The best cybersecurity software in 2026: Acronis True Image vs. top alternatives

Choosing the best cybersecurity software is easier said than done, especially with the countless options on the market that promise us a rich feature set, astonishing effectiveness, and low prices. However, things are not always as advertised by vendors, and the real problem is that we only realize this after purchasing the product.

Every day, cybercriminals target your personal information, bank accounts, sensitive files, and online accounts using phishing attacks, malicious websites, ransomware and other online threats to get access to them and use them against you. They benefit from it, while you cover the losses— not only financial but also emotional.

Years ago, having antivirus software was all we needed to feel safe online, but those days are long gone, and it is no longer enough to protect your computer, mobile devices and cloud-connected systems that contain tons of sensitive personal information.

Nowadays, the digital world we live in demands cybersecurity software that does more than just block malicious files or find infected files on our devices and allows us to quarantine or remove them. It must protect our digital identity, monitor the dark web, secure online banking activity, prevent identity theft, successfully block ransomware and other malicious attacks in real-time, and allow us to protect our personal files by delivering backup and recovery capabilities. Such easy-to-use software not only gives us peace of mind knowing that we are protected from cyberattacks but also gives us the chance to preserve our data stored for years, regardless of any circumstances.

In this guide, we will compare the best cybersecurity software options available today, explain what sets them apart, and show why Acronis True Image stands out as an all-in-one security software.

On the market, you will see plenty of cybersecurity software options — they all advertise the best protection, but is that really the case? How do you understand which one fits your security needs? There are no universal answers to these questions, but you can select the one that fits your needs and expectations by considering the following features:

Cyberthreats are on a constant rise. Hackers use AI tools to make their attacks more sophisticated and harder to detect, which requires adequate protection that can effectively detect even the latest malware, phishing, and ransomware attacks. That's why you have to look for software that uses AI and behavioral analysis to detect threats in real-time before they escalate. Years ago, signature-based detection was enough to catch most threats, but this is now an ineffective technology. Behavioral analysis, on the other hand, recognizes unusual patterns and increases the success rate in preventing zero-day attacks and the latest malware threats.

Without any doubt, malware and ransomware protection are of utmost importance nowadays because cyber criminals use these attacks to steal sensitive information, collect login credentials, use your computer's resources, and even lock you out of your PC entirely. That's why you have to pick cybersecurity software that offers you strong malware and ransomware protection that detects such threats at their early stage and intercepts them. For instance, Acronis True Image uses AI and behavioral analysis to detect and block malicious encryption attempts in real-time, stopping attacks before they damage files or backups. It works in collaboration with its core backup features, and every backup is automatically scanned for threats, and if malware is detected, the Acronis app removes it. allowing quick recovery from attacks and preventing reinfection.

Nowadays, antivirus protection is critical. Despite it not being enough on its own to stop every threat, it still plays an important part in every cybersecurity strategy. It uses advanced heuristic analysis and machine learning technologies to detect and remove threats that signature-based detection tools might miss.

These cybersecurity tools work by integrating with your browsers to analyze websites and emails for fraudulent signs and activities. If any are detected, they automatically block access to these malicious websites and prevent potential credential theft.

Identity theft protection includes features like secure password managers, multi-factor authentication support, dark web monitoring, insurance coverage, expert support, and encrypted storage for storing your sensitive files. All these features enhance your security posture and minimize the risk of experiencing the devastating feeling of falling victim to identity theft. We all know the consequences can be severe both financially and mentally, and always require months to years to recover entirely from such an attack.

Backups are your plan B in case anything goes wrong. They provide you with peace of mind knowing that, whatever the situation, you will not lose your data stored for years under any circumstances. So always look for software that offers not only cybersecurity protection but also efficient and automated backups, because they serve as a life-saving option after cyberattacks, hardware failures and natural disasters. Do not underestimate their importance.

Firewalls are an important part of your cybersecurity strategy. They provide network protection by closely monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic. This way, they create a protective wall between your system and potential cyberattacks.

To evaluate what is the best cybersecurity software in [current-year], we have a few candidates to consider: Acronis True Image, Avast Premium Security, ESET Home  Security Premium, Malwarebytes Premium Security, Bitdefender Total Security, McAfee Plus and Kaspersky Premium. Each of them comes with a different set of features, capabilities, pros, cons and Trust Pilot ratings, so in the lines below you will get a detailed look at each of these computer security software. The idea is to help you take an informed decision that will work best for you without spending hours researching.

Acronis True Image is a comprehensive cybersecurity software platform that combines device cybersecurity, data protection, identity protection, and recovery into a single software. Instead of focusing only on blocking malware, it protects your system before, during, and after cyberattacks by securing your operating system, personal information, and sensitive data.

This approach makes Acronis True Image one of the best cybersecurity software options for users who care about both prevention and recovery. If ransomware, data corruption, or hardware failure occurs, users can restore files, systems or entire machines quickly without data loss.

• Real-time antivirus protection against malware, ransomware, and online threats.
• Behavioral-based threat detection (AI-powered Active Protection) for zero-day attacks.
• Full image backup and file-level backup for Windows and macOS.
• Local and cloud backup with AES-256 encryption.
• Disk cloning for system migration and bare metal recovery.
• AI-driven ransomware protection that blocks unauthorized file encryption.
• Anti-malware and web protection against malicious websites and downloads.
• Email protection and phishing protection.
• Dark web monitoring for exposed personal information (US only, Advanced and Premium plans).
• Identity monitoring and identity theft protection services (US only, Advanced and Premium plans).
• Identity recovery assistance with technical expertise and financial fraud support (US only, Advanced and Premium plans).
• Secure file encryption tools for sensitive files and private data.
• Anti-exploit protection for applications and browsers.
• Protection for external drives and removable media.
• Backup validation and automatic recovery testing.
• Versioned backups and file history.
• Backup scheduling and automatic retention rules.
• Minimal system resource usage during scans and backups.
• Multi-device protection across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
• Secure cloud storage up to 5Tb included with advanced and Premium plans.

• User-friendly interfac, that doesn't require advanced technical knowledge to use.
• Combines cybersecurity, backup tools, and disaster recovery in one platform.
• Protects your valuable data even after successful cyber attacks.
• Strong identity protection and dark web monitoring features.
• Excellent system performance with minimal impact compared to traditional antivirus software.
• Can be used for data migration or disk cloning.
• Award-winning security suite with consistent updates.

• Backup functionality may be more comprehensive than some users initially need.
• Cloud storage limits up to 5TB, depending on the subscription tier.
• Identity protection features only available in the US for Advanced and Premium subscriptions.

⭐ Trust Pilot rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Avast Premium Security is a well-known internet security software designed to provide comprehensive protection for personal devices against malware, phishing attacks, and network threats. It focuses on proactive threat detection, web protection, and device security for home users and small families.

Avast places strong emphasis on real-time protection and ease of use, making it a popular choice for users who want solid cybersecurity tools without complex configuration. While it does not include advanced features like backup or recovery, it delivers reliable antivirus protection and privacy tools for everyday digital security.

• Real-time antivirus protection and anti-malware scanning.
• Web protection against malicious websites and downloads.
• Phishing protection for email and browsers.
• Firewall for inbound and outbound network traffic control.
• Ransomware protection (Ransomware Shield) for sensitive folders.
• Wi-Fi network security scanning (Wi-Fi Inspector).
• Webcam protection (Webcam Shield) to block untrusted apps.
• Secure browsing and DNS protection.

• Strong malware detection rates in independent tests.
• Easy-to-use interface.
• Good web and network security tools.
• Lightweight performance impact.

• No integrated backup or recovery features.
• Identity protection features are limited compared to comprehensive suites.
• VPN and cleanup tools require a separate Avast Ultimate subscription.
• No cloud storage is included with the subscriptions..

⭐ Trust Pilot rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars.

ESET Home Security Premium focuses on advanced threat detection with lightweight system impact. It is designed for users who want strong protection against cyber threats while maintaining excellent system performance.

ESET emphasizes behavioral analysis and low resource usage, making it suitable for older systems or performance-sensitive environments. While it does not include built-in backup capabilities, it provides solid privacy tools and file encryption.

• Advanced antivirus software with real-time protection.
• Behavioral-based threat detection to identify hidden threats and exploit prevention.
• Anti-phishing and web protection.
• Secure banking and online payment protection (Secure Browser mode).
• Password Manager.
• File and disk encryption tools (Encryption for files and removable media).
• Network attack protection.
• Device control and removable media protection.
• Anti-theft tools for device location and recovery.

• Very low system resource usage.
• Strong malware and phishing protection in independent tests.
• Good privacy and encryption tools.
• Effective banking protection features.

• No built-in backup or system recovery capabilities.
• The interface may feel technical for casual users.
• Some advanced features require higher-tier plans.
• No cloud storage included.

⭐ Trust Pilot Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Malwarebytes Premium is known for its strong malware removal and remediation capabilities. It is often used alongside or instead of traditional antivirus software to address advanced threats, ransomware, and malicious files.

The platform focuses on fast threat detection and cleanup rather than long-term backup or recovery. Malwarebytes is a good option for users who want effective protection against modern cyberthreats with minimal complexity.

• Real-time malware and ransomware protection.
• Advanced threat detection using behavioral analysis and machine learning.
• Web protection against malicious websites.
• Anti-exploit technology to protect vulnerable applications.
• Protection against phishing and social engineering attacks.
• Lightweight scans with minimal system impact.
• Browser Guard extension for ad blocking and scam protection.

• Excellent malware removal capabilities.
• Fast scans with low system impact.
• Simple and clean interface.
• Effective against zero-day threats.

• No backup or recovery features.
• Identity protection is only available in the Ultimate plan (not Premium).
• VPN is only included in Plus and Ultimate plans.
• More expensive than some competitors for basic antivirus features.

⭐Trust Pilot rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars.

Bitdefender Total Security delivers comprehensive security across multiple operating systems with strong malware detection and privacy controls. It is known for fast scans and consistent performance across desktops and mobile devices.

Bitdefender focuses on layered protection, combining advanced antivirus solutions, web protection, and additional features. While backup capabilities are limited, it offers strong overall device security.

• Advanced anti-malware and antivirus protection with behavioral detection (Advanced Threat Defense)
• Web protection and malicious website blocking
• Multi-device support across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
• Parental controls and content filtering
• Anti-theft tools for device location
• Firewall and network security
• Multi-layer ransomware protection and Safe Files feature
• Webcam and microphone protection
• Password Manager (limited, separate license)
• Integrated VPN with 200MB per day limit (unlimited VPN requires upgrade)

• Excellent detection of emerging threats
• Lightweight scans improve PC performance
• Strong device security features

• Limited backup and recovery capabilities (no comprehensive backup like Acronis)
• VPN limited to 200MB per day unless upgraded to Premium Security
• Password Manager requires separate license activation
• Interface can feel complex for non-technical users

Trust Pilot Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars.

McAfee Total Protection focuses heavily on identity theft protection and comprehensive device security, combining antivirus protection with privacy and monitoring services. It is designed for users who prioritize identity protection and coverage across many devices.

McAfee emphasizes identity monitoring, dark web surveillance, and protection for online accounts, making it suitable for households with shared devices and active online activity.

• Antivirus protection with real-time scanning
• Identity theft protection and monitoring (Premium and Advanced plans)
• Dark web monitoring
• Integrated VPN for secure internet traffic
• Parental controls
• Web protection and phishing defense (McAfee WebAdvisor)
• Password Manager (True Key)
• Firewall protection
• Safe browsing with site ratings
• Personal data cleanup (Premium and Advanced plans)

• Strong focus on identity theft protection with up to $2M coverage (Advanced plan)
• Good coverage for mobile devices and unlimited devices on top plans
• Easy setup requiring no technical expertise for non-technical users
• Excellent malware detection rates in recent tests
• Low performance impact in 2025 independent tests

• Product naming can be confusing (Basic, Plus, Premium, Advanced tiers)
• Some advanced features only available in higher-tier plans
• VPN and full identity protection require Premium or Advanced subscription
• No cloud storage is included.

G2 Rating: 1.3 out of 5 stars.

Kaspersky Premium delivers advanced security software with strong malware defense and privacy tools. It is known for high detection rates and reliable real-time protection against cyber threats.

The platform offers robust security with comprehensive threat detection and account protection features but lacks extensive backup and recovery functionality compared to software like Acronis.

• Advanced malware and ransomware protection with behavioral monitoring
• Intrusion detection systems (Network Attack Blocker)
• Two-way firewall
• Password management and online account protection
• Privacy protection tools
• Secure browsing and phishing protection
• Integrated VPN protection (unlimited with Premium)
• Parental controls
• Anti-theft features
• Identity theft protection (available in select plans/regions)

• Excellent detection of cyber threats
• Strong behavioral analysis and AI-powered protection
• Reliable real-time protection with minimal false positives
• Comprehensive privacy controls

• Privacy concerns and restrictions in certain regions (banned in US government, faces restrictions in some countries due to geopolitical concerns)
• Limited backup and recovery capabilities (no comprehensive backup software)
• Some feature availability varies by region
• It doesn't include cloud storage

G2 Rating: 1.8 out of 5 stars

Cyberthreats are skyrocketing year after year, and this is not going to change unfortunately. The good news is that there is a way to protect your computer, your digital identity, and precious documents and memories. All it takes is equipping yourself with reliable cyber security software that offers you advanced threat detection, a strong firewall, malware, ransomware and antivirus protection, phishing and fraud prevention, identity theft protection, and last but not least, automated backups. This combination of features delivers one thing—peace of mind knowing that you won't lose your information stored for years, and the chance of falling victim to cyberattacks is minimized as much as possible. Even if something goes wrong and you experience the unpleasant feeling of finding yourself with a stolen identity, technical experts are always by your side to help you minimize the damage and recover way faster from the attack.

All these priceless features can be found in one software—Acronis True Image. It equips you with the most advanced cybersecurity, backup, cloning, and migration tools under one license. Once you install the platform on your computer, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are protected from the unexpected. So don't waste even a day and try Acronis True Image to take care not only of your future but also of your present.