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Best Free Alternatives to Norton 360 (2026 Edition)
Stop paying $29 - $119/yr (Introductory). Discover professional-grade tools that won't break your budget.
Category: SecurityVerified for 2025
Top Recommended Replacements
Bitdefender Total Security
FREEBest Overall Performance in 2025
Why we like it
Includes 'Scam Copilot' to rival Norton's AI features; significantly lighter on system resources; native 'Profiles' (Game/Work/Movie) automate system optimization.
Keep in mind
The free version is limited to one device; iOS app is less powerful than the Windows/Android versions.
Aura
Best for Modern Identity Protection
Why we like it
Cleanest modern UI in the category; superior financial fraud monitoring (401k/Bank/Credit); includes $1M identity theft insurance for the whole family.
Keep in mind
Identity features are primarily optimized for US residents; antivirus engine is licensed from Bitdefender rather than being built in-house.
Avast One Basic
FREEBest Free 360-Style Alternative
Why we like it
Managed by the same parent company (Gen Digital) as Norton, using the same core engine; includes a free VPN (limited) and PC speedup tools for $0.
Keep in mind
Aggressive upselling pop-ups; fewer cloud backup gigabytes than Norton's paid plans.
Malwarebytes Plus
FREEBest 'Quiet' Security
Why we like it
Zero bloatware; specializes in removing 'Grayware' and PUPs that traditional antiviruses miss; works seamlessly alongside Windows Defender.
Keep in mind
Lacks the 'extra' features like parental controls or dark web monitoring found in Norton 360.
Surfshark One
Best Value Bundle
Why we like it
Unlimited device connections; includes a top-tier VPN, data breach alerts, and a private search engine; cheaper renewal rates than Norton.
Keep in mind
The antivirus module is newer and lacks the 20-year history of lab testing that Norton/Bitdefender provide.
Windows Defender
FREEBest Zero-Cost Solution
Why we like it
Native integration; no renewal fees; perfectly adequate for 90% of home users when paired with a good ad-blocker.
Keep in mind
Lacks the AI Scam detection and Identity Theft insurance provided by Norton's 2026 suite.
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