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CNET Editors' review
AVG has resurrected LinkScanner as a free plug-in for Firefox and Internet Explorer. AVG Anti-Virus fans shouldn't fret, though; LinkScanner is still included in the AV suite. The new LinkScanner works much the same as the original one did. AVG's "Search Shield" returns search results from both Google and Yahoo with flags next to them. Green flags on Google indicate a result is safe to click through to, while Yahoo-safe results display no flags. This might have been a configuration error, although rebooting the browser didn't change the results. Links that are unsafe on both search engines will return red flags.
Hovering over a flag provides further details. Green flags show the IP address, the amount of time the scan took, and the date and time of the most recent scan. Red flags highlight the same information, as well as the risk category and the site name. Attempting to click through to a red-flagged page will take you to a warning screen that repeats most of the red-flag information--AVG calls this the "Active Surf-Shield." A small link at the bottom of the red-blocked screen will let you click through, although it cautions users that it will continue to block potentially harmful content.
LinkScanner also offers two "slow down" warnings. The first is yellow with one exclamation point in it, while the second is orange and has two exclamation points. A link at the bottom of the pop-up takes you to the AVG product comparison page. It's notable that LinkScanner didn't slow down search results or click-through page loading times in any perceptible way, and that the new independent version functions just as well as the old independent version.
Publisher's Description
From AVG Technologies USA:
The most dangerous page on the web may be the one you are about to click on. AVG LinkScanner provides an advanced layer of security against fast-moving, invisible web threats, and hacked web sites. It verifies the safety of web pages you visit, and of links returned from web searches (Google, Yahoo! and MSN), so you know how safe/unsafe a page is at the time you attempt to click on it. It works alongside most current consumer AV and security suite products, delivering an additional layer of security they do not provide. Highlights: Real-time scanning of links you click on, so you can be sure you are protected from the latest hacked or exploited websites. Emphasis on analysis of each web page you visit instead of the web site. Automatic upgrades whenever the threat intelligence network finds a new threat. AVG LinkScanner is available as a free download for single computer, home non-commercial use.
What's new in this version:
- Anti-Rootkit: Improvements in Anti-Rootkit scanning.
- Polymorphic malware detection methods have been improved.
- Heuristic detection has been improved.
- Firewall: Network area detection was improved.
- Firewall: Firewall allows traffic to VPN networks automatically.
- Safe Search: Safe Search support in Google Chrome.
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All versions:
2.6 starsout of 139 votes
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Current version:
3.0 starsout of 7 votes
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My rating:
Write review
Results 1-7 of 7
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"The best security add on"
Version: AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 2011 10.0.1321
Pros
It's among the best security add on among most of the other ones. (I consider WOT to be the other one). Works like a charm and now supports even Google Chrome or any browser on the Chromium platform
Cons
Long installation time. Needs patience. Does not support Opera which only WOT supports now. Installation will confuse you to think you're installing AVG Anti-Virus. After installation you understand it has not.
Summary
I have used AVG before and I know this is one of the best add on to your browser for better safety.
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"hides the true install"
Version: AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 2011 10.0.1321
Pros
may be good; I've used AVG before
Cons
Can't install only link scanner.
Summary
If you don't use the custom install, you'll get the antivirus program, too. If you use the custom install, you can't opt out of the antivirus. That's already been said, so I checked and confirmed the statement. AVG, don't tell me one thing and hide the other stuff you do without my permission. If there were a way to give a rating of zero, I'd do that.
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"Great free software"
Version: AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 2011 10.0.1321
Pros
Blocks Malicous sites in Real-Time! withna great User interface and Security Toolbar
Cons
None - its great!
Summary
Good protection which you can run along side your current Antivirus for extra protection.
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"Works fine for me"
Version: AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 2011 10.0.1321
Pros
No need to install the whole AVG program, so my computer runs a whole lot faster.
Cons
Doesn't protect against all viruses, such as those in email.
Summary
All anti-virus programs slow down my computer a lot--I've tried all the big-name brands. I prefer LinkScanner because it only scans links rather than every file on my computer.
My primary concern about viruses is that they slow down my computer. So why install an anti-virus which slows down my computer just as badly?!!
I don't know why so many people here complain about this software. Yes, the program is big, but as long as my computer runs fast and doesn't get infected, who cares? -
"I can sum this up in one word....nazis"
Version: AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 2011 10.0.1321
Pros
NOTHING BUT TROUBLE WITH THIS PROGRAM
Cons
this program takes control and will not let you purchase another until you purchase it..it completely takes over your computer... you wil be sry if you download a free copy....
Summary
BEWARE OF THIS SOFTWARE
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"Is it possible to use with Avast?"
Version: AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 2011 10.0.1321
Pros
I used to use AVG and the link scanner was excellent (hence the 4 stars) but after having problems with the AVG antivirus I switched to Avast.
Cons
I have read in previous reviews that the AVG A/V was required... I have Avast Internet Security so I'm not switching back AVG...
Summary
Is there any way I can use the LinkScanner with Avast? I'm not going to try it just yet in case it causes conflicts, instead waiting on a response.
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"What are they trying to pull here?"
Version: AVG LinkScanner Free Edition 2011 10.0.1321
Pros
Had it once and I wish I never uninstalled it.
Cons
A 106 mb file for a link scanner? I think they're trying to install their free anti-virus with the link scanner (which is included in the av) without your knowledge or permission.
Summary
I'll pass. There is just something not right here; a 106 mb file for a link scanner is way too much.
A closer look at the installer (custom installation) revealed that they ARE installing the AVG 2011 anti-virus and link scanner and you CAN NOT opt out of the av,just the link scanner and other languages. If you already have an av and install this,they will conflict and crash you PC.
Updated on Apr 9, 2011
Results 1-7 of 7
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