Smartphones and other gadgets running on the android system have already become part of our daily lives. Tablets on this OS are used in business, for recreation, they are used in the form of various organizers and other "reminders" that make life easier. In this way, there was an urgent need to clean and check the gadget for threats. Considering even the fact that the bulk of Android applications available on Google Play, does not pass additional checks. Thus, a fan of this OS is more endangered than the same Windows phone or iOS.

To get out of this situation, many users create a copy of the data, although this is not always very convenient. The second half simply installs one of the many antiviruses. This option is both simpler and lighter, it has many additional functions, in addition to the main ones, which simplifies the use of the gadget. Thus, we are faced with the question, which antivirus is better for android than to protect ourselves from unscrupulous application developers? In this article we will tell you which is better to put an antivirus on your phone in order to be sure of the complete protection of your smartphone, consider the most best antiviruses at the time of 2015.

On the this moment we have the top five most popular antiviruses for Android 2015. And these are:

Each of these antiviruses has its own advantages, but also negative sides. This will help you weigh the pros and cons, evaluate the balance of pros and cons and choose the most suitable antivirus for Android.

The first antivirus to pay attention to has the full name

Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus

This is a fairly popular antivirus, known for the fact that its fans are also on Windows. This application has many of the most convenient features, namely, against loss or theft, for blocking individual sites and applications, tracking tools, call and sms barring, gadget synchronization with Google drive. The most interesting thing is that the weakest part of Avast is precisely the protection against viruses, but this does not mean that it does not protect well, it just has many other advantages, unlike other antiviruses, and therefore it takes first place!

  • Using the system " anti-theft", you can use another device to catch an attacker, almost hot. The function allows monitor what is happening with the phone through one of the cameras or through a secret sound recording. Thus, the recordings can be easily transferred to external media and provided to someone who can help in this situation. It is also possible to play a sound that will let others know that the phone has been stolen. This can be as a simple and loud signal, or as a voice recording that will inform the nearest people around: “ This tablet/smartphone has been stolen". The following function can also be classified as "anti-theft", but many find other suitable functions. Behind the gadget can be monitored remotely via computer, or block in the same way.
  • Functions are also available for blocking one of the applications or sites. So, if this is a child's device, it will help a lot to clearly distinguish between his time. Can block the store or browser access. To unlock, the user must enter a password. By the way, this feature will also be useful for fans of social networks or other types of “procrastination” at work. There are also known cases of disabling the ban using root rights. But this is for regular user the topic is quite dark, although with due desire you can understand everything.
  • Can be put block to call any subscriber or send sms. This will allow you to better control your communication costs and minimize unwanted outgoing or incoming calls. This feature was not thought out by the developers, as many users found it useful at least to be notified of such a call.
  • mobile backup maybesync your google account and available photos, sounds and more on the tablet.

Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus comes in two flavors: a commercial version and a free version. The paid one differs only in improved antivirus, although even that one falls short of many existing analogues.

pros: high-quality anti-theft, blocking sites and applications, calls and sms, the presence of a file synchronizer on the phone and Google.

Minuses: weak antivirus even on the paid version.

Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus for Android

Kaspersky Internet Security

It has long been known to almost all users of a conventional PC. And in its development for Android, the company has combined protection for tablets and smartphones into one.

The main purpose of installing this app is virus protection, and scanning the gadget. With which Kaspersky copes perfectly well. Other functions and additional features leave much to be desired. The paid version allows you to slightly improve the quality and open some extras: the ability to scan individual files and the browser.

Kaspersky also keeps up with Avast, but similar functionality on these two applications needs to be improved. Kaspersky also has the ability film a phone thief, block calls and sms, even make invisible someone from the phone book (to cancel you need to enter a pin code). All these functions work well, but the settings are not particularly clear.

One of the main disadvantages of Kaspersky - notifications. With a small Android RAM, they bring significant inconvenience, besides, the time of appearance is not large enough to take out the phone and read it.

pros: high-quality antivirus, finds and treats dangers well, many additional functions, such as anti-theft, phone search, call barring.

Minuses: additional functions slightly worse than Avast, antivirus notifications cause inconvenience.

Norton Mobile Security

A well-known norton antivirus it doesn’t differ much from others, except for its price, it is the most expensive, therefore it is less popular with Russian-speaking smartphone users. But in tests it shows very nice results and honorably top positions and maximum amount points!

In the extended version, bought for money, everything that is available in Avast and others is offered for free. Therefore, we draw conclusions, gentlemen!

pros: takes high performance on tests, popular abroad and well-known brand,

Minuses: very limited in the free version

Trend Micro Mobile Security

Another equally famous top antivirus for android– TrendMicro. Its main role is to search for viruses, this software performs perfectly. With other features that are on analogues, you need to work and carefully analyze, because on the one hand, the functionality itself is somewhat poor. Although for many whose phone does not contain top-secret information, Trend Micro will be very useful.

  • The main difference and, perhaps, the advantage of this software is that it allows you to block sites whose letters have accumulated in the Spam folder, that is, with phishing attacks.
  • Antivirus. Scanning the phone goes with a bang, although the blocking of the found file works on 4.
  • Notifications come constantly and from every change. Although, even with the previous antivirus, notifications litter the screen, which causes discomfort.
  • Antivirus and other features are quite scarce here: there is no SMS notification, a short beep to search for a gadget, data deletion is possible only at the user level and resetting settings. It should be noted that the function parental control easy to bypass: enough, at least just go to chrome through anonymous.

Pros: blocking phishing attacks, working with viruses by 4.

Minuses: poor additional features, ineffective parental controls.

IKARUS Mobile Security

The first thing you immediately pay attention to is low energy consumption. Of course, the price for this is quite high. We get lower functionality.

The Ikarus brand is a less well-known name among the above and other analogues. This antivirus is well combined with any models of tablets and smartphones, besides, it finds viruses and other dangers well. The main features include:

    • site scanning;
    • black list;
    • remote blocking of the smartphone;
    • remote data wipe.

pros: low gadget load, good job with viruses;

Minuses: little functionality.

As we can see, there are not those popular and common features here, as in other software. But the main plus is that such functionality gives less load and best quality execution.

Testing antiviruses from independent companies

Laboratory AV test, after carrying out various tasks, evaluated all applications, for the maximum amount of points - 12b.

To fully understand the picture, you should analyze the ratings given by companies during the testing of gadgets. Studies were conducted according to three criteria: usability, functionality, work with viruses. So, the most important thing in an antivirus is its main purpose.

usability- Avast and Ikarus antiviruses became the winners, then Trend Micro, the last place - Kaspersky

Functionality- all antiviruses remained on a par

Total points:

First place - Avast: Mobile Security 3.0, Norton Mobile Security Lite (12 out of 12)

Second place - Kaspersky: internet security and Trend Micro: Mobile Security (11.8 out of 12)

Third place - Ikarus: mobile.security (11.4 out of 6)

Here is an example from another test of another international company to protect your smartphone. It tested the antiviruses in question and many others. The test was how the apps would deal with 2627 malware.

Conclusions: In summary, apart from these four antiviruses, there are many other applications that also have their own advantages. Here are collected the main software that already have a name on Russian security application market. So, to make sure which is better, you need to try everything possible and decide it. Although, even in absentia, you can determine for yourself what is more important. Some may like beautiful graphics and high-quality notifications more, others value the functionality and quality of searching and cleaning viruses, others may like a large number of lotions plus the main features. It should also be noted that many of the many antivirus packages are paid, which will also affect their choice.

So, the most effective - Avast and Norton, the second list - Kaspersky - a good antivirus, but has problems with convenience and efficiency. Trend Micro is no less effective antivirus, but its additional features, namely anti-theft and parental block, leave much to be desired, Ikarus has shown itself well in terms of usability and ease of use.

In addition to this article -

If the article was helpful, say thanks! Have questions? Ask!

For all users, device security is important. To select the appropriate protection, we present the TOP 15 free antiviruses for Android.

First of all, it is necessary to protect the gadget not only from viruses, but also from overheating. Overheating most often occurs due to the simultaneous operation of several programs.

Optimization of work and data protection - that's what any high-quality antivirus should do.

Do not install multiple antiviruses at the same time. Each of them considers another virus program, it may fail to work operational work. If there is a need to change the antivirus, it is important to remove the previous one in advance.

comparison table

CM Security antivirus is developed by Cheetah Mobile. The easy-to-use interface and navigation system allow you to quickly navigate through the settings.

The application is multifunctional and has a number of settings that optimize the operation of the phone (tablet). At the same time, CM Security (Cheetah Mobile) protects the components at the same time.

1 Antivirus scanner and monitor. Immediately after installation, the program scans the data of the smartphone, providing the reasons for errors and threats. The memory card is also being scanned. After identifying the threats, the user is prompted to fix the error.

It is possible to block malicious links on the Internet and threats on the wi-fi network. If a dangerous URL is seen, access to it is restricted.

2 Anti-theft. The CM Security system is linked to cmcm.com. If you lose a device with an installed application, you can block the phone through the site, it will beep. It is also possible to take a photo of the thief. The camera will work as soon as a person clicks on the screen. The user will receive the GPS location of the gadget and it will be easier to search for it.

2 Block applications (or access to them). If the device falls into the wrong hands, then it will not work to read SMS messages, mail correspondence or something else without a password.

Blocking messages will help you avoid spam. When using a password on applications, it is enough to tick off the necessary ones.

3 Smart diagnostics. There are always many files stored in memory. Some of them become "Junk", that is, they are not used. With CM Security, you can clear the cache with useless files immediately after checking the system.

In addition to applications and files, the user can control notifications. This helps speed up the device, and notifications will no longer interfere with use.

Kaspersky Internet Security

The antivirus is available in a paid and free version. After the expiration of the demo version, some functions disappear, and file scanning must be started manually.

1 Background scan helps protect against hidden threats (trojans, viruses in files). All detected threats are immediately blocked. Verification of programs does not require confirmation, it does not affect the quality of the device.

2 App lock. The function is used to keep data confidential in other programs. All accounts, data or messages can be put under password protection. The restriction goes for other programs and applications, it will also protect against other users.

In addition, all incoming and outgoing calls and SMS are logged. The application has its own list (composed by the user), thanks to which spam can be avoided.

3 V Kaspersky Internet Security for Android has an Anti-Theft feature. If you lose your phone, you can delete all data, turn on the siren, or quietly photograph the thief. This data will be provided to the owner, and the phone will become possible to find.

5 Manage Kaspersky Internet Security for Android is available voice messages or with a smart watch.

It is worth noting that Kaspersky Corporation has a global popularity and has one of the the best systems protection.

Dr Web Light

This version lacks call, sms, URL scanning and anti-theft. To make all this available, you need to download Dr.Web Security Space (after a week of use, you will have to pay for it).

  • At the user's command, Dr.Wed Light performs a full scan of files, file systems and data for malware. When saving and downloading new objects, the program automatically checks them and blocks them in case of threats.
  • Even if the phone is blocked by other programs (perhaps in order to get money for returning data), this data will be saved. Dr.Web also blocks those viruses that are not in the application's database. At the same time, constant updates help to improve its work.
  • All suspicious applications go to the "quarantine" zone with the possible disposal of the virus. The application independently maintains detailed statistics of file threats.
  • Thanks to optimization, the battery of the device is influenced by the program and lasts longer. For users of limited Internet, Dr.Web will come in handy, because new updates require little traffic.

Clean Master

Clean Master helps in cleaning up junk, optimizing and speeding up the device, and most importantly, it is absolutely free.

360 Security is one of the popular integrated antivirus programs. Optimization and protection for free and in just one step is now possible.

  • Complete cleaning. Freeing up space on devices occurs with the help of a full system scan. 360 Security's huge database verifies known and unknown files for proper cleaning.
  • Convenient design. The interface design is thought out to the smallest detail, which allows the user to easily navigate the menu. All settings are available in any language.
  • Energy stabilization. Constant control of the charge of the tablet (phone) contributes to long work. Protection of SMS, photos or access to social networks will give you a chance not to strain for your data if the gadget falls into the wrong hands.
  • Anti-theft service. You can contact the 360 ​​Security developers at http://findphone.360safe.com. That is, if the phone is stolen, you can find it, erase it, or vice versa save the data. All alerts and apps on the device are blocked.
  • Access to storage management. This feature allows you to manage storage and transfer files to a memory card. Inner space becomes cleaner and more organized. Thanks to this setting, it is easy to identify useless files.

DU Speed ​​Booster & Cleaner

An integrated approach to cleaning and optimization. Not only protects, but also warns of possible threats.

Without access to the premium level (for a month $2, for a year $8) some functions will be unavailable: anti-theft, ad blocking and application blocking.

Other settings are in Free Avast Mobile Security:

  • Antivirus core. Checking files for spyware, as well as checking existing and downloaded applications. Pre-scan of the site with the removal of the virus. Dangerous resources may be blocked.
  • Deletion of system cache data, installation files and other materials not used in the work.
  • The built-in black list will allow you to block unwanted numbers from the phone book. This number may not be in the phone's memory, just copy it to the antivirus buffer.
  • Anonymously recognizes URL links with Trojans, blocking them. After blocking, the data is sent to the corporation also anonymously.
  • After connecting to a wi-fi network, mail and personal data are blocked. Thus, public network limited access to the user's smartphone.

AVG AntiVirus Free

Protecting messages and apps is completely free.

  • Protection. Scans games and applications for viruses. Checking websites for threats to software (if a threat is detected, the user is redirected to a safe page). Scanning and analysis wifi networks for scammers.
  • Performance. Battery monitoring: application usage statistics, energy saving. Disable background running tasks. Optimization and regulation of traffic usage.
  • Anti-theft. Getting data about the location of the smartphone. Screen lock with a message to find you. Turn on the siren. Photo from the camera when trying to enter a password. Complete blockage.
  • Confidentiality. It is possible to put a password on the gallery with photos. The black list of contacts blocks calls and SMS coming from the selected number. Delete Chrome browser history and call buffer.
  • Available in 33 languages.

McAfee Logo

Not all settings will be available forever, but for McAfee LiveSafe and McAfee All Access users, the full version is free. Premium McAfee has no ads.

  • Theft protection, security. Prevention of information leakage from the device. When stolen, the owner is sent a photo and the exact location of the robber. In emergency situations, the phone saves the GPS position before turning it off. Affordable copying of contacts and sms when changing phone. The ban on impacts with applications will not allow them to be removed. By sending a certain SMS from any gadget to lost phone, the user will receive the exact address your smartphone.
  • Confidentiality. Each application uses its own profile, which will prevent someone from reading the correspondence. All programs containing personal information may be password protected. Before setting a password, the antivirus will tell you which applications have such information. The black list blocks calls and sms from selected numbers.
    • WiFi Analyzer for Windows and Android How to use?

    Main menu Android Antivirus

    Constant search malware. Scanning happens automatically. There are ads, some services may be paid. Minimum installation requirements

    • Reads applications containing personal data for the fact of fraud.
    • Anti-theft. Reads the location of the phone even after removing the SIM card. Sending SIM card data to the owner in case of theft or loss. Before changing the phone, backup copies of SMS and the phone book are created.
    • Some programs may be moved to quarantine.
    • With the battery saver feature, your phone only uses power when performing tasks.
    • Traffic monitoring. Programs and background downloads are now under full control.

Users today mobile devices Android-based systems are increasingly faced with the need to install anti-virus and anti-spyware software to your devices. And such software packages in the same repository Play market or in other sources can be found quite a lot. But what to choose from all this? Next, the rating of antiviruses for Android will be given. However, it should be noted that the placement of programs on the lines of the rating is very conditional, since any publications or even users themselves who evaluate the work of applications in practice may have their own preferences and opinions. In addition, although most of the programs presented below contain, so to speak, a mandatory basic set of tools and modules that provide protection mobile device, nevertheless, not all applications are far from being as equivalent to each other in terms of functionality, as it might seem at first glance.

Why is it necessary to use antivirus software on Android systems?

Gone are the days when viruses and malware attacked exclusively DOS and Windows systems. Today stationary operating rooms remain immune to viruses. Mac systems OS X and Linux (even iOS is susceptible to infection).

So why, then, did it become necessary to protect Android systems, which are built precisely on Linux-based? Virus developers use the most simple methods through which viruses can penetrate devices. This is an installation download. apk file. But the virus will not work just like that - it needs to be installed. Since such threats are often disguised as official apps, users are in a hurry to install an interesting program, but in the end they get a headache.

Basically, in the Android environment, trojans (and at the same time encryptors) are most common, stealing personal data and confidential information, and finally encrypting files with blocking access to the system. Among all these threats, viruses such as Godless, Faketoken, Loki, Marcher and Triada are especially dangerous. The latter, by the way, was discovered quite recently - in March 2017.

Although all programs are thoroughly tested, threats have been found there as well. But they managed to neutralize them. Therefore, the very first advice: in order not to install a paid or free antivirus for Android, never install applications downloaded from dubious sources. As you can see, even with the "Play Market" you should be careful.

for Android

As for modern anti-virus software, as one would expect, eminent developers of similar software for stationary computer systems were in the top ten, although there were some surprises.

  • CM Security;
  • Internet Security from Kaspersky Lab;
  • ESET NOD32 Mobile Security;
  • Avast Antivirus (Mobile Security);
  • 360 Security;
  • Dr.Web v.9 Anti-Virus;
  • AVG Antivirus Free/Pro;
  • Avira Antivirus Security;
  • Norton Security& Antivirus;
  • McAfee Security & Antivirus Free.

Next, we will consider each software product in more detail, paying attention to some important aspects of functionality and use, not bypassing the issues of the possibility of downloading and installing free versions of applications.

CM Security

This package (full name CM Security AntiVirus AppLock) is a rather interesting development of Cheetah Mobile). It combines almost everything necessary tools to provide protection.

This free antivirus for Android phone in its functionality contains a regular scanner and monitor, anti-theft, a blocker for URL links, unwanted contacts and access to installed applications, as well as a network connection protection module.

The most interesting feature here is the AppLock blocking access to applications, which allows you to restrict access to installed applets like mail, correspondence using instant messengers, etc. (and not only from the side of an outsider, but also from the side of the installed software). It can be started with a password. True, there are also disadvantages. For example, when the application starts scanning, there is no choice of scanning method, and immediately after installation, the user is prompted to register in cloud service. But it can be saved backup systems, bypassing Google services. In addition, the antivirus in testing showed a minimal load on system resources. In general, judging by the reviews of experts, it makes a very good impression.

This software product, apparently, needs no introduction. As for the antivirus itself, Kaspersky Internet Security, designed for Android systems, can be found in two versions - paid and free.

Trial version product in the arsenal has a scanner, anti-theft, web filter, contact blocker and SMS. After the 30-day period, some functions are blocked, and scanning must be performed in manual mode. But the scanning itself is carried out quite quickly (unlike its stationary counterpart). The rest of the features are standard. The only drawback of the entire package is the lack of protection for network connections and Internet traffic. But in setting up the modules of the protection system, the user is provided with a lot of parameters that can be changed at his own discretion, plus a concise interface that is not overloaded with unnecessary elements.

ESET NOD32 Mobile Security

ESET NOD32 Mobile Security for Android is another software product widely known to users for its similar development for stationary systems.

In this package, in addition to standard modules (scanner, anti-theft, etc.), you can find a special anti-phishing system, an application check module, as well as a special tool for protecting the SIM card, which can be useful for many users, for example, in case of loss smartphone or tablet.

When it comes to scanning, the program offers three scan options to choose from: fast, smart, and deep. In the first case, only installed user applets are checked, system components, libraries and ZIP archives up to the third nesting level in directories. In the second case, a check of a removable SD card is added. In the third option, absolutely all files are scanned both on the internal and on the removable drive. In addition to this, you can choose the method of eliminating or isolating detected threats (as is done in a stationary scanner). But the main disadvantage is the lack of protection of network connections.

Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus

Before us is another well-known representative of anti-virus software. Avast antivirus for Android is available in two versions: free and premium. However, both versions include a very interesting instrumental set.

Among all that the free antivirus for Android Avast has, it is worth highlighting the presence of a firewall, a web screen, a geofencing system, a security advisor, and even a system optimizer.

The geofencing feature is quite unusual. In its settings, you can set the range in which the device can be moved. When going beyond its limits, the device is completely blocked with the supply sound signal. No less useful can be a security advisor, which, when potential threats are detected, gives advice on how to fix the problems that have arisen.

In the Premium version, as additional tools, you can find a system for detecting and suppressing (disabling) ads, the ability to remote control, functions for restoring and copying media files using cloud storage. But the optimizer, despite the developers' statements about its presence in the main package, must be downloaded separately. But since in this case we are talking about an anti-virus package, it seems that most users do not need this module.

360 security

Antiviruses for Android in Russian cannot be considered without mentioning a relatively new Chinese development called 360 Security, which is absolutely free.

In principle, the capabilities of the software package look quite standard, but scanning, along with the main components being checked, also affects temporary files located in the system. Another tool that is not typical for antiviruses is the ability to manage installed applications and transfer them to an SD card. Alas, there is no control over network connections, which, to put it mildly, simply scares away many users. But if you look at the program as a whole, there is the most necessary minimum protection opportunities.

Dr.Web v.9 Anti-Virus

Anti-virus for Android Doctor Web, like many others from the list under consideration, does not need to be submitted. The package itself is available in three modifications: basic (active for 14 days), extended Premium (fully paid) and Light (free).

Among the most interesting modules are the Internet filter (Cloud Checker), firewall and anti-spam module. Distinctive feature of this application is that it allows you to unlock your mobile device even if it is infected with blocker viruses. In addition, there is a customizable function complete removal data from the device in case of ascertaining several unsuccessful attempts to unlock the gadget. Here, however, the presence of such a module can play a cruel joke with its owner himself. But most experts do not recommend using this applet as a scanner. The check is performed for a very long time and with a significant load on system resources.

AVG Antivirus Free/Pro

This package is quite simple and has standard set tools. It can be downloaded at Free versions and Pro, but the problem is that the free modification only works for one month. After this period, you will have to purchase a license and upgrade to the Pro version.

Unfortunately, the most interesting features are not protection tools, but a system performance optimization module (process management, battery saving, memory cleaning, etc.), which modern antivirus software does not need in its arsenal at all.

Avira Antivirus Security

Before us is another anti-virus package known for stationary systems with a set of standard modules, which is available in basic and premium versions. The basic version runs for 30 days.

After the trial period expires, the function of blocking URLs and updating of anti-virus databases is automatically disabled, which in a fully working version is carried out once a day. The only, perhaps, interesting and non-standard function can be called checking addresses Email from the existing contact list. But even all the pluses fade against the background of the lack of network protection and localization for Russian-speaking users.

Norton Security & Antivirus

This antivirus is a pretty good means of ensuring the protection of a mobile device, although it has the most common tools at its disposal. The package is available in a free (trial) version and a paid version.

If you look, by and large, the user receives the bare minimum. True, the function of backup and restoration of files has been added to this minimum. But in general, the assessment of the program may look like a well-known saying: "Simple, but tasteful." However, one of the main advantages can be called the fact that the application does not load system resources in any way, and it does not require special attention even with default settings, working in the background and not distracting the user from other things.

McAfee Security & Antivirus Free

The paid Premium version is additionally equipped with a backup system, but for some reason only multimedia data. But virus scanner, in addition to the main objects in the system or on removable media, is also able to check QR codes. Another interesting feature is the automatic forwarding of a photo of an intruder who stole a mobile device. When the battery is low, you can set the automatic memorization of the last geolocation via the GPS module.

Outcome

Only one most important question remains open: “Which one to choose an antivirus for Android?”. User reviews on the Internet are divided. Some install antiviruses of exclusively well-known brands, not paying attention to functionality. Others categorically do not accept shareware and paid versions (including unnecessary additional tools). So what kind of software product can be called universal, and such that it suits both those and others? Based on the opinion of experts and program tools, CM Security AntiVirus & AppLock antivirus is still recognized as the best today due to the presence of the most powerful functionality, free distribution and the fact that it is not burdened with unnecessary tools, because in this case we are talking about providing the most full protection of the Android device, and not about systems designed to back up or optimize the device.

However, the world rankings testify to this. But, be that as it may, the choice always remains with the user. But also user preferences in favor of one or another software product may not always be objective. But the most important thing is that, if the need to install anti-virus software is already ripe, you should download it only from trusted sources, otherwise, instead of protecting you, you can launch malicious programs into your system, and then you will have to restore not only your files and applications, but the entire system.

In recent years, antiviruses have been actively developed not only on personal computers, but also on mobile platforms Oh. This is due to the fact that virus distributors are trying to increase their audience coverage by replicating their "products" on the most popular operating systems.

Among mobile operating systems, Android is in demand in the same way as Windows on a PC, so these environments remain the target for most attackers.

The reason for the popularization of antiviruses on smartphones and tablets is to make significant changes compared to computer counterparts. Current solutions, unlike the first versions for Android, are perfectly adapted to mobile platforms.

Often they include many additional tools to block access to data, control traffic and send sms, which is relevant primarily for smartphones. Standard tools like a virus scanner and network traffic control are also present in most of these programs for Android.

To provide constant protection, antiviruses usually run in the background, but on modern devices this does not affect performance in any way. Often, along with the means to protect the device, system management tools are provided - application manager, cleaning RAM, deleting junk files etc.

If you enter the word “antivirus” in the Google Play search bar, you can be sure that almost all such applications are a mobile version of a program that appeared on a PC long before that. The list includes Kaspersky, Avast, Dr.Web and many other antiviruses, while some have more than 10 million downloads, and sometimes even up to 100 million.

However, CM Security and 360 Security, which were originally intended specifically for mobile platforms, can be considered clear leaders in this indicator.

Despite the fact that antiviruses are in high demand on Android, they are not something from the must-have category, so the question "whether an antivirus is needed on Android or not" is up to you. Any one of the top apps like Instagram or Chrome has more downloads from Google Play than all antiviruses combined.

This can be explained by the fact that on Android, 9 out of 10 cases, there are no problems if you do not open suspicious files and install questionable applications. If the user does not have , then the system automatically limits his powers, blocking those actions that could harm the device.

Nevertheless, malicious software is constantly being improved and even occasionally gets on Google Play under the guise of completely harmless programs, so it’s better to be fully prepared.

This review discusses the 10 most popular antiviruses for Android. Each of them was rated on a 5-point scale, taking into account functional features, characteristic for this segment - control of traffic, calls, access to data, the presence of an anti-virus scanner, etc.

CM Security is the most popular antivirus for Android. The program is the leader in terms of the number of installs in its segment, although the advantage over competitors in this indicator is not so great.

CM Security is good, first of all, because it was originally intended for mobile platforms, and was not a mobile adaptation of an antivirus for Windows. The application is completely free, and for those who do not need all its features, there is a Lite version weighing less than 2 MB.

CM Security is in every sense perfectly adapted for smartphones, both in terms of interface design and a set of tools. This is not just an antivirus, but a complete tool for managing operating system- there is an application blocker, traffic control, program manager and much more.

Using CM Security, the user can clear the device's memory, perform a scan, selectively block access to some elements, etc. Scanning is very fast, and the threat database is regularly updated.

Internet traffic is monitored in real time. The program has been translated into 26 languages, including Russian. You can also note the presence of an anti-theft function that allows you not only to get remote access to a stolen device, but perform a number of advanced actions with it, for example, automatically take a photo on front camera in case of unsuccessful password entry to unlock.

Visually, CM Security looks very stylish and modern, although this is not the most important criterion for applications of this type. Nevertheless, one cannot fail to note the informativeness and convenience of the interface.

CM Security can be considered not just an antivirus, but complex tool to protect and manage the operating system. With this application, you can successfully resist both online and offline threats, as well as optimize the operation of the OS, block unwanted calls, etc.

CM Security is almost flawless in terms of functionality, so it deserves the maximum possible score in this review - 5 out of 5.

As in the case of the previous participant in the review, the target platform of this program is Android. 360 Security is only slightly inferior to CM Security in terms of the number of installations, but the functionality of the applications is almost identical.

360 Security presents the optimal combination of tools for speeding up work and cleaning memory, as well as an antivirus - that's what the 3 main tabs on the main screen of the program are called. As in the case of CM security application free, and there is also a Lite version designed for not the most modern smartphones.

360 Security has all the necessary tools in its arsenal - memory scan, cleaning, acceleration, etc. You can also save battery power by “killing” unnecessary processes or blocking access to some applications, including system ones.

To prevent unwanted calls or send outgoing SMS to short numbers 360 Security has a special module. If desired, you can configure tools to search for stolen or lost smartphone through this application, for which you need to log in from it with using Google account.

In 360 Security, you can monitor traffic in various networks - WiFi, 4G, etc. Despite good anti-virus protection and convenient scanning tools, there is no real-time protection that allows you to timely check Internet traffic for security threats.

Visually, 360 Security looks very modern and has user-friendly interface. The program has many settings and is translated into more than 20 languages.

360 Security can be considered a good alternative to CM Security, although it lacks network traffic control. Otherwise, they are almost identical, and the set of functions goes far beyond the usual antivirus and allows you to effectively manage RAM and applications installed on the device.

360 Security deserves an overall score of 4.7.

AVG Antivirus is available on many platforms, including Android. It originally appeared on the PC back in the 90s and more than 25 years have passed since then. In addition to editions for various operating systems, there are special versions, which differ in the presence of paid content and functionality.

So for Android there are already 4 of them - FREE (the most popular, more than 100 million downloads), the total cost of 590 rubles, as well as special editions for Sony smartphones or tablets.

AVG includes a set of tools for antivirus protection and operating system management, which has recently become standard practice for this type of application. The main features are security, privacy, performance and anti-theft, all presented on the main screen.

The set of tools in AVG is not much different from competitors - memory scanning, checking installed apps, locating a lost device, etc. To optimize the operation of the operating system, there is an application manager and selective memory cleaning. The user can also monitor the battery charge and certain moment switch to power saving mode.

Some features in the FREE version are only available for a 30-day trial. trial period- blocking applications, backup etc. The paid version without ads at the time of writing the article cost 590 rubles per year and, if available, free alternatives hardly of interest to most users.

The disadvantages of AVG include not the most modern interface, which does not look the best in landscape mode, as well as the lack of means to check traffic in real time.

AVG can be considered a good mobile adaptation of the once popular on Windows antivirus, although the program is not without a number of shortcomings. Nevertheless, the set of features available in the free version will be more than enough for 9 out of 10 users.

The final score of AVG is 4.5 points.

Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus is one of the best cross-platform antiviruses out there. This app is one of the leaders in its segment on both PC and Android. The developer of AVAST Software has about 10 applications on Google Play, most of which are designed to manage the operating system - blocker, anti-theft, etc.

Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus is complete solution, consisting of many tools. Compared to competitors, there is a much more impressive set of functions here - a firewall, anti-theft, application access control, optimization tools. The standard tools have not gone anywhere - a virus scanner, control network connection, traffic, etc.

With Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus, you can successfully counter most threats. The scan does not take long and can detect security and performance issues. The application not only works in the background, promptly informing the device owner about any suspicious files and actions, but also allows you to restore access to the device in case it is lost.

The application interface is very user-friendly and informative. You can quickly set a pincode for some applications, block receiving SMS or calls from unwanted numbers, etc. In addition, the user can manage application permissions, which allows you to change access rights to various OS components and personal data.

Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus can rightly be called one of the most powerful and versatile tools for managing the operating system. Android system. In terms of anti-virus protection, the application can also be ranked among the leaders on all platforms on which it is presented.

Based on all factors, Avast Mobile Security & Antivirus receives the maximum score - 5 out of 5.

Dr.Web is another antivirus popular on PC, which is now available on Android. On Google Play, the program is presented in several versions - free, trial with a 14-day trial period and the full cost of as much as 2600 rubles.

In terms of functionality, Dr.Web is a little closer to classic antiviruses, although operating system management tools are also present here, but only in trial and paid versions. Dr.Web Lite is a regular antivirus with a memory scanner, network traffic monitor, etc.

Advanced versions of the application are much more interesting - there is a filtering of calls and SMS using a black list and special filters, as well as anti-theft, which allows you to access it remotely if the device is lost. Using Dr.Web, you can block the device, turn on the sound signal, or get GPS coordinates on Google maps.

Different versions of the application also differ in the presence of tools for blocking access to the software available on the device and a firewall. The latter is required to set restrictions on network access for programs and system components.

Security audit in all editions of Dr.Web is implemented in a similar way - there is an anti-virus scanner with regularly updated databases and a network monitor to protect against malicious traffic in real time.

Model paid subscription in Dr.Web is not the most convenient - the full version is quite expensive and is unlikely to arouse interest among users if available free analogues from other developers.

Demo version works only 2 weeks, and the free one does not contain many additional features. It is also worth noting that if the device has the Light version, other editions will not run.

In general, Dr.Web performed well as an antivirus, but it has become standard practice for Android to include operating system management tools in the package, which are present only in the paid version. 2600 rubles is too high a price for such functionality.

As a result, Dr.Web gets only 4 points out of 5, primarily because of the paid subscription model.

Kaspersky Internet Security is a comprehensive protection for mobile devices against all possible threats. This antivirus is one of the leaders on both PC and Android. The application can be downloaded for free, and a set of additional functions is activated at the request of the user when purchasing an annual subscription worth 400 rubles.

The main purpose of Kaspersky Internet Security is to identify and eliminate security threats. All functions are presented on the main screen of the application - scanning, updating, sms filter, anti-theft, etc. Tools available for a paid subscription are marked with a special crown icon.

These include a web filter, hiding contacts, and others. The paid version has a 30-day trial period, after which you need to get a subscription or upgrade to the free version.

Kaspersky Internet Security is very reliable as a security threat detection tool. The databases of the application are regularly updated, and they are responsible for the safety of personal data individual components, allowing you to protect private correspondence, hide contacts, etc.

The anti-theft module provides all the necessary tools for remote access to a lost device - triggering a sound signal, blocking, searching by GPS.

Visually, Kaspersky Internet Security looks quite stylish, and the interface design is similar to the PC version. For the web screen to work, you will need to keep the application running in the background at all times.

The disadvantages of this antivirus include perhaps the absence of an application blocker that allows you to restrict access to installed software using a pincode or pattern.

Kaspersky Internet Security is one of the best antiviruses for Android, although the need to purchase a paid subscription is unlikely to be to the liking of most users. 400 rubles a year is not such a large amount as in the case of Dr.Web, but still quite tangible.

The final score of Kaspersky Internet Security is 4.6 points.

Norton Mobile Security reliably protects information on mobile devices, allowing you to avoid theft or loss of personal data. The app provides proactive protection and is available on multiple platforms, including Android.

The trial version allows you to use all the functions for a month, after which the additional functionality is disabled. If you wish, you can upgrade to Premium with a paid subscription, which cost 900 rubles a year at the time of writing the review.

Norton Mobile Security allows you to monitor traffic in real time and notifies the user if suspicious data is transmitted. Like other similar applications, there are tools for comprehensive interaction with the operating system.

The user can back up their data, block receiving calls from certain numbers, or protect against theft using the anti-theft module.

Norton Mobile Security has a special "application advisor" feature that provides information on possible security threats from installed software. Tools for blocking access to individual programs and components are also available, but this will require the installation of Norton App Lock.

Among the advanced features is the ability to shoot on the front camera, which is activated via remote access, . Also, using Norton Mobile Security, you can set up automatic blocking of the device in case of removal of the SIM card.

Visually, the application looks very stylish and modern - all functions are divided into five tabs that are switched on the main screen. There are few settings in the program, for example, you can change notification settings or set an automatic scan period.

Norton Mobile Security is well adapted for Android devices, but the cost of a paid subscription is currently somewhat overpriced. On the other hand, if you believe the application page on Google Play, for the US the price is even $30, which is at least twice as expensive at the average annual dollar rate.

In terms of functionality, Norton Mobile Security is in no way inferior to other participants in the review, so the overall score is 4.5 points.

Avira Antivirus Security is an application for comprehensive protection of smartphones and tablets from various threats. It can be obtained for free on Google Play, but additional features are provided only in the case of a paid subscription worth a little more than 400 rubles per year. A trial version with full functionality is not provided here.

Avira Antivirus Security is not much different in functionality from analogues that came to Android from a PC. It also has a number of functions for interacting with the operating system, allowing you to ignore calls from unwanted numbers and block the device if certain actions are performed with it.

All standard means in Avira Antivirus Security in place - scanning the memory for threats, restricting access to applications (using Avira's AppLock +), etc. In the event of a loss of the phone, the user can track it using GPS, activate the siren, erase data or block the device.

Some basic features in Avira Antivirus Security are only available with a subscription. This applies primarily to real-time connection monitoring tools. Without a subscription, the application will not react to the download of suspicious files. The Premium version also updates more frequently and provides better technical support.

The interface of Avira Antivirus Security is quite convenient - the main menu in the form of a list contains all the main functions of the antivirus. Near some of them there are special indicators, if the function is disabled, available only in the Beta version or by paid subscription.

Avira Antivirus Security does a good job of identifying and resolving security threats. However, a number basic functions available only by subscription, which makes the application less attractive in the eyes of users.

Avira Antivirus Security scores 4.5 out of 5 possible.

McAfee Mobile Security provides everything you need to protect your Android devices. There are more than 10 different products from MacAfee on Google Play, all of them are free, but some have paid content.

McAfee Mobile Security versions Premium differs only in the absence of advertising, the presence of telephone support and cloud storage 2 GB in size, which is not so important for this type of application.

McAfee Mobile Security is a universal tool that ensures not only the safety of the user, but also the safety of his data. In addition to standard functions like memory scanning or traffic control, there is a set of energy-saving tools here - cleaning up memory, storage, etc.

McAfee Mobile Security has an advanced self-defense system that includes a pincode and security questions. If the device is lost, the user will be able to determine its location, delete data or track actions with a SIM card.

The application allows you to block calls and SMS from unwanted numbers, selectively restrict access to applications using a pincode, and perform backup and restore.

Visually, McAfee Mobile Security does not look very stylish, although the interface can still be called moderately convenient. Main screen consists of several tabs - security check, privacy, battery optimizer, etc.

McAfee Mobile Security makes a very mixed impression. On the one hand, this is a good application that allows you to ensure the security of your mobile device. On the other hand, half of the program's functions are not related to anti-virus protection.

The paid subscription model is also a little strange - $2.5 per month or $30 per year, while it gives access to features that 99% of users do not need at all.

The final score for McAfee Mobile Security is 4.3 out of 5.

On the PC, ESET is known for the NOD32 antivirus, and this review included it mobile version called ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus. The application can be downloaded for free from Google Play and, if necessary, a paid subscription worth about 400 rubles per year can be obtained.

It provides access to advanced features such as determining the location of a lost device, filtering calls and SMS, etc. By default, all tools are available for 30 days, then you should subscribe or continue using the free version with limited functionality.

ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus is a good mobile adaptation of one of the best computer antiviruses. It is threat protection that is the main purpose of the application - system scanning, moving to quarantine, scheduled scans, etc. Built-in anti-phishing protection allows you to ensure security when using third party applications like browsers and instant messengers.

The set of additional tools in ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus is very impressive - an anti-theft module, call and SMS management, etc. The only thing missing is the built-in application manager. The anti-theft is very advanced here - it not only blocks the device in certain situations, but also allows you to take pictures and store the history of network connections.

The application has a very user-friendly interface - on the main screen there is a switchable list of items responsible for all the main functions - antivirus, anti-theft, anti-phishing, etc.

ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus has impressive functionality, but like many other participants in this review, it is not without a drawback with a paid subscription. Most users will not give developers 400 rubles a year, and without this, the full version of the application is available only for a 30-day trial period.

The final score is 4.5 points.

Conclusion
There are many antiviruses for Android, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, but among the popular applications of this type, almost all received high marks both on Google Play and in this review. It is worth noting that most of this segment make up programs that originally appeared on the PC.

The exceptions are CM Security and 360 Security, where the target platform is Android, they have become the most popular among users. This is explained not so much by the functionality of applications, but by the lack of paid content.

The developers of most antiviruses that came with a PC believe that you have to pay for additional functions and offer a subscription costing from 400 rubles a year, when the same functions in CM Security and 360 Security are available completely free of charge. The detailed data of the comparative analysis can be found in the two tables at the end of the article.

Based on the combination of all the advantages and disadvantages in this review, a couple of leaders were identified - CM Security and Avast. Both applications are almost flawless in terms of functionality and do not require a paid subscription, for which they received the maximum score - 5 out of 5.

Slightly behind are 360 ​​Security and Kaspersky Internet Security - 4.7 and 4.6 points, respectively. The majority of reviewers scored 4.5 due to paid subscription restrictions - AVG, Norton Security & Antivirus, Avira Antivirus Security and ESET Mobile Security & Antivirus.

There are only 2 outsiders - McAfee and Dr.Web, while the latter has a record cost of the paid version - 2600 rubles, and the free version is severely cut off in terms of functionality.

The programs participating in the review were considered in descending order of their popularity on Google Play, and if in the top four (CM Security, 360 Security, AVG and Avast) the difference in this indicator is small, then McAfee and Norton lag behind them 10 times.

If you dwell on the statistical data in the tables in more detail, you will notice that all applications have a built-in anti-virus scanner, but only 3 out of 10 received 5 out of 5 pluses for additional functionality - CM Security, Avast and McAffee.

You can also make sure that when developers limit the set of tools in free versions, they primarily remove tools for blocking access to data and monitoring network traffic. The last component is the key to any antivirus, because it provides real-time protection.

In this review, all participants showed high results, so choosing an antivirus for Android is more a matter of taste. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that CM Security and Avast showed themselves a little better than the rest - they are free, easy to manage and contain a large set of tools for security and interaction with the operating system.

In September 2016, AV-Test, an independent laboratory, tested 27 antivirus applications against mobile threats on the Android (5.1.1) platform. Antiviruses were used with default settings.

general information

In testing we used latest versions mobile antiviruses available at the time of testing. Applications could update at any time and make requests to their "cloud" services. Testing was focused on malware detection and usability assessment, taking into account application performance and false positives. The functionality of each application was also evaluated. Antivirus for Android had to demonstrate its capabilities, using all the components and levels of protection.

Tested antiviruses

  • AhnLab V3 Mobile Security 3.1
  • Alibaba Mobile Security 5.0
  • Baidu Mobile Security 8.2
  • DU Antivirus - App Lock Free 2.2
  • NSHC Droid-X 3.0
  • PSafe Total 3.6
  • Qihoo 360 AntiVirus 2.1
  • Secucloud Endpoint Protection 0.5.7
  • Tencent WeSecure 1.4

Mobile Threat Protection

To assess the level of protection (Protection), the level of detection is checked on real-time mobile threats and a representative set of malicious applications detected in the last 4 weeks, which is collected by the AV-Test laboratory. In September 2016, 3,787 and 3,757 malicious samples were used, respectively.

False positives and performance

The Usability parameter - ease of use - takes into account the performance of the mobile antivirus and false positives. The impact on battery life, device slowdown during normal use, and the amount of traffic generated are evaluated. In September 2016, false positives were tested against safe apps from Google Play (2,052) and other third-party app stores (993).

Test results. September 2016

The results of testing antiviruses for Android in September 2016:


Click on image to view full version on the AV-Test website

  • Protection - antivirus protection level.
  • Usability - performance and false positives.
  • Features - application functionality.
  • Overall Points - the total number of points.

Mobile Threat Detection Rate

Designation of columns in the table:

  • Detection Rate Real-World-Testing - detection rate for real-time mobile threats.
  • Detection Rate Reference Set - detection rate on a representative set of malicious applications detected in the last 4 weeks.

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