Avast Antivirus Review

Avast is one of the most prominent security solutions in the global antivirus industry. The security firm offers excellent and robust cybersecurity in the face of malicious threats and attacks. This article will present an Avast antivirus review 2023 so buyers can decide wisely about this product.

Avast Features Comparison Table

Pros & Cons

What Do I Need to Know About Avast?

Digital transformation is rising, and Avast is a crucial player in the race. The modern cybersecurity solution delivers various bonus features to combat cybersecurity threats and attacks. More importantly, Avast is an award-winning antivirus, leading your first step to online freedom. You can download a free version of Avast from an official website. In addition, Avast offers a free trial for premium versions, such as Avast Premium Security. First, however, you must add a payment method using a credit card.

Avast will be the best option for enterprises and individual users if we take a closer look at antivirus companies. Avast products offer a ton of extra features, such as six layers of security, WiFi network security, and ransomware protection against malware, such as Botnet, Fileless malware, Adware, Spyware, Keylogger, Trojan horses, worms, and so on. Get basic protection with Avast free antivirus to meet your specific needs. The free app comes with all basic features.

Figure 1: Avast Premium Security

Avast Security Products

Avast products support many platforms, including PCs with Microsoft Windows operating systems, Android devices, Mac, iPhone/iPad, and iOS devices.

1. Avast Free Antivirus
2. Avast Premium Security
3. Avast Ultimate
4. Avast One
5. Avast Mobile Security App (Free)

Avast Privacy Tools

Avast offers five additional privacy tools, including:

1. Avast SecureLine VPN
2. Avast AntiTrack
3. Avast BreachGuard
4. Avast Secure Browser
5. Avast Online Security & Privacy

Avast Performance Tools

Security is only useful if you achieve the best system performance. Avast offers the following products to enhance performance.

1. Avast Driver Updater
2. Avast Cleanup Premium
3. Avast Battery Saver

What Do I Need to Know About Avast Features?

Avast antivirus is a feature-rich antivirus that offers better protection for systems and networks. However, the availability of these features depends on the level of the Avast antivirus implemented. There are three implementation versions of Avast: Avast Free Antivirus, Avast Premium Security, and Avast Ultimate Security (Multi-Device).

Avast Free Antivirus

The Avast Free Antivirus, as its name suggests, is free to use, also known as Avast One Essentials. It has full-fledged Antivirus Protection, Anti-ransomware Shield, File Shield, WiFi Protection, and free access to the rudimentary Password Manager. It also includes the Software Updater and core Firewall functionalities.

Real-time Protection with Antivirus Engine

Like most antivirus programs, Avast provides real-time protection by running in the background. The system continually performs low-intensity scans and background checks to detect any activated malicious files or suspicious processes. In addition, the antivirus engine determines how good the antivirus is at preventing malware, including drive-by downloads and code injection attacks, from infecting the system.

Ransomware Shield

Avast Ransomware Shield prevents ransomware attacks, protects personal user data, and keeps adversaries away or at bay. This functionality monitors anything that attempts to change or delete any files on the computer. You can adjust the feature to specify the types of files you want to protect. Avast also offers free decryption tools to unlock files locked by ransomware.

Avast Anti-Theft

The Avast software has an anti-theft feature called Device Lock, which helps the user locate a lost device and secure it from unauthorized access. This security feature helps you locate, lock, wipe data, and sound an alarm when your device is lost or stolen.

WiFi Inspector

The WiFi Inspector typically scans the network searching for intended vulnerabilities. It also has an Avast Secure Browser that blocks advertisements and websites deemed malicious. Note that the WiFi Inspector is now known as the Network Inspector.

Figure 2: Avast Network Inspector

Firewall

The Avast firewall, enabled by default, monitors all incoming and outgoing data traffic to block any suspicious activity or malicious software. In addition, the firewall adopts a more aggressive posture on the networks you mark as public.

Automatic Software Updater

The Automatic Software Updater eliminates the need for manual updates. Instead, this essential tool performs seamless and automatic updates. As a result, the system typically completes the process unnoticed by the users, concurrently patching vulnerabilities before they become a big nightmare.

Avast Premium Security

This Avast Premium Security is the base-level premium package for consumers and comes in with all the additional features of the Avast Free Antivirus. In addition, the premium version adds the Data Shredder, Webcam Shield, Remote Access Shield, Sensitive Data Shield, Password Protection, Sandbox, Email Guardian, Auto Updater, and Firewall advanced features. In addition, the premium versions can help resolve advanced issues.

Sandbox

Avast offers sandbox technology, a virtualization tool that isolates unknown files in an isolated environment before they are allowed to run on your PC or mobile device. This feature is useful when the user wants to run suspicious applications without any attached risk.

Remote Access Shield

Modern businesses are shifting to Work From Home (WFH) capabilities. The covid-19 pandemic also pushed enterprises to deploy WFH strategies. However, WFH can open the floodgates of new attacks. That is why Avast provides Remote Access Shield to prevent online threats and attacks.

Core Shields

Core Shields incorporate a complete security suite against data breaches. In addition, the collective security services of Core Shields raid the hideouts of threat actors.

1.       File Shield

You may have personal data and sensitive information. Unfortunately, critical files are the main target of cyber pests. However, Avast File Shield protects your private files and information in the face of flagrant attacks.

2.       Behavior Shield

One of Avast’s most powerful standout features is the Behavior Shield, which continually monitors all applications running on the computer and informs the user about any suspicious activity. As a result, Avast now detects potentially harmful files that appear safe at first glance and bypasses the first line of defense. To implement this solution, Avast relies on AI technology and its vast cloud database.

3.       Web Shield

The Webcam Shield is an Avast security tool that prevents malware from accessing the user’s webcam. The user can manually select and allows applications access to the webcam. As a result, the applications must request permission to use the webcam. This feature has become more innovative and is now more compatible with HTTPS scanning as applied in modern browsers such as Firefox and Google Chrome.

4.       Mail Shield

According to security analysts, email is a primary source of communication. Unfortunately, bad guys launch social engineering attacks and deploy malware on the victim’s machine. However, Avast Mail Shield can prevent malicious actors from penetrating your system.

Figure 3: Avast Core Shields

Data Shredder

You can safely and permanently delete sensitive files or entire drives using the Data Shredder functionality and ensure that you cannot recover data. In addition, it gets rid of all the data for good. Using the Data Shredder also ensures data privacy even during computer equipment disposal.

Password Management

Avast also has a Password Manager that can safely store user credentials under one Master Password, and this typically comes with an autofill option. In addition, the technology captures passwords after successful login and generates unique, safe, and hard-to-crack passwords.

Email Guardian

Email Guardian is a cloud-based feature that scans all new incoming emails to detect and block malicious content in real-time. Email Guardian help averts social engineering attacks, especially phishing attacks. Any malicious and phishing emails get marked with the ‘suspicious label.’ You can add your email address to Email Guardian, which will scan all incoming emails.

Secure DNS

This Avast functionality protects against DNS hijacking by encrypting the connection between personal computers and the DNS server or Windows Server. Furthermore, Secure DNS establishes a secure connection between the browser client and Web Server. In addition, the feature often includes extra tools such as an internet speed booster and data compression capabilities for cellular networks.

Advanced Firewall

Another security feature in this package is the advanced firewall functionality, which allows users to add a layer of protection to their client’s emails. In addition, one can customize how the Avast firewall behaves by changing the application rules and allowing or disallowing applications to connect to the internet.

Avast Ultimate Security

It is for multi-devices and is the top-tier product offered by Avast. It includes practically every tool in the free and premium packages. Further, it adds functionalities such as the SecureLine VPN, the Cleanup Premium tool, the premium version of the Password Manager, and security solutions for Android, Mac, and IOS devices.

Avast Secure Browser

The Secure Browser is a privacy-focused alternative to its widely popular counterparts like Google Chrome and Firefox. Its vital function, among others, is blocking online ads, which improves website loading and execution time. The Secure Browser also has a capability that forces sites to use encryption to protect information.

Avast Online Security Extension

This feature is available for web browsers, including Google Chrome and Firefox. It serves as a reliable warning system for unsafe sites or those with a questionable reputation so that users are aware before getting access. In addition, this feature typically blocks sites from tracking the user online through cookies.

SecureLine VPN

Avast also has the SecureLine VPN tool, accessible in the Ultimate package. Avast’s VPN service performs various sophisticated functions, such as hiding online user activities and browsing history. This security service also helps access geo-blocked content. Avast also offers SecureLine VPN in the Avast Premium Security category.

Anti-Track

Web pages can gather your sensitive information to build a unique online profile that can help advertisers and data miners to identify you. In addition, the Anti-Tracker tool will raise the alarm if any snooper attempts to follow you. It prevents trackers from collecting information about user’s online behavior. According to Avast, over 1,000 trackers hide in top websites, 75% of all websites track users, customer tracking technology is 99% accurate, and 3,000 pieces of information organizations have on you.

Avast Cleanup

This feature is not purposefully designed and implemented to improve security but serves to clean up the PC from unnecessary files, plugins, and apps in the operating environment. It also cleans up the registry, optimizes the hard disk, and is very useful for clearing cookies and browsing history and automatically updating user applications.

The following table presents the general categorization of Avast features, as explained in this article. You should note that these features in the Avast Ultimate category can also be sold separately and incorporated into the Avast Premium Security package.

Customer Support

Customer assistance is critical to any antivirus service. It is essential if any technical problem affects your device’s overall operation or if protection is compromised. Avast’s client support crew is highly knowledgeable and expert.

In case of any problem with the Avast Application, you can begin with FAQs on multiple topics at the official website or Avast Forums, where numerous users have already discussed and resolved similar problems. You can also get in touch with the Avast aid team by different means at any time.

Free users can only access customer support through forums and FAQs, while premium versions reap various benefits, including 24/7 free consultation, email support, and expert phone assistance.

Figure 4: Customer Support

What Do I Need to Know About Money-Back Guarantee and Refund Policy?

You may not be comfortable using Avast. Under such circumstances, the company allows you to cancel your subscription and receive a refund if you apply within 30 days. In fact, Avast ensures a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, this applies to consumers who use the following subscription methods:

• Buying through Google Play Store
• Purchasing from Avast’s official website
• Purchasing through an offer within another Avast software on Mac or Windows operating system

It is important to note that Avast doesn’t entertain a refund policy after 30 days.

How User-Friendly Is Avast Antivirus?

Avast antivirus is renowned for its simplistic interface and ease of use, making it practical for end-users of every skill level. Furthermore, the software program has a smooth and simplistic Graphical User Interface (GUI). The software program additionally elaborates on its attributes and capabilities.

Avast Antivirus gives excessive customization options for leading-edge users, enabling them to redesign their settings and set up the application simultaneously to meet their particular needs at the tip of the finger. In addition, the software program gives targeted logs and reports, which can assist in troubleshooting and display the performance of the specific software, making it the first choice for beginners and expert users.

AV-Comparatives and AV-Test Ranking

Some antivirus testing firms use hands-on testing with lab results to get an overview of security products. Although lab results gain more weight, the testing companies like taking each antivirus program for a test spin themselves. Avast secured a good position in several independent lab tests and antivirus tests. You can see the lab results of Avast. The following sections gain insight into more details.

AV-Comparatives

According to AV-Comparatives, Avast took a Top-Rated Product Award for 2022. Moreover, it received Silver Awards for the Malware Protection Test and Real-Word Protection Test. The following Figure presents an overview of the Consumer Main-Test Series of 2022 published by the AV-Comparatives.

Figure 5: AV-Comparatives’ Consumer Main-Test Series of 2022

AV-Test

AV-Test conducted a test for Avast in December 2022. The reports show that Avast Free Antivirus and One Essential received 6 out of 6 perfect scores in protection, performance, and usability.

Figure 6: Avast AV-Test December 2022

How Does Avast Antivirus work?

Avast free antivirus or free offering takes a moment to install. After that, this free version runs quietly in the background to protect you from viruses, malware, and social engineering attacks in real time, 24/7.  

Moreover, Avast Premium Security works with multiple virus scans to ensure malware protection, antivirus protection, web protection, ransomware protection, and more. Different features of virus scans incorporate Smart Scans, Full Scan, Targeted Scan, Boot-Time Scan, and Custom Scans.

More importantly, Avast Antivirus Engine works via real-time protection to prevent suspicious files and protect users’ private information and personal data.

Can I trust Avast?

Yes, you can trust the basic version and paid version of Avast, including Avast Antivirus Software, Avast Secure Browser, Avast Business Antivirus, Avast Antivirus Solution, and Avast Premium Security.

Presently, according to Avast, more than 435 million active customers across the world trust Avast products. The main reason behind this is that Avast has a superior defense mechanism, which, per industry average, foils over 1.5 billion attacks every month.

Is Avast Antivirus good?

In a nutshell, the answer is “YES.” Why? As a matter of fact, in the realm of cyber hazards, Avast is a sought-after and credible preference.

Moreover, Avast is participating in the modern digital transformation race due to its essential antivirus protection encompassing password protection, data shredder, webcam shield, sandbox, web protections, and so forth. The Antivirus Engine provides real-time protection and scanning that help prevent even the most current threats and attacks. Avast’s VPN is also good. The VPN service ensures users’ online privacy and eliminates online threats. The VPN service offers a generous 5GB per week free tier. It is officially known as Avast SecureLine VPN.

How Long Does Avast Antivirus Free Last?

Avast Antivirus Free lasts for one year. However, you need to reactivate this Avast’s free antivirus software after this period. Premium users will follow their subscription plans.

On the contrary, the Avast Antivirus Company may disable several essential features if you don’t activate a free program again.

Will Avast Antivirus Slow Your Computer?

To some extent, almost all antivirus program slows down users’ computer system a little bit. Avast Smart Scan doesn’t slow down the machine. However, the Full Scan can have some influence on the overall speed of your PC. Besides, according to some security analysts, additional add-ons of Avast can slow down your PC.

On the other hand, Avast offers a world-class PC optimizer – namely “Avast Cleanup Premium” to make your PC better, faster, and more efficient. Moreover, the company offers a free trial for this PC performance booster.

More importantly, Avast Cleanup Premium improve your PC performance by closing apps you don’t need (e.g., closing unwanted new tab and background apps), updating drivers, uninstalling unused programs, upgrading the hard drive, Trimming SSD, upgrading RAM, and physically cleaning the PC, and pulling the plug on resource-hungry programs. Therefore, the overall performance of Avast is satisfactory.

Pricing

Avast presents various options and prices to fit varied needs in a financial-conscious world. Transparent price plans are available for Avast Home Office Products, Avast Premium Security, Avast One, Avast Ultimate, Security Solutions for Small Businesses, MSSPs, and Reseller’s Advanced Protection suite.

Avast One Price Plan

Avast One fits the bill if you want a one-stop solution. This product presents an all-encompassing service that features security against malware and viruses, limitless VPN access, surveillance for data breaches, and device cleanup utilities. Avast One price plan starts at $2.89 per month or $34.68 for the first year.  

Figure 7: Avast One Price

Avast Premium Security Price Plan

For top-tier users, Avast Premium Security is the sole solution. It is a defense package that furnishes superior security against internet hazards, including a USB flash drive. This empowers users to thwart phishing sites, steer clear of fake websites, shop without risks, and sidestep web trackers. The price plan for the Avast Premium Security starts at $35.09 for the first year for one PC and $44.99 for up to 10 devices.

Figure 8: Avast Premium Security Price

Avast Ultimate

Avast Ultimate is an all-in-one convenient premium suite that incorporates Premium Security, SecureLine VPN, Cleanup Premium, AntiTrack, and numerous additional features.

Figure 9: Avast Ultimate Price

Avast Home Office Solutions

If you are searching for a solution for an entrepreneurial venture, your best option would be Avast Home Office Solutions. In the remedy, you also get 24/7 support to assist you and the whole crew. In addition, you can buy Small Office Protection for $139.99 per year plus $14 per device per year.

Figure 10: Avast Home Office Solutions Price

Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions

Every large corporation once started as a small enterprise. The critical factor behind the success story of every business is always the thrive on thinking big. For those who aspire to greatness, the option for them is “Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions.” Why? In fact, this centralized online platform offers security and subscription management efficiently and effectively.

More importantly, this essential platform provides enterprises with patch management, unlimited VPN, USB protection, identity protection, and IT support. Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions incorporate three price plans, including:

1.      Essential

This package starts at $148.36 per year plus $29.67/per device/per year.

2.      Premium

The Premium price plan costs $187.00 per year plus $37.40/per device/per year.

3.      Ultimate

The Ultimate package begins at $227.08 per year plus $45.42/per device/per year.

Figure 11: Avast Small Business Cybersecurity Solutions Price

The MSSPs and Resellers Advanced Protection Plan from Avast

Resellers are often the first point of contact for potential customers. They help educate consumers about product features and benefits. While on the other hand, Managed Security Service Providers (MSSP) play a significant role in providing security services, monitoring, and reporting to tech customers. Avast has a full-fledged solution for both, but a custom quote is required to determine the pricing.

Avast is offering a big sale before February 26^th. Customers can avail of up to 55% discount on Avast products. The following Figure demonstrates a graphical representation of Avast pricing.

Rating

The Final Verdict

Based in the Czech Republic, Avast enables you to secure your home network and internet access with the best antivirus software that antivirus companies provide. Furthermore, Avast provides not only security tools to protect user data but also privacy and performance tools. Hence, Avast is a complete and comprehensive platform for individual users, partners, and businesses. Receiving the best rating and lab results, Avast is trustworthy and reliable, providing a decent level of protection with fewer false positives against cybersecurity threats and attacks.