AVG is a popular antivirus program that is widely used around the world. It offers a good free version as well as a comprehensive collection of security tools that compete with the top suites from Bitdefender and McAfee. It’s simple to set-up and use and its user interface is more functional than flashy.
The suite comes with a number features that help safeguard you from cyber-attacks and malware, but some of them are only available to you if upgrade to the premium edition. AVG’s support center is accessible via the software client and offers a forum, how-to sections as well as community-based advice and an online form for submitting tickets. There’s also a dedicated telephone line for premium users, but it’s only accessible during business hours.
The malware scanner employs machine learning and heuristic analysis to spot potential threats that might slip through traditional signature-based detection systems. It can detect rootkits as well as worms, trojans and other sophisticated malware. It also has an auto-scan function that runs on autopilot, a quick scan that skips over files AVG is sure are safe, and a more thorough scan designed to run longer but provide more thorough protection.
The technology used by AVG’s anti-phishing is reliable and it has an enhanced firewall that can be set to stop specific ports or applications. It also comes with an optimization tool for devices to remove unused applications and speed your PC, and an image vault for passwords. Its anti-theft features are superior to the ones provided by competitors programs, allowing you to identify a stolen or lost device as such and remotely monitor it using GPS. You can also set a siren, and remotely lock the device or erase the data if suspect someone of taking it.