AVG’s malware scanner uses machine learning and heuristic analysis along with an online malware database to identify new threats. During our tests it scored very well, with top-quality smart scan and deep scan performance. However, it falls behind some competitors in its ability to identify unknown and new “zero-day” malware.
After a quick install, the program launches its “Smart Scan” which is an overall scan of your computer to identify potential threats and malware. It takes about 35 minutes to look over 430,167 of the files on our test system. This is lower than other tools, but it’s an enormous amount of files.
The program’s modern and clean interface makes it easy to launch scans or navigate through its other features. It includes recognizable thumbnails and headings that help you quickly understand what each feature does. The settings menu is well-organized and provides options for customization, such as the ability to alter how sensitive a deep scan is, or to set up a data shredder, which adds a choice to Windows the right-click menu.
Premium subscribers are dig this able to enjoy several additional features that aren’t included in the free version. These include “Webcam Protection” which blocks access to your camera and makes video calls more secure, as well as “Sensitive Data Shield”, encrypting your private files. Extra features like a password manager and performance tune-ups aren’t included they are available, as AVG has other paid programs with these capabilities.
The mobile app of AVG comes with many advantages, including the capability to remotely lock or wipe an Android device (Android only), and a photo vault that lets you safely share files. Its most useful mobile feature however, is its anti-theft option, which lets you locate a lost smartphone or tablet, and even sound a siren to scare it away.