Malwarebytes Antivirus is a powerful tool that is developed in Santa Clara, California, for the purpose of providing superior protection against malware. It is compatible with devices running Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Even though this antivirus software includes a few additional capabilities, its major function is to detect and eliminate malware, ransomware, and other viruses.
Malwarebytes 4.0 for Windows was only published not too long ago by the company’s developers. This version utilises more advanced technology to identify the most recent cyber threats. In addition to this, it completes scans in a shorter amount of time and consumes up to fifty percent less CPU power.
Remember that the Malwarebytes Premium + Privacy package gives you access to all of these helpful features as well as a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
This one is perfect for you if you’re looking for an antivirus tool that doesn’t take up much space on your computer and works incredibly quickly. In order to provide you with more information about Malwarebytes, this review will go through the product’s features, as well as its test results and performance.
A look at the benefits and drawbacks of Malwarebytes
Pros
• Free version
• Good virus detection rates
• A simple and straightforward user interface
• Minimal CPU usage
Cons
• There is no real-time protection included in the free version.
• There is no support for live chat.
• There is not a built-in firewall.
Is it safe to use Malwarebytes?
The antivirus protection provided by Malwarebytes is reliable. It can protect you from inadvertently accessing harmful websites, block ransomware from infiltrating your machine, and prevent viruses from spreading in real time. Additionally, the service can clean your computer or smartphone of any malware that may already be there.
Their cutting-edge methods for detecting viruses and their multiple security features provide protection against a wide variety of threats that can be found online. Having said that, Malwarebytes does not come with its own built-in firewall. In addition to this, the paid edition unlocks additional functions that are unavailable in the free version, which merely checks for malware.
It is important to bring up the fact that Malwarebytes was the target of a cyberattack in the year 2021. Some of their email accounts were compromised by the same cybercriminals that were responsible for the intrusion on SolarWinds. Therefore, some of their confidential emails were made public. Having said that, there is no indication that any user data was lost or stolen in any way.
Testing conducted by a third party using Malwarebytes
It is recommended that prior to downloading any antivirus software, you not only read reviews of the software but also check the results of independent testing performed on the software. After all, you don’t want to use your personal computer as a test subject; that’s why there are testing facilities in the first place. In 2018, the company made the decision to start participating in AV testing, and ever since then, their results have been steadily improving.
The experts decided that Malwarebytes version 4.3.0 was the best product available in April 2021, and they used their decision to make the decision. It received the highest possible score of 6 points in each of the categories of Performance, Protection, and Usability.
It is encouraging to observe the progress, particularly when one considers the fact that Malwarebytes has been able to detect viruses at a higher rate than the standard for the industry. The antivirus software was able to detect 100 percent of malware that was four weeks old as well as 99.4 percent of zero-day threats. With these kinds of outcomes, you can have complete confidence that your gadget is safeguarded.
In addition, Malwarebytes is now participating in the AV Comparatives testing that will begin in 2021. Real-World protection, virus protection, and performance tests were carried out on it by the independent specialists.
The use of all security-related elements available on the web is an integral part of real-world protection testing. The premium version of Malwarebytes demonstrated that it is capable of successfully blocking 99.4% to 99.6% of attacks.
The tests for malware protection run dangerous files locally on the system rather than sending them out to the web. Malwarebytes does not have particularly spectacular results in this area, and security experts consider its protection to be par for the course.
In spite of this, the evaluation of its functionality reveals some encouraging signs of progress. Within the span of just six months, Malwarebytes’ performance capabilities have gone from standard to advanced (April, 2021 – October, 2021).
Security functions provided by Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes is not as feature-rich as other leading antivirus software such as Avast, McAfee, or any other leading antivirus software for that matter, despite the fact that it includes quite a few helpful functions. For instance, the Parental Controls, a firewall, and a password manager are not included in the Malwarebytes antivirus package that you have purchased. On the other hand, you won’t be without any essential features like virus protection or file quarantine; to put it another way, Malwarebytes will simply perform the functions of an adequate and straightforward antivirus programme.
In conclusion of our Malwarebytes review, there is one final point I would like to make. During the process of installing the programme, you will be prompted to select whether you wish to install it on your personal computer or the computer at your place of employment. There is no need to stress about this decision because the features offered by both versions are exactly the same. The sole distinction is that business users receive priority customer service, which is not a particularly significant perk for the vast majority of consumers.
Continuous defence in real time
Malwarebytes Premium is the only version that includes this capability, which is rather significant given that it is only available with this edition of the software.
Real-time protection, on the other hand, is a process that runs in the background and stops numerous internet dangers (such as viruses, ransomware, and other malicious software) from entering your device. It has almost no impact on the amount of CPU time that is being used and requires very few of the system’s resources.
Malwarebytes’ antivirus software offers a feature called Real-Time Protection, which is comprised of four sub-features: Web Protection (which prevents infected websites), Malware Protection, Ransomware Protection, and Exploit Protection.
Exploit protection
Even though it is included in the list of Real-Time Protection, the Exploit Protection feature warrants its own paragraph because of its importance. Because this is an advanced security strategy, it deals with exploit attacks against security flaws and software vulnerabilities in applications. The reason for this is because apps often have both.
These kinds of attacks are significantly stealthier than ordinary viruses, as all that is required of you is to open a file or a webpage that has been compromised. Malwarebytes Premium, fortunately, has your back covered. This software “shields” vulnerable apps, preventing malicious code from exploiting the security flaws in those programmes.
There are three modes of system scans.
If you previously had Malwarebytes antivirus software on your computer a few years ago and have now decided to reinstall it, you shouldn’t be startled by the modifications that have been made to the scan mode. You need to understand that Malwarebytes Version 3 offered four distinct kinds of scans, namely Full, Threat, Hyper, and Path.
However, things were different with the installation of Version 4. Just the Quick scan, the Custom scan, and the Threat scan are available to use at this time. It would appear that Malwarebytes just modified some of their scanning titles into ones that are more common as a result of adapting to the market.
Remember that Malwarebytes can only perform a single kind of scan at a time on your computer. You cannot, for instance, perform a system scan while simultaneously checking a particular file for malware. Therefore, adjust the timing of your on-demand scans as necessary.
A cursory examination. The rapid scan feature of Malwarebytes analyses your device’s memory as well as the startup items to look for current threats. This scan can take up to a minute to complete and uses between 0% and 2% of your CPU.
Threat assessment. This scan will run each and every day if you have Malwarebytes Premium installed on your computer. Memory objects, startup objects, registry objects, and file system objects will all be examined, and a heuristic analysis will be carried out in order to improve the level of security offered in the near and distant futures. Bear in mind that this is not the same thing as doing a complete scan; it does not investigate each and every nook and cranny of your computer system.
Scan made to order. The custom scan can perform a check of your entire system if you so choose. Because of this, it could take a little bit longer: the length of time the scan takes is highly proportional to the amount of files and their size on your computer. When there is a lot of information, it takes more time to go through everything. Even rootkits, which are among the most difficult forms of malware to identify, are not immune to your scans.
It is convenient that Malwarebytes can perform a scan in a very short amount of time with nearly no CPU consumption regardless of the type of scan that you choose. This distinguishes it from other antivirus systems, such as McAfee, which run more slowly.
On the other hand, I must say that the absence of a specialised Full scan is a little bit disappointing to me. However, individuals who choose the do-it-yourself approach are free to set it up on their own. The frequency with which the app refreshes its list of known malware, the kind of threats that should be looked for by default, and the app’s role as a primary or secondary antivirus solution are all customizable by users. This includes determining what steps will be taken in the event that PUP or PUM is found. In this way, it can be adapted to your own tastes and requirements.
Guard for the Browser
The Malwarebytes Browser Guard extension is available for free for the browsers Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. It prevents advertisements from loading and guards you against potentially unwanted programmes (PUPs), viruses, and frauds (potentially unwanted programs, e.g., browser hijackers).
It is included in the Malwarebytes antivirus programme that you have purchased. You do, however, have the ability to decide whether or not you would like this addition to be installed on your browser. I like that Browser Guard is not force-installed into your computer without your permission, and that the user is given a distinct and unambiguous option to select.
Security Measures for Dangerous Websites
The Malicious Website Protection feature of Malwarebytes will assist you in avoiding fraudulent and phishing websites by blocking your access to certain websites. In addition to this, it stops your device from hosting malicious software or apps that could be considered potentially unwanted (PUPs).
This helpful function, which is also known as URL filtering, operates in a straightforward manner and performs the following tasks: automatically scans for harmful domains and IP addresses and bans them by intercepting relevant DNS queries.
It is important to keep in mind that the Malicious Website Protection feature is only available as part of the Premium membership plan for Malwarebytes.
Within the settings of the antivirus programme, you will find a simple toggle that allows you to enable or disable the capability. Simply open the Malwarebytes app, navigate to the Settings menu, and look for the Detection and Protection option on the left-hand panel of the screen. You should be able to locate the radio buttons within the section labelled “Protection against Malicious Websites.”
Archived in quarantine
When Malwarebytes Anti-Malware discovers an infected file on your device, it immediately eliminates the threat by putting the file in the quarantine portion of the programme. You are able to restore the file and return it to its original location if you are certain that the file is not at risk and that the warning was merely a false alarm.
You even have the option of adding the file to the Allows list. After that, Malwarebytes won’t focus on finding it during subsequent scans.
Malwarebytes Private Internet Access (VPN)
The Malwarebytes Premium + Privacy plan comes with a Virtual Private Network. The fact that it also includes an antivirus makes it one of the most impressive VPN packages available. When compared to dedicated VPN providers, the service covers more than 30 countries and has more than 450 servers. This number is on the lower end of the spectrum. Nevertheless, there ought to be a large number of potential connection points.
The WireGuard tunnelling protocol, which is currently all the rage among VPN services, is included in the virtual private network (VPN). It is a significant accomplishment for Malwarebytes, taking into consideration that some specialised VPN service providers do not include it in their packages.
In addition to this, a 256-bit encryption will be used to safeguard the connection between them. Because of this, it is impossible for a hacker to break through using brute force. Not to mention that Malwarebytes does not keep any logs of your activity and therefore does not leave any backdoors open to your data.
Free Malwarebytes Downloads
When your free trial of Malwarebytes Premium expires after 14 days, the only option you have is to use the free version of the software. Is there any merit to it? The only thing it does is scan your device and eliminate any threats that it finds while it’s doing so.
In other words, it does not provide real-time protection, which is considered to be one of the most essential features of any antivirus software. This indicates that you require an additional antivirus programme to protect you when you are simply going about your day-to-day activities, such as surfing the web.
When your computer is already infected, using Malwarebytes Free is a natural choice because it is an effective solution. And since the vast majority of free antivirus programmes do not provide protection in real time, we shouldn’t be too critical of Malwarebytes’ capabilities in this regard.
On the other hand, in the future, I hope to see a greater number of free features. If this continues, Malwarebytes might not be able to keep up with the competition.
The Premium Version of Malwarebytes
The complete version of the software is referred to as Malwarebytes Premium. During the course of your 14-day trial, you will have the opportunity to sample it. After that, if you want the programme to continue providing real-time protection for your device, you will need to pay for a yearly subscription to the service.
This edition of Malwarebytes includes all of the features discussed in this Malwarebytes review, including the various kinds of scans (including the daily Threat scan), all of the Real-Time Protection features (Web, Malware, Ransomware, and Exploit), and the ability to get Device Alerts that warn you about potential security issues with your devices.
There is a promotion going on right now for Malwarebytes Premium, and the price has been reduced to $33.74 per year. It is available for devices running Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and Chrome. However, it is only applicable to a single device.
Malwarebytes’ Premium Version With Privacy Protection
Malwarebytes Premium + Privacy is the last product on our list. This edition includes with a virtual private network (VPN), which will keep your browsing activity private.
Their virtual private network (VPN) is quite good; it provides access to more than 30 countries, each of which contains a large number of servers (more than 450 in total).
This bundle of antivirus software and a virtual private network (VPN) service costs $99.99 per year. This antivirus product has a high price tag in contrast to others on the market. Only make the investment in this version of the software if you are certain that you will make use of both the application and the VPN.
The virtual private network (VPN) is currently accessible on devices running Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS; a version for Chrome will be released in the not too distant future.
Is the price of Malwarebytes reasonable considering its features?
Indeed, Malwarebytes provides a satisfactory return on investment. The prices of the subscriptions are comparable to those that are currently being offered by other service providers. You receive fantastic real-time protection, protection against sites that try to trick you into giving your personal information, and a VPN that is lightning fast.
Malwarebytes is also expanding its portfolio, which means that you have the option of selecting a free plan that is kind to your wallet or one of their paid subscription options. You may begin the fundamental cleanup without having to spend a single dime if you use the free version, which is another reason why the free version offers such a great value.
Ease of usage as well as installation
Your subsequent experience with a product is significantly influenced by how simple and fast the first setup is. Malwarebytes done a fantastic job of providing you with a level of usability and installation that is sure to make you happy.
In addition, if you are immediately beginning a free trial, you are not required to provide either an email address or payment information. You are free to give it a shot without exposing yourself to any danger.
Take a look at the following to get an idea of what you may expect from the various operating systems:
Windows
Malwarebytes, much like the vast majority of other antivirus apps, may be quickly and easily installed. You just need to make a few clicks and spend a couple of minutes, and you’re good to go. Keep in mind that while you are installing Malwarebytes, you will be asked if you want the Browser Guard extension. This question will appear during the installation process.
At first appearance, Malwarebytes appears to be a rather straightforward programme. The Real-Time Protection functions, as well as the Virus Detection History and the Scanner section, are all displayed on the dashboard. You’re going to have to go a little bit deeper if you want to find additional stuff. To access the various virus scans, for instance, you must first open the Scanner window and then click on the “advanced scanners” option within that window.
However, you will need to navigate to the Settings menu in order to have a greater say in how Malwarebytes operates on your computer. To do this, you simply need to click the gear icon that is located in the upper right hand corner of the screen. You will find seven tabs in this area, each of which contains a submenu that allows you to customise the application to your specifications.
You have the option to disable notifications, enable device alerts, select from over 20 languages, and even select the program’s visual motif (light, dark, or default) and background image. For instance, you have the ability to block notifications. Because it is so uncommon in the field of antivirus software, the second choice is one of my favourites in particular.
In this comprehensive review of Malwarebytes, I am confident in stating that the user interface of the application is extremely user-friendly and simple to browse, which is something that I would anticipate from a well-known company such as Malwarebytes.
macOS
Their application for macOS has a somewhat similar appearance. Malware scans take roughly the same amount of time, thus there are no unexpected dips in performance just due to the fact that the platform is different.
Having said that, this is where the similarities end. Once again, consumers of Apple products receive a stripped-down version of what Windows users are receiving. The only real security it offers against malware is through its Quick Scan tool and a few other methods.
The App block is the only unique option that is featured in the Mac edition, and its purpose is to prevent untrusted applications from running in the background. Despite the fact that Gatekeeper is pre-installed by default, I was unable to detect any differences in its functionality.
The Malwarebytes mobile application suite
Apps are available for mobile devices running both iOS and Android. Despite the fact that they appear identical from the outside, the capabilities you obtain from each will vary.
Malwarebytes scanning is available in its full-fledged form on Android. Even more, it informs you that Developer Mode, NFC, and Android Beam are all activated on your device. If you choose not to grant the application all of the rights that it requests, it won’t be obtrusive and it won’t limit the functionality of your device in any way.
On the other hand, they will explain to you in detail how the permits will be utilised as well as the reasons why they are required. This is something that I hope to see implemented by a greater number of developers.
Apple’s iOS is the only mobile operating system that filters out unsolicited callers, harmful URLs, and SMS messages. Therefore, it is not nearly as effective as its iOS antivirus equivalent, which is typically the case.
Customer support
If you run into any issues while installing Malwarebytes or using it, you may access the Help menu by clicking the icon located in the upper-right hand corner of the dashboard. This will open a new window that contains a variety of links to software guides and frequently asked questions, in addition to a download link for the assistance tool that will automatically fix some of the problems you are having. You can also seek assistance by using the live chat feature on this website.
You also have the option to click the button that says “Malwarebytes Support,” then press the “Help” button in the bottom-right corner of the screen, and then enter in your question at that point. After that, the support bot will provide you with a number of links to frequently asked questions as well as an option that says “Get in contact.” It at long last gives you the opportunity to fill out a form, give your email address, and begin to wait for a response (that might take a few days).
Is Malwarebytes a decent programme, and is it money well spent?
The antivirus software Malwarebytes is a good choice. It has made significant strides forward in terms of performance and the percentage of viruses it is able to detect in compared to its earlier versions. Your device will be protected, even from dangers that haven’t been discovered yet, by the most recent version.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider as well. Malwarebytes is safe to use and works well enough for an experienced user, but individuals who are not particularly knowledgeable about technology may have some difficulty using it when they run into a problem. This is due to the fact that Malwarebytes’ customer assistance options are somewhat restricted, consisting primarily of email help and frequently asked questions areas.
In addition, the programme comes at a somewhat high cost, particularly when one considers the Premium + Privacy version. If I were forced to choose, I would go with the Malwarebytes Premium edition because it offers the most features. In terms of security, it is superior to Malwarebytes Free (because to the fact that it provides real-time protection), and the price is far lower than that of the Privacy suite.
FAQ
Check out the Frequently Asked Questions part of our website for a speedy response if you have any remaining questions after reading this Malwarebytes review.
Does Malwarebytes still offer a free version of its software?
Yes. When your free trial of Malwarebytes Premium expires after 14 days, the software will revert to its free version, which detects for viruses but does not provide real-time protection.
Does Malwarebytes cause your computer to run more slowly?
No. In point of fact, Malwarebytes is one of the conventional antivirus programmes that uses the least amount of system resources possible.
Is there any value in using the free version of Malwarebytes?
Yes. It is a useful tool for checking your device for viruses and getting rid of any that it finds. Malwarebytes Premium, on the other hand, has every single safety feature built in, thus it is the safer option to utilise that. I recommend that you read the complete evaluation of Malwarebytes so that you can determine if this software is really right for you.
Is Malwarebytes a more effective protection than McAfee?
Both Malwarebytes and McAfee perform similarly in tests designed to detect viruses; therefore, the decision comes down to the software’s feature set and processing speed. If you want capabilities such as a firewall or a file shredder, McAfee is the way to go. On the other hand, if your machine has trouble keeping up with its CPU utilisation, I highly recommend Malwarebytes.
Which antivirus software is compatible and effective with Malwarebytes?
When used together, Bitdefender and Malwarebytes provide the best protection. The vast majority of threats will be unable to penetrate its security defences.
However, there is still a remote possibility of an infection caused by highly sophisticated malware. Therefore, installing Malwarebytes as an additional safety measure is a prudent decision to do.
Is Malwarebytes a more effective malware removal tool than Norton Security?
No, Malwarebytes is not a better option than Norton Security, which has a protection record of one hundred percent against malware and a comprehensive set of security features. Malwarebytes offers protection against malware at a rate of only 90%, despite the fact that its price is far lower than that of competing products.
Despite this, both services are straightforward to utilise and provide robust protection in comparison to other available antivirus options.
