ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.

Protecting your Windows PC against security threats is critical. You want to make sure your personal files aren't vulnerable to viruses, malware, and other threats. But how do you best defend yourself, your computer, and your data?

Third-party security tools are always an option. Some are free; others are paid. Some offer basic protection; others provide additional features to tackle more advanced threats. Alternatively, Microsoft's own built-in Windows Defender can track down viruses and other dangers.

Also: Is turning off Windows Security a bad idea in 2026? A PC expert's bottom line