Antivirus for Chromebook

The Best Antivirus for Chromebook In 2021

Google often talks about how secure its Chromebooks are, and that’s because they are secure. Chrome OS executes every application in its own sandbox, which keeps programs from making any changes to the rest of your system. It also enables to run .exe files, so most malware can’t be installed on Chromebooks.

Written by Adam Stevenson - Technical Content Editor

 Updated on June 11, 2021

The fact is, this still doesn't make your device 100% secure. Your device will still be vulnerable if connected to the internet. Fortunately, there are a few high-quality antivirus programs to help keep Chromebooks protected. 

We have recommended the best antivirus for Chromebook for you to take a look at. This way you can keep your device secure!

Top Antivirus for Chromebook - Our 5 Picks

  • Simple installation
  • Quick scan times
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
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  • Complete Protection For All Devices With a single License
  • Configurable Firewall
  • Virus Protection Pledge Or Full Refund Guarantee
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Ultra Deal: Save Up To $80
  • Real-time malware protection
  • Safe-browsing using Virtual Private Network (VPN)
  • Remote Firewall
  • Multi-device use
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  • Multi-layered malware protection
  • Fast system scans
  • Secure web browsing
  • Enhanced security suite and advanced features
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  • Real-time malware protection
  • Advanced security features
  • Cross-platform compatibility
  • Value for money
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What Are The Main Security Threats to a Chromebook? 

When it comes to security threats that might harm your Chromebook there are certain things cybercriminals can do. They can compromise your personal information, steal your data, and hijack your online accounts.

The question is, how do they do it? Cybercriminals can use;

  • Fake Chrome extensions
  • Scam Android apps
  • Data-stealing phishing sites
  • Website trackers
  • Unsecured public Wi-Fi

This way they will get all your personal information without you or your Chromebook even noticing.

The 5 Best Antivirus Software for Chromebook - Full Review 2021

#1 Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes

Your Chromebook is vulnerable to the same threats you face on your phone. Threats like malicious apps, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Malwarebytes is specifically designed to keep these kinds of threats away.

Top Features:

  • Prevents threats in real-time
  • Crushes ransomware
  • Defends against harmful sites
  • Cleans and removes malware
ProsCons
  • Safe Browsing Experience for your Google Chromebook
  • Detects ransomware before it can lock your device
  • Might not be technical enough for the more technical users

Malwarebyte Specifications

Supported Devices 1 device/1 year - PC, Mac, Tablet, iPhone or Android device
      5 devices / 1 year - PC, Mac, Tablet, iPhone or Android device
Operating SystemsWindows, macOS, Android, iOS
Pricing Plan

Premium - $3.33 per month (1 device) 

Premium - $6.67 per month (5 devices)

Premium - Privacy - $ 8.33 per month (5 devives)

Free Trial Available

Subscription Options1- month, 1-year
User TypeHome and Business

Overall, Malwarebytes is a good antivirus, offering some of the best protection out there. It does a good job of wiping out aggressive malware that gets past your regular antivirus.

For more information on Malwarebytes, visit our detailed Malwarebytes Review.

Malwarebytes

Read our Malwarebytes Product Review for Chromebook

#2 McAfee

McAfee Antivirus

McAfee Safe Connect VPN is the only McAfee app supported on Chromebook devices. Other McAfee apps such as WebAdvisor and True Key are not supported on Google devices.

Top Features:

  • Wi-Fi encryption
  • Safe Browsing
  • Data Protection
ProsCons
  • Unlimited Data Protection
  • Free 24/7 customer support via chat or email
  • McAfee Safe Connect VPN is the only McAfee app supported on Chromebook devices

McAfee Specifications

Operating SystemsChromeOS, Android, iOS, Windows
Supported DevicesMcAfee Safe Connect VPN yearly - 5 licenses - Any ChromeOS, Android, iOS, Windows devices
McAfee Safe Connect VPN monthly - 5 licenses - Any ChromeOS, Android, iOS, Windows devices
Pricing PlanFrom $7.99/month, $19.99/yearly
Subscription Options1-year or 2-years
User TypeHome

McAfee Safe Connect VPN will keep your Chromebook safe to a certain extent with online protection. 

Take a look at our expert McAfee Review including info on additional features. 

MacAfee

#3 TotalAV

TotalAV Antivirus

TotalAV Mobile Security 2021 will keep your Chromebook protected from damaging malware, viruses and dangerous websites. You can stay in control of your device's performance with a suite of speedup tools. 

Top Features

  • Automatic dangerous website blocks
  • VPN
  • Release memory and boost speed
  • Find and delete duplicate files
  • Protection against rogue apps and games 
  • Lock private apps 
ProsCons
  • 24/7 security with Real-Time Protection
  • Only protects a maximum of six devices
  • The browser extension isn’t particularly user friendly

TotalAV Specifications

Supported Devices 3 devices/year - Compatible with a laptop, desktop computer, smartphone and tablet.
 5 devices/year - Compatible with a laptop, desktop computer, smartphone and tablet.
6 devices/year - Compatible with a laptop, desktop computer, smartphone and tablet.
Pricing PlanFrom $19.00/year, Free version available
Subscription Options1- year protection
User TypeHome or Office

TotalAV will give you the tools to improve the speed of your Chromebook, meaning no more running out of space or slow loading screens. Above all, your personal data is secure!

Read our TotalAv Review in order to have more information about the software

#4 Bitdefender

Bitdefender pic

Bitdefender Mobile Security & Antivirus is an Android app that runs great on Chromebooks, expanding out to a full screen interface that’s easy to use. Its key feature is a built-in VPN that provides you with 200 MB of traffic per day without any payment required.

Top Features:

  • VPN
  • Malware Protection
  • Data Breach Monitoring
ProsCons
  • Many useful featuresSmall system impact
  • Expensive unlimited VPN option

Bitdefender Specifications

Supported DevicesBitdefender Mobile Security - 1 year/ 1 device - All Android & ChromeOS devices
Operating SystemsWindows, Mac, iOS, ChromeOS & Android
Pricing PlanFrom $15./yr , Free Version Available
User TypeHome 

Bitdefender might be the best pick for the best Chromebook antivirus with a built-in VPN. This feature is available in both the free version of Bitdefender and the premium version, although the free version does have limitations.

Visit our Bitdefender Review and find out about other features. 

Bitdefender

#5 Avast

Avast Antivirus

Avast Mobile Security is the world’s most trusted free antivirus app for Android. It protects against viruses & other types of malware.

Top Features:

  • Antivirus Engine
  • App Lock
  • Anti-Theft
  • Photo Vault
  • VPN (virtual private network)
  • Privacy Permissions
  • RAM Boost
  • Junk Cleaner
  • Web Shield
  • Wi-Fi Security
  • App Insights
  • Virus Cleaner
  • Wi-Fi Speed Test
  • Behavior-Based Detection
  • Vulnerability Scan
ProsCons
  • 24/7 Support
  • Can take up a lot of space

Avast Specifications

Supported Devices1 app/1 device - All Mobile Android devices, but also compatible with all Windows, Mac, iOS, ChromeOS devices.
Operating SystemsWindows, Mac, iOS, ChromeOS & Android
Pricing Plan

FREE APP with in app purchases

User Type

Home

Avast is one of the most popular antivirus programs. It has millions of users and a global presence. With the Mobile security app, even your Chromebook will be safe and secure from cybercriminals.

Want to have more information? Read our Avast Review

Avast

How To Choose A Good Antivirus For Google Chromebook

There aren’t very many antivirus software programs out there that include everything you need to fully protect your Chromebook. What you need to do when choosing antivirus solutions is to keep the essential features in mind.

Ideally, the antivirus solution you choose should include features such as;

  • Phishing protection
  • Data breach scanning
  • App monitoring
  • VPNs
  • Web tracker blocking
  • Wi-Fi scanners

This way you can be certain that your Chromebook will be safer and your personal information as well. When you choose antivirus solutions with those features, you will be less likely to install malicious apps onto your device.

What Else Can Be Done To Keep My Chromebook Safe? 

There aren't many things that can specifically be done to keep your Chromebook extra safe, but what you can do is; 

  • Avoid these unregulated app stores - You can install Android apps from the Google Play Store and third-party app stores. Third-party app stores are notorious for supplying deceptive and unsafe apps
  • Do not install harmful browser extensions - Malicious browser extensions can contain phishing links, spyware, and adware, so be cautious
  • Keep the normal security measures in mind while browsing the web
  • Keep your Chromebook up-to-date

Bottom line 

Now you know, Chromebooks are secure, but not 100%. It is still important to take extra security measures to keep your personal information safe. Choose one of our recommended antivirus solutions for laptops and never worry about cybercriminals stealing your data.

Read Some of Our Product Reviews for Chromebook  

FAQ

1. Can you get viruses on a Chromebook?

Yes, your Chromebook can install malicious apps and infect your device that way.

2.  Do I need antivirus software on a Chromebook?

Yes, antivirus software will protect your Chromebook from malicious apps and keep your device from getting infected. This way, your personal information will be safe.

3. Is there a free antivirus for Chromebooks?

Yes, there is. TotalAV for example offers a free version.