Webroot provides lightweight antivirus and online security designed to protect PCs, Macs and mobile devices from malware, ransomware, phishing and other online threats. Depending on the plan, additional features can include web protection, breach monitoring, identity protection, VPN and backup.

Pros
  • Always-on protection against malware, ransomware and phishing
  • Web Threat Shield helps identify risky websites
  • Firewall and network monitoring available
  • Designed to provide protection with lightweight system impact
  • Supports PCs, Macs, smartphones, Chromebooks and tablets
  • Higher plans add identity and privacy protection
  • VPN and backup available with Total Protection
Cons
  • Features vary significantly between plans
  • Identity protection, VPN and backup are not included with the basic antivirus offering
  • Some features differ between operating systems
  • Users wanting only basic malware protection may not need the broader plans
  • Pricing and promotional offers can change

Webroot is a cybersecurity service that provides always-on antivirus and online threat protection for supported devices. Its security software is designed to detect and block threats such as viruses, ransomware and phishing attacks, while its Web Threat Shield evaluates websites and helps block risky destinations.

Webroot’s protection can cover malware, ransomware, phishing and potentially dangerous websites, with additional firewall and network-monitoring capabilities available with applicable products. Higher-tier plans extend the service with features such as breach monitoring, identity monitoring, VPN, parental controls and cloud backup.

FAQs

Does Webroot protect against ransomware?

Yes. Webroot’s current antivirus offerings include always-on protection designed to help protect supported devices against ransomware and other online threats.

Does Webroot protect against phishing?

Yes. Webroot’s Web Threat Shield evaluates websites in real time and is designed to warn users about phishing and other risky websites before they are visited.

Does Webroot include a firewall?

Webroot’s current consumer offerings include firewall and network-monitoring capabilities. The specific availability depends on the product and plan selected.

Can Webroot protect Mac and Windows computers?

Yes. Webroot provides protection for both PCs and Macs, although specific features can differ between operating systems.

Can Webroot protect mobile devices?

Yes. Webroot currently lists protection for smartphones and tablets, including Android and iOS devices, depending on the product and subscription.

Does Webroot include identity protection?

Identity protection is available with applicable Webroot plans. Current Premium and Total Protection plans can include identity monitoring, dark-web monitoring, financial and credit-bureau monitoring, identity restoration assistance and fraud-expense reimbursement, subject to applicable terms.

Does Webroot include a VPN?

A VPN is included with the current Total Protection plans. The number of supported devices and other terms depend on the selected subscription.

Does Webroot include cloud backup?

Webroot’s current Total Protection offering includes backup and restore with unlimited cloud storage for one PC or Mac.

Does Webroot slow down a computer?

Webroot is designed as a lightweight security solution and uses cloud-based threat analysis as part of its protection approach. Actual performance can still vary depending on the device, operating system and other software installed.

Which Webroot plan should I choose?

The appropriate plan depends on whether you need antivirus protection alone or additional services such as identity monitoring, VPN, parental controls and backup. Compare the current device limits, features and subscription terms before choosing a plan.

Webroot’s main distinction is its lightweight, cloud-connected approach to threat protection. Its Realtime Shield and Web Threat Shield work together to identify and block suspicious files and risky websites, while Webroot’s broader plans combine antivirus with privacy, identity and data-protection features. This makes Webroot relevant to users who want security that provides continuous protection without relying on a large, feature-heavy desktop security suite.

ProtectionSeek ratings reflect our editorial assessment of features, coverage, usability and plan characteristics. Ratings are independently determined by ProtectionSeek and are not provided by or affiliated with the service provider.