Our verdict: ESET Online Scanner is a quick way to get a second opinion from ESET's detection engine without installing a full security suite. It quarantines what it finds and can delete itself afterwards. It gives no real-time protection and promotes ESET's paid trial along the way.
About ESET Online Scanner
ESET Online Scanner is a free on-demand scanner from ESET, the Slovak security company behind ESET NOD32 and ESET HOME Security. Despite the name, it is a small Windows program, not a browser tool: it downloads the latest detection modules, scans the PC and moves detected threats to quarantine.
It includes ESET's anti-stealth technology against rootkits and can optionally detect potentially unwanted applications. You can set up periodic automatic scans, restore quarantined files and choose to delete the program data when you close it. It works alongside any installed antivirus but does not protect the PC between scans; ESET offers a 30-day trial of its paid suites for that.
What it does well
- ESET detection engine. Downloads current ESET detection modules before each scan.
- Anti-rootkit scanning. Uses ESET's anti-stealth technology to find hidden threats.
- Quarantine and restore. Moves detections to quarantine, where you can restore or delete them.
- Periodic scans. Can repeat scans automatically, for example once a month.
- Clean removal. Optionally deletes its own program data when you close it.
Who it is for
Good fit
Users who want a second scan from a major antivirus vendor next to Microsoft Defender or another antivirus.
Look elsewhere
Anyone looking for always-on protection, and Mac or mobile users.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and quick to start
- Runs alongside any existing antivirus
- Optional detection of potentially unwanted apps
- Can remove itself after the scan
Cons
- No real-time protection between scans
- Needs an internet connection to download detection modules
- Promotes ESET's paid trial during and after the scan
How to install ESET Online Scanner
Run the downloaded file; it needs no full installation. Choose whether to detect potentially unwanted applications, then start a full scan. When it finishes, review the quarantine and tick Delete application data on closing if you do not plan to scan again. Expect offers to start an ESET HOME Security trial.
Questions about ESET Online Scanner
Is ESET Online Scanner free?
Yes. ESET offers it free of charge with no credit card or account. ESET HOME Security is a separate paid product with a 30-day trial.
Does it scan in the browser?
No. It is a small Windows program that you download and run; it is not a website or URL checker.
Can I use it offline?
It needs internet access for the first module update. After that it can run offline if you did not delete its program data.
