AV-Comparatives is an independent organization that conducts testing and evaluation of cybersecurity software and services. Founded by cybersecurity researcher Andreas Clementi, the organization publishes comparative test reports and certifications covering enterprise security, consumer security, and IoT/OT security. In the enterprise segment, AV-Comparatives evaluates technologies such as endpoint protection platforms (EPP), endpoint detection and response (EDR), extended detection and response (XDR), and network security solutions. Test methodologies include real-world protection scenarios, detection validation, malware protection testing, performance benchmarks, and evaluations of modern attack techniques and response capabilities. For consumer security, AV-Comparatives conducts comparative tests of antivirus software, internet security suites, and VPN solutions. Ongoing test series include the Real-World Protection Test, Malware Protection Test, and Advanced Threat Protection Test, along with annual summary reports summarizing product performance throughout the year. In the IoT and operational technology (OT) space, AV-Comparatives evaluates cybersecurity solutions designed for connected environments such as smart homes, smart cities, and industrial infrastructure. Tests also include scenarios involving offline environments and post-breach detection. The organization’s reports are used by enterprise security teams, CISOs, analysts, journalists, and consumers seeking independent information about cybersecurity product effectiveness. Vendors can participate in certification tests to have their products evaluated against defined threat scenarios and methodologies. Test reports and results are made freely available to the public. AV-Comparatives is based in Austria and has been operating for more than 20 years.