What is avast free antivirus. Where can I indicate how to deal with detected threats? How to activate a license for a paid Avast product

If you spend a lot of time on the Internet, then you cannot do without an antivirus program. Let's take a look at what kind of Avast program this is! 8, what are its advantages and are there any disadvantages. Well, first of all, Avast scanning gives you powerful protection from all the “evil spirits” of the Internet. These could be viruses, Trojans, etc. But while protecting you, this program creates almost no additional load on your PC.

And regular updating of the basic version guarantees permanent, not temporary security. Therefore, when you buy this program, you are buying it for a very long time, if not forever. And although Avast has never been known for its high scanning speed, it latest version Avast Internet Security 8 works much faster than previous versions and is equipped separate module, which informs the PC operator about contact with a fraudulent resource. This same module will block all dangerous downloads. In terms of protecting the system from network attacks The firewall does a great job. And the spam filter in the new version began to work with an efficiency of 94%. This is a fairly high figure, considering that the share of false positives did not exceed 5%.

All this applies to the paid version of Avast Internet Security 8. But it should be noted that there is also demon paid version. Although it differs from the paid one, it is quite suitable for efficient work. Of great importance is the fact that Avast 8 will make your financial transactions more secure. Such as bank transfers, shopping in online stores, paying for services and much more. And blocking SPAM, repelling hacker attacks, protecting against forced visits to all sorts of phishing sites will make your work on the Internet pleasant and cloudless.

But besides the basic version, there is, as mentioned above, an updated version, which I would like to consider in more detail. Moreover, we will not consider just any office versions, namely home. Let's start the review with the free version of Avast! 8 Free Antivirus- . Launch the downloaded file.

Press the button Launch.

The curious can take a look at the custom installation, but we will click Typical installation.

We read a terribly creepy message. (All the bastards are collecting information about you, but we are the only ones collecting information, like everyone else, but we won’t tell anyone - we are good). We believe (?) and press the button Continue.

Installation…

Once installed, a startup scan will automatically run.

And we see such a funny picture.

Naturally we press Beginning of work. That's all - the program is installed.

It's nice to note that the main page of the new product has changed a lot. It has become more user-friendly thanks to large icons. The design of other pages has also changed. For example, sections are now arranged both horizontally and vertically. Only the “Settings” section, unfortunately, has not changed for the better.

Experienced users have long known that Avast protects against spyware, suspicious programs, and other troubles. But the version we're talking about adds three more features. This is control over the software installed on the system ( Software Health), clear browser ( Browser Cleanup) And remote control computer (AccessAnyware). The first function monitors the relevance installed programs and, if necessary, offers to update.

But unlike older versions that started automatically, new version you have to start it manually. The list of programs checked is small, but quite sufficient for the average user. Remote PC control is carried out using the AccessAnyware utility. However, this control is only available in the Avast version! 8 Premier. And you can clean your browser from unwanted “add-ons” and other junk using the Browser Cleanup utility. We should also not forget about the “Support” section. There is a lot of useful information posted here. And, in addition, here you can get answers to your questions regarding antiviruses.

Like this in general outline looks new option Avast antivirus. Of course, it’s impossible to say that this option is worse than the previous one. It impresses with its low resource capacity and increased speed.

We can definitely say that Avast works quietly and does not interfere with the user, unlike , which consumes a lot of resources and when updating its database, the computer slows down greatly and for a long time.

Although there are some annoying elements. These are, first of all, intrusive offers to switch to the paid version, which periodically pop up and distract from the main work. Maybe it was precisely to promote the paid version that the level of protection of the free version was not the highest.

Short video on how to install Avast

Any computer, laptop or netbook must have an antivirus program installed. Despite the fact that without such a program the computer works smoothly and users do not notice its absence, it is dangerous. This is the same as sending a child for a walk in the cold in summer pants - maybe he won’t get sick!

For the time being, the computer is not really “sick”. More precisely, the user does not notice it. The fact is that most viruses attack the computer covertly. That is, it can work as before, but there will be viruses in it.

Most users notice their presence too late, only when problems begin. And there can be serious consequences. For example, some files may be permanently deleted from the computer, system operation may be disrupted, problems with the Internet and other minor and major troubles may occur.

As you know, it is better to prevent a disease than to treat it. And if there is no anti-virus protection on your computer, and you do not want to buy it, then you need to download and install a free program that protects against viruses. And Avast antivirus is rightfully considered one of the best such programs.

Avast Free Antivirus is a free program that will protect your home computer or laptop (netbook) from viruses, Trojans and other evil spirits.

This is one of the most popular antivirus programs. Despite its “free” nature, Avast is in no way inferior to many paid antivirus products. And some are superior.

It’s not for nothing that many users consider it better protection from viruses.

The capabilities of Avast Free Antivirus are amazing:

Checks your computer for viruses before booting operating system.
Finds and removes viruses and Trojans, as well as spyware.
Automatically blocks malicious sites on the Internet.

and many many others…

And another huge advantage of this program is that this antivirus does not load the computer, that is, it works very quickly and does not interfere with other programs.

Moreover, it can be installed as a second anti-virus program if one is already on the computer.

Principle of operation

Download the program file and install. The installation is simple and straightforward - everything is in Russian.

A program icon appears on the taskbar (next to the clock). This means that it is already working, that is, it protects your computer from old and new viruses.

After installation, click on “Status” in the upper left corner. In the center of the program it should say “You are protected.”

The program is updated automatically, that is, the latest “cures” for viruses will be loaded into it themselves when needed. The main thing is that you at least sometimes access the Internet from your computer.

This is what the successful update window looks like:

This window will appear from time to time in the lower right corner of the screen. This will happen by itself, that is, without any action on your part.

Important! After installation, the program must be registered. Otherwise, after 30 days it will stop working. Registration is very simple and free. The main thing is to have the Internet. More details about this procedure can be found at the end of the article.

Nuances

This program can only be used on home computer. Commercial use is prohibited.
From time to time, the program may “offer” to upgrade to a paid version.
Avast Free Antivirus must be registered within 30 days. Read below about how to do this.

Download Avast Free Antivirus
(size 81.1 MB)

How to register Avast

Avast must be registered in order for it to work. This is a free, simple procedure.

If you do not register, the program will stop working after thirty days.

At the very top of the program, click on the “Register” button.

Then at the bottom, under the “Free Antivirus” column, click on the “Register” button.

A window overlapping the program will open in which you need to enter your first and last name, as well as your address Email. Then click on the “Register” button.

Perhaps after this the program will offer you to try Internet Security for free. In this case, click on the “Close” button.

That's all! The program is registered. Now you have a full-fledged antivirus. Enjoy it for your health!

AVAST Software a.s. offers a whole range of programs to ensure computer security and mobile devices, starting with the free antivirus avast! Free Antivirus to corporate solutions

List of programs

Avast Free Antivirus
Free antivirus with all the features you need to reliable protection your computer and data from attacks by intruders. Includes effective antivirus With powerful screens and home network security scanner

Avast Mobile Security for Android
Full-featured mobile free antivirus, firewall, SMS and call filter, web protection, anti-thief for your Android smartphone or tablet with remote control functions via SMS commands or a web portal on the Internet

Avast Secure Browser
An updated version of the Avast SafeZone browser that includes the Security & Privacy Center - a set of tools and features to protect your online activities

Avast Premier
extended version Avast Internet Security, including 3 additional functions: file shredder, Software Updater in auto-update mode, AccessAnywhere for remote connection to the computer

Avast Internet Security
Comprehensive antivirus with full set features to protect your home network and complete safety online shopping and internet banking. Firewall, antispam and DNS hijacking protection at your service

Avast Free Business Security
The first free antivirus for business with no limit on the number of protected computers/servers. Includes cloud administration console, worker protection Windows stations, Mac OSX and Windows servers Server

Avast Mac Security
The free antivirus Avast Mac Security includes 3 levels of protection: mail screen, screen file system to constantly monitor your computer for viruses and a web screen to protect against downloading infected files from the Internet

Avast Cleanup
Tool for safe cleaning and optimization Windows systems, which allows you to increase the speed of your computer

Avast Software Cleanup
Using Avast Software Cleanup, check the rating of installed programs and remove applications from bad reputation in order to avoid potential security risks

avast! Uninstall Utility
Utility for manual removal avast antivirus software

avast! SecureLine VPN
Master your online privacy, VPN client for Windows, Android and iOS. Security of any networks (including Wi-Fi), hidden web surfing and unblocking of online content with an anonymous and encrypted connection

avast! Ransomware Removal for Android
Application for removing ransomware of the Cryptolocker/Simplocker family for Android platforms, which use file encryption on a mobile device. Decrypts files without having to pay a ransom

avast! Browser Cleanup
Analysis Tool installed add-ons and plugins in popular web browsers: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. You can always disable or remove unknown, bad reputation or dangerous plugins

Avast Endpoint Protection (Plus)
Provides protection for all computers on the network (from 1 to 200 devices), based on avast! Pro Antivirus. The Plus version additionally includes an anti-spam filter and an automatic firewall without notifications

Avast Endpoint Protection Suite (Plus)
Provides protection for all computers on the network, including servers (from 5 to 1000 devices), based on avast! Pro Antivirus and avast! Server Edition. The Plus version additionally includes an antispam filter and firewall

Avast Small Office Administration
Web Console centralized management antivirus protection avast! Endpoint Protection designed for small networks up to 199 devices, including computers, laptops, file servers

avast! Virus Cleaner
Free detection and removal utility known viruses and Internet worms

Avast Free Antivirus is a security software developed by Avast. The latter has the largest share of the global market antivirus applications and provides a wide range of products to protect both consumers and corporations (Android, Microsoft Windows, iOS and macOS).

During setup, the utility registers automatic start at booting Windows using the “Task Scheduler”, which turns it on at different scheduled times (the schedule varies depending on the version of the antivirus). The software is designed to connect to the Internet and adds itself to the Windows Firewall exclusion list to run without interference. After installation, to provide quick access to you, Avast adds Windows shell context menu handler.

Based on statistics for 2016, Avast company had 400 million users and occupied 40% of the antivirus software market outside of China. In 2017, it acquired Piriform, the developer of the CCleaner tool. The latter is notorious for the case hacker attack in September 2017, which resulted in damage CCleaner versions 5.33.6162 and CCleaner Cloud 1.07.3191 and put millions of users at risk of being infected with the Floxif malware.

Naturally, many who have tried to use Avast have different opinions regarding the tool. However, given the results independent testing in third-party laboratories, it has high ability block, detect and remove viruses. Antivirus adds network scanner security, provides a password manager, offers a secure web browser and toolbar (Google Chrome), as well as other useful features.

Avast is able to detect and block adware and keyloggers in particular. AV-Comparatives analysts conducted a security test and provided two ratings: Advanced+ and Advanced, which means the product was rated much higher than others.

However, Avast often comes under suspicion and negatively impacts device performance when scanning for malware. Some users do not approve of this tool because it does not have parental controls.

In short, Avast - excellent antivirus to protect your PC, but not the best. Typically, it can be removed using Windows programs, features, or applications, but after Windows release 10 Fall Creators Update, many reported that the program has stopped working or cannot be reinstalled/uninstalled.

It was noted that the uninstall process was running with an error indicating there was no Avast files(for example, Avastip.dll, avast.messaging.dll).

Avast Free Antivirus does not appear in the Programs and Features list.
You do not have sufficient rights to remove Avast Free Antivirus.
The file required to complete this uninstallation could not be run.
An error has occurred. Not all files were successfully deleted.
Another process that is using the file stops Avast removal Free Antivirus.
After uninstallation, Avast Free Antivirus files and folders are still present on the hard drive.

Incomplete uninstallation causes many various problems. This is why it is important to properly uninstall Avast and all its components.

If for one reason or another you decide to clean your computer of this utility, but nothing works, we will explain what steps you need to take to successfully remove it.

Option 1: Use Avast Uninstall utility

The antivirus offers a free utility called Avast Uninstall, which allows you to remove all components and parts of the tool. To run it, follow these steps:

Step 1. Download Avastclear.

The avastclear.exe file should now appear on your desktop.

Step 2. Before opening it, start Windows in Safe Mode.

Step 3. Once the system boots, double-click on the avastclear.exe file.

Step 4. Find it in the list of programs standard folder Avast and click "Uninstall".

Important! If you installed the tool in a different location, select the last folder in the list, but be careful and do right choice because everything

Step 5.

Option 2: Uninstall Avast manually

Step 1. Quit the antivirus in the task manager

To open it, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc (Windows 10) or Ctrl + Alt + Del (older versions).

Open the “ ” tab and find Avast in the list.

Click on it and select End Process.

Step 2: Remove the tool from apps and features

To go to options, click Windows keys+I. Open the Applications section.

Users of older versions of the system should open Control Panel and select Programs and Features.

Find the Avast Free Antivirus entry, click on it and select Uninstall.

Step 3: Remove antivirus remnants

Click right click mouse over File Explorer and open the “Open” tab. Then click on "View".

Select "Options" and in the dialog box that opens, go to the "View" section.

Check the “Show hidden files, folders and drives” checkbox.

Hold down the Windows + R keys, type regedit and press Enter.

Open the Edit section at the top of the screen and select Find Next.

If the search finds recovered antivirus entries, delete them.

Finally, restart your computer.

It's better to uninstall the program, otherwise it may be too late. In some cases, it is very important to use several security utilities, since every second your computer is at risk of infection harmful viruses or software that never misses a chance to cause serious damage to your device or personal data. Thus, you need to periodically scan your system and remove the culprits of the infection. Never underestimate the power of damage they cause. Even if you have several powerful antivirus programs, don't be too cocky because new virus technologies always appear faster than antivirus technologies. Keep your security utilities updated and stay vigilant anytime, anywhere.

Video - How to remove Avast Software

For operating systems Windows, Linux, Mac OS, as well as for PDAs on the Palm, Android and Windows CE platforms. Development of AVAST Software, founded in 1991 in the Czech Republic. Main office The company is located in Prague. For home it is available in several versions: paid (Pro and Internet Security) and free (Free) for non-commercial use. There are also versions for medium and large businesses (Business Protection and Business Protection Plus) and versions for servers (File Server Security and Email Server Security). The product is certified by ICSA Labs.

Name avast is an abbreviation for anti-virus advanced set. What's in English language there is a word avast (“stop”), it was noticed later.

avast! Free is considered the most popular free antivirus. In total, avast antivirus! used by more than 170 million users worldwide.

Program features

Basic antivirus functions

Message from avast! 7 about successful update virus base data

Message from avast! 7 about virus detection

Message from avast! 7 about placing a suspicious program in the automatic sandbox AutoSandbox

Resident antivirus scanner, work is carried out by independent modules (“screens”):
- File system screen- the main component of a real-time scanner. Monitors all local operations with files and folders on the computer.
- Mail screen- monitors all email program traffic and scans all emails before they reach your computer, thus preventing possible harm. Checks traffic via POP/SMTP/IMAP/NNTP protocols.
- Web screen- analyzes all user actions when visiting websites on the Internet.
- P2P screen- monitors downloads of most file-sharing network clients and torrent clients.
- Internet chat screen- intercepts all downloads from instant messaging applications and checks them for viruses.
- Firewall- a lightweight firewall built into the program (IDS, Intrusion Detection System). Tracks all network activity and blocks viruses trying to infect the system via the network. The screen also blocks access to known malicious websites.
- Script Screen- intercepts all scripts executed on the system, both local and remote. Until the sixth version, this feature was present only in paid versions, then it became available to users of the free version.
- Behavior Screen- monitors the system for suspicious behavior of programs, warning the user about all unusual actions.
Heuristic analysis. Typically effective against rootkits hidden on the system.
Removing spyware from your computer.
Scan your computer for viruses while the screen saver is displayed.
Checking your computer for viruses during startup, before full load operating system. At the same time, avast! uses direct access to hard drives, i.e. bypassing Windows file system drivers. avast! - the only antivirus that contains this kind of function.
Communication with account user on the official website of avast!. Appeared from the seventh version.
A range of hybrid technologies for processes running in the Cloud. Includes a "Reputation Service" (for tracking reputation certain files and malware detection) and “Streaming updates” (speeds up regular antivirus updates to combat the latest threats). The function appeared starting from the seventh version.
Automatic sandbox (AutoSandbox). Allows you to run suspicious applications in an environment isolated from the rest of the system, but only for those applications that, in the opinion of avast!, are considered suspicious. The application window located in the sandbox is highlighted with a red frame. If a program is detected to have malicious properties, it closes without saving the results of its work. It appeared in the free version starting from the sixth version. AutoSandbox is part of the File System Screen.
Starting from the sixth version, the free version of the antivirus includes additional function WebRep. This feature informs the user about the reputation of sites visited based on ratings provided by the avast! user community. Works in Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome browsers. In the seventh version it is also implemented for Opera.
SiteCorrect module for checking the correctness of entered site addresses. Appeared in the seventh version.
Remote assistance to other antivirus users allows you to establish a connection and show each other computer desktops. To do this, one user generates in the antivirus window special code, which is then sent to the person with whom the connection needs to be established. Appeared from the seventh version.
Blocking specific websites based on their address. Can be used as parental control. Appeared from the sixth version.
Starting from the seventh version, you can choose a regular installation or installation in compatibility mode as a second antivirus.
Automatic update antivirus databases, as well as the program itself. This also includes the possibility automatic update to a more advanced version of the product if a license key has been entered.
Voice messages upon detection malware, the virus database has been successfully updated and the scan has completed. Used before the fifth version male voice. Starting from the fifth - female. You can also find other voices on the official website different languages(there are no additional voices in Russian yet).
Game mode, in which antivirus messages are not displayed.
Ability to set a password to change program settings.
Opportunity to do backups settings. Appeared from the seventh version.
Function for generating a monthly security report. You can also do it manually. Appeared from the sixth version.
Multilingual interface, support 44 languages.
Fully localized reference guide.

Features from paid versions of the antivirus

Built-in firewall. Controls all applications that send and receive data from the Internet. Not available in Pro version.
Built-in antispam. Used for filtration unwanted emails advertising content. Also missing from the Pro version.
Sandbox on demand (Sandbox). Unlike AutoSandbox, the user can choose which applications to run in the sandbox.
SafeZone technology (isolated desktop). The antivirus creates an isolated desktop with a built-in avast browser! SafeZone Browser, based on Chromium. Designed for absolutely anonymous browsing on the Internet and conducting banking transactions.
Command line antivirus scanner. Starting from the seventh version it is available in the Pro version.
Complete network blocking on demand.

Features from business-oriented and server versions of the antivirus

Comprehensive endpoint protection for desktops and laptops.
Scanning traffic processed by servers.
Tight integration with SharePoint servers through Microsoft's own AV interfaces.
Protecting mail servers. Support unlimited quantity mailboxes, provided that each box is licensed.
Centralized remote control - ability network administrators manage installations and updates of all computers on the network using a single centralized console.

Not relevant

Maintaining VRDB (Virus Recover Database) - a database for recovering damaged executable files. Used until the fifth version. Starting with the fifth version of the antivirus, AVAST Software stopped using this function.
Support for skins (themes), starting from the fifth version this feature is not available.

Differences between program versions

Avast Antivirus! is available in the following versions:

Versions for home use

avast! Free Antivirus- free version of the antivirus for home (non-commercial) use. It is considered the most popular free antivirus in the world. Contains all the basic functions needed by a home user. It works for 30 days from the moment of installation, then it requires free registration. After filling registration form the program is considered activated. Eat free options for Linux - avast! Free Antivirus for Linux and for Mac OS - avast! Free Antivirus for Mac (still in beta testing).
avast! Pro Antivirus- shareware version of the antivirus, works without restrictions for 30 days, then requires a license file. Unlike the free version, it has an on-demand sandbox, isolated environment SafeZone and scanning support with command line. Can be used for small and home offices.
avast! Internet Security- a more advanced shareware version of the antivirus, security package. Also works without restrictions for 30 days, then requires a license file. It differs from the Pro version in the presence of a firewall and antispam. Can also be used for small and home offices.

	avast! Free	avast! Pro	avast! Internet Security
Anti-virus scanning module	There is	There is	There is
Rootkit protection	There is	There is	There is
Spyware protection	There is	There is	There is
avast! WebRep	There is	There is	There is
avast! AutoSandbox	There is	There is	There is
avast! Sandbox	No	There is	There is
avast! SafeZone	No	There is	There is
Command Line Scanner	No	There is	There is
Built-in firewall	No	No	There is
Antispam filter	No	No	There is

Mobile versions

avast! Free Mobile Security - free version of antivirus for PDAs on Palm, Android and Windows CE platforms.

Business versions

avast! Endpoint Protection- paid version of the antivirus for small and home offices, does not have a trial version. In addition to the basic antivirus functions, it includes endpoint protection and remote management functions.
- a slightly more advanced version of Endpoint Protection. It features a firewall for workstations and antispam.
(previously Business Protection) - a paid version of the antivirus for medium and large offices, also does not have a trial version. In addition to the main antivirus functions, it includes endpoint protection, file servers and remote control.
(previously Business Protection Plus) - the most advanced business version of the antivirus, including the functions of all the above products.

	avast! Endpoint Protection	avast! Endpoint Protection Plus	avast! Endpoint Protection Suite	avast! Endpoint Protection Suite Plus
Endpoint protection	There is	There is	There is	There is
File server protection	No	No	There is	There is
Mail server protection	No	No	No	There is
Firewall for workstations	No	There is	No	There is
Spam protection	No	There is	No	There is
Remote control	There is	There is	There is	There is

Server versions

avast! File Server Security- this server version is focused on file protection, so it lacks mail server protection and anti-spam functions.
avast! Email Server Security- this server version is focused on email protection, so it does not have the function of protecting file servers.

	avast! File Server Security	avast! Email Server Security
File server protection	There is	No
Mail server protection	No	There is
Spam protection	No	There is
Remote control	There is	There is

Other versions

avast! Virus Cleaner Tool- free anti-virus scanner, similar to Dr.Web Cureit! and Kaspersky AVP Tool, however, unlike them, is able to remove limited number viruses (only the most famous and dangerous ones). It does not have resident protection, so it does not conflict with other antiviruses.

avast! Windows Home Server Edition- paid version for home server. Runs under Windows Home Server.

Criticism

In general, criticism of the antivirus is positive. The free version is very attractive for users, as it has everything a home user needs without any restrictions. The main advantage of avast! is its low resource intensity and high speed scanning. However, there are also disadvantages. One of the most famous is the inability to disinfect infected files (despite the fact that this function is present) and, in the vast majority of cases, such files are either deleted or moved to quarantine. Other disadvantages include the inability to remove resident viruses