7 best antivirus software for Windows Vista to use in 2022
- If you're still running Windows Vista, you need extra protection since it's no longer supported. Keep on reading to find the best antivirus right away.
- Be careful with those free antivirus tools for Windows Vista because their protection is limited.
- Find below the best options that still offer updated protection for your operating system, covering all today's security requirements.
Are you a Windows Vista user worried about the choice of antivirus to use? This post is meant for you.
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.
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How old is Windows Vista?
Windows Vista has been around for well over a decade. It was initially released to the commercial public in January 2007.
The main new features that Vista brought were a more modern graphical interface, the Windows Search function, and new multimedia tools.
Despite the fact that it was met with a mixed reception and is up to this day one of the most criticized versions of Windows, there are still a significant number of people that still use it today.
Can I still use Windows Vista in 2022?
Despite the fact that Windows Vista has been discontinued and Microsoft ended its support for the OS in 2017, a considerable number of people keep using it.
The operating system and its built-in apps do no longer get updates, so it’s important to address whether it’s capable to provide a good and secure user experience or if it’s best it stays retired.
We must mention that a discontinued OS is never going to be as secure as an up-to-date one. It does not comply with current security requirements which makes it a lot more vulnerable than its upgraded counterparts.
There are, however, 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.
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.
It is also important to note that other vital applications such as browsers or email clients still offer Windows Vista compatible applications and it’s recommended you get them as well as they too contribute to good overall security and privacy.
That being said, the number of apps that support Windows Vista is decreasing. Of course, you can always find older versions but they are certainly not secure, not to mention the fact that many of them are only available for download on suspicious websites.
So while it’s still possible to get and use the operating system, finding secure apps that are compliant with today’s needs can get tedious. To make this matter easier, keep on reading to see your best antivirus options.
What antivirus works with Windows Vista?
Windows Vista users can benefit from updated security support from companies such as ESET, Kaspersky, 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.
You can also download older versions of your favorite antivirus. We do however advise you to do this with caution as they may not offer the best protection against newer threats. If you decide to go for this option, please only download them from trusted, official websites.
What is the best antivirus for Windows Vista?
When picking your antivirus for Windows Vista it’s important to first and foremost consider compatibility. Once that’s established, make sure your AV is able to detect and block today’s security threats.
Another vital thing to consider is online security. It’s highly recommended you get an AV with a powerful firewall and real-time detection to overcome any security shortcomings that may appear due to outdated browsers and other similar issues.
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
- Panda Dome
- Kaspersky Internet Security
- AVG Internet Security
- Avira
- Avast Free Antivirus
- Webroot Antivirus
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.
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.
Panda Dome – best 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.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- 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 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.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- 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 – best 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.
Let’s quickly look at its key features:
- 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 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.
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.
Webroot Antivirus
Secure your Windows Vista PC with this light but extremely powerful AV solution.
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.
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.
Can Windows Vista be upgraded to Windows 11?
To upgrade your Windows Vista computer to Windows 11 you will have to resort to a clean install. Whilst Windows 10 users can upgrade directly from the Settings app, this option is not available in Vista.
The reason behind this may be that the OS is no longer supported. Plus, most of the computers that still use it may not meet the recommended hardware requirements for Windows 11.
That being said, if you want to do it, it is not impossible. Make sure to create a backup of all of your data. You can either use a cloud-based backup solution or save your data to removable media.
Afterward, you can uninstall your current version of the operating system and then install Windows 11 on your PC.
You also have the option to upgrade the OS step by step. You can upgrade to Windows 7 from the Settings, then upgrade your Windows 7 OS to Windows 10, and finally to Windows 11.
This option may be a lot more time-consuming, but you will not lose your data in the process. It is possible to meet
If you’re interested in saving some money, you can also check our list with 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.
Protect your PC now!Frequently Asked Questions
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Although Windows’ support for Vista has ended, the OS is still functional. To keep on safely using it, we recommend using an antivirus that still supports Vista.
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Although Mozilla or Chrome are no longer compatible with Vista, there are a number of more lightweight browsing alternatives that you can check in this guide.
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While Microsoft is no longer offering this option for free openly, we might have a few tricks you could try in order to make the upgrade to Windows 10 without charge.
