To improve its accuracy, the company collects information about how you use your computer and where you go online. Most antivirus brands let you opt out of this data collection, but Panda doesn't.

Panda's continuous real-time scanner examines compressed files and blocks questionable apps from being loaded, but there's no specific defense against ransomware. The idea is that the three security screens will catch such attacks before damage is done.

If this level of protection is too intense, you can turn many of the features off or use Panda's Game mode, which blocks interruptions. Panda Free Antivirus alerts you when a USB drive or SD card is inserted, but automatic scanning is reserved for the Essential product.