The Best A n t i v i r u s For iPad in 2025
iPads are known for their strong built-in security features, but with increasing online threats, many users wonder if they need additional protection. While Apple’s operating system (iOS) is designed to be secure and prevent malware, no device is completely immune to cyber threats. While traditional antivirus software is not usually necessary on an iPad, using security apps for privacy protection, web security, and threat detection can add an extra layer of defense. Understanding how to safeguard your iPad effectively is essential to keeping your data safe and your device secure.
Why You Need Antivirus for iPad?
While iPads are secure by design, antivirus software adds extra protection against threats like malware, phishing, and unsafe downloads. It enhances security with features like real-time scanning, anti-theft tools, and web protection, offering peace of mind for users with sensitive data or online activities.
Average Review
TotalAV
Rated #1 Antivirus Software of 2025. Protect your devices with our award-winning antivirus solution, featuring advanced privacy and performance tools.
- Save $80 - First Year Offer $19/yr For Desktop & $1.99/yr iPhone
- Real-Time antivirus protection & Removes viruses and other malware
- Protects all your devices + 2 Additional Licenses Included
- Trusted by millions of people worldwide
- Safeguards your identity online
- Ultra fast antivirus + Mac cleaner Included
- Award Winning Antivirus & Security Software
- Eliminate Malware
Average Review
Bitdefender
Offers excellent virus protection, a wide range of features, and minimal system impact.
- Highly-rated virus detection capability
- Chat safely in popular social networks
- Extends battery life on laptops and tablets
- Protects mobile devices from physical theft
- Includes a basic package with premium features
- Surf the web safely and anonymously
Average Review
Norton
High-accuracy, low-impact antivirus solution with online backup capabilities.
- Detects viruses without raising false flags
- Protects usernames and passwords
- Prevents hackers from infiltrating your system
- Allows you to manage your devices from an online portal
- Prevents and helps you to recover from identity theft
- Backs up data and stores it in the cloud
Average Review
Panda
Powerful security protects you from numerous forms of online and offline danger
- Prevents virus infections from USB drives
- Spots dangerous processes with ease
- Identifies potential security risks in public Wi-Fi networks
- Strong encryption for your private files
- Allows you to store essential documents in the cloud
- Cleans and optimizes your computer
Average Review
McAfee
Highly accurate security solution for computers and mobile devices.
- Protects an unlimited number of devices
- Allows you to fix security issues remotely
- Removes malware or your money back
- Almost no false/positives were recorded
- Prevents scam attempts in their tracks
- Includes an encrypted folder for document storage
Average Review
AVG
Highly effective, low-impact, and affordable antivirus solution.
- Antivirus protection for an unlimited number of devices
- Features a powerful firewall that prevents hackers from infiltrating your devices
- Identifies and corrects performance-related issues
- Capable of removing camouflaged and deep-rooted malware
- Allows for safe online shopping
- Prevents hackers from accessing your webcam
Average Review
Avira
Award-winning premium antivirus solution suitable for all devices.
- Recipient of high ratings from independent testers
- Blocks all online threats
- Blocks suspicious websites and phishing attempts
- Prevents zero-hour threats in real-time
- Cleans and optimizes your computer
- Protects your data from hackers
Average Review
ESET
Well-balanced security solution with powerful antivirus capabilities.
- Blocks and eliminates the latest virus threats
- Allows you to use your device with limited interruption
- Secure browser for safe online shopping
- Prevents hackers from stealing personal data
- Allows you to store passwords in a secure database
- Encrypts photos and protects your private memories
Average Review
Avast
Smart, fast, and reliable antivirus solution with limited impact on system performance.
- Ultimate - $69.99 SAVE 50% OFF - Cover 10 Devices
- Try Free Antivirus
- 435+ million users
- Advanced virus and malware protection
- Home Wi-fi network security
- Compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Easy to install, effortless to use
- 30+ years of cybersecurity experience
Average Review
Surfshark
Privacy-focused antivirus combines the power of real-time scanning with cloud protection and other comprehensive security features.
- Real-time scanning and cloud protection
- Virus Bulletin and AV-Test certified
- Part of Microsoft Virus Initiative
- Performance-optimized antivirus
- Scans up to 5 devices simultaneously
- Focused on respecting user privacy
Compare The Best Antivirus Software
| Criteria |
|---|
| Rating |
| Detection Capabilities |
| System performance |
| Features |
| Removes Malware |
| - |
| TOTALAV |
|---|
| 9.8 |
| Excellent |
| Excellent |
| Excellent |
| Excellent |
| Visit Site |
| Bitdefender |
|---|
| 9.2 |
| Excellent |
| Good |
| Excellent |
| Good |
| Visit Site |
| Norton |
|---|
| 9.0 |
| Excellent |
| Excellent |
| Good |
| Good |
| Visit Site |
| Panda |
|---|
| 8.9 |
| Good |
| Good |
| Good |
| Fair |
| Visit Site |
| Surfshark |
|---|
| 8.5 |
| Fair |
| Good |
| Good |
| Good |
| Visit Site |
Why You Should Trust Us
One of the most critical factors when choosing the antivirus solution that’s right for you is who you should trust. With so many fly-by scams and fake review websites across the web, finding a trustworthy and reliable source can be difficult. Unfortunately, most of the teams behind the online antivirus review websites have never actually installed or tested any of the products they recommend. And who wants to purchase an antivirus solution from a Top 10 software list compiled by a team of fake researchers?
Keeping true to our original goal of becoming the most trusted and respected buyer’s guide for antivirus software, we wanted to do things differently right from the get-go. Rather than compiling a quick Top 10 list consisting of the latest best-paying antivirus affiliate programs, we began by researching the market and identifying the most reputable antivirus solution providers. We decided only to include established brands with proven track records in excellence combined with industry-wide recognition. After purchasing a premium package from each brand, we began researching online, benchmarking each product using a proprietary scoring system (more about this in our blog).
But who are we? We are a team of experts specializing in software testing and reviewing with a combined experience of over 30 years. We aim to take an entirely new approach to the world of antivirus software reviewing based on integrity, trust, and transparency.
Finding The Best Antivirus
We’ve spent hours researching the most reputable antivirus testing labs, compiling all the virus and malware detection data we could find. AV Comparatives and AV Test have proven to be reliable sources, but our research didn’t stop there. We’ve also studies countless white papers and articles published by groups and institutions like The Anti-Malware Testing Standard Organization, PcMag, Google's Project Zero, Ars Technica, to name just a few. This approach allowed us to identify the key technical components and requirements of antivirus software and attribute a detection score to each solution.
Finding the best antivirus for your iPad requires a thoughtful approach that considers both the built-in security features of iOS and the additional layers of protection that an antivirus app can provide. While iPads benefit from a highly secure, closed operating system, they are still vulnerable to evolving threats, such as phishing attacks, malware from third-party apps, and insecure Wi-Fi networks. An effective antivirus app can help fill these security gaps, offering protection beyond what the default security features of iOS provide.
When selecting an antivirus for your iPad, start by looking for essential features like real-time scanning, which can detect any potential risks from malicious apps, websites, or downloads before they compromise your device. Phishing protection is equally important, as it helps prevent users from falling victim to fraudulent websites or email links designed to steal personal information, such as passwords or bank details. Additionally, features such as anti-theft tools can be invaluable for remotely locating, locking, or wiping your iPad in the event it’s lost or stolen.
The Right Price
It’s not uncommon for a fully-stocked antivirus solution with premium features to come with a hefty price tag. Some companies will even include “exotic features” in an attempt to justify a higher sales price. The question is, are all of those extra features even worth the extra cost? Along with highly sought-after detection capabilities, we’ve agreed to only consider the must-have features included in each package, including usability, system performance, and the total price. Throughout the research phase, we realized that a handful of virus protection packages that were swimming in exotic features were actually highly overpriced.
Most antivirus companies offer significant discounts, but unfortunately, they’re not visible when visiting the websites directly. As some prices may drop as low as 50% off (for various reasons), the dynamics of selecting the best antivirus solution constantly fluctuate. Who wouldn't want a solution with the same must-have features as a competing brand but for half the cost? By partnering with various affiliate programs, we can provide direct links to antivirus offers at discounted prices. We’ve taken these prices into account when compiling our antivirus software lists to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right solution to protect your digital footprint.
How to Choose Antivirus for iPad?
Choosing the right antivirus for your iPad is an essential step toward securing your personal data, safeguarding your privacy, and ensuring a safe and uninterrupted online experience. While iPads are known for their strong security features, such as the closed nature of Apple’s iOS operating system, it’s important to remember that no device is entirely immune to cyber threats. Over the years, cybercriminals have developed increasingly sophisticated methods of targeting even the most secure platforms, making it necessary for users to take extra precautions to protect themselves. Choosing the best antivirus for your iPad requires an in-depth understanding of your security needs, the specific features of antivirus software, and how well they integrate with iOS without compromising performance.
A primary consideration when choosing an antivirus for your iPad is the level of protection it offers. Even though Apple’s built-in security measures help to shield the device from common threats, new types of malware, phishing attempts, and spyware are continually emerging. The best antivirus software should provide comprehensive protection that goes beyond detecting traditional viruses. It should offer real-time scanning and protection that identifies malicious links, potentially harmful websites, and suspicious email attachments. These preventive measures are particularly important because iPads are used for a variety of tasks, such as online banking, shopping, email communication, and browsing social media. Any lapse in protection can lead to the compromise of sensitive information, such as login credentials, credit card numbers, and personal messages. Effective antivirus software will continuously monitor your online activity and instantly block threats before they have a chance to cause harm.
Another key aspect to consider is how well the antivirus integrates with iOS and its impact on the device’s performance. iPads are designed to offer a smooth and efficient user experience, and any antivirus software should work in harmony with this goal. The last thing you want is an antivirus that slows down your device or drains its battery excessively. When selecting antivirus software, it is important to choose a program that runs quietly in the background without noticeable lags or performance issues. A good antivirus will not only provide strong protection but also ensure that your iPad remains responsive, allowing you to multitask seamlessly. Look for antivirus apps that are lightweight and optimized for iOS devices. The ability to scan files, apps, and websites without disrupting the iPad’s overall performance is a critical factor when choosing antivirus software.
Another important consideration when selecting antivirus software for your iPad is the extra features that the software provides. While basic malware protection is essential, more advanced features can further enhance your security. For instance, many antivirus apps offer a Virtual Private Network (VPN) feature, which encrypts your internet connection and provides secure access to public Wi-Fi networks. Since iPads are frequently used on the go, users often connect to public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, and other shared spaces, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. A VPN ensures that your data is secure, even when connected to unsecured networks, preventing hackers from intercepting sensitive information such as passwords or credit card details.
It’s also important to consider the pricing and licensing structure of the antivirus software. While there are some free antivirus options available, these typically offer limited protection and may not include the full suite of features you need to adequately secure your iPad. For comprehensive protection that includes real-time scanning, web protection, a VPN, and other privacy tools, it’s often worth investing in a paid antivirus solution. When evaluating different antivirus providers, check the subscription plans and pricing tiers to ensure that the software fits within your budget. Many antivirus services offer multi-device protection, allowing you to secure not only your iPad but also your iPhone, Mac, and other devices under one subscription. This can be a more cost-effective option if you need coverage across multiple platforms, and it provides the added benefit of unified protection for all your devices.
Privacy protection is another essential factor when selecting an antivirus for your iPad. In today’s digital world, protecting your personal data is paramount, especially when using your iPad for online transactions or communicating with friends and family. The right antivirus should have strong privacy safeguards in place to prevent unauthorized tracking, data collection, or sharing of your online activity. Look for antivirus apps that offer features such as anti-tracking and ad-blocking tools, which help limit the data shared with third-party advertisers and ensure your browsing remains private. Furthermore, ensure that the antivirus provider has a transparent privacy policy and does not collect unnecessary personal information. Some antivirus apps also offer advanced features such as secure file storage and encrypted messaging, further enhancing your privacy and security.
Choose an antivirus provider that offers 24/7 support, accessible via live chat, phone, or email, so you can quickly resolve any technical issues. Furthermore, checking reviews from other iPad users can provide valuable insights into how well the software performs in real-world conditions. Independent reviews from trusted sources can also shed light on the effectiveness of the antivirus, its ease of use, and the quality of customer service provided. By reading reviews and gathering feedback from other users, you can make a more informed decision about which antivirus software is best for your iPad.
Selecting the best antivirus for your iPad requires careful consideration of several key factors, including protection features, system performance, user interface, additional security tools, and privacy. By evaluating these aspects and choosing a program that integrates seamlessly with iOS, you can ensure that your device is well-protected against evolving cyber threats. With the right antivirus solution in place, you can enjoy using your iPad for all of your online activities, from banking and shopping to social media and entertainment, with confidence that your personal data and privacy are safeguarded. Ultimately, investing in a reliable antivirus app for your iPad is essential to staying secure in today’s increasingly interconnected digital world.
Do iPads Really Need Antivirus Software?
Apple iPad stands out as a leading device, praised for its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and powerful capabilities. Whether used for work, entertainment, or communication, iPads have revolutionized how we engage with the digital world. However, despite their reputation for being secure, iPads are not impervious to cyber threats. As more individuals rely on their iPads for activities such as online banking, shopping, social media, and accessing sensitive work information, the need for enhanced protection against cyber threats has never been more critical. This is where antivirus software becomes essential, adding an extra layer of security to ensure that your iPad remains safe from potential risks.
While iPads come with built-in security features, such as Apple’s App Store vetting process, strict app permission protocols, and the secure iOS environment, these protections are not foolproof. The reality is that cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, constantly evolving their tactics to exploit vulnerabilities in even the most secure platforms. The very nature of online threats has changed, with cyberattacks often relying on methods such as phishing, social engineering, and malicious websites that may still bypass Apple’s default security measures. For example, a seemingly harmless email or text message can contain a phishing link that, if clicked, can lead to a compromised account or personal information being stolen. Connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks without additional protection exposes your iPad to a range of potential risks. Even if you believe your device is safe, the complexity and unpredictability of modern cyber threats demand that you take proactive steps to secure your digital life.
Installing antivirus software on your iPad is an important measure in combating these evolving threats. Antivirus programs designed for iOS offer real-time protection, scanning incoming files, emails, and websites for potential threats before they can do any harm. These tools are built to complement the built-in iOS security framework by addressing areas where Apple’s native protections may fall short. By continuously monitoring and detecting suspicious activity, antivirus apps can protect your iPad from malicious software, unauthorized access, and data breaches. Antivirus software often comes with added layers of protection, such as anti-phishing tools and safe browsing features that actively block access to malicious websites or scam links that are commonly used in online fraud schemes.
A key advantage of antivirus software for iPads is the peace of mind it offers, particularly for users who engage in high-risk activities such as online shopping or banking. With financial transactions and personal information frequently shared online, users are more vulnerable to identity theft and fraud than ever before. iPads are often used for multitasking, ranging from productivity tasks like document editing and video conferencing to entertainment activities like streaming content and gaming. Users expect their devices to perform smoothly and efficiently without any slowdown, and this extends to antivirus software.
iPad users, whether tech-savvy or beginners, can easily navigate antivirus apps that offer clear, intuitive dashboards and easy-to-understand security recommendations. These apps provide real-time alerts, allow users to run quick scans, and give helpful insights into potential vulnerabilities. For those who are not particularly familiar with advanced security tools, antivirus software for iPads ensures that protection is just a few taps away, making it accessible for all users.
As we continue to store and share more personal information on our devices, having an antivirus app on your iPad offers reassurance that your data remains secure. From photos and videos to private conversations and contacts, sensitive information can be compromised if a device is not adequately protected. A strong antivirus solution can detect and block potential threats before they have the chance to access or damage your personal data, giving you the peace of mind to use your device confidently in any context.
iPads come equipped with a solid security foundation, the increasing complexity of cyber threats makes it necessary to go beyond basic protections. An antivirus app for your iPad is an essential investment in safeguarding your personal information, financial data, and overall privacy. By offering real-time protection, blocking malicious websites, detecting phishing attempts, and ensuring secure browsing, antivirus apps add significant value to your device’s security. With features like VPNs and safe browsing tools, these applications provide comprehensive protection without sacrificing performance. Whether for everyday use or high-risk activities, antivirus software is a must-have to ensure that your iPad remains safe, secure, and efficient in an increasingly connected world.
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The reviews, classifications, and content presented on AntivirusGuide.com represent the informed opinions of our reviewers. Our mission is simple: to help our visitors choose the antivirus solution that’s right for them. Our company receives monetary compensation when users buy the products that we recommend by clicking the links featured on our website, Antivirus Guide. Our editorial team puts countless hours of effort into providing accurate information regardless of the amount of monetary compensation received from affiliate links.
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers might help.
While iPads have strong built-in security features, antivirus software adds an extra layer of protection, especially for users who engage in activities such as online banking, shopping, or downloading apps. It helps guard against phishing attempts, malicious websites, and potential security vulnerabilities.
Yes, antivirus apps can help detect and block malicious software that may attempt to infiltrate your iPad. Although iOS is relatively secure, antivirus apps monitor threats that might slip through, like phishing emails or harmful links in messages.
Look for real-time protection, web protection (to block dangerous sites), anti-phishing features, privacy protection tools, VPN support for secure browsing, and minimal impact on system performance. The app should also offer automatic updates to stay current with new threats.
Free antivirus apps may offer basic protection but usually lack more advanced features such as VPNs, anti-tracking, and identity theft protection. For comprehensive security, especially if you handle sensitive information on your device, a paid antivirus solution is recommended.
To evaluate an antivirus app’s effectiveness, check independent reviews, user ratings, and test results from trusted organizations like AV-Test or AV-Comparatives. Reviews often highlight its performance, usability, and reliability, which are key indicators of effectiveness.
Most reputable antivirus apps are designed to run efficiently in the background with minimal impact on your iPad's performance. However, poorly optimized apps may cause some lag or battery drain, so it’s essential to choose an antivirus app known for its light footprint.
Yes, many antivirus apps come with built-in VPN features that help secure your internet connection while using public Wi-Fi. This prevents hackers from intercepting your data and ensures a safer browsing experience when connected to unsecured networks.
While iPads are generally safe, it’s always recommended to have an antivirus app if you frequently use online banking, shopping, or enter sensitive information. Antivirus apps can provide added protection against phishing, data theft, and harmful websites.
Prices for antivirus software for iPads typically range from free basic versions to premium services costing anywhere between $10 to $50 annually. Premium versions often include additional features such as VPN, anti-tracking, and identity protection.
Antivirus apps can help safeguard against potential vulnerabilities in iOS, even though iPads have robust built-in security. They can help block malicious links, phishing attacks, and fraudulent websites that might exploit these vulnerabilities, further strengthening your iPad’s protection.