Written by Adam Stevenson - Technical Content Editor Updated on July 22, 2021 |
We want to help you make the right decisions to keep your data safe from cyberbullies and criminals. We created this list of recommendations and have selected the best antivirus software compatible with Dell laptops. You can choose one of our top 3 picks to keep your device safe.
Written by Adam Stevenson - Technical Content Editor Updated on July 22, 2021 |
Dell laptops do come with built-in antivirus solutions. They can sometimes come with McAfee Security Center or McAfee LiveSafe, either as a 30-day trial version or subscriptions of up to 36 months.
It's important to check your laptop before trying to install different antivirus solutions than the already built-in software. When you have multiple antivirus programs installed on your laptop, it may cause your system to lock up. Since Dell laptops do come with antivirus programs pre-installed, one can install other antivirus programs without realizing that there is already a system installed.
Once you decide to install alternative antivirus software, it is important that you first uninstall any other antivirus programs that may be running on your computer.
McAfee is on most antivirus lists, it is quite popular. McAfee Total Protection has an impressive feature list, and unlimited VPN, making it great value for money.
Top Features:
Pros | Cons |
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Operating Systems | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
Supported Devices | Single device package - 1 device/1 year - Any Windows, macOS, Android, iOS device Individuals package - 5 devices/1 year - Compatible with any Windows, macOS, Android, iOS device Ultimate package - Unlimited Devices/1 year - Compatible with any Windows, macOS, Android, iOS device Family package - 10 devices/ 1 year - Compatible with any Windows, macOS, Android, iOS device |
Pricing Plan | From $29.99/yr, Free Trial available |
Subscription Options | 1-year or 2-years |
User Type | Home |
McAfee does great most of the time. The only thing is, It's not always easy to use, though, and it doesn't have the power or performance to match the top competition.
Take a look at our expert McAfee Review.
Malwarebytes has some of the best security features.
Top Features:
Pros | Cons |
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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 Systems | Windows, 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 Options | 1-year |
User Type | Home and Business |
Overall, Malwarebytes is a good antivirus, offering some of the best protection out there. Malwarebytes does a good job of wiping out aggressive malware that gets past your regular antivirus.
For more information about the software visit our detailed Malwarebytes Review.
Windows Defender is Sufficient for real-time protection and virus scans.
Top Features:
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Windows Defender Specifications
Supported Devices | Included in system/ 1 Windows PC or Desktop Computer |
Operating Systems | Windows |
Pricing Plan | Free |
Subscription Options | 1- month, 1-year |
User Type | Home and Business |
Windows Defender is the built-in antivirus software on a Windows device. It is available for free and pre-installed on all Windows 10 systems.
Want to learn more? Visit our full Windows Defender Review.
There are a lot of well-rated antivirus solutions out there that will work great for your Dell laptop. These well-rated antivirus solutions might work well on a lot of different laptop brands and devices.
Remember, antivirus solutions do not see a Laptop brand, it is all about the specs and protecting against online threats. So, if you are looking for a fast, smooth, and secure solution, you need to evaluate your needs and online habits.
Your personal online habits and use of your computer will determine the type of antivirus software you will purchase or install. The only thing you need to be sure about is to check if your antivirus will protect your device against viruses, malware, phishing attacks, spyware, and new threats. Your antivirus solution needs to have the ability to recover your software in case of an unwanted crash. You don't want to lose any valuable data or information.
When choosing the best antivirus for your device is to do your research, compare reviews and check out the features. Good internet protection is a must these days.
As we mentioned before, it is not a good idea to have 2 antivirus solutions installed on your device at the same time. This will cause your computer to crash. So, now the question might be
how do you reinstall antivirus software on your Dell laptop?
Well, let's show you.
To uninstall the built-in antivirus solution on your Dell laptop, you need to find the folder of the installed antivirus program. You may find it in your Windows Menu. Look for the antivirus program on your program list. When you find the antivirus program in the list, locate the uninstall option. Click the uninstall option and follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation of the built-in antivirus solution.
Depending on the chosen antivirus solution you want to install in the built-in antivirus's place, you can follow the installation guide. The website where you bought the antivirus solution will give you a step-by-step installation process to follow.
If you are being mindful as a user when browsing the internet and using your device, Windows Defender or the free already installed version of McAfee can be enough. The problem is that most people forget to be careful when using their devices, and threats infiltrate their computers, compromising their personal information. This can happen very quickly, without you or Windows noticing.
So, our basic recommendation will always be to install at least malware protection as an add-on to Windows Defender. Remember, you cannot install two antivirus solutions at once, you can only install an add-on.
Your data is priceless, and that is why you have to choose the best antivirus solution for your Dell Laptop. With our recommendations and information, you should be able to make the right decision for your device. Make the right choice and protect your information from data theft or virus attacks.
1. Are Dell computers considered safe? |
Dell computers can be considered safe to a certain extent with their built-in antivirus solution. Just remember, these days devices are more vulnerable than before. |
2. Is a built-in antivirus enough to secure my Dell laptop? |
The built-in antivirus solutions for Dell laptops can be enough, but as mentioned above, one can't rely only on it. |
3. Can I have multiple antivirus programs on my Dell laptop? |
Only choose one antivirus program and reinstall it. It is not recommended to have more than one antivirus software installed on your Dell laptop. |
What antivirus does Dell recommend? |
Some Dell laptops come with a 30-day or 36-month free version of McAfee. With this said, Dell recommends McAfee and Windows Defender. |