Latest Anti-virus tests

Microsoft Defender v. 4.18 (formerly Windows Defender), the free anti-virus included with Windows 10/11 continues to excel in independent AV testing websites I trust. The latest tests from AV comparatives, AV Test, and SE Labs all award Defender their highest ratings in head-to-head tests with the most popular paid and free AVs and security suites.

I continue to see no reason to pay for an AV or security suite every year, when equally excellent free protection is available. 

https://www.av-comparatives.org/tests/real-world-protection-test-july-october-2021/

https://www.av-test.org/en/antivirus/home-windows/

https://selabs.uk/reports/home-endpoint-protection-2021-q4/