Windows XP was released for manufacturing on August 24, 2001, and was supported by Microsoft until April 8, 2014.

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  • With Windows XP no longer supported by Microsoft, it’s imperative to use a proper antivirus.

  • Such an antivirus has to be lightweight, speedy, and still completely compatible with this old OS.

  • Follow our guide to find the best free antivirus for Windows XP, as well as paid security software for more protection.

  • Anti-theft support

  • Webcam protection

  • Intuitive setup and UI

  • Multi-platform support

  • Banking-level encryption

  • Low system requirements

  • Advanced anti-malware protection

An antivirus program needs to be fast, efficient, and cost-effective, and this one has them all.

Get ESET antivirus today!

During those years, the operating system became widely adopted. If you happen to be a part of those Internet users that are on Windows XP, finding a good third-party antivirus should be a high priority.

Although XP is more vulnerable in principle owing to its age, in practice, most hijackers are script kids using off-the-shelf software.

That software tends to target the most renowned operating systems, so with XP using single digits, there aren’t many people building attacks against it.

Is antivirus necessary for Windows XP?

It is very important since the operating system has gone unsupported for over 6 years now. But before that, you should make sure you are as up-to-date as possible.

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Because Windows XP lacks a built-in defender like its successors, it is highly recommended that you use an antivirus optimized for it, just be on the safe side when browsing the internet.

Instead, you’d have to download Microsoft Security Essentials for first-party protection, which is both obsolete and only provides a very basic level of security.

To secure your Windows XP PC, we strongly advise you to use a third-party antivirus if you want to keep using your Windows XP computers clear of hijacking attacks.

Why do I need a lightweight antivirus for Windows XP?

Even regular virus definition downloads from traditional antivirus packages might be too much for the limited storage space on a Windows XP PC.

A lightweight antivirus tool with cloud protection can provide comprehensive security while using a few resources and leaving a small data trace.

We tested the best lightweight antivirus applications for outdated or low-end devices in this list to ensure appropriate security without bothersome delays or freezes.

  • ESET NOD32 Antivirus – Best lightweight antivirus
  • Bitdefender Free Antivirus – Best protection against new threats
  • Kaspersky Standard – Best for online payments
  • Panda Security – Best virus detection rate

Some of these tools are free, while others come with a price tag. Read on to learn how each of these antivirus solutions can protect your Windows XP PC.

What to look for in antivirus for Windows XP?

We believe that it is as much about the operating system as it is about system resources such as processor type and speed, as well as memory.

If you don’t have enough capacity, disk space might be an issue. Because you can only install one real-time AV solution, you’re obviously better off selecting one with a high protection rating.

You should also be aware of the PC resources impacted by your antivirus of choice to assure high performance on your computer.

But you shouldn’t stop there if you’re browsing on your XP computer, because the chances are heavily stacked against you.

Supplementing your anti-virus program with anti-malware tools provides the highest level of security for the vulnerable Windows XP.

What is the best antivirus that works with Windows XP?

ESET NOD32 Antivirus – Best lightweight antivirus

Bitdefender Free Antivirus – Best protection against new threats

Bitdefender for Windows XP is a well-known tool that can detect and remove viruses and harmful malware in real time. It offers cloud storage for personal document backup and restoration.

  • Is antivirus necessary for Windows XP?
  • Why do I need a lightweight antivirus for Windows XP?
  • What to look for in antivirus for Windows XP?
  • What is the best antivirus that works with Windows XP?
  • ESET NOD32 Antivirus - Best lightweight antivirus
  • Bitdefender Free Antivirus - Best protection against new threats
  • AVG Antivirus - Efficient web and email security
  • Comodo - Best cloud-based antivirus tool

ESET NOD32 Antivirus is one of the lightest solutions out there so you can make sure that it also runs on your old Windows XP PC.

In addition to desktop versions, ESET is also available on Windows Server, so if you need antivirus software for Windows Server, ESET is the right choice.

Needless to say, this tool offers exquisite protection against all threats including spyware, rootkits, worms, viruses, and even adware.

And it doesn’t only protect your PC but also covers your external drives, including USB flash drives and the data contained.

And to make sure it won’t disturb you during your activities on the PC, ESET NOD32 Antivirus comes with dedicated work modes for Gaming, Presentation, or Movies.

And if you’re facing any problems, you will have all sorts of informative materials and, of course, e-mail, live chat, and phone support at your disposal.

Let’s take a look at some of its key benefits:

  • Very light on your PC resources
  • Whether you work or play, this tool will make sure you won’t be bothered
  • Protection against all kinds of cyber attacks
  • 30-day free trial period
  • Multiple platform compatibility

ESET NOD32 Antivirus is available on multiple platforms, including your Android smartphones so give it a long try because you have 30 days to make up your mind.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus

Protect your old XP system with the best and lightest solution for your PC.

The program monitors traffic and provides continuous active virus management as well as preventive security.

It detects and prevents internet dangers such as phishing, spyware, and questionable files and components. It’s one of the best free antiviruses for Windows XP you can have and feel safe while using your PC.

The software offers a straightforward user interface that allows you to immediately grasp a large range of working tools, functions, and sections. Bitdefender’s official newest version of Windows XP is available for free download.

If you want basic security protection for your Windows-based computer, you should absolutely download Bitdefender Free for Windows Vista or Windows XP.

Let’s quickly look at its key features:

  • Downloads and installs in seconds
  • Intuitive User Interface
  • Offers a great gameplay experience
  • Powerful antivirus protection

Bitdefender adds antimalware protection support for Windows Vista (SP1 & SP2), Windows Server 2008 and Windows Small Business Server (SBS) 2008, Microsoft Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003 clients to provide a security solution while they upgrade to new operating systems.

AVG Antivirus – Efficient web and email security

AVG AntiVirus Free and AVG Internet Security are still available for Windows XP and Vista for basic security and antivirus protection. This security software is a compatible free antivirus for Windows XP 32-bit and 64-bit.

Bitdefender Free Antivirus

Protect your Windows computer from all cyber dangers, regardless of whether you are tech-savvy or not.

Kaspersky Standard – Best for online payments

Kaspersky Lab has had a great reputation for a while now, and it will certainly not be a bad choice to secure your Windows XP SP3 machine from viruses.

With similar scores given by AV-TEST, Kaspersky‘s reputation along with low system requirements helped place it up to the number two spot.

Not taxing a computer too much to keep it protected is a big deal for Windows XP machines since many of them are underpowered.

Kaspersky for Windows XP only requires an 800MHz processor, 512MB of available RAM, and a minuscule 480MB of disk space.

This lightweight configuration gives room to breathe on most machines, especially older Windows XP 32-bit ones that tend to have 1GB of RAM and slower processors.

Let’s see some of its best features below:

  • Free VPN with up to 300 MB of daily traffic
  • Safe Money feature that encrypts your online payments and transactions
  • Webcam protection to block any unauthorized access
  • Constant lookout for device vulnerabilities and threats
  • Isolates and removes immediate threats

Check to see if your computer’s CPU supports the SSE2 instruction set before installing a Kaspersky program on Windows XP.  

Before installing Kaspersky Lab, there are two key factors to consider. To begin, verify whether your processor supports SSE2, then install Kaspersky versions 19 and 18. If the processor does not support SSE2, only Kaspersky version 18 can be installed.

Kaspersky

Kaspersky is the perfect solution for old PCs and can handle old systems like even Windows XP.

Panda Security – Best virus detection rate

So, is there a free antivirus for Windows XP? The answer is yes, and Panda Antivirus is one of the best options out there.

This virus protection tool for Windows XP SP2 and up has a sleek-looking UI that might look too modern compared to the gradients of old XP along with top-notch protection and no noticeable performance hit.

Panda’s offering differs from many of its competitors by running scans in the cloud, meaning users will not have to deal with daily updates.

  • Great protection scores
  • It always keeps itself up to date instead of nagging the user to download updated files one or more times per day
  • Keep virus definitions up to date with no user interaction or knowledge
  • Does not impact the performance of your system

During startup, an automatic scan begins, which is important for checking security warnings. The newest scanning engine, EXE file scanning, and enhanced memory utilization have less impact on your Windows XP computer while completing scans quickly.

The user interface has a utility called Speed Up program for removing files that slow down your system as well as shortening the device’s running process.

Panda Dome

Panda offers real-time protection, your personal firewall, VPN, and more for your old XP computer.

Webroot – The fastest antivirus scans

Webroot Secure Anywhere Antivirus for Windows XP is a defense solution with an easy-to-use interface that is also reliable and trustworthy.

Webroot Secure Anywhere Antivirus is compatible with most Windows operating systems, including Windows XP and Vista, and provides assistance when problems arise.

It is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows XP and Vista, and it installs quickly and runs smoothly in the background.

Webroot antivirus for Windows XP provides protection not just against websites, but also against social networking sites, chat forums, and Voice over Internet Protocol applications, which may and frequently do transmit viruses.

  • User-friendly Interface
  • Lightweight and consume low resources
  • Mid-level privacy and security
  • Email protection

Webroot antivirus tool will deliver efficient virus protection and guard your Windows XP device against complex cyberattacks.

Webroot

Protects your computer and data in real time by detecting and blocking new threats as they arise.

If you are using previous versions of AVG on Windows XP or Windows Vista, you will continue to be protected and get virus definition updates.

However, AVG suggests updating to the most recent versions of Windows and AVG in order to benefit from the greatest detection rates and the most up-to-date features.

AVG Free Antivirus provides basic antivirus and antispyware protection and is available for free download. You can download AVG free version standalone Windows XP antivirus offline installer for a better experience from the AVG support page.

  • Easy installation
  • Real-time PC protection
  • Web and email protection
  • Stops spyware, viruses & malware.

With restricted functionality and no support for versions lower than 18, it is intended for personal and non-commercial usage only.

Comodo – Best cloud-based antivirus tool

If you use the unsafe Windows XP operating system, the possibilities of your computer becoming attacked by keyloggers are quite significant.

AVG Antivirus

A great antivirus that stops all attacks on your privacy when browsing online.

Avast Free Antivirus – Best ransomware protection

Avast Antivirus is the official home security software for Windows XP, another reason why 435 million users trust it. This security software is a compatible free antivirus for Windows XP 32-bit and 64-bit.

AV-Comparatives claims Avast Free Antivirus to be the least impacting antivirus for PC performance. In addition, it comes with advanced cleaning and optimization features for your PC to further improve its performance.

Avast Free Antivirus protects users through regular updates, and you may also safely download Windows XP antivirus offline installer.

It’s still one best free antivirus for Windows XP that won’t let you down when you need it most.

  • Advanced Ransomware protection
  • Do Not Disturb Mode blocks any distractions and popups
  • Behavior Shield feature for constant files and app monitoring
  • Light on your system and resources

However, the Windows XP software updates (including new features, hotfixes, or support) are no longer available due to the fact that Microsoft has stopped publishing security updates for this version.

Avast Free Antivirus

Amazing protection of data and advanced ransomware protection for a free antivirus.

This, however, may be avoided by installing Comodo Windows XP Free Antivirus. This security tool has advanced security capabilities and delivers great protection against not only keyloggers but the whole spectrum of malware.

Comodo’s innovative Default Deny Approach, Containment, Host Intrusion Prevention System, and Viruscope security capabilities keep malware threats and zero-day assaults at bay.

Comodo is a well-known malware remover that uses cutting-edge technologies to defend your Windows XP. It’s one of the best free antiviruses for Windows XP you can have with full support.

  • Automatic denial for suspicious files
  • Viruscope prevention system
  • Advanced firewall engine
  • Cloud-Based malware analysis

Thanks to easy-to-use UI, robust security measures, and a dashboard that shows the current status of your PC, you are covered with security. With the help of the Launch Option, you may scan your PC with a single click.

⇒ Get Comodo

Because not all goods are suitable for all systems, it is important to go with a solution that is most suited to your chosen operating system.

Keep in mind that the number of malware and virus attacks is growing by the day. Moreover, hackers love to exploit security vulnerabilities in old operating systems.

There are other third-party security tools you can add to this old operating system that will make Windows XP work smoothly even in today’s world dominated by Windows 10.

So, if you want to protect your Windows XP device and make it bulletproof against the latest cyber threats, do install one of the antivirus solutions listed above.

If you’re using Service Pack 2, be sure to check our list of the best antivirus applications for Windows XP SP2.

How do I deal with Windows XP security vulnerabilities?

As the number of unpatched and afflicted computers grows, so do the costs of recovering files or a damaged computer.

  • The best Windows XP software you can still use today
  • 7 ways to keep using Windows XP safely this year
  • 3 best antivirus applications for Windows XP SP2
  • 5 best Windows XP optimizer & PC repair tools
  • Here’s how to hide your IP address in Windows XP

Our main concern is how a hacker would try to install malware on Windows XP systems. Once that goal is met, the attacker has essentially taken entire control of the system, with you having no idea what is going on.

And it is at this point that a WinXP PC that is no longer receiving security updates becomes particularly vulnerable.

What you should do to make Windows XP machines more secure is as follows:

  • Ensure that all apps and security tools are up to date
  • Replace Microsoft apps with open-source alternatives wherever possible
  • Only use Google Chrome (or Mozilla Firefox) as the primary web browser
  • Disable Vulnerable Browser Plugins Like Java, Flash Player, and Adobe Reader
  • Firewalls, both hardware, and software should be used
  • Make use of application and website whitelisting

With these tools and with our other guide posted throughout the entire article, we show that you can keep Windows XP forever.

However, if you think of updating your OS to the latest version, look at our selection of the best Windows 11 antiviruses.

Assuming that you have any recommendations for the protection and installation of Windows XP Service Pack 3, do let us know in the comments below.

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