Recommendations for Good Antivirus/Malware Protection

With the increasing threats to our computer systems we're considering buying protection instead of continuing to use the freebies. Any thoughts/recommendations? We have two laptops - one with Windows 7 and the other with Windows 10. Thanks

One of your best protections from "hacking" is a good VPN (not a freebie). I use ExpressVPN. This won't stop viruses or malware that you may unwittingly download and open though. For those I rely on Windows Defender and Spybot.

I've switched to a Chromebook since it is inherently virus proof, as well as many benefits that Windows can't offer. BTW, this is from someone who did professional training for Microsoft software...

Every Chromebook comes with built-in security protection so you’re safe from the moment you open your new Chromebook. ChromeOS also comes with multiple layers of security and updates without interruption*.

*See how long a device is eligible for updates

https://nordvpn.com/features/threat-protection/