Avast! FREE Antivirus is an antivirus program that is free to use for your home computer. Avast has really made some noticeable improvements to the interface. These changes make it easier to find all the available tools and features. This latest version of Avast also includes some great additions. We really liked how easy it was to check for outdated software on our PC using the Software Updater feature. With this tool, not only do we see which programs have updates available, but we also have the option to allow Avast to update them. Keeping the programs on your computer updated with their latest versions, especially Flash Player and Java, is an important step to making it more difficult for hackers to exploit your computer.
Another feature that is included in this free antivirus version is the Browser Cleanup. This feature lists all the add-ons in your Internet browser that you can easily disable if you do not use. This can speed up your browser by it using fewer resources. If you decide that you need an add-on that you disabled, you can go right back into the Browser Cleanup settings and enable it again.
Because Avast is a fully active antivirus program it includes a File System Shield, Mail Shield, and Web Shield. The File System Shield is responsible for scanning programs, scripts, and DLL libraries when they are executed. The Mail Shield checks incoming/outgoing messages for viruses and malware. The Web Shield is in charge of protecting you as you surf the Internet. This feature scans the files you download, blocks websites that are known to host malware and/or viruses, and uses its intelligent stream scanning to enhance protection. As of now, Reputation Services which checks files against Avast’s database and Deep Screen which checks unknown files such as 0-day viruses are enabled by default. However, to protect your computer even further you have the option to enable ‘Hardened Mode’ in the ‘Antivirus’ settings. Keep in mind that after 30 days you must register to receive a free key from Avast to continue using it but this is a relatively simply process for a nice free antivirus app.
- Provides real-time antivirus, anti-spyware, anti-malware, anti-rootkit protection for your computer.
- Intelligent Antivirus with new DynaGen technology.
- Software Updater to check for out-dated software on your computer and option to update them.
- Browser Cleanup which gives you the option to disable unused browser add-ons.
- Mail Shield, Web Shield, DeepScreen + more.
Screenshots of Avast! Antivirus
- Publisher: Avast Software
- Price: Free
- Compatible with: Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10.
- Version: Most recent free version through direct download.