AVG Free Edition - Free Virus Protection | Secure Computing
The Importance of Free Anti-Virus Software
Throughout my experience in the computing field, I’ve consistently observed that readily available, no-cost anti-virus programs are capable of providing adequate protection and are a vital component of a comprehensive security strategy. Determining “the best” free anti-virus, however, often hinges on individual user preferences.
Wrapping Up Our Free Anti-Virus Coverage: AVG Free Edition
This article concludes our series focusing on free anti-virus utilities. Last week, we examined Avira AntiVir and Avast Home Edition. Today, we will analyze what is widely considered one of the most effective and frequently used free options: Grisoft's AVG Free Edition.
Installation Process
The installation of AVG Free Edition is generally a straightforward process. Ensure a free license is included during installation, as depicted below.
During setup, you will be asked whether to include the Toolbar. I personally prefer not to install toolbars; however, AVG suggests that utilizing it can enhance protection against web-based threats.
Existing Phishing protection within Internet Explorer and Firefox is already robust. Therefore, in my assessment, the toolbar is redundant, though the final decision rests with you, informed by details available on their website.
Initial Configuration
Upon successful installation, a wizard guides you through initial settings. Prioritizing the acquisition of the latest virus database updates is crucial.
Additional settings include scheduling daily scans and registering with AVG. You can proceed through the wizard or bypass it, as these settings can be adjusted later.
User Interface and Components
The User Interface provides control over all settings and components. AVG Free Edition offers more than just basic anti-virus protection. Key components include:
| Anti-Spyware | Protects your system against malicious software applications. |
| Email Scanner | Integrates with Outlook to scan email messages and attachments for viruses and spyware. |
| Resident Shield | Provides real-time protection against viruses and malicious spyware. |
System scans are comparable in speed to Avast and AntiVir. Scan speed is adjustable; faster scans require more CPU processing power if you intend to continue using your computer concurrently.
Detected threats are displayed within the user interface, allowing you to pause, start, or resume scans as needed.
Customization Options
A significant number of settings and options are available to customize AVG’s operation. This is where you can manage scan schedules and a wide range of other configurations.
Notifications appear near the clock on the taskbar.
All email messages are scanned, and this is confirmed by a message at the bottom of each email. Like other anti-virus applications reviewed, AVG integrates into Windows Explorer, enabling you to scan individual files by right-clicking.
Conclusion
AVG’s popularity is well-deserved. The user interface is both visually appealing and easy to navigate, while also offering extensive customization options. Furthermore, it includes numerous components and features typically found only in paid, professional versions of other security suites, all at no cost.
If you have experience using AVG, please share your thoughts and recommended settings in the comments below.
Download AVG Free Edition For Windows