BullGuard Antivirus Review In general, BullGuard offers effective security for users of Windows and Android. However, premium competitors such as Norton and Bitdefender offer a wider range of features that provide better value. In the fast-paced digital world we live in, protecting your devices and personal information is more important than ever. With cyber threats on the rise, having a reliable antivirus program is essential.
BullGuard Antivirus is one option that has gained popularity for its comprehensive protection and user-friendly interface. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the features, pricing, pros, and cons of BullGuard Antivirus, so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for you. Don’t leave your online security to chance – read on to learn more about BullGuard Antivirus and its capabilities in keeping your devices safe from malware and other cyber threats.
BullGuard Antivirus Review
NortonLifeLock Inc. has recently acquired BullGuard antivirus, making it a part of their suite. As a result, the BullGuard name will eventually be phased out and replaced by Norton. However, for fans and loyal users of BullGuard, this change should not be concerning. Norton antivirus is widely regarded as one of the top antiviruses available in the market currently.
Moreover, all the impressive features that BullGuard offered, such as Parental Control, PC optimization, and cloud backup, are also available in Norton’s suite. In this guide, we will assess the performance, security, features, usability, and pricing of BullGuard antivirus – all the factors that are essential to consider when selecting the most suitable product for your requirements.
BullGuard Antivirus Informations
| Norton Antivirus | BullGuard Antivirus | |
| Rating: | ||
| Overall rank: | #2 out of #25 | #14 out of #25 |
| Coupons: | Norton Antivirus coupon 66% OFF | Bullguard coupon 60% OFF |
| Price: | From $19.99/year | From $23.99 (1 device) |
| Free version: | No | No (but offers a trial version) |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Android |
BullGuard pros & cons
Pros
Cons
BullGuard Full Review
BullGuard offers most of the features I desire in a top-notch Windows antivirus. However, I am not particularly impressed with all of its tools and believe that other internet security suites like Norton offer better value. My main issue with BullGuard is that its Mac application lacks the majority of the additional features found in its Windows counterpart. Additionally, it would be great if BullGuard provided an iOS app and integrated its VPN into its antivirus plans. Nevertheless, if you solely require protection for your Windows and Android devices, BullGuard is a satisfactory option.
Is BullGuard safe?
Despite Bullguard Antivirus being a secure application to use, it can be challenging to find any online antimalware test results. For instance, AV-Comparatives ceased testing Bullguard in 2018. Nevertheless, Bullguard is still included in AV-Test’s evaluations, and the scores are noteworthy. In June 2021, Bullguard achieved a perfect score of 6 points for protection. In fact, since June 2017, the software has consistently excelled in threat detection, consistently scoring either 6 or 5.5 in the protection category.
There’s no need to be concerned about using Bullguard. Although it had a negative reputation in the past due to low test scores, it has since improved and established itself as a trustworthy antivirus tool. Like many other antivirus programs, BullGuard may occasionally detect false positives. For instance, in August 2021, it identified six false positives during testing. However, this is not higher than the typical industry average.
BullGuard security and features
BullGuard antivirus provides a wide range of features that are typically found in security suites. These include essential functions such as real-time protection, a firewall, and antivirus scans, as well as convenient features like Game Booster. It is important to note that BullGuard offers three different tiers: Antivirus, Internet Security, and Premium Protection.
Each tier builds upon the previous one by offering additional features. To compare the differences between these tiers, you can refer to the Plans and Pricing section. Additionally, every version of BullGuard displays a locked VPN icon on the dashboard. However, it is worth mentioning that the VPN tool is not included in any of the plans and needs to be purchased separately.
Real-time protection
Real-time defense is a crucial feature provided by antivirus and antimalware software. This function operates in the background, continuously monitoring the system for any new threats and promptly removing them. Without real-time protection, viruses may go unnoticed until an antivirus scan is performed, potentially causing significant harm to your computer. BullGuard excels in this area with its exceptional real-time protection. Numerous tests have confirmed that the software successfully detects and prevents up to 100% of threats from being installed on your device.
Antivirus scans
BullGuard, like most antivirus programs, offers three types of scans: Quick Scan, Full Scan, and Custom Scan. One notable feature is the lightweight nature of the scanning process. Even during a Full Scan, it utilizes minimal system resources, with my tests never showing CPU usage exceeding 0.4%. The Custom Scan option, however, lacks complexity.
It only allows for scanning individual files or folders without the ability to select multiple folders or specify a scan start time. Furthermore, it is somewhat unconventional that the scanning process does not open a separate window. Instead, a small loading bar appears in the Antivirus section of the main dashboard, which may seem counterintuitive. For users seeking more personalized scanning options such as scanning web traffic, they can navigate to the Advanced tab within this feature.
Backup
Both BullGuard Internet Security and Premium Protection provide a cloud backup option. This feature provides you with 5 GB of secure online storage, enabling you to recover your data in case of any unfortunate events affecting your device. This functionality is highly convenient as it allows you to schedule automated daily backups for your files.
Game Booster
Game Booster, a feature found on all versions of BullGuard, enables you to experience video games at their best speed. It has the ability to identify when you are playing a game and optimize your CPU’s performance by consolidating other active applications and background processes into one core. This ensures that your game can utilize the remaining cores for maximum performance.
PC Tune Up
PC Tune Up, as the name suggests, is a function designed to optimize your PC. By customizing its settings, you can initiate an automatic process that will enhance your computer’s performance. For instance, you have the option to enable the program to regularly remove cache files from your web browsers, clear out your Windows Temp folder, empty the Recycle Bin, and eliminate memory dump and similar files.
Parental Control
Similar to other antivirus software, BullGuard provides its own parental control feature known as Parental Control. This feature allows you to create a separate profile for your child, preventing them from accessing inappropriate content online. When creating a profile, you have the option to select specific elements that you want to block for the user. These may include adult content, websites that display violence, drugs, or criminal activities, and even social media platforms and online shopping sites. Additionally, you can set up a schedule that restricts your child’s access to the computer or the internet during specific times of the day.
Home Network Scanner
The Home Network Scanner is exclusive to customers who have purchased the highest-priced version of BullGuard. This functionality actively monitors your wifi network for any potential vulnerabilities, such as open ports, and also provides a comprehensive list of all connected devices. In order to evaluate its capabilities for this review, I decided to run the Home Network Scanner.
Since I was already aware of the devices connected to my wifi, I eagerly awaited their appearance on the list. Unfortunately, BullGuard only managed to detect the router, which is not particularly impressive. However, just as I was about to conclude that this feature was simply ineffective, I received a notification indicating that my phone had connected to the router (despite having been connected prior to installing the BullGuard antivirus software).
Ultimate Identity Protection
Another exclusive feature available only to BullGuard Premium Protection users is the Ultimate Identity Protection. This feature closely resembles the Dark Web scanners found in other security and privacy tools. It alerts you immediately when it identifies any instances of your personal information being exposed online. You have the option to select which specific information you want to be monitored by completing the forms provided by BullGuard. This can include your phone number, email address, credit card details, and even your driver’s license.
BullGuard Plans and pricing
There are three versions of BullGuard available: Antivirus, Internet Security, and Premium Protection. Each version has varying prices depending on the duration of the subscription and the number of devices you wish to protect.
| Version | Features | Price |
| BullGuard Antivirus | Real-time protection, anti-phishing, anti-malware, anti-ransomware, dynamic machine learning (offline protection), behavioral engine, vulnerability scanner, Game Booster, and live chat support. | From $23.99 |
| BullGuard Internet Security | Everything in BullGuard Antivirus, plus Secure Browser, Firewall, Parental Control, Cloud Integrated Backup, PC Tune Up, Android Protection, and macOS Protection. | From $29.99 |
| BullGuard Premium Protection | Everything in BullGuard Internet Security, plus Home Network Scanner and Ultimate Identity Protection. | From $40.00 |
You can pay with credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, PayNearMe, or a wire transfer. Each product offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which allows you to try out the software risk-free.
BullGuard Antivirus
BullGuard Antivirus is the entry-level edition of the application. It encompasses essential features such as real-time scanning, safeguarding against different online threats (including ransomware, phishing, and malware), offline protection, vulnerability scanning, and Game Booster. This version exclusively caters to one device and solely supports the Windows operating system. Consequently, it may appear somewhat restricted.
| Subscription | Price (1 device) |
| 1 year | $23.99 |
| 2 years | $38.39 |
| 3 years | $47.99 |
As you can see, it’s cheaper to buy long-term plans – the three-year subscription offers the most value. You can also get a free 15-day trial.
BullGuard Internet Security
One major distinction between BullGuard Antivirus and Internet Security lies in the range of platforms they support. While BullGuard Antivirus is limited to Windows devices, Internet Security extends its compatibility to macOS and Android as well. Moreover, the subscription for Internet Security allows users to protect up to three, five, or 10 devices. In addition to the features provided by Antivirus, Internet Security offers additional functionalities such as a secure browser, firewall, Parental Control settings, Cloud backup, and a PC optimizer.
BullGuard Internet Security Subscription Price Devices Wise
| Subscription | 3 devices | 5 devices | 10 devices |
| 1 year | $29.99 | $41.99 | $70.49 |
| 2 years | $49.99 | $67.49 | $112.99 |
| 3 years | $59.99 | $83.99 | $140.99 |
It’s nice that the free trial of Internet Security is twice as long as the one of Antivirus – you have 30 days to use the tool completely for free.
BullGuard Premium Protection
BullGuard Premium Protection represents the most comprehensive (and priciest) edition of BullGuard. Its additional functionalities encompass the Home Network Scanner and Ultimate Identity Protection. Moreover, it provides coverage for either 10 or 15 devices, making it an ideal choice for small businesses.
Premium Protection Subscription Price Devices Wise
| Subscription | 10 devices | 15 devices |
| 1 year | $40.00 | $56.00 |
| 2 years | $64.00 | $89.60 |
| 3 years | $80.00 | $112.00 |
Just like in the case of Internet Security, you have 30 days to use Premium Protection for free.
Is BullGuard worth the money?
When it comes to pricing, BullGuard falls in the middle range among other antivirus tools. It may not be the most affordable option available, but it is priced slightly lower than the most expensive solutions. Fortunately, BullGuard offers a variety of plans to choose from, allowing you to select the one that best fits your needs in terms of device coverage and subscription duration.
Ease of use and setup
Installing BullGuard was a straightforward process. After downloading the .exe file, all that is required is to click on the Installation Wizard a few times, and you are ready to go. However, I wasn’t particularly fond of the app’s design. I found it amusing that during the setup, the application promotes itself as having an “intuitive UI” when it actually provides a perplexing user interface. For instance, it was not very convenient to configure the features using small drop-down menus on the home screen.
Current Standards
Fortunately, by capturing screenshots of all the features provided by the app, I discovered that it became more user-friendly to navigate. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the app’s design could benefit from some improvements, as its appearance does not align with the current standards of 2023. Moreover, the absence of a dark mode may be seen as a disadvantage by certain users.
BullGuard desktop apps
For those seeking the best BullGuard antivirus application, the recommended choice would be to download the Windows version. This version encompasses all the features highlighted in the BullGuard review and provides the highest level of functionality. On the other hand, the macOS application falls short in comparison. Although it boasts a much more appealing interface than its Windows equivalent, it lacks any additional features. It solely offers scanning, real-time protection, and quarantine capabilities.
BullGuard mobile app
The BullGuard Android application may be considered basic compared to the macOS counterpart, but it still offers more functionality. It includes a virus scanner, parental control module with features such as location tracking and access to saved photos, file backup, and an anti-theft feature that allows remote locking, tracking, or wiping of the device.
In terms of the wifi security feature, it appears that the Android version only verifies if the wifi network has a password protection. Overall, I found the app quite user-friendly and enjoyable to use. It would be great to see an iOS version in the future as iPhone owners could benefit from features like Anti-Theft. If you’re searching for an antivirus with an iOS app, this is definitely worth considering.
Customer support
If you encounter any technical difficulties or have any questions about BullGuard, you can reach out to their support team. Immediate assistance is available through their live chat feature. However, please note that the live chat is only accessible on weekdays from 02.00 AM to 04.00 PM EST due to the customer support team being based in the UK. I personally tested the chat and found the agent to be extremely helpful and friendly.
In times when the live chat is not available, you can simply email your concerns to support at [email protected]. Another option is to consult the knowledge base, which contains various product guides. Additionally, there is a paid customer support service for virus removal, program installation, and PC optimization. The cost depends on the number of interventions required.
How good is BullGuard antivirus?
BullGuard is an effective anti-malware solution that can meet your online security requirements. Its virus detection rate has consistently been outstanding for several years, indicating its strong performance in its primary function. At first glance, the software appears to provide numerous additional features.
However, upon reviewing BullGuard antivirus, it becomes apparent that most of these features are rather basic and do not offer anything beyond what other anti-malware tools already provide. Nonetheless, there is no need to worry about whether BullGuard truly encompasses all the necessary features you need. This is because NortonLifeLock has acquired BullGuard and it will soon be integrated into Norton antivirus, which offers comprehensive functionality and more.
BullGuard Powerful Scanner & Extra Features
BullGuard offers a powerful scanner for detecting and removing malware. In addition to that, it provides a wide range of extra features. Another advantage of BullGuard is its affordability. One aspect that I appreciate about BullGuard is its effective firewall and network monitor. These features ensure top-notch protection against network intrusion, exploits, and back-door attacks. Moreover, the identity theft protections offered by BullGuard are highly commendable. Users in the US, Canada, and several European countries receive up-to-the-minute updates on credit changes.
BullGuard Better Value Features
However, there are certain aspects of BullGuard that I find unfavorable. The Mac antivirus is quite basic, functioning solely as a virus scanner. Furthermore, an iOS app is not available, which can be disappointing for some users. Additionally, the user interface can be confusing and counterintuitive. Moreover, there is room for improvement in the parental controls feature. Overall, BullGuard provides solid security for Windows and Android users. However, when compared to premium competitors such as Norton and Bitdefender, one may find that they offer more extensive features at a better value.
BullGuard Review: Quick Expert Summary
Norton has recently acquired BullGuard, leading to the discontinuation of all BullGuard plans. Instead, Norton’s plans have been introduced as replacements. Norton provides a wide array of impressive features, including an advanced anti-malware engine, system optimization tools, a VPN, a gaming performance booster, and more. While BullGuard does offer advanced anti-malware protection and handy additional features like a game booster that enhances PC performance for gamers, it does have some drawbacks. Other products like Norton or Bitdefender are considered superior alternatives.
BullGuard’s anti-malware scanner is highly effective as it utilizes a combination of a malware database and dynamic machine learning to effectively detect and prevent both known and unknown threats. However, during a full system scan, I experienced a noticeable decrease in my PC’s performance compared to other competitors such as Norton, Bitdefender, and Avira. Interestingly, when using these alternatives for full scans, I did not encounter any slowdowns and was able to seamlessly browse the web, stream video content, and even play games without any disruptions.
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Frequently Asked Questions: BullGuard Antivirus Review
Is BullGuard Internet Security any good?
BullGuard Internet Security is indeed an excellent antivirus and antimalware software. It provides valuable security functionalities, including real-time protection, antivirus scanning, a PC optimizer, Parental Controls, and Cloud storage.
Is BullGuard better than Norton?
NortonLifeLock has completed the acquisition of BullGuard and plans to integrate it into Norton antivirus in the future. Currently, both applications are effective, although Norton outperforms BullGuard in terms of features, functionality, and design. For instance, Norton provides an iOS app whereas BullGuard does not offer one.
Does BullGuard protect against malware?
Indeed, BullGuard offers real-time protection against malware for your device. However, in the event that you install the tool on a computer that is already infected, it will be necessary to conduct a comprehensive system scan in order to identify and address all potential threats..
Bottom Line
BullGuard Antivirus provides a comprehensive solution for protecting your devices from malware and other online threats. With its affordable pricing, flexible plans, and robust features, it is definitely a cure for malware. The antivirus software offers real-time protection, advanced threat detection, and powerful scanning capabilities to ensure that your devices are safe and secure. Additionally, BullGuard Antivirus has received positive reviews for its user-friendly interface and efficient performance. If you’re looking for reliable antivirus software that offers excellent value for money, BullGuard Antivirus is definitely worth considering. Protect your devices today and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you have a trusted defense against malware.