Malwarebytes Guides
Plain-language information about Malwarebytes' plans and pricing, how its premium tiers generally differ, Browser Guard basics, ransomware basics, and troubleshooting common issues.
Explore the basics
General, educational overviews of how the main pieces of the product typically work. Always confirm current details on the official site.
Premium Tiers Compared
A general overview of how Standard, Plus, and Ultimate-style tiers tend to differ.
Compare tiers →Browser Guard Basics
General notes on what a browser extension aimed at blocking ads, trackers, and malicious sites typically does.
Learn more →Ransomware Basics
General concepts behind what ransomware is and how prevention tools typically try to stop it.
Read the basics →Popular troubleshooting topics
Quick starting points for common scanning and installation issues.
Conflicts with other antivirus software
General notes on running real-time protection alongside another security tool.
View topic →Subscription or activation issues
General guidance on where to check a subscription's status.
View topic →Unsure about a scan result
General guidance on reviewing quarantined items before removing anything.
View topic →Popular guides
How to Run Your First Threat Scan
A general starting point for installing and running a first scan safely.
View guide →How to Review Quarantined Items
Understand the general process for checking what a scan flagged before removing it.
View guide →How to Add an Exclusion
General concepts behind preventing a trusted file from being flagged repeatedly.
View guide →Latest article
Free Scanner vs. Real-Time Protection: What's the Actual Gap?
A general look at what on-demand scanning covers, what it doesn't, and where continuous protection fills the gap.
Read article →Frequently asked questions
Is this website the official Malwarebytes website?
No. This is an independent informational resource that is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by Malwarebytes Inc.
Is the free version of Malwarebytes enough?
The free version is generally described as an on-demand scanner, while paid tiers typically add real-time protection, exploit prevention, and web protection. Whether the free tier is "enough" depends on what other protection you already have running and how you use your computer.
Is Malwarebytes a full antivirus replacement?
It can be, depending on the plan — paid tiers generally include real-time protection similar to a full antivirus. Some people also use the free, on-demand version specifically as a supplemental second-opinion scanner alongside another primary antivirus.
Does this site provide official Malwarebytes account or billing support?
No. This site provides general educational information only. For official support, billing, or downloads, use Malwarebytes' own website or app.
Have a general question?
Send an informational inquiry — this is not official Malwarebytes support.