FAQ
TL;DR: A forum user managing 3 PCs yearly switched from Kaspersky to Windows Defender, saying it’s “better to steer clear of.” Another reports months of smooth use on Defender. Choose Defender for low‑hassle home protection; consider Kaspersky for stricter control. [Elektroda, Paweł1000, post #16899411]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps home users decide between Avast, Kaspersky, or sticking with Windows Defender without hurting performance.
Quick Facts
- Windows Defender is built in and described as comparable—or better—than third‑party AV for typical home use. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16898114]
- Running two real‑time antiviruses can conflict, causing false alarms and user annoyance. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16900090]
- Malwarebytes Premium adds real‑time blocking and is designed to coexist with another AV. [Elektroda, artekideapop, post #16900103]
- One gamer reports no sudden slowdowns after months on Defender; Avast caused interruptions and update‑server scares. [Elektroda, lazania, post #16898966]
- A poster cites a U.S. government ban on Kaspersky in agencies; they switched to Defender after issues. [Elektroda, Paweł1000, post #16899411]
Which is better for me: Avast Internet Security or Kaspersky Internet Security?
For most home users, Windows Defender offers balanced protection with fewer slowdowns. Kaspersky suits users seeking stricter controls. Avast drew complaints about interruptions. Start with Defender; move to Kaspersky if you need more advanced controls. “The best is the one built into Windows.” [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16898114]
Is Windows Defender enough for a home PC in 2025?
Yes, for a typical home PC it’s enough when paired with safe browsing. One user states Defender is adequate at home, while Kaspersky may be safest for high‑risk needs. Adjust router and browser settings for layered security. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16898161]
Do paid antiviruses slow down gaming or daily work?
They can. A gamer reports Defender caused no sudden slowdowns for months, while Avast triggered interruptions and update‑server scares. Keep background scans off during play and enable Game Mode where available. [Elektroda, lazania, post #16898966]
Can I run Malwarebytes Premium alongside Avast or Defender?
Yes. A user notes Malwarebytes Premium provides real‑time blocking and is designed to coexist with a primary antivirus. Avoid enabling overlapping features that duplicate web or ransomware shields. [Elektroda, artekideapop, post #16900103]
Is it safe to run two real‑time antiviruses at once?
No. One poster warns they conflict, accuse each other of malware, and annoy users. Choose one real‑time AV and keep any second tool as on‑demand only. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16900090]
What is real‑time protection vs. on‑demand scanning?
Real‑time protection watches files and web traffic continuously and blocks threats instantly. On‑demand scanning checks when you start a scan. Malwarebytes Premium adds real‑time blocking alongside another AV. [Elektroda, artekideapop, post #16900103]
Should I rely on router‑level security instead of antivirus?
Router security helps by filtering traffic before it reaches your PC. A user calls it effective, but notes nothing is 100% and costs can outweigh benefits at home. Use it to complement, not replace, endpoint AV. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #16898161]
Why does my antivirus show constant alerts?
One user suspected frequent alerts were noise designed to impress. Excess alerts reduce trust and lead to fatigue. Tune notifications, whitelist known‑good apps, and review logs weekly. [Elektroda, 762302, post #16898135]
Is Kaspersky safe to use given policy concerns?
A poster cites a U.S. government ban in agencies and shares negative experiences, then moved to Defender. If you handle sensitive work, consider organizational policy and risk tolerance before choosing. [Elektroda, Paweł1000, post #16899411]
Did Avast have issues with update servers or false alarms?
A user reports scandals around Avast updates and interruptions, while experiencing stable gaming with Defender. If you stay with Avast, enable silent/gaming modes and verify update channels. [Elektroda, lazania, post #16898966]
I’m using Avast + Malwarebytes and it works. Should I switch to Kaspersky?
If your current setup is quiet and effective, there’s no urgent need to switch. One poster running Avast + Malwarebytes reported it “is fine,” so prioritize stability and minimal friction. [Elektroda, artekideapop, post #16900079]
How do I switch from a third‑party antivirus to Windows Defender safely?
- Disconnect from the internet and uninstall the third‑party AV using its uninstaller.
- Reboot, reconnect, ensure Defender is active, and run a full scan.
- Re‑enable only one on‑demand tool (e.g., Malwarebytes) for periodic checks.
Defender users reported smooth, low‑maintenance operation. [Elektroda, 762302, post #16898157]