Learn why Bitdefender is the best antivirus on the market in 2023 in this comprehensive review. If you are looking for a reliable and powerful security solution to protect your computer, you may have found the solution for your needs.
Bitdefender review in a nutshell
Its simplicity of use is one of the key reasons why Bitdefender stands out. No matter your level of expertise in the field of cyber security, Bitdefender is made for everyone. You can access all of the features easily thanks to a straightforward and user-friendly UI. To make use of Bitdefender to protect your device, you don’t need to be a computer expert. Bitdefender provides complete online security protection. With this antivirus, you don’t have to worry about viruses, malware or hackers trying to break into your system.
Bitdefender is constantly working behind the scenes to detect and block threats in real time, keeping you and your data safe. Bitdefender performed perfectly against all types of malware. No matter what cyber threat arises, Bitdefender is ready to deal with it successfully. And even more importantly, because of its cloud-based antivirus system, it doesn’t slow down your computer while performing full system scans. Then, you can browse worry-free, knowing that Bitdefender does an excellent job of keeping your device safe.
Bitdefender also offers one of the best web protections on the market. Compared to your preferred browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, it can identify more fraudulent and dangerous websites. Additionally, it performs better than other antiviruses’ anti-phishing software. You can browse with a peace of mind knowing that Bitdefender has control over your online security.
 | Bitdefender Mobile Security Android | 12,99€ |  |
 | Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac | 29,99€ | |
 | Bitdefender Antivirus Plus | 19,99€ | |
 | Bitdefender Internet Security | 26,99€ | |
 | Bitdefender Total Security | 49,99€ | |
Bitdefender features and functionality
Compared to other similar services, Bitdefender offers a wide range of features to keep you safe in any situation. And the best part is that finding and using these functionalities is simple. Here are a few examples:
Advanced Ransomware Protection: Keep your files safe
Ransomware is a growing threat, but Bitdefender has the perfect solution. Thanks to its advanced protection, your files will be safe from any unwanted encryption attempt. So even if you run into ransomware, you can be sure that Bitdefender will protect you.
System Optimization: Your PC at peak performance
Have you ever wanted to have a faster and more responsive computer? With Bitdefender, it’s possible. Thanks to its system optimization tools, you will be able to free up space on your PC and improve overall performance. Hence, you will be able to enjoy a smoother computing experience.
Secure browser for online payments – worry-free transactions
When it comes to online payments, security is paramount. And Bitdefender knows it well. For this reason, the software includes a secure browser that protects you during online transactions. You can make payments in complete safety, without worrying about fraud or sensitive data theft attempts. Bitdefender has everything under control. Bitdefender is the perfect companion to protect your online security. With its flawless performance, advanced features, and ease of use, it’s no wonder it’s taking over the antivirus market. So, waste no more time and get the protection you deserve.
Manage your passwords safely with Bitdefender Password Manager
If you have trouble remembering all your passwords, Bitdefender Password Manager is here to help. With this great feature, you can securely manage all your passwords. You no longer have to worry about forgetting them or using the same password for different accounts. Bitdefender Password Manager allows you to create strong and unique passwords for each account, offering you a higher level of security.You may also take use of Bitdefender Password Manager’s simple automated password generating feature. This means that you won’t even need to bother about coming up with them yourself. Your online accounts will be as safe as possible since Bitdefender will help you develop strong passwords.
Browse anonymously and securely with Bitdefender VPN
Your online privacy is an important issue, and Bitdefender knows it. That’s why it also offers you a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to protect your online identity and guarantee anonymous surfing. Thanks to Bitdefender VPN, you can protect your personal data and Internet communications with a strong level of encryption. But that is not all! With Bitdefender VPN, you will also be able to access geo-blocked content. If you’ve ever wanted to watch a movie or access a website that isn’t available in your country, Bitdefender VPN is the perfect solution. You will be able to choose from different servers around the world and enjoy surfing without restrictions.
Protect your children and monitor their online activity with Bitdefender Parental Control tools
If you have children, online safety becomes even more important, and Bitdefender offers you Parental Control tools to help you protect your children while they surf the Internet. With these tools, you will be able to monitor your children’s online activity and set access restrictions. You can also block inappropriate content to make sure your kids are safe while browsing the web.
Protect your privacy with Bitdefender’s webcam and microphone protector
Your privacy is paramount, and Bitdefender knows it. To protect your privacy, Bitdefender includes a webcam and microphone protection feature. This feature prevents any attempts to gain unauthorized access to your webcam or microphone, ensuring that no one can spy on you without your consent. You can rest easy knowing that Bitdefender has your privacy under control.
Theft protection for your Windows and Android devices
There is nothing worse than losing or having your device stolen. But with Bitdefender, you can rest easy even in these unpleasant situations. Bitdefender offers excellent anti-theft protection for Windows and Android devices. If your device is lost or stolen, you can locate it, lock it or even wipe the data remotely. This way, you can prevent information from falling into the wrong hands and protect your privacy.
A state-of-the-art Internet security product
Despite some minor flaws, Bitdefender remains one of the best Internet security products on the market. It offers unbeatable anti-malware protection, a wide range of high-quality additional features, and is extremely easy to use. In addition, Bitdefender offers plans that fit all budgets, making it accessible to everyone. And don’t forget that every Bitdefender package comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it without any fear. Still not convinced that this is the right antivirus for your needs? Read our McAfee Total Protection 2023 review.
Bitdefender: in-depth review
Bitdefender offers state-of-the-art Internet security at an affordable price. Thanks to its cloud scanning, which combines machine learning and traditional signature-based scanning, Bitdefender is able to detect 100% of cyberthreats. It also provides excellent web protection, a fast VPN, full system optimization, a secure browser, and high-quality parental controls.
In addition to the free versions for Windows and Mac, Bitdefender offers several paid subscription options. If you want to know more about Bitdefender, I recommend you continue reading our full review. You will be able to dive into the details and evaluate if Bitdefender is the right solution for your needs.
Bitdefender plans and costs
| Product | Benefits | Features | Devices | Deals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bitdefender Total Security | Complete protection from viruses, malware and other threats | Antivirus, antispyware and anti-ransomware scanning, built-in firewall, parental control, online transaction protection | PC, Mac, Android, iOS | Buy it at €49,99 |
| Bitdefender Internet Security | Advanced protection against viruses, malware and online attacks | Antivirus, antispyware and antiphishing scan, built-in firewall, VPN, online transaction protection | PC, Mac, Android | Buy it at €26,99 |
| Bitdefender Antivirus Plus | Essential protection from viruses and malware | Anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-phishing scan | PC, Mac | Buy it at €19,99 |
| Bitdefender Antivirus per Mac | Specific protection for Mac devices | Anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-phishing scan | Mac | Buy it at €29,99 |
| Bitdefender Mobile Security | Protection for Android devices against viruses, malware and theft | Virus scan, web protection, anti-theft, VPN | Android Devices | Buy it at €12,99 |
Bitdefender Total Security for PC – Mac
Bitdefender Total Security is a comprehensive product that offers extensive protection against various types of malware, including viruses, trojans, ransomware, and phishing. It offers advanced features such as parental controls, privacy protection, password management, secure VPN, and anti-theft protection. It is compatible with both PC and Mac.
| Pro | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extended protection against various threats | It may slow down your system slightly during full scans |
| It includes advanced features like parental controls and VPN | Secure VPN has a data limit if you don’t purchase the upgrade |
Bitdefender Internet Security for PC
Bitdefender Internet Security is specifically designed to protect your PC while browsing online. It includes features such as firewall, email spam filter, webcam protection, and online privacy protection.
| Pro | Cons |
|---|---|
| Complete protection for online browsing | Not compatible with Mac |
| Webcam protection | The spam filter can sometimes mark legitimate email as spam |
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus for PC
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus offers essential virus and malware protection for your PC. It also includes a basic VPN and password manager. It’s a lightweight solution that doesn’t impact system performance too much.
| Pro | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reliable protection against viruses and malware | The basic VPN has a data limit if you don’t purchase the upgrade |
| Lightweight on the system | It does not offer the full protection of Total Security or Internet Security |
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac has been specifically designed to protect Apple computers from various threats. It includes ransomware protection, secure online browsing protection, and basic VPN.
| Pro | Cons |
|---|---|
| Designed specifically for Macs | The basic VPN has a data limit if you don’t purchase the upgrade |
| Protection against ransomware | It does not offer the full protection of Total Security |
Bitdefender Mobile Security for Android
Bitdefender Mobile Security is an Android application that protects your smartphone from various threats. It includes malware, phishing, theft and loss protection. It also includes a secure VPN.
| Pro | Cons |
|---|---|
| Complete protection for your smartphone | Secure VPN has a data limit if you don’t purchase the upgrade |
| Includes theft and loss protection | Some features may consume battery more quickly |
Bitdefender Antivirus – Security Features
One of Bitdefender’s most important features is its powerful antivirus scanner, which offers comprehensive protection against a wide range of cyberthreats. Bitdefender’s virus scanner uses an extensive malware directory and machine learning to detect both known and emerging malware. Thanks to its cloud-based scanning system, Bitdefender manages to perform fast scans without weighing on computer resources. Bitdefender offers four types of scans to suit your needs:
- Quick scan – A light scan that checks main system files and temporary files where viruses often hide.
- System Scan – A deeper scan that checks your entire system for malware and vulnerabilities.
- Custom scan – Allows you to scan specific points of the system where there may be potential threats.
- Vulnerability scan – Detects privacy risks in application settings and critical software updates.
We tested Bitdefender’s antivirus scanner against more than a thousand viruses, worms, trojans, adware, spyware, rootkits, ransomware, cryptojackers, and keyloggers. The full scan of the infected system was finished in approximately 1 hour, and Bitdefender had minimal impact on system performance throughout the scan.
With Bitdefender you can schedule scans according to your needs. Bitdefender’s malware scanner is one of the best on the market: it’s fast, it doesn’t cause significant system slowdowns, and it is excellent at detecting malware. If you are looking for a simple and powerful virus scanner, Bitdefender is definitely an excellent choice to consider.
Bitdefender Shield – Real-Time Protection
Bitdefender offers a powerful real-time protection called Bitdefender Shield. This feature actively scans every file and email attachment as it is accessed. Bitdefender Shield’s default settings include several types of scans:
- Potentially unwanted applications: Detects software hidden inside other applications, often found in free software packages.
- Network Shares: Protects against problems in remote networks on your device.
- Boot Sectors: Check for any anomalies that could affect the system boot sequence.
- New and changed files only: Detects threats that can hide in newly created or changed files.
- Keylogger: Identifies malware that captures keystrokes.
For the majority of users, Bitdefender Shield’s default settings are enough. Advanced users can also choose to exclude some of the scan options. Bitdefender Shield not only stops downloads of infected .zip or .txt files, it also prevents the files from being launched by hiding the “Save File” button, effectively preventing them from being installed.
Bitdefender offers outstanding real-time protection that lets you surf online with confidence, blocking threats before they can infect your device. With its effective real-time scanning, Bitdefender is confirmed as one of the best security products on the market.
Bitdefender Antivirus and Anti-Phishing Protection On The Web
Bitdefender’s anti-phishing protection kicks in every time you visit a website. This feature compares the website against a regularly updated database of millions of dangerous blacklisted sites. If a match is found, Bitdefender will immediately block access to the site.
Bitdefender offers a handy notification screen that lets you see which websites have been blocked and why. This facilitates the permanent addition of a false positive to the Bitdefender exceptions list. You can add a site to the whitelist with a single click, while other antiviruses like Norton require a look into the settings and advanced protocols to whitelist safe sites. Bitdefender web protection also protects you from accessing web pages that may contain downloadable malware. It also checks search results to identify dangerous sites, scans encrypted websites, and checks for fraudulent content.
Bitdefender offers outstanding anti-phishing protection, along with comprehensive security against a wide range of web-based threats. In addition to blocking more phishing sites than most competitors, Bitdefender makes it easy to whitelist websites and customize web protection settings.
Bitdefender OneClick Optimizer
Bitdefender’s OneClick Optimizer removes a variety of unwanted files, including system temporary files, Windows junk files, files in the Recycle Bin, corrupted registry entries, and browser history. The scan with no programs running in the background took about 2 minutes. We advise you to carefully check the scanned “junk” files by clicking on “View details” before deleting them as Bitdefender does not allow you to view their details.
SafePay, Bitdefender’s Secure Web Browser
Bitdefender’s secure web browser, called SafePay, is a great solution to protect your personal information during online transactions.
Here are some of the benefits of using SafePay:
- Prevents hackers from remotely accessing your desktop.
- Prevents taking snapshots of your screen.
- Use Bitdefender’s password manager to protect your passwords.
- Emulate a virtual keyboard to avoid logging of keystrokes.
- Built-in VPN of 200MB per day.
With SafePay you won’t be able to use any screen capture programs, you won’t be able to copy and paste passwords or two-factor authentication codes. The virtual keyboard appears when you’re prompted to enter your login information, preventing keyloggers from logging your password or other personal information.
If you frequently shop online, SafePay is a great way to improve your privacy and security. If you’re looking to keep your information as safe as possible while transacting online, SafePay is a great extension to add to Bitdefender’s already impressive package of web security tools.
Bitdefender Password Manager
Bitdefender’s password manager is simple and secure, and while it doesn’t offer features like two-factor authentication (2FA) or password sharing, it includes all the essential features of a password manager, including:
- High-level encryption.
- Sync across multiple devices.
- Password generator.
- Unlimited password storage.
- Storage of payment details.
- Auto save and compile.
- Password vault audit.
To access the password manager, you need to install the Bitdefender password manager extension available for Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari and Brave browsers. There’s also a mobile app for Android and iOS, but there’s no desktop version.
For Windows users, the My Wallets feature is available, which consists of a password vault with autofill functionality and a password generator. The Bitdefender vault allows you to store passwords, personal information such as addresses and phone numbers, cards and accounts, email credentials, software licenses, and Wi-Fi passwords.
To save and autofill passwords, you need to install the Bitdefender Browser Password Manager extension. Bitdefender also has a handy password generator that allows users to create credentials up to 32-character long.
Bitdefender Security Report
Security Report is Bitdefender’s password vault audit tool. This tool provides users with a clear overview of the strength of their passwords by identifying weak, old, reused, or leaked credentials online. Bitdefender’s password manager is intuitive and easy to set up, although it falls short of dedicated password managers such as 1Password, Dashlane, LastPass or Keeper, which offer a wealth of additional tools such as password sharing and auditing, dark web monitoring, 2FA systems, biometric logins, and much more for a similar price.
Bitdefender VPN
While Bitdefender’s VPN is operated by Hotspot Shield, one of the most popular VPN providers on the market, it has a much more limited server network and doesn’t offer the same level of features as Hotspot Shield. Despite this, Bitdefender’s VPN meets all the basic requirements, including unbreakable 256-bit AES encryption, a no-logging policy, and a kill switch function.
Most Bitdefender plans include the free version of the VPN, but this one has some limitations. Bitdefender’s free VPN selects a random server based on your location and offers only 200MB of browsing per day. If you subscribe to a Bitdefender Premium Security plan or a separate VPN plan, you can get unlimited data usage and access to 30 servers worldwide. Bitdefender Premium VPN also offers some of the best speeds among the antivirus VPNs available on the market and is faster than some independent VPNs.
Due to the fact that streaming services like Netflix have identified the usage of a VPN, Bitdefender’s VPN is not a wise solution for those interested in streaming. On the other hand, Bitdefender is a good option for torrenting. You can configure the VPN to connect automatically whenever you launch a peer-to-peer sharing application.
Bitdefender Parental Controls
The Bitdefender parental control app is a standalone download for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS and is not a part of any of the regular subscriptions. Open Bitdefender Central and add your children to customize the parental control software. Next, install the Bitdefender parental control app on the device your child is supposed to use and customize the parenting app settings.
Here’s what you can do with Bitdefender Central:
- Set daily limits for devices (not available on iOS).
- Define the hours of use of the device.
- Manage apps, allowing or blocking specific apps.
- Add specific sites or categories of sites to whitelist or blacklist (not available on iOS). View device location and set up secure and restricted areas (available on Android and iOS only).
- View recently added phone contacts (available on Android and iOS devices only).
You can request a notification when your child arrives at a specific location so you know they’re safe. Through Bitdefender’s geofencing feature, you can get notified if he leaves a predefined safe area.
Webcam security and microphone protection
Bitdefender prevents hackers from accessing your webcam and microphone. Every time Bitdefender detects a login attempt, a notification appears on the screen allowing you to approve or deny the access. You can customize access to your webcam and microphone, allowing only apps you consider safe, like Zoom and Slack, to access those features.
The only downside is that the webcam and microphone protectors are only available for Windows devices. Bitdefender’s webcam and microphone protectors are easy to set up, offer useful customization options, and pop-up notifications make it easy to see apps trying to access your devices.
Bitdefender Ransomware Remediation
Bitdefender Ransomware Remediation is designed to automatically protect your files when it detects ransomware running on your system. This feature is intended to prevent file encryption attempts and allow the user to recover files encrypted following a ransomware attack.
By clicking on the “Recovered Files” button, you can see a list of the files that are supposed to be recovered, including videos, pictures and other file types, you can access most of the restored files and find all the original information intact. Bitdefender Ransomware Remediation offers supplementary defense against attacks by ransomware and is a priceless tool for safeguarding user files. Despite this, frequent backups of crucial data are necessary to provide total security against ransomware.
Profiles on Bitdefender
The Bitdefender Profiles feature, available only for Windows, allows users to customize their user experience and optimize PC performance based on their use of the software. For instance, you can activate the “Work” profile to improve email security and reduce system slowdowns while working.
If you are watching a movie, you can activate the “Movies” profile to block notifications and reduce background processes. While playing, you can activate the “Game” profile to optimize system performance and reduce notifications that can cause interruptions. In addition, there is also the “Public Wi-Fi” profile to ensure safety when connected to public Wi-Fi hotspots, and the “Battery mode” profile to increase the battery life of the laptop.
You can configure the settings of each profile according to your preferences. You can also set Bitdefender to automatically switch the profile based on the applications you use, but you can switch between profiles manually.Bitdefender’s Profiles feature is easy to use and significantly improves system performance when using CPU-intensive software.
Other Bitdefender features
In addition to the features mentioned, Bitdefender also offers:
- Firewall: Adjust network settings based on your connection type, such as dynamic networks, home/office networks, or public networks. There is also a “Stealth” mode which makes the device invisible.
- Wi-Fi Security: Scan Wi-Fi networks and routers for potential threats to ensure the security of your wireless connections.
- Tracking protection: Prevents web trackers from collecting your data for advertising and profiling purposes.
- File Shredder: Allows you to permanently delete sensitive files or folders so they cannot be recovered. This feature is especially useful for protecting confidential information from unwanted access. The “File Shredder” is a useful feature that allows you to permanently delete unused files, including those that contain sensitive information. This prevents hackers from recovering those files using data recovery software, thus protecting my privacy and information security.
Overall, Bitdefender offers a very impressive array of features. If you’re looking for an antivirus that includes just about every internet security toolbox imaginable, Bitdefender won’t disappoint!
Bitdefender mobile app
Bitdefender mobile apps offer a wide range of highly useful features to keep your devices safe. One such feature is the app lock, which allows you to protect your important apps through the use of a PIN or your device’s biometric scanner.
With this feature, you have complete control over which apps can be accessed and by whom. Bitdefender goes further and offers an extra layer of security through the automatic selfie taking feature. This feature is triggered when someone tries unsuccessfully to unlock your phone or locked apps. This way, Bitdefender captures the image of the potential intruder, providing you with a visual proof that can be used to identify them. A really useful feature to protect your privacy and the security of your sensitive data. Download the Android app here and the Mac app here.
Bitdefender interface
In terms of ease of use and setup, Bitdefender is one of the easiest antivirus software to install and use. Its main interface is intuitive, well-designed, and guides you through the setup process easily and clearly. After creating a Bitdefender Central account online and downloading the installation files, you can start installing the application in just a few steps.
Once Bitdefender is installed, you will be greeted by a well-structured and user-friendly dashboard. The dashboard features clear and easy-to-access buttons for the different functions the program offers. Essential features and extra functions are organized into dedicated tabs such as Security, Privacy and Utilities, allowing you quickly access to various settings and options. In the Protection tab, you will find all the options for scanning your device, real-time protection, and tools for dealing with detected threats. You can also schedule periodic scans to ensure constant protection. The Privacy tab gives you complete control over the privacy of your data. You can also set up an app lock, which allows you to protect your apps with a PIN or your device’s biometric scanner.
This ensures that only authorized people can access your sensitive apps. In the Utilities tab, you have access to a number of useful additional tools. For example, you can turn on the randomization of the numbers on the keyboard to make your PIN code more secure. In addition, Bitdefender also offers excellent anti-theft features, which allow you to send alerts, lock the device, take photos of the thief, and wipe the device remotely via the Bitdefender online portal.
Bitdefender customer support
Bitdefender offers a comprehensive customer support center that includes live chat assistance, email/phone support, a knowledge base, and community support. This ensures that users can receive proper assistance and find answers to their questions or problems. Bitdefender’s live chat support is a major selling point. Despite being based in Romania, they respond to requests within minutes, regardless of what time you connect. Bitdefender’s live chat is only available in English, but they use Google translator to assist non-English speakers as well.
The live chat operators were extremely knowledgeable and answered my questions about plans, pricing and technical features without giving generic answers or with little knowledge of the product, which is often the case with other online support services. Bitdefender telephone support is excellent. Bitdefender has 28 telephone numbers in 18 countries, including one international number, active 24/7.
If you prefer not to talk to a customer support agent, Bitdefender offers an extensive knowledge base containing articles and video tutorials.
If you buy Bitdefender on the Mr Key Shop website, you can also take advantage of free English-speaking support for the resolution of all your problems.
Free protection for Windows and Mac
Bitdefender offers free protection for Windows and Mac. This free version includes web protection and a basic anti-malware scanner, which will help keep your device safe from malicious websites and possible threats. It’s a useful option if you’re looking for basic protection without breaking the bank.
It is important to note that the free version of Bitdefender does not include some useful extra features, such as an unlimited VPN or advanced ransomware tools. If you want more comprehensive protection and more peace of mind, it might be worth considering the paid plans offered by Bitdefender.
Bitdefender’s paid plans offer advanced protection and a wider range of features. These plans include comprehensive ransomware protection, online transaction security, an unlimited VPN for safe and anonymous surfing, as well as other useful features like parental controls and privacy protection.
If your priority is to get basic protection at no extra cost, the free version of Bitdefender can be a good option. If, on the other hand, you want more advanced protection and a complete set of security features, consider upgrading to one of Bitdefender’s paid plans, which offer a higher level of security and peace of mind for your online experience.
Compatibility of Bitdefender with Different Operating Systems
Bitdefender is compatible with a wide range of Operating Systems, making it suitable for many users. For Windows users, you need at least Windows 7 with Service Pack 1 or later to use Bitdefender. Want to upgrade to a newer system? Find out how to download Windows 11 and read our guide to installing Windows 11.
Mac users, on the other hand, must have at least OS X 10.10 (Yosemite) or later. As for the Bitdefender mobile application, Android users must have at least Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later, while iOS users must have at least iOS 11.2 or later. Bitdefender is on our list of the best antivirus for iOS. It is important to note that to use the mobile app, your device must be connected to the Internet. This broad compatibility with different Operating Systems allows users to use Bitdefender on a variety of devices, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones and tablets. Regardless of the operating system you use, Bitdefender offers reliable and comprehensive protection to ensure the safety of your devices and your personal data.
Make sure you check the specific system requirements for the version of Bitdefender you want to use, to ensure proper installation and functioning of the antivirus.
Conclusions about Bitdefender
Bitdefender is undoubtedly the ideal choice for your cyber protection in 2023. It offers comprehensive security, is easy to use and is affordable compared to the competition. No matter your level of expertise with the internet, Bitdefender will be there to safeguard you and your devices from dangerous attacks. Choose Bitdefender to protect your security and enjoy digital peace of mind.
