirus Software

Basic or Entry-Level Windows Antivirus

The least-expensive paid Windows antivirus products, which generally list from $40 to $60 per year depending on the number of PCs covered, have the essentials. Definition updates and scans are automatic; websites and email attachments are screened, and the products are mostly easy to use. Some basic AV programs toss in extra features, such as file shredders or system optimizers, that are normally found in pricier products.

Best Basic Antivirus Product

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

Not only does Bitdefender Antivirus Plus have nearly perfect malware-detection scores, but it also offers great value, with a strong selection of extra tools. You'll find a built-in password manager, a secure browser, VPN client software, protection against encrypting ransomware and automatic profiles that optimize Bitdefender's impact on your system, depending on whether you're working, watching a movie or playing a game.

Midpriced Windows Antivirus

These products usually list from $60 to $80 per year. They generally build on the basic packages by bundling in parental controls and a two-way firewall to catch outgoing data, although many add other features. But for the full feature set each brand offers, you'll have to pony up for the premium products.

Best Midrange Antivirus Product

Reasons to Buy

Kaspersky takes first place among midrange antivirus software products, thanks to its excellent malware protection, a moderate system-performance impact and a full assortment of extra features and tools. Kaspersky Internet Security includes a secure browser, a virtual keyboard, specialized protection against ransomware, webcam protection to guard your privacy and VPN client software that automatically switches on when you connect to an unsafe Wi-Fi network.

Premium Windows Antivirus

Top-tier packages are often called suites because they do much more than catch malware. They might also offer file encryption, secure online storage, a password manager or an ad blocker. As most suites cover multiple devices, they also frequently bundle in licenses for Mac and Android antivirus software. For all this, you're meant to pay between $80 and $100 per year — but as with all paid antivirus software, steep discounts can often be found online.

Best Premium Antivirus Product

Reasons to Buy

Kaspersky Total Security has it all for those who want more than just excellent malware detection. This one rose to the top because it eliminates threats without generating many annoying false positives. We also like the included secure browser, which is ideal for online banking and shopping. Other highlights include a thorough file shredder and Windows backup and recovery software.

Free Windows Antivirus

Free Windows antivirus products have gotten much better, and our top two choices offer excellent malware detection, if little else. The others provide adequate protection with a smattering of goodies such as password managers or parental controls. Among those is Microsoft's built-in Windows Defender, which has risen to the middle of our rankings. However, free antivirus software generally leaves out extra protection features such as dedicated defenses against ransomware or spam blockers.

Best Free Windows Antivirus

Reasons to Buy

Kaspersky Lab largely keeps quiet about its free antivirus product, but it's a winner, with a user-friendly interface, a fairly light system-performance impact and Kaspersky's nearly flawless malware protection. Just don't expect anything from it but the bare necessities.

Mac Antivirus

Despite what Apple's marketing has implied, Macs do get infected, and the amount of Mac malware keeps rising, with more seen in the first half of 2017 than in any previous year. But there's less money to be made in the Mac antivirus market than in the Windows one, and the products are less standardized. Some Mac antivirus products are free, and some are paid. Of the products we recently evaluated, one of our No. 2 choices, Avast Free Mac Security, doesn't cost a dime.

Best Mac Antivirus

Reasons to Buy

Kaspersky Internet Security offers both the lowest system impact and some of the best malware-detection rates recorded. It even provides extra security features, including parental controls and options to lock down your webcam and stop websites from tracking your browsing activity. If you're willing to pay to protect your Mac from malware, Kaspersky Internet Security is the best option available.

Android Antivirus Apps

Every Android device, whether it's a smartphone, tablet or TV stick, should have antivirus software. Usually, that software comes with an all-encompassing security app that also includes anti-theft and remote-locating features, and many apps have both a basic free version and a premium version with more features.

The free versions of the Android security apps we reviewed are pretty solid. The paid versions, which cost between $15 and $30 per year, range from being just a bit better than the free ones to becoming practically separate products, with a wide range of capabilities. You'll have to decide what you need and select accordingly.

Best Android Antivirus

Best Routers For Mac Users

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

The Bitdefender Android security app has flawless malware protection, a small performance hit, privacy-protection tools and Android Wear integration. Yet there are no scheduled malware scans, and no freemium option. (The separate Bitdefender Antivirus Free for Android only scans for malware.) Still, at $15 per year per device, Bitdefender Mobile Security is worth the expense.

iOS Antivirus Apps

A lot of people want iOS antivirus software for their iPhones and iPads. The truth is that such software doesn't exist. Apple won't let third-party apps examine other iOS apps, or even inspect new apps as they're installed. Anything that claims to be antivirus software swiftly gets kicked out of the iTunes App Store.

Many major antivirus vendors, including F-Secure, McAfee, Norton and Trend Micro, do have 'security' apps in the App Store. But these check web links for known malicious sites, locate lost devices or pretend to protect your privacy. None scans an iPhone for malware.

There has been real iOS malware that affects non-jailbroken devices, but it's very rarely cropped up. In each instance, Apple has pushed out a new version of iOS to stop the malware in a matter of days or weeks. Generally, if you keep your Apple mobile device updated to the latest version of iOS, you should be safe.

[Editor's Note: Best Buy has removed Kaspersky Lab products from its shelves, citing concerns regarding Kaspersky's alleged (but as yet undocumented) ties to the Russian government. Top U.S. newspapers have run stories in which anonymous sources say Kaspersky software helps Russia spy on American spy agencies. However, until we see real evidence that Kaspersky software is a threat to consumers, we will continue to recommend it. Here is further clarification of our position.]

Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.

The Rundwon

• Best Overall:Net-Dyn AC1200 USB Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter at Amazon, “Capable of covering an area of around 100 yards while still offering its fastest connection speed.”
• Best Budget:Panda Wireless PAU06 at Amazon, “Keeps itself in the background so it does not take up too much of your laptop’s battery.”
• Best Compact: TP-Link N150 Nano at Amazon, “Has a plug-and-play design that requires little configuration regardless of your operating system.”
• Runner-Up, Best Compact:Glam Hobby 600Mbps AC600 at Amazon, “An excellent and smart way to add a 5GHz connection to a laptop or desk in a small package.”
• Best Features:Netgear Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi USB Adapter at Amazon, “Includes an extension wire and stand so you can set it upright like an antenna to improve signal.”
• Best Range:TRENDnet TEW-809UB at Amazon, “Featuring beamforming technology that excels at handling multiple Internet users at the same time.”
• Best Splurge:Asus USB-AC68 at Amazon, “Featuring foldable, external antennas to provide enhanced reception for laptops when open.”
• Best for Gaming:Linksys Dual-Band AC1200 WUSB6300 at Amazon, “Featuring speeds up to 300Mbps on the 802.11n 2.4GHz band.”
• Best Design:D-Link Systems AC1900 Ultra Wi-Fi USB 3.0 at Amazon, “An orb-shaped adapter that connects to your computer via a three-foot USB cable.”

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Net-Dyn AC1200 USB Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

Compatible with both Windows and Mac computers, the Net-Dyn dual band USB wireless Wi-Fi adapter is an outstanding choice for adding Wi-Fi to any computer. Utilizing both 2.4GHz and 5GHz capabilities, the Net-Dyn is capable of reaching and covering an area of around 100 yards while still offering its fastest connection speed. Reaching speeds up to 300Mbps, the addition of 802.11n connectivity guarantees a future-proofed purchase.

Setup is a snap. Just plug the Net-Dyn into your computer, install the drivers (Windows only) and connect to the Internet. Supported by all WLAN routers, there are WPA/WPA2/WEP connectivity options, which ensures the Net-Dyn works with just about any Internet provider in the U.S. Additionally, Net-Dyn provides a lifetime warranty along with routine software and driver updates.

Best Budget: Panda Wireless PAU06

The Panda Wireless PAU06 offers stellar performance at a fantastic budget price. Upgrading any computer to the future-friendly 802.11n standard means the max data rate can reach up to 300Mbps on the connection. Additionally, there’s backward compatibility with the 802.11g on the 2.4GHz band to ensure a stable connection regardless of your Internet service provider.

Utilizing low power technology, the Panda works to keep itself in the background so it does not take up too much of your laptop’s battery. Beyond battery, a WPS button works to connect the computer and PAU06 quickly without a headache for the user. The Panda is compatible with Windows 10, as well as Mac OS and various Linux systems. State-of-the-art security standards are also in place to provide the user with peace of mind through 128bit WEP, WPA and WPA encryption standards.

Best Compact: TP-Link N150 Nano

The TP-Link N150 Nano USB Wi-Fi adapter is a compact choice that’s priced just right. Just plug it into your device's USB port and you can connect to 2.4GHz band Wi-Fi at 150Mbps — it also utilizes the future-proofed 802.11ac standard. This little device has a 'SoftAP Mode' that allows you to turn your computer's wired connection into a wireless hotspot for your phone or tablet. Setup is easy thanks to a plug-and-play design that requires little configuration regardless of which operating system you’re working on. Once you’re online, this device offers 64/128 WEP, WPA/WPA2, and WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK security standards for extra peace of mind while you browse.

The N150 Nano is a very small dongle, which means it won't interfere with other ports and you can leave it plugged in indefinitely without worrying about it getting knocked out. But it also means you'll want to stick close to the wireless or wired router/modem to get maximum performance.

Runner-Up, Best Compact: Glam Hobby 600Mbps AC600

Whether you’re looking to stream video, browse the Web or host an online video conference, the Glam Hobby AC600 USB Wi-Fi dongle is ready for action. The device offers fantastic speed capabilities (including a 600Mbps connection speed running 3x faster than similarly priced Wireless N adapters). It's capable of working on the 5GHz band for a 433Mbps max connection speed (150Mbps on 2.4GHz), and support is available for both Windows 10 and Mac OS (the former requires a software download from the Glam Hobby website).

Measuring just 22mm in length, the Glam Hobby is an excellent and smart way to add a 5GHz connection to a laptop or desk in a small package (and at a budget-friendly price tag). While the omission of the 802.11n is noteworthy, the Glam Hobby makes up for it with unique features like creating a Wi-Fi hotspot for additional mobile devices whenever there is a wired internet connection.

Best Features: Netgear Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi USB Adapter

The Netgear Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi USB Adapter offers you a dual-band 802.11n connection, giving you speeds up to 600Mbps on a 2.4GHz brand and 1300 Mbps on a 5GHz band. It’s compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10, as well as Mac OS X 10.8.3 or later.

All of these features are exactly what you’d look for and expect in a Wi-Fi adapter, but the extra feature that sets it apart for this slot on the list is the ability to both plug it directly into your laptop like a thumb drive and the ability to use an included extension wire and stand to set it upright like an antenna to improve signal. This is great because you can toss the versatile device alone into your laptop bag for on-the-go Wi-Fi compatibility, and leave the stand doc at home to increase your signal when you’re at your desk.

Best Range: TRENDnet TEW-809UB

The four-antenna design of the TRENDnet TEW-809UB adapter might look a little “too much” for some buyers, but it's definitely more than meets the eye. The powerful antennas offer high-end features such as beamforming technology that excel at handling multiple Internet users connected at the same time without interfering with network performance. The antennas are independently adjustable, so you can fidget with each one to effectively increase range in your house or workplace.

It is capable of providing speeds of up to 1300Mbps on the 802.11ac standard or up to 600Mbps on the 802.11n standard. The inclusion of the latter allows for the TEW-809UB to remain future-proofed for years to come. While it might be mistaken for a router in appearance, its range rivals that of some routers (you can bank on more than 100 yards of distance before signal degradation).

Best Splurge: Asus USB-AC68

With a unique dual-winged design, the Asus USB-AC68 is one of the best Wi-Fi adapters money can buy. Featuring foldable, external antennas to provide enhanced reception for laptops when open (and easy transportation and portability when closed), the Asus offers outstanding range and speed. Utilizing powerful 3x4 MIMO (multiple in, multiple out) antenna technologies, the dual three-position external antennas pair with an internal antenna for long range connectivity. Working off both the 2.4GHz band (600Mbps) and the 5GHz band (1300Mbps), the Asus is more than ready to tackle bandwidth-intensive tasks.

Additionally, the increased expense results in features such as AiRadar and beamforming technology that create extended coverage, dynamic speed increases and enhanced stability while online. To get hooked up, just plug it into a USB 3.0 port on your computer or into the cradle that arrives with the Asus. The desktop cradle allows for easy positioning in and around the computer to find the best signal position whereas USB-only options limit reach.

Best for Gaming: Linksys Dual-Band AC1200 WUSB6300

Released in 2013, the Linksys Dual-Band AC1200 WUSB6300 Wi-Fi adapter stands the test of time with outstanding performance and lightning fast gaming speeds. Featuring speeds up to 867Mbps on the 802.11ac 5GHz network or up to 300Mbps on the 802.11n 2.4GHz band, the Linksys is more than ready for multiplayer gaming at any hour of the day. With support for any 802.11ac routers, access points and extenders, the Linksys also supports up to 128-bit encryption through WEP, WPA and WPA2 standards.

The Linksys works with all Windows platforms, including Windows 7, Window 8 and Windows 10 for maximum use cases both in the home and office. Beyond gaming, the 1200Mbps max speed is perfect for Netflix or Hulu HD video streaming, which makes it an ideal choice for the whole family. While it might be one of the older options available, the WUSB6300 still outperforms more current options and is an excellent choice for gamers that’s priced just right.

Best Design: D-Link Systems AC1900 Ultra Wi-Fi USB 3.0

Released in late 2014, the D-Link Systems AC1900 Ultra Wi-Fi USB 3.0 adapter bares a striking resemblance to the Death Star in Star Wars. The orb-shaped adapter connects to your computer via a proprietary three-foot USB cable. At 3.2 x 3.2 x 3.2 inches in size, the D-Link might be better-associated size-wise with a baseball or tennis ball to give a good idea of just how “large” it will be on your desk. Awesome design aside, the D-Link provides up to 1300Mbps performance on a 5GHz network and up to 600Mbps on a 2.4GHz network. The flexible technology allows the D-Link to be backward compatible with 802.11/n/g/a networks.

The D-Link has advanced D-Link’s SmartBeam (aka beamforming) technology that improves coverage by directing network signal straight between a router and the DWA-192 adapter. Additionally, the inclusion of USB 3.0 transfer mode allows the user to transfer data more than 10x faster than USB 2.0 performance. All in all, while it's a little on the pricey side, it's definitely worth it.

Tested by

How We Tested

Our reviewers spent 34 hours testing one of the most popular Wi-Fi USB adapters on the market. We asked our testers to consider the most important features — from size and style to range and speed — when using this Wi-Fi USB adapter and we've outlined them here so that you, too, know what to look for when shopping.

What to Look for in a Wi-FI USB Adapter

Size -Wi-Fi USB adapters vary in size, with some as small as a Lego block and others as large as a full-fledged router with antennas. If you’re looking for something more portable, the smaller ones work well, but bigger ones often come equipped with neat features like beamforming technology for diverting interference.

Best piano app for mac. Speed -There’s nothing more frustrating than a buffering stream, so make sure you get an adapter with speeds fast enough for your needs. While 300Mbps should be enough for most tasks, some provide up to 1300Mbps.

Range -Depending on where your router sits, you might have trouble connecting. Splurging on an adapter with a longer range will come in handy if it’s far away. Some of the best options will score you up to 100 yards of range.

Test Results: Net-Dyn AC1200 USB Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter (Best Overall)

What We Like

• Improved Wi-Fi connection

• Great range

• Reliable

Best Router For Macbook

Although one of our testers felt that setting up this adapter was a bit challenging, he found that it worked very well once it was up and running: “I was mostly using it at the furthest location from my router in my house and it worked perfectly,” he said. One tester even measured his wireless Internet speed before and after use and found it increased by approximately 15 percent.