Webroot Review
Ultra-lightweight cloud-based protection with fast scans
Overall Rating
Based on our testing
Quick Answer
Webroot scores 8/10 in our testing. It's best for extremely lightweight - and lightning-fast scans (20. Key strength: Extremely lightweight - under 4MB install. Main weakness: No AV-TEST participation since 2019.
Quick Summary
Webroot (now OpenText) offers an ultra-lightweight, cloud-based antivirus that installs in seconds and runs lightning-fast scans. While it lacks participation in major AV lab tests since 2019, its minimal resource footprint makes it popular for older systems and business environments.
Pros & Cons
What we like
- Extremely lightweight - under 4MB install
- Lightning-fast scans (20 seconds average)
- Cloud-based with minimal system impact
- Identity protection and dark web monitoring
- 70-day money-back guarantee
- LastPass password manager included
What could be better
- No AV-TEST participation since 2019
- Lower detection rates than top competitors
- Web protection not as effective
- Limited macOS feature set
- Renewal prices double after first year
Typical Promotions
- •50% off first year
- •Family plan bundles
- •Black Friday deals
Best time to buy: Black Friday or holiday season
Webroot Pricing
- 5 devices
- Identity protection
- Dark web monitoring
- System optimizer
- 1 device
- Antivirus
- Real-time protection
- Anti-phishing
- 3 devices
- All Essentials features
- Password manager
- 5 devices
- All Premium features
- VPN included
- 25GB cloud backup
Key Features
Webroot In-Depth Review
Webroot is Webroot (now OpenText) offers an ultra-lightweight, cloud-based antivirus that installs in seconds and runs lightning-fast scans. While it lacks participation in major AV lab tests since 2019, its minimal resource footprint makes it popular for older systems and business environments. With an overall rating of 8/10 based on our testing, it delivers strong performance across key metrics in the antivirus software space.
Key Findings
- Extremely lightweight - under 4MB install: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of Webroot.
- Lightning-fast scans (20 seconds average): This stands out in our testing as a key strength of Webroot.
- Cloud-based with minimal system impact: This stands out in our testing as a key strength of Webroot.
Performance & Speed
In malware detection tests, Webroot showed solid detection rates with some room for improvement against newer threats. System impact during scans was minimal.
Features & Functionality
Webroot includes real time protection, ransomware protection, firewall, password manager. The features cover the essentials, though power users may find some gaps compared to premium alternatives. We particularly appreciated extremely lightweight - under 4mb install.
Pricing & Value
Webroot pricing starts at $49.99/month. The premium pricing is justified if you need the advanced features, but may be overkill for basic use cases.
Ease of Use
Webroot's interface has a moderate learning curve. Most users will get comfortable within a few sessions. There's room for UX improvements, but core functionality is accessible.
Our Testing Methodology
Our testing used live malware samples from MalwareBazaar, measured detection rates against zero-day threats, and benchmarked system performance impact. We tested scanning speeds, false positive rates, and the effectiveness of real-time protection across common threat vectors.
- Users who prioritize extremely lightweight - under 4mb install
- Users looking for a solid, capable option
- Users who can't accept no av-test participation since 2019
- Budget-restricted users who need a more affordable option
The Bottom Line
Webroot is a solid performer that works well for most users. Its strength in extremely lightweight - under 4mb install makes it worth considering, though no av-test participation since 2019 may affect certain users.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some products are sponsored. Rankings reflect our honest assessment. Our editorial content is independent and unbiased. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through our links. Read our full disclosure
- Best Antivirus for Windows PCTop-rated virus protection for Windows 10 & 11
- Best Antivirus for MacSecurity software designed for macOS
- Best Antivirus for AndroidMobile security for Android phones and tablets
- Best Antivirus for iPhoneiOS security and privacy protection
- Best Antivirus for FamiliesProtect all your family's devices with parental controls
- Best Antivirus for BusinessEnterprise endpoint protection and management
- Best Antivirus for StudentsAffordable protection for laptops and devices
- Best Antivirus for GamingLightweight protection that won't slow down your games
- Best Antivirus for Ransomware ProtectionAdvanced protection against ransomware attacks
- Best Antivirus for Phishing ProtectionBlock scam emails and fake websites
- Best Antivirus for Identity ProtectionDark web monitoring and identity theft protection
- Best Antivirus with VPNSecurity suites with built-in VPN
- Best Lightweight AntivirusMinimal system impact for older computers
- Best Antivirus with FirewallComplete protection with advanced firewall
- Best Free Antivirus SoftwareQuality virus protection that costs nothing
- Best Cheap Antivirus SoftwarePremium protection under $30/year
Webroot FAQ
How much does Webroot cost?
Webroot starts at $49.99/mo for the Essentials plan. They also offer Essentials 3 Devices ($69.99/mo), Premium ($129.99/mo), Total Protection ($179.99/mo).
Is Webroot worth it in 2025?
Webroot scores 8/10 in our testing. Extremely lightweight - under 4MB install. However, no av-test participation since 2019.
What are the pros and cons of Webroot?
Pros: Extremely lightweight - under 4MB install; Lightning-fast scans (20 seconds average); Cloud-based with minimal system impact. Cons: No AV-TEST participation since 2019; Lower detection rates than top competitors; Web protection not as effective.
Is Webroot safe to use?
Webroot is a legitimate antivirus software service. We recommend reviewing their privacy policy for full details.