Phenquestions
Avast Free AntiVirus has been updated to support Windows 10 and is now available as a free download. Although Windows Defender is capable of providing good protection as the first line of defense against malware and other unwanted software, many prefer to use free 3rd-party antivirus software which offer a better set of features. Avast Free Antivirus 2015 is one such program that offers all the essential security you require to protect your PC from hackers and thieves.
Avast Free AntiVirus
The latest version Avast Antivirus Free now supports Windows 10, apart from earlier versions of Windows, and gives you access to useful features while retaining the same interface as its predecessor.
Once downloaded, you may choose the Express install or the Custom installation. I recommend the latter as it will allow you to select or deselect the features you don't want installed on your computer.
The freeware still has the customizable home page, as well as the side menu to access the program's features with one change - it includes the Smart Scan feature, which combines all the essential scans into one single unified scan.
Besides this, in the latest version the protection capability has not just been extended to devices, but network devices and router too which you have installed for accessing Internet services. Its Home Network Security module will scan your home network for weak spots.
The scanning module offers Quick Scans, Full System Scans and most importantly Boot-time scans too. The Boot time scans come very handy while removing persistent malware, as the scan is performed even before Windows - and consequently malware loads.
Moreover, the added utilities to the existing set of security tools include:
Browser cleanup
The option is powered to clean your browsers toolbar for any add-on that comes bundled with other apps you may have installed. So, for a quick clean up you can use the new feature available in the Avast 2015 version. This toolbar remover is great for removing unwanted toolbars and other plugins.
The features available for cleaning up your browsers are,
- VPN Secure Line
- VPN service
- SafeZone
The above 3 features allows you to browse securely and privately online and make purchases with no risks involved.
Remote Assistant
From now on you don't have to install any third party application to help your relatives or perhaps your friends with the support on Windows 8 or Windows 10. You can do this directly from the Avast 2015 Antivirus if the other person uses the same version of the antivirus.
The Software Updater pre-empts potential exploitation of vulnerabilities in outdated applications by checking up your installed software and offering to update them to their latest secure, stable versions, if any updates are found.
I particularly find File Shredder feature of potent use since it removes a file completely if it is found to be corrupt or infected.
Apart from this, in the paid version, you can find Anti-Fraud and Hijack protection that provide Fraud and Hijack protection while doing any internet transaction, as outlined above and Anti-Spam which offers protection against any spam over internet and emails.
The important features that are included in Avast Free Antivirus 2016 are,
- Passwords manages your passwords and syncs data across your devices. The new tool checks your password security, stores passwords securely, and includes browser extensions for easier login and form filling. Additionally, it offers a password generator.
- SafeZone Browser replaces the old SafeZone to protect your online shopping and banking. Pay mode isolates your browser session and protects from potential keyloggers or spyware. Shielded windows offer a safe space to visit untrusted websites.
- User interface has been revamped with more space for content and easier control.
- Feedback can be given directly via the user interface to report bugs, request features, or offer other suggestions more easily.
A word of caution - The web installer of Avast Antivirus Free asks you to install Google Chrome and Google toolbar for your Chrome browser if it is set as your default browser. Simply uncheck those options during Avast installation if you do not want it to be installed.
Avast Free Antivirus offline installer free download
Alternatively, if you wish, you can download the 151 MB offline installer from here.
