Basic but effective
Make data security your number one priority for offline and online activities. Having reliable and powerful cyber protection such as an antivirus program is a must for all users, including you. This program is a great shield against malware, viruses, and multiple problems that can cause delays and ineffective device performance. The good thing is, you don't have to spend a fortune. Many satisfied users have found that AVG Free AntiVirus is one of the most practical antivirus freeware options available that offers an above-average level of protection for Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Its reliability and security are tested and proven effective throughout the years of its service. The only question now is if this is the one you're looking for. Well, find out here.
Bonus features
The antivirus is a strong all-around performer that can be used by itself or as a tandem for your current antivirus program as a separate layer of cyber-protection.
AVG Antivirus has a straightforward console that displays the areas it protects. It is easy to use. Just click the Scan Computer button to let the program check your system. If you have a specific concern, you can choose from the program's six types of security scans. The Computer Scan is more or less the same as a regular quick scan, while the Deep Scan will give you a full system scan. Another one is USB/DVD Scan which you can be used to scan your removable drives. There are also other scans available to check your preferred folders, run at boot time, and check your PC's performance issues.
The antivirus's standard Computer Scan delivers reasonable protection at a very high speed. The initial scan may take several minutes depending on your PC system or preferred files to be checked. A final report will pop up after the scan finishes highlighting any discovered malware. The program's warning messages are quite unique compared to its competitors since it will give you full information about the threat that it has blocked and quarantined. Unlike other similar antivirus programs, it will not include dangerous URLs in your search results. The program will still, nonetheless, protect your online activities by detecting and blocking web threats and thoroughly scanning any downloads you make. While the Performance Check is a good feature of the program's free edition, it will only state your PC's performance issues. It will highlight the number of junk files you have on your PC, any broken registry keys, startup programs which cause delays on your booting time, and any health problems that may affect your PC's performance. The program's offered features are all basic with some helpful bonus features. Some of these are the File Shredder and Do Not Disturb Mode. The File Shredder is a simple tool which securely deletes specific files or folders to make sure confidential or unshareable private data cannot be recovered at all. It's really useful for individuals and organizations who require a high level of secured confidentiality. The program's version is quite basic and there are far more other capable freeware shredders available online. To top it all, the program's Do Not Disturb Mode (formerly Game Mode) can hide notifications from Windows and other apps as well as its own while a full-screen application is being run. This feature will let you enjoy your activities without any interruptions.
Where can you run this program?
It is also possible to ger other AVG-offered services as add-ons in your purchases such as AVG TuneUp, AVG Secure VPN Multi-device, and AVG Password Protection. You may also get its free mobile version for Android phones. It is advisable to try the 30-day free trial offered by the antivirus before going for any of its subscription plans.
Is there a better alternative?
The antivirus program now uses the same engine as Avast Free Antivirus since its developers became a subsidiary company of the latter one. If you're thinking that the two antivirus names are on the same page, well that's not quite true at all. Avast is a free antivirus tool that offers better, unparalleled features in comparison with AVG. Besides the expected on-demand and real-time virus scanning capabilities, it also includes services such as web and email protection plus a browser plugin that detects online threats. One of its interesting options is the hardened mode which only allows programs included on your personal whitelist to run. If you're looking for a free, trustworthy antivirus program with a decent set of stand-alone cyber protection features, Avast is your best bet.
Our take
AVG Free Antivirus may not be sitting at the top with other competitors, but it surely goes deliver a good range of benefits for no cost. The freeware does a decent job of protecting your computer from internet attacks through quarantine during a full PC scan. It's a good free option that can protect your computer from ransomware and other internet threats.
Should you download it?
Only if you're going to use it as your secondary antivirus program. The antivirus provides basic to above-average security and lacks that first line of internet defense needed such as browser extension.
