Are you a Windows Vista user worried about the choice of antivirus to use? This post is meant for you.

Protect your devices with the safest antivirus we chose for you.

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  • If you’re still running the free download of Windows Vista, you need extra protection since it’s no longer supported.

  • Be careful with those free antivirus tools for Windows Vista because their protection is limited.

  • Find below the best antivirus options for Windows Vista 32-bit that still offer updated protection for your OS.

  • Anti-theft support

  • Webcam protection

  • Intuitive setup and UI

  • Multi-platform support

  • Banking-level encryption

  • Low system requirements

  • Advanced anti-malware protection

An antivirus program needs to be fast, efficient, and cost-effective, and this one has them all.

Get ESET antivirus today!

Vista might be one of the oldest Windows OSs but it is still relevant. Meanwhile, there are several antivirus software packs suitable for it.

Keep in mind Vista is no longer supported by Microsoft for some years now. What’s more, given the evolution of the Windows operating systems, antivirus developers have also adapted.

Thus, limited applications emerged and we are going to exploit them below. Without further ado, check out the best antivirus for Windows Vista that you can still use today.

What antivirus still works with Vista?

There are a lot of software companies that still develop apps that are compatible with the OS. Most notably, there are several worthwhile antivirus tools that you can install today to protect your Windows Vista PC.

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If you want to keep your Vista PC secure, installing a third-party AV is more of a requirement than an option. The built-in Windows Defender is no longer updated, hence it’s incapable to handle current viruses.

Does AVG work with Windows Vista? Windows Vista users can benefit from updated security support from companies such as ESET, Kaspersky, AVG, and other prominent cybersecurity giants mentioned below.

The operating system also integrates Windows Defender just like newer versions of Windows. It is not enough, but you can keep it enabled and combine it with a third-party app for enhanced protection.

Will Bitdefender work with Windows Vista? You are only permitted to install Bitdefender on computers that are currently running Windows 7 with Service Pack 1, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, or Windows 11.

Taking all these into account, we came up with the following antivirus list that includes both free and paid options that are capable to protect your Windows Vista PC against current security threats:

  • ESET NOD32 – Best overall protection
  • TotalAV – Award-winning antivirus
  • Panda Dome – Friendly user interface
  • Kaspersky Internet Security – Low RAM usage rates
  • AVG Internet Security – Great for multiple devices
  • Avira – Optimized for online privacy
  • Avast Free Antivirus – High and fast detection rates
  • Webroot Antivirus – Secure anti-phishing and anti-spyware

Make sure to read the full list as the following antiviruses vary in features. Some include VPNs, while others have gaming modes and removable media scanners, see which best fits your needs.

What is the best antivirus for Windows Vista?

TotalAV has all the good features to keep you safe from the latest malware threats.

  • What antivirus still works with Vista?
  • What is the best antivirus for Windows Vista?
  • Webroot Antivirus - Secure anti-phishing and anti-spyware
  • Does Windows Vista have Internet Security?

ESET NOD32 – Best overall protection

ESET is a PC protection company that has been in operation for about two decades now. The ESET NOD32 is an antivirus software still compatible with Windows Vita and uses very little of your computer’s resources.

We must however mention that all new ESET products use the SHA-2 hashing algorithms, whilst Windows Vista uses SHA-1 algorithms. This incompatibility can lead to some issues, but there are ways to solve them.

If you already have ESET installed on your Windows Vista, the antivirus will automatically update to the newest release if that option is enabled.

You should also have no issues installing it. The problem is that some features like Web and Email protection may not work.

According to ESET’s website, the current version of the AV only offers limited support for Windows Vista, which will end in November 2022. They offer older releases of the antivirus, so you can try to download those.

Another option that has worked for some users is to try to upgrade your Windows Vista hashing algorithms to SHA-2. Microsoft offers upgrade files for x86-based and x-64-based versions of Windows Vista in the Microsoft Download Center. 

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Comprehensive protection against spyware, viruses, worms, adware, and rootkits
  • Protection for removable media such as external hard drives and USB flash drives
  • Thorough scanning followed by a report of the status of your PC’s security is provided
  • Gaming mode blocks unwanted pop-ups and intrusions during gaming activities
  • Tech support (video tutorials, email, forums, as well as phone support and live chat)

ESET NOD32 offers thorough system protection and is capable to run in the background without slowing down your Windows Vista machine.

ESET NOD32

Secure your Windows Vista PC with the lightest tools that doesn’t spare any effort in protecting your PC.

TotalAV – Award-winning antivirus

TotalAV is an outstanding antivirus with over 30 million users in 2022. It provides exceptional virus detection rates and an intuitive user interface suitable not only for beginners but for advanced users too.

This software can help you scan your PC for temporary files where viruses are most commonly found. It can also perform a smart scan where you can schedule scans for malware, tracking cookies, and junk files to automatically run on your planned time.

After TotalAV finishes scanning, you can choose an action for each of the malicious files, such as quarantine, whitelist, delete, or anything else.

Furthermore, this program has a Remote Firewall feature to help you gain access to your device’s firewall settings, letting you easily block or unlock connection requests.

Another great feature is its Real-Time Protection which can check your downloads, install, and executables for viruses every time your PC accesses them.

TotalAV also analyzes and blocks any suspicious websites, preventing them from stealing your data.

Here is a list of other amazing features of TotalAV:

  • Anti-spyware
  • Anti-adware
  • Protection against phishing scams
  • System optimization tools
  • Browser cleaner&manager
  • 24/7 support
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Webroot Antivirus – Secure anti-phishing and anti-spyware

Next, we have a light and reliable antivirus that is capable to secure your Windows Vista PC without taking up too much storage space.

TotalAV

Excellent software that ensures the highest levels of security for your devices.

Panda Dome – Friendly user interface

Safe, simple, and light, this is the antivirus to use to secure your Windows Vista PC.

Even more advanced security options are available in the paid Panda Dome versions (Essential, Advanced, Complete, and Premium).

Panda Dome has a strong firewall meant to increase online security on Windows machines.

On that very subject, we must mention the VPN. Panda Dome includes a built-in VPN that lets you shield your IP and secure your online presence.

It offers 150MB/day and you can use it to secure payments, access remote game servers, and view geo-restricted content.

The antivirus also has a multimedia/game mode. When you enable it, some of the notifications will be temporarily stopped.

This means that you get to enjoy your favorite activities without being interrupted by your antivirus. Of course, this does not include notifications that require your immediate response. Vital alerts are always on.

  • Malware and ransomware protection
  • Scanner for external devices / USB
  • Parental control
  • Protection of personal data
  • Secure browser
  • PC optimization

Panda Dome has a free trial version, as well as subscription-based releases. In addition, the first month of the subscription is free.

Panda Dome

Keep your Windows Vista system protected with one of Panda’s security solutions.

Kaspersky Internet Security – Low RAM usage rates

All Kaspersky solutions are excellent and compatible with Windows Vista (32-bit and 64-bit). They have everything you would need in a suite and its components are very effective.

This security software has a strong firewall that can give your system maximum protection against unknown connections. It even has an anti-malware tool suitable to detect viruses before they infect your PC.

You might need to change some product configurations before installing and using Kaspersky for Windows Vista on your computer.

Kaspersky recommends excluding some Windows Files from scanning in order to increase performance.

There are some Windows files that cannot be infected, so running a scan on them is not necessary. You can also exclude installation packages and archives.

  • Effective anti-phishing software
  • It has an advanced disinfection scan
  • It has a firewall with powerful application control
  • Automated security patching
  • Webcam protection and so many other bonus features

Kaspersky has a low RAM memory usage which makes for increased PC functionality. This is especially important for those that use an older computer.

Kaspersky Internet Security

With Kaspersky, your Windows Vista gets real-time protection against the most recent malware.

AVG Internet Security – Great for multiple devices

AVG’s Internet Security is an efficient program still compatible with Windows Vista, which is still updated by the software developer, unlike most similar products.

AVG takes up less storage space, runs fast, and it’s light on system resources, so it’s perfect for older devices as well.

AVG comes with drive encryption, plus the latest cloud-based protection feature.

Other supporting features include antispam, firewall and email protection, web browsing protection, and protection for your data and identity against theft online.

Get real-time, on-demand, and on-access scheduled protection to safeguard your system and devices against threats such as rootkits or any malicious links.

Take a look at its best features below:

  • Webcam protection against hijacking
  • File shredder to permanently eliminate unwanted files from your PC
  • Enhanced payments protection
  • One license covers all the devices of your family
  • Anti-spam and anti-phishing protection

AVG offers both free and premium antivirus packages. AVG Internet Security is subscription-based, but you can try it out for free as they offer a 30-day free trial.

AVG Internet Security

This tool will protect your Windows Vista PC and ups the ante with cloud-based protection feature.

Avira – Optimized for online privacy

Avira is so light and versatile that it can get on almost any device and your Windows Vista PC is included.

It’s extremely easy to use thanks to its very friendly interface but that doesn’t mean that it’s a simple tool.

On the contrary, Avira comes packed with various features like a firewall, a cleaning tool for your PC, and even a free VPN to help you protect your privacy.

Of course, this is a security solution so it can have your back when it comes to all possible online threats like phishing, but also covers the latest virus and malware crawling around.

Avira uses intelligent detection mechanisms based on machine learning. It detects change of behavior in software and system and runs additional scans

The app also has a powerful potentially unwanted app shield. These are tools that are hidden in the installer wizards of legit software, but they can lead to some problems with your PC.

Let’s see some of its most important characteristics:

  • Can protect you against phishing even on social networks
  • Uses the latest algorithms to protect you from zero-day threats
  • Updated often to ensure constant protection for your devices
  • Free VPN (limited amount of transfer data)

Avira is a great tool for a secure PC. It ensures safe online browsing with its built-in tracker blocker and ad blocker.

Avira

Use this light and trusted security solution to secure your Windows Vista PC from any threats.

Avast Free Antivirus – High and fast detection rates

First of all, Avast Free Antivirus does not require much introduction. Because it is quite popular among many users and is one of the best antiviruses for Windows Vista 32-bit and 64-bit.

Note that this antivirus offers free virus protection for Windows Vista. However, the software does not provide program updates for the latest bugs and malware signatures.

It is therefore recommended that you upgrade the system to a later version, and get at least a basic paid plan for Avast Free Antivirus.

Avast detects and removes online trackers to protect your identity against prying eyes.

The tool also has a cleanup utility included which can help you optimize your machine. It gets rid of unnecessary data like installer files, duplicates, and old registry entries.

  • It has the Wi-Fi-Scanner which continuously investigates and removes potential threats from your router and network
  • A modern UI
  • Very light on the system
  • Good detection of malware capabilities
  • A customizable installer

All in all, this is one of the best free antivirus software for Windows Vista despite the fact that it is no longer updated.

The free version of Avast does not have an expiration. If you want additional features like anti-phishing, check the premium options.

Avast Free Antivirus

Avast Free Antivirus can offer great protection even with its free version.

Webroot is very performant and can work really well on low-end and low PCs. 

This antivirus packs everything you need to give you a well-rounded security system. It has a strong firewall that protects your online activity and blocks websites that are known to be malicious or have problematic links.

The tool implements powerful privacy policies and also protects you against identity theft. It monitors your internet browsing habits and secures sensitive information against keyloggers, spyware, and other similar threats.

Other key features of Webroot Secure Anywhere include:

  • Password Manager
  • Web filtering
  • High detection rates
  • Webcam protection

Webroot is a subscription-based antivirus that offers complete protection not only for Windows users but also for macOS and Android.

Does Windows Vista have Internet Security?

Windows Vista does have a built-in Firewall for online protection. Users can easily find it in the Windows Security Center menu. It has a simple configuration, you can enable/disable it in just a few clicks.

Webroot Antivirus

Secure your Windows Vista PC with this light but extremely powerful AV solution.

Some Vista users do however complain that the firewall blocks access to secure websites. This issue can be remediated if you update your firewall or if you install an antivirus with online protection and disable the built-in utility.

For the best internet security for Windows Vista, we recommend you combine your firewall and antivirus with a safe browser that still offers updated versions for Windows Vista.

All the antivirus products mentioned in this post are suitable for Windows Vista. However, it would also help to look at our selection with the best Windows 11 antiviruses.

Knowing that all software packs are genuine, easy to get, and reliable, all you need to do is click on the download link of the antivirus that best suits your needs.

If you’re interested in saving some money, you can also check our list of the best antiviruses with lifetime license that you don’t need to renew.

If you have any other suggestions or questions, feel free to reach for the comments section below.

  • antivirusCybersecurityWindows Vista

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