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AVG Internet Security logo

AVG Internet Security

By AVG Technologies Free to try Editors' Rating
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Editors' Review

tom.mcnamara Apr 28, 2017

AVG Internet Security wants to convince you that an antimalware security suite is worth paying for, in a climate where free options from Avast (Windows, Mac), Avira (Windows, Mac), and AVG itself (Windows, Mac) are just a few clicks away. It's also priced to contend with the big dogs at McAfee (Windows), Norton (Windows) and Kaspersky (Windows, Mac). Let's see if Internet Security can separate itself from the pack.

Pros

The interface is clean and fairly easy to navigate: AVG's main window tells you at a glance what every component of the suite does, in plain English. The main menu is clearly labeled, there's a back button in the upper left that takes you back to the previous window, and you can set up specific types of malware scans in just a few clicks, starting with the gear icon next to the big Scan Computer button near the bottom.

A wealth of options under the hood: AVG might look basic on the surface, but clicking the Menu button and selecting Settings opens up a layer cake of toggles and sliders. Clicking the question mark icon in the upper right opens up a window that explains each setting in detail, without overwhelming you with technical jargon or marketing-speak.

Cons

The installer could be more attentive: When choosing the custom installation route, you're given the option to change your browser's home page, new tab page, and search engine to one recommended by AVG. If you decline this offer, the installer still adds an "AVG Web TuneUp" browser extension that empowers itself to make these changes anyway. (And between Firefox and Chrome, only the latter articulates what the add-on can do; Firefox just tells you that program X wants to install browser add-on Y.)

A surprising amount of upsell for a premium product: At $70 for an annual subscription, AVG Internet Security wants to live on the same block as Norton, McAfee, or Kaspersky. But by throwing several sales pitches into the interface, the user experience loses some luster.

For example, you can't do a regular malware scan without the application suggesting you download a trial of a program called "AVG PC TuneUp," which turns out to cost another $50 a year. CCleaner appears to be able to perform the bulk of PC TuneUp tasks for free. The TuneUp tool can check for updates to other apps installed on your PC while CCleaner does not, but this update check is frequently bundled into other antimalware suites at no extra cost. Spending $120 a year total to close the gap is a tough sell.

Bottom Line

AVG Internet Security performs its basic antimalware protection competently, according to independent labs like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives. And there's plenty of behavior explanation and customization. However, comparably priced alternatives are less aggressive about selling additional services and installing add-ons in your Web browser. In a product category as competitive as this one, Internet Security comes off a little pushy.

Full Specifications

What's new in version 19.8.3108

  • Hello, menu, my new friend - Check out all the useful shortcuts we've added to our top-right menu
  • Goodbye, double-click - You no longer have to click twice on our popups to open or close them
  • Smarter Smart Scan - Virus scan now deals with threats automatically, so you don't have to sit through our scans
  • "Reboot" got the boot - A redundant reboot message was fixed.
  • Firewall fix - Changing your Firewall settings will now (gasp!) actually change your Firewall settings

General

Release September 20, 2019
Date Added September 20, 2019
Version 19.8.3108

Operating Systems

Operating Systems Windows, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
Additional Requirements None

Popularity

Total Downloads 4,350,025
Downloads Last Week 17
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Developer's Description

AVG Internet Security blocks viruses and malware, keeps your emails secure, protects your personal files, passwords, and webcam from hackers, and lets you shop and bank online without worry.

Our first line of defense for your PC.
  • Advanced Antivirus - Scans your PC for viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other types of malware.
  • Behavior Shield - Sends alerts if suspicious software behavior is detected on your PC.
  • AI Detection - Proactively identifies malware samples to protect you from new threats.
  • CyberCapture - Blocks new threats by having our antivirus software automatically upload them for analysis.
  • PUA Scanner - Identifies potentially unwanted apps that you may have unknowingly downloaded.
  • Turbo Scan - Shortens scanning time by skipping files it already knows are safe.
  • Real-Time Updates - Ensures you’re always protected by getting security updates, bug fixes, and new features automatically.
  • Do Not Disturb Mode - Temporarily stops all pop-ups and app notifications so you can focus on what you’re doing.
  • Silent Mode - Postpones AVG scans, updates, and popups so you can avoid interruptions while you work.
  • Ransomware Protection - Wall off your personal files and photos so hackers can’t lock them and control which apps can change or delete them.
Stay safe when you go online by scanning links, downloads, and email attachments for threats and avoiding unsecure Wi-Fi networks.
  • Link Scanner - Avoid dangerous websites by scanning links for anything suspicious.
  • Web Shield - Check files for hidden malware before downloading them onto your computer.
  • Email Shield - Block dangerous email attachments to avoid falling victim to phishing attacks.
  • Wi-Fi Guard - Get alerted if you connect to an unsecure Wi-Fi network.
  • Toolbar Remover - Remove unwanted or potentially malicious browser toolbars and extensions.
Control what goes in and out of your computer, stop hackers from accessing your device remotely, and secure all your passwords.
  • Enhanced Firewall - Stop hackers from accessing your private files and photos with our firewall.
  • Remote Access Shield - Shield your device so hackers can't take control of it remotely.
  • Password Protection - Prevent “blocked apps” from reading, changing, or deleting passwords saved in your browsers.
Prevent your webcam from being compromised and delete old data safely and permanently.
  • Webcam Protection - Protect against webcam hacking by forcing untrusted apps to request permission to use your webcam.
  • Data Shredder - Securely and permanently delete files and data to prevent unintended or unauthorized recovery.
Shop and bank online freely and securely. Get additional layers of online security so your sensitive information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
  • Fake Website Shield - Avoid fake websites by automatically being redirected to a real website if you accidentally land on one.
Protect your entire family. Cover up to 10 devices with a single subscription so you can easily protect every device your family uses.
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