AVG’s malware scan employs machine learning, heuristics, and an online malware database to detect new threats. It scored high in our tests, with outstanding smart scanning and deep scanning performance. It is however lagging behind competitors in its ability to identify new and unknown « zero-day » malware.

After installation it launches its « Smart Scan » that performs a general scan of your computer to identify potential threats and malware. It takes approximately 35 minutes to complete, looking at 430,167 files on our test systems. This is less than other tools, but it’s still plenty of files.

The program’s clean and modern interface makes starting scanning or using its other key features easy. It has recognizable thumbnails and headings to make it easier to determine what each feature does. The settings menu is well-organized and provides choices for customization, including the ability to adjust the level of sensitiveness a deep scan is or set up a how to ensure your ma deal data shredder that can be added to Windows’ right-click menu.

Premium subscribers can avail a couple of additional features that aren’t included in the free version, including « Webcam Protection » which blocks access to your webcam, making video chats more secure, and « Sensitive Data Shield » which secures your personal data. Extra features like a password manager and performance tune-ups aren’t included, since AVG offers other paid programs in its portfolio with these capabilities.

The mobile app of AVG comes with many benefits, including the ability to remotely wipe or lock the Android device (Android only) and a photo vault that lets you safely share your photos. The most popular mobile feature, however, is its anti-theft function, which can help you track a missing phone or tablet and can even sound an alarm to keep it from being stolen.