Avast is one of the best-known antivirus programs used by millions of people all over the world. The headquarters of this company is located in Prague, Czech Republic. Its history began in 1988 when Pavel Baudiš and Eduard Kučera decided to found a cooperative[1].
The free version can significantly increase the safety level of your computer, but the paid versions have a lot more features that will make your browsing experience and the performance of your computer even better. The subscription lasts for a year; however, buying a subscription for more than a year decreases the price a little, especially if you are planning to use the software for many years. The software is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 8/8.1, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Android, and Mac.
| Pros | Cons | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Many useful features | You have to buy the full version to unlock all the features | One of the better anti-virus programs for personal users and companies |
| Fast scanning process | ||
| Good virus detection rate |
Downloading and Installation
You can simply download Avast anti-malware program from this page. It won't take long to download the installation file because it does not take up much space. The installation of Avast is quite easy and does not require any deep knowledge of IT. After opening the .exe file that you downloaded, simply follow the steps in the installation wizard. This review contains a detailed analysis of Avast Free Antivirus. The paid versions possess all the features of the free version and include even more.
Test Results
After the installation process, we performed the first scan. The interesting thing about the process was that the Smart Scan, as it is called, did not disrupt the overall performance of the device. It is a huge advantage in comparison with other anti-virus software because the scanning process usually slows down the computer significantly[2]. What is more, it lasted for only 5 minutes, which is incredibly fast. The test computer has a Windows 10 OS, 8 Gb of ram and an SSD disk. 
While scanning, the program searches for conflicting antivirus software, viruses, vulnerable software, bad browser add-ons, and network issues[3]. During our test, Avast found some vulnerable software and network issues. The problems are shown in the main window right after the scan. To resolve the issues, the software will provide you with the steps you should take.
Antivirus protection
Avast uses same malware detection technology for all its Windows products, starting with a traditional signature-based engine, in order to detect widespread known pieces of malware and Avast Behavior Shield which monitors and checks for zero-day unknown malware. Finally, all the suspicious icons detected are uploaded to the company’s cloud-based servers for future investigation. In order to protect users while browsing Avast also includes browser extensions for Microsoft Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Opera. After the installation process, we performed the first scan. The interesting thing about the process was that the Smart Scan, as it is called, did not disrupt the overall performance of the device. It is a huge advantage in comparison with other anti-virus software because the scanning process usually slows down the computer significantly[2]. What is more, it lasted for only 5 minutes, which is incredibly fast. The test computer has a Windows 10 OS, 8 Gb of ram and an SSD disk. The software was also tested by the independent AV-TEST testing lab. The most recent test was conducted in April 2018. Avast demonstrated almost perfect scores and detected 99.0% of malware attacks, including web and email threats, and 100% of widespread and prevalent malware discovered in the last 4 weeks. However, the software delivered 3 false positives during a system scan. 
Additional features
We did not expect many additional features since Avast Free Antivirus does not cost anything. However, it offers a pretty decent set of features. The package includes an Intelligent Antivirus engine, CyberCapture, Wi-Fi Inspector which scans your home network and Smart Scan feature. The antivirus package also offers Game Mode which puts all notifications on hold if you are gaming or watching a movie.
System-performance impact
When we tested Avast Free Antivirus, we did not notice any system lags or slowdowns. The antivirus is designed to not use a lot of system resources even during active scans. A full system scan took about 50 minutes. Users can also choose a Smart Scan which will check only the most vulnerable areas and will take about 10 minutes. However, in the most recent AV-TEST the software demonstrated a mediocre system-performance hit.
User interface
As was mentioned before, Avast Free Antivirus has a simple interface. The antivirus itself is easy to use and does not require much IT knowledge in order to use it. The interface window cannot be resized or viewed full screen but can be moved around. All the major categories and features appear in the main window. 
Avast Free Antivirus combines advanced malware protection and a light system impact. It also has a modern looking, simple user interface and a decent set of additional features.
Customer reviews
While researching, a few review pages were found that contained various comments regarding Avast Antivirus. Some negative reviews were found, and it was mentioned that if you purchased a paid version of the program, Avast would automatically extend your subscription once it ended[4]. The downside of this is that the money will be billed from your account automatically. However, you can always cancel the subscription in advance, so you should keep an eye on the date that your subscription ends. The positive reviews express great appreciation for the product. Some users write that they have used the software for many years and it still hasn’t failed to protect them. It is really nice to hear that Avast is doing its job properly.
The final verdict
The program is one of the better ones out there. It has tons of useful features, and you can try it for free before purchasing the full version.
| Feature | Score |
| Antivirus protection | Very good |
| Additional features | Many |
| System-performance impact | Very light |
| Scans | Mediocre speed scans without negative impact on a system |
| User interface | Dark, modern looking, and simple to use |
Avast Free Antivirus combines advanced malware protection and a light system impact. It also has a modern looking, simple user interface and a decent set of additional features.
Other products
Avast is one of the largest companies in the cybersecurity market and it offers a range of security, privacy and optimization products across all the major operating systems.
Avast Security for Mac
Avast also established security solution for macOS users. The company developed both, free Essential Security for Mac and paid Premium Security. Avast Free Mac Security provides users a reliable, three-level security that consists of anti-malware security, browser and e-mail protection and Wi-Fi network security. The free package is a perfect choice for those who look for simple, reliable and free antivirus application for their Macs, as it includes some additional features and an excellent antivirus protection. In addition, if you want more features, you can upgrade the application and purchase the Pro version. 
If you want to read more about Avast Security for Mac click here.
Avast Mobile Security and Antivirus for Android
Avast Mobile Security and Antivirus for Android is one of the most customizable and comprehensive security solutions available on Google Play. The application offers award-winning malware protection which is not far from perfect. Hoverer, some security, and privacy features are not reliable and do not functional how they should be. 
Avast SecureLine VPN
Avast SecureLine VPN offers users a good performance and relatively steady connection. Avast SecureLine VPN is added to a number of its security products and it is one of the best built-in VPN services on the market. However, the VPN service has a limited set of features and can seem a bit expensive. 
Avast Premier
Avast Premier is the most advanced antivirus solution for Windows from Avast. It ensures safety and privacy and protects not only the PC but also home networks and passwords. Avast Premier provides a wide range of features including, Webcam Shield, Ransomware Shield, Automatic software updater, Data shredder, Firewall, Anti-Spam feature, Wi-Fi inspector and even more. 
If you want to read more about Avast Premier, click right.
Avast Browser Cleanup
Researchers at Reviewed by Pro recommend you to restore your Web browser to its initial state using Avast Browser Cleanup. This tool will improve your Browser's performance by removing dangerous and annoying extensions, toolbars, and protect you from hijacked search results. Avast Browser Cleanup is compatible with Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer. 
For more detailed information on how to improve your browser's performance click here.
Comparison
Avast Free Antivirus and Panda Free Antivirus Both security suites provide award-winning protection, so your choice will depend on what you are looking for in an antivirus application. Panda provides a wide range of useful free features, and the program is capable to take care of highly infected PC by using its emergency USB stick. However, the program has a noticeable impact on a PC. Avast Free Antivirus does not impact a system performance, however, most of its features work only on the premium paid version. For a detailed comparison of Avast Antivirus and Panda Antivirus please click here.
Avast AntiVirus and AVG AntiVirus AVG became a subsidiary of Avast Software in 2016. Both security packages are reliable and offer free basic protection and paid versions that provide more features. AVG AntiVirus will be a better choice for you if you are looking for a completely free reliable antivirus solution. On the other hand, Avast is a fast and lightweight program that will protect your PC without bigger interruptions. However, to use its' all features, you will have to purchase the full version. To read a full comparison click right here.
Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition VS Avast Free Antivirus Avast Free Antivirus combines a very good malware protection, light system impact, a very decent set of features. So it would be a great solution for anyone who is not willing to pay for an antivirus product but expects a reliable protection and extra security features. Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition also offers superior malware protection with almost none negative system impact, however, it lacks many additional features, compared to Avast. This is why Avast Free Antivirus the one we would recommend. For full comparison please click here.
Olivia Morelli is a senior media writer on Reviewedbypro.com. Her favorite topic to write about is ransomware attacks and how to deal with them, but she also enjoys covering the topics of other types of malware and VPNs.
- ^ Avast Software. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
- ^ Whitson Gordon. The Assumptions You Make About Your Slow PC . Life hacker.
- ^ Malware. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
- ^ Avast reviews. Trust Pilot.
