Avast is a multi international cybersecurity software company that was initially launched in the Czech Republic. Avast has more than 435 million users and the largest market share among anti-malware application vendors. It is very popular largely because of its free version, which has a number of quality features.
Pros
- Free version is one of the best available with two moderately priced upgrades
- Routinely performs very well in independent tests especially with malware detection and network security
- Provides a number of quality bonus features, even on the free platform
Cons
- Not the strongest password manager of all antivirus software providers
- Email security and extended app protection will require upgrade to paid version
Avast Protects You From…
Avast is a regular among the highest performing antivirus software providers in terms of detecting viruses, malware, ransomware and other potent cyber attacks. The antivirus works in real-time, constantly updating its detection in order to stay ahead of the latest threats.
Avast also scans your Wi-Fi to keep your network security top notch. It exposes intruders and explains any network weakness, so your personal information remains protected.
Also available with the free version, Avast secures your passwords and remembers them with a single click feature. While it is nice to have a password manager, it is not the most intuitive manager we have seen from an antivirus platform.
Available with both paid subscriptions (more information, below), Avast Internet Security and Avast Premier also flags any unsafe websites. These predators generally want to steal personal information or credit card numbers, and Avast helps you stay ahead of these criminals. An advanced firewall provides another layer of defense.
Block annoying spam and stay away from phishing attempts with advanced email security. The ransomware detection also keeps personal files and information away from predators.
Users may “Sandbox” any app that could affect the rest of your PC. Available with the Premier suite, Avast also automatically updates apps (to ensure maximum security) and even protects a personal webcam from attacks.
Additional features included with the Premier subscription highlight the ability to permanently shred sensitive files so no hints of it remain on your PC. Its combination of web browsing, email, home network and PC files protection is one of the most well rounded on the market.
Devices/Operating Systems Avast Supports
Avast is compatible with Windows, Android and Mac operating systems. The free version requires an INtel Pentium 4/AMD Athlon 64 or above processor with a minimum 256 MB of RAM memory and 1.5 GB of free hard disk space.
The antivirus software works on Windows Vista, Windows XP (32 or 64-bit), WIndows 7, Windows 8/8.1 and Windows 10. As for Android, Avast is compatible with Google Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean, API 16) or higher.
Installation & Performance
Avast features a really easy to understand install process. It is simple, even for non-technical users, and walks you through the entire install. If that is not enough, Avast also provides a tutorial video for those that are more visual learners.
Avast is designed not to have lag while a scan is running, even if you are surfing the web or watching video. For free antivirus software, the performance is fairly good as the scan runs in the background.
Price
While Avast presents a couple of paid subscriptions, the free version of the antivirus software is by far its most popular. While some free antivirus software is only compatible with Windows, the basic version also supports Mac users as well.
The free version includes scans of the latest cyber threats, home network protection and password management.
Avast Internet Security is an upgrade over the free version with advanced firewall, anti-phishing and email scam defense and ransomware protection. The antivirus suite is available in one, two or three year commitments. The longer the commitment, the more money you save. For one year, Avast Internet Security retails at $60 per year.
Avast Premier offers the same features as Avast Internet Security with webcam protection, automatic app updates and permanent removal of sensitive files. It retails at $70 per year, with the ability to also save money by committing to two or three years.
Both Avast Internet Security and Avast Premier offer 30 day money back guarantees and a free trial.
Conclusion
Avast is quite possibly the best free antivirus software available. It routinely performs well in independent tests with a well rounded amount of protection and defense against all the latest security threats. While most will come for the free version, Avast also provides two reasonably priced upgrades with an abundance of extra security tools and features. It is a fantastic value.