ESET
Independent Slovak antivirus and endpoint security maker behind NOD32. A long-established European alternative to Kaspersky.
Quick facts
NOD32 remains one of the lightest-weight antivirus engines around even after three decades on the market, so it barely slows down older hardware.
The interface looks more dated than newer consumer security apps, and some advanced features are locked behind the pricier Smart Security Premium tier.
Why does it score 89?
Incorporated in Bratislava, Slovakia – a full EU member state.
Independently and privately held since founding, with no outside investors.
Runs on a mix of its own and partner infrastructure, hosted within Slovakia and the EU.
GDPR-compliant and ISO 27001 certified, with one of the longest independent testing track records in the industry.