AVG’s malware scan uses machine learning, heuristics and an online malware due diligence checklists database in order to detect emerging threats. It scored highly in our tests with excellent advanced scanning and deep scanning performance. It lags behind its competitors in its ability detect unknown and emerging « zero-day malware ».
After a simple installation, the program begins its first « Smart Scan » that is a comprehensive scan of your computer for potential threats and malware. It takes approximately 35 minutes to finish, looking at 430,167 files on our test systems. This is less than what other tools analyze but it’s still a substantial amount of files.
The program’s clean and modern interface makes launching a scan or navigating its other key features relatively simple. It features recognizable thumbnails as well as headings to help you understand what each feature does. The settings menu is well organized and offers some customization options, including the ability to modify how sensitive a deep scan is, or to set up a data shredder that adds an option to Windows’ right-click menu.
Premium subscribers are able to enjoy certain 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 » that encrypts your personal files. Fancy extras like a password manager or performance tuning aren’t available, however they are available, as AVG has paid programs in its portfolio that provide these features.
The mobile app of AVG comes with several advantages, including the ability to remotely wipe or lock your Android device (Android only) and a photo vault that lets you securely share files. Its most popular mobile feature is its anti-theft component. This allows you to locate a lost device or tablet and can even sound a siren to scare it off.