There is a misconception that Linux users do not need antivirus software. While it is true that Linux operates in a more secure environment compared to Windows, antivirus software is still essential for any computer regardless of the operating system. Due to the prevalence of malware and viruses, it is necessary to have the highest level of protection.
Yesterday, the distinguished blogger Abdulrahman Mohamed listed the best antivirus software for 2019 to protect devices running Windows 10. Today, we continue this series with Linux, highlighting a selection of free and open-source software designed to protect your privacy and security.
1. ClamAV
This simple and easy-to-install program is available through the main repository on Ubuntu. You can download the ClamTK graphical user interface for smoother and faster control, or install the program via the Terminal by typing the command (sudo apt-install clamav) without the brackets.
This comprehensive antivirus program offers a command-line scanner, regularly updated virus database and definitions, and supports a variety of documents including PDFs, Office files, and archive files like RAR and Zip. ClamAV is free, open-source, and available for all operating systems including Windows and Mac.
Read also: Linux operating system is not as complicated as you think
2. Sophos
Sophos is a powerful antivirus program for Linux and a great free solution. It has a large database for detecting various viruses, real-time protection, and an elegant design. It prevents and removes malware on platforms including Android, Windows, and Mac, keeping your Linux device safe from threats. Sophos focuses on performance, being lightweight with relatively small updates.
3. Comodo
This antivirus program offers an excellent free experience on Linux, available in 32 and 64-bit architectures, compatible with distributions like Ubuntu, Mint, Debian, Fedora, CentOS, Red Hat Enterprise Linux Server, OpenSUSE, and SUSE Linux Enterprise Server. In addition to antivirus features, the program includes email filtering and real-time scanning, is free, and has regular updates.
4. Chkrootkit and Rootkit Hunter
This free open-source program works through the command line and is very light and easy to use, with the ability to be run from a CD. The latest version detects many difficult viruses and malware, making it a good and fast option for better protection.
You may also be interested: Adding VirusTotal site to Firefox and Chrome for link scanning before downloading
5. F-PROT
F-PROT offers support for both home users and businesses. For home users, the program is completely free and can be downloaded. The Linux antivirus program scans over 21 million threats using light scanners, capable of detecting macro viruses, trojans, and even boot sector viruses. F-PROT combines great scanning, a huge database, and being free makes it a great choice, despite its interface not being as polished as Comodo, it is powerful and lightweight.
Finally, some paid options:
If you are willing to pay for maximum and comprehensive protection, away from the specified free options especially if you have commercial use that requires it, there are many notable options in our list including ESET, F-Secure, Dr. Web, Avast, and Panda who have good and thoughtful offers for antivirus protection on Linux.
