Avast’s free application provides a solid foundation of security against malware. The paid versions, including Avast Premium Security, provide a number of extra features to ensure your device is secure. This includes the VPN service, Wi-Fi inspector and more. In the AV Comparatives Real World Protection Test, Avast scores among the top products available in this class.
In our tests, we discovered that Avast could detect the vast majority of threats swiftly and efficiently. Furthermore, the full scan took just 6 minutes and 50 seconds to complete which is impressive given the fact that it searched close to two million discrete files.
In terms of false positives, we were slightly disappointed to learn that Avast was prone to flagging certain programs as infected. During our tests Avast flagged five legitimate applications as malicious during Windows system scans that are two times higher than the industry standard. This happens only in rare instances and you are able to send the file to be reviewed to determine a fix should Avast flags it by mistake.
Avast has a decent knowledge base that offers help for common problems There are direct support via email and phone options available. A paid subscription comes with parental controls and password management to the program. Avast offers a 30-day refund guarantee on its paid services.