Avast offers a wide array of features in a well-designed software that performs very well in independent tests and reliably neutralizes threats. Its free version is among the top available, and its premium and ultimate versions have extra features that separate it from other antivirus programs. They include a sandbox, which blocks unknown files, as well as Wi-Fi Inspector, which checks for vulnerabilities in your home network and assists connect safely connecting to private or public networks.
Avat Antivirus is available for Windows-based PCs as Avast Free Antivirus and macOS-based Mac computers as Avast Security, Android mobile devices as Avast Mobile Security, and Apple products like the iPad, iPhone, and iPod as Avast SecureLine. It also comes with an enterprise version, namely Avast Endpoint Protection.
The user interface is simple and elegant, with a blue theme and orange accents (from the company’s logo) and green ”all clear” buttons that let you know if your system is secured. Its tools are separated into three tabs along the left side of the screen: Protection, Privacy and Performance.
In the first quarter of 2020, Avast found itself at the center of a major privacy scandal when it was accused of securing information about its customers, including the websites they visited as well as their search terms and the videos they watched. While Avast claims to have stopped this practice, a few experts are still wary of the program.
The malware detection rate of Avast is high and its antivirus software has been highly praised for its speed and its minimal impact on the operating system. It is easy to install, and has a solid reputation for customer assistance. However the paid plans are pricey as compared to other antivirus software. Avast offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.