Best software to open .DAT files with

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by Radu Tyrsina 

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DAT file type - how to open
Unlike other file extensions that usually let you know what program opens them, .DAT files are different. These files can be literally anything, from a plain old text document to an image. The problem is that since .DAT files can be anything, they can also contain viruses. This also makes .DAT the go-to format for most hackers and spammers. Fortunately, even antivirus programs can open .DAT files. Thus, it is better to be safe than sorry, and opening a .DAT file for the first time with a good antivirus is the right thing to do. There are plenty of such programs out there, so choosing the right one can be a bit problematic. That is why we’ve compiled a list of the best antivirus programs that you can open .DAT files with.

Top antivirus programs to open .DAT files with

Bitdefender Total Security 2020

Bitdefender Total Security 2020Topping out our list is an entry that tops out most general lists when it comes to the best antivirus programs, Bitdefender Total Security 2020.

This is not just a simple antivirus that you install, it is an entire suite of protection services that keep your PC, mail, e-wallet and pretty much anything else protected from cyber threats.

Pros:

  • The UI is constantly updated to be more intuitive and easy to use
  • Solid protection against phishing attacks
  • Proactive scanning of social networking profiles
  • Privacy protection and online transaction security

Cons:

  • Takes time to install

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Kaspersky Anti-Virus 8.0 for Windows Servers Enterprise Edition

KaqsperskyKaspersky is a great antivirus program that is more suited for those that love automated programs so they don’t bother going through the hassle of too many manual check-ups.

It runs silently in the background, actively removing threats as it encounters them, and most of the time you won’t even know how infected your PC would have been unless you look in the virus vault.

Pros:

  • Advanced digital threat protection 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Virtual keyboard feature protects against standard keyloggers
  • Comes with a mobile protection package

Cons:

  • Support is not 24hours

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Norton AntiVirus Plus

81WWbm1pOiL._SX679_Another big game in the antivirus world, Norton AntiVirus Plus is perfectly capable of taking care of all of your data protection needs.

It is constantly updated so you always have the latest protection against all known threats, and you won’t get headaches using it thanks to the intuitive UI.

Pros:

  • Efficient virus detection support
  • Constantly updated
  • 24/7 Customer support
  • Intuitive UI

Cons:

  • May take up a few system resources

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Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus

WebrootThe strongest point of Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus is the small amount of system resources that it needs to run efficiently. This program will run in the background almost unnoticed, yet it will still provide you with above-average protection.

Additionally, the interface is relatively simple to read, although those of you that are less tech-savvy may need to read a guide or two.

Pros:

  • Fast and thorough scans
  • Low system resource usage
  • GoodURL blocking is on par with the leaders
  • Feature-rich
  • Long-term plans offer decent discounts

Cons:

  • The price tag on a singular device subscriptions

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ESET NOD32 Antivirus

NOD32The final entry on our list isn’t necessarily the worst. ESET NOD32 Antivirus has been side by side the PC community, protecting it from online threats for what seems like ages.

It doesn’t use up a lot of resources, and the UI and configuration options make it an excellent choice for professionals and amateur users alike.

Pros:

  • Low system resource usage
  • Ultra configurable
  • You get great discounts with multi-device packages
  • Expert-level controls

Cons:

  • Inconsistent results over multiple tests

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Closing thoughts on programs to open .DAT files with

Any of the entries on our list are perfectly capable of opening .DAT files without any worries of infecting your PC with any surprise malware.

More so, some of them will automatically scan the file the moment you copy it into your PC, so you can pretty much skip the opening it part altogether.

All in all, if you want to be protected from online threats, or work in an environment that requires you to keep your data extra safe, you can’t go wrong with any of the programs listed above.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina Shield

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time). For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web. Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they're looking for.

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