No, Avast is not malware. In independent reviews, Avast ranks as one of the world's top antivirus products for protection against malware and other threats. It is PC Magazine’s Editors’ Choice for top free antivirus and also received a five-star rating from Expert Reviews in 2021.

Avast uses the “freemium” business model where basic versions of our products are available to anyone to use for free, while premium versions of our products are available with a subscription fee. These premium products have more features, no usage limits, and include priority customer support. Users of the free versions of our products may occasionally see offers for our premium products: this is important for us to continue investing in further innovation. Visit our Investors section to read Avast's financial statements and better understand our business model.

No, Avast is not dangerous. On the contrary, Avast’s antivirus provides complete protection from malware and internet threats. It’s completely safe to use and has received multiple industry awards from independent reviewers such as PC Magazine and Expert Reviews.

No, Avast does not sell user data and is committed to responsible data use with all Avast products, in accordance with industry-leading privacy standards.

Yes, Avast Premium Security is worth paying for, but there are free options as well. Premium Security includes all the features in Avast’s award-winning free antivirus, along with protection against spoofed websites, DNS hijacking, and remote access attacks. Plus, you can use it on up to 10 devices.

Elevate your security today with a 30-day free trial.

Yes, Avast Free Antivirus is award-winning antivirus software that provides users with powerful antivirus protection, plus extra features to keep them safe online.

Avast is a multi-award-winning option for antivirus protection. Avast consistently achieves high scores in independent tests for protection, performance, and usability. This includes receiving a top-ranking Advanced+ 3-star award from AV-Comparatives and the Editor's Choice award from PCMag.

Avast successfully fends off attempts to hack its infrastructure on a daily basis. Notably, in 2018, Avast stopped a nation-state attack (later named Abiss) on its infrastructure. Security software companies are often the targets of such attacks because of the threat intelligence capabilities these companies possess.

Yes, even if you have Windows Defender, you still need Avast Free Antivirus to defend against the full range of online threats. While Windows Defender protects you against malware, it lacks the additional anti-phishing and Wi-Fi security features of Avast Free Antivirus.

Windows Defender guards against phishing attacks in Microsoft Edge, but with Avast Free Antivirus, you’re protected while using any browser. Additionally, our built-in Wi-Fi network scanner keeps a constant eye out for any suspicious intrusions. For comprehensive threat protection, Avast is a reputable choice .

Avast Antivirus requires some system resources, but impact on your device’s performance (slowdown) is minimal when running in the background.

Depending on your system configuration, the only time your performance may be affected somewhat is during more advanced scans. However, even then, the slowdown should generally not be too noticeable.

Avast Software is a Czech company, headquartered in Prague, Czech Republic, with offices around the world.

Yes, Avast Software was established over 30 years ago and is a publicly listed company on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: AVST).

Yes, with over 435 million users, Avast Free Antivirus is a trusted and safe option, offering products that protect people from threats on the internet and the evolving IoT landscape.

The award-winning Avast Free Antivirus is always free — forever. For additional protection on up to 10 devices against threats like %tagStart1%spoofed websites%tagEnd1% and remote access hacking, try Avast Premium Security with a 30-day free trial. After 30 days, you’ll need to subscribe to continue using it.

Avast Free Antivirus is a trusted and safe option for users to keep their devices protected from malware. Avast won Editor’s Choice in PCMag’s 2021 AV review test.

No, Windows Defender is not better than Avast. While Microsoft has improved their built-in protection over time, Windows Defender isn’t sufficient to guard against the full range of threats on the internet. Avast Free Antivirus protects against more types of online threats, including new virus and malware strains, as well as phishing attacks and Wi-Fi vulnerabilities.

Avast Premium Security is definitely worth paying for. It augments our world-class free antivirus with extra layers of security on up to 10 devices, so you can protect your friends and family, too. With Avast Premium Security, you’ll get 24/7 protection against:

• Spoofed websites and DNS hijacking — Avast Premium Security will automatically redirect you to safe, legitimate websites
• Remote access attacks — Avast Premium Security detects and blocks any attempts by hackers to take over your device
• Network threats — Avast Premium Security has an advanced firewall that keeps your network safe from intruders and malware

Enhance your security today with our 30-day free trial.

Avast offers full protection for Windows 10 users. With impressive independent lab testing scores, Avast is proven to protect Windows users against malware and other online threats.

Avast strives to have a positive impact on the safety of everyone who uses the internet. Avast supports, or is a member of, several organizations that strive to create a better, safer internet with more freedom, such as the Tor Foundation, Internet Watch Fund, the Coalition Against Stalkerware, and others.

Avast antivirus’s scan speed depends on individual device performance, as well as the amount and type of the scanned data. A scan’s impact on performance can be easily adjusted in the software’s settings.

In independent reviews, Avast ranks as one of the world's top free antivirus products for protection against malware and other threats. It’s PC Magazine Editors’ Choice for top free antivirus and received a five-star rating from Expert Reviews in 2021.

Yes. In independent reviews Avast ranks as one of the world's most trusted antivirus products for protection against malware and other online threats. It’s PC Magazine’s Editors’ Choice for top free antivirus and received a five-star rating from Expert Reviews in 2021.

While Windows Defender offers protection from most malware and threats facing internet users, you should also consider a free antivirus that offers more features than Windows Defender does. These include a network security scanner, browser protection, and more. Avast Free Antivirus offers an array of security tools such as these — and it's completely free.

Yes, an unprotected phone can be hacked via a Wi-Fi connection. Securing your phone with malware protection that also verifies the integrity of Wi-Fi connections, such as the protection offered by Avast Mobile Security, can prevent unwanted intrusions.

While Windows Defender offers protection from most malware and threats facing internet users, users should also consider a free antivirus with more features than Windows Defender offers, like a network security scanner, browser protection, and more. Avast Free Antivirus has an impressive collection of security tools like these — and even better, it’s free.

Yes, you need an antivirus app to keep your Android safe. Android phones can get infected with spyware, adware, ransomware, and other types of malware — especially if you install apps from third-party platforms. Your phone can also be stolen, which would put your sensitive personal data at risk. Protect your Android device with an anti-malware and anti-theft app like Avast Mobile Security.

Yes, you need antivirus software to protect against the wide variety of cyberthreats on the internet. All devices are vulnerable to malicious software and hackers, whether you’re on a PC, Mac, Android, or iPhone.

Avast Free Antivirus defends against all types of malware, as well as phishing attacks and Wi-Fi threats. Avast Mobile Security for Android secures your device against malware and theft, while a free iOS mobile security app protects your photos and passwords and guards against unsecured Wi-Fi networks — all 100% free.

Windows ended support for Windows 7 in January 2020. If you are still using Windows 7, your PC may be vulnerable to security risks. It’s important to use supported hardware and operating systems in conjunction with antivirus to protect your PC from the latest threats.

Quality antivirus software should not slow down your PC. Avast Free Antivirus protects you with award-winning cybersecurity that won’t make your computer feel like it’s slowing down. It’s light on your resources, while giving you top-ranked, real-time protection and preventing ransomware, malware, phishing attacks, Wi-Fi intrusions, and other threats.

While your antivirus program’s threat-detection features are scanning your computer for malicious activity, its performance may be slightly affected for a short time. However, the impact is so insignificant, you shouldn’t notice a difference in performance speed.

Avast Antivirus is fully compatible with the latest version of Windows 10.

While all VPNs can slightly slow down your internet speeds, Avast SecureLine VPN gives you lightning-fast browsing and streaming, while protecting you with military-grade encryption. With Avast SecureLine VPN, you can choose from our many servers located all around the world. And we’re constantly optimizing our servers’ speed and performance to bring you the best online experience possible.

No, but we recommend using Avast to fully protect your PC against the widest range of malware and other threats.

You can use the Avast Rescue Disk feature included in Avast Free Antivirus to clean your Windows PC from viruses and other malware. For instructions, refer to this article on Avast’s support website. Having Avast Free Antivirus installed will ensure your device is free from malware.

The best way to remove a virus from your computer for free is to use a free virus removal tool. Here’s how to get rid of computer viruses with Avast Free Antivirus:

• Step 1: Download Avast Free Antivirus
• Step 2: Restart your computer in Safe Mode
• Step 3: Clear any temporary files
• Step 4: Open your Avast software and run a virus scan
• Step 5: If a virus is detected, follow the onscreen instructions to quarantine or remove it
• Step 6: Recover any damaged software and data
• Step 7: Restart your computer

Avast Mobile Security prevents your device from being infected by viruses or other malware. It also ensures your device is clean from malware.

To ensure that Windows Defender is turned on, refer to this article on Microsoft’s website.

Here’s how to download Avast Free Antivirus for free:

1. Download the free app here
2. Click on the downloaded file to install the app
3. Confirm the installation
4. Follow the onscreen setup instructions

Avast antivirus requires an internet connection to download, activate, and receive application updates. An internet connection is also needed so the app can update its antivirus database.

Avast believes everyone deserves to be protected online, so we’ve always offered a free version of our antivirus. Our award-winning free antivirus protects against a full range of online threats, from malware and ransomware to phishing attacks and Wi-Fi intruders.

We also offer premium versions of our software that provide additional features and greater levels of online security.

No, your PC can greatly benefit from Avast’s award-winning antivirus and security app. Avast is designed to have minimal impact on your PC’s performance, while protecting you from viruses, spyware, ransomware, phishing, and other malware in real time. If you’re looking for reliable antivirus protection for your Windows 10 PC, then we recommend Avast Free Antivirus.

Yes, Avast Free Antivirus is strong enough to protect your computer. Avast has the world’s largest threat-detection network and we block more than 60 million cyberthreats every day. With features such as Wi-Fi Inspector, Smart Scan, and Behavior Shield, Avast Free Antivirus defends against all kinds of internet dangers and malicious software.

Avast Free Antivirus offers enough protection to keep your computer safe against all types of viruses and malware, plus phishing attacks, Wi-Fi intruders, and much more.

Avast Free Antivirus is rigorously tested by independent third parties including AV-Test, AV-comparatives, and SE Labs so users can be sure it’s trustworthy. Learn more about Avast’s performance in independent tests.

Yes, Avast Free Antivirus provides full protection against the latest online threats for all your devices. Avast protection is available for PC and Mac, as well as iOS and Android.

Yes, Avast Free Antivirus is definitely good enough to protect your computer. Avast has the world’s largest threat-detection network, and we block more than 60 million cyberthreats every day. With features such as Wi-Fi Inspector, Smart Scan, and Behavior Shield, Avast Free Antivirus defends against all kinds of internet dangers and malicious software.

Avast Free Antivirus offers enough protection to keep your computer safe against all types of viruses and malware, plus phishing attacks, Wi-Fi intruders, and much more.

Avast offers award-winning antivirus protection that has been independently tested and reviewed. See the awards and certifications that Avast has received.

Yes, Avast is a highly rated antivirus for Windows 10. While Microsoft’s built-in security software has improved over time, Windows Defender doesn’t offer the full range of functionality that Avast Free Antivirus does. With over 435 million users around the globe, Avast is the world’s most trusted antivirus provider — and the safest way to protect your Windows 10 device against new and unknown malware strains, as well as phishing attacks and Wi-Fi intruders.

In July 2016, Avast acquired AVG. The company now offers antivirus solutions to more customers than any other vendor except Norton LifeLock, but has kept the AVG brand and products separate from Avast.

No, Avast is not owned by Microsoft.

Avast Premium Security is worth paying for because it augments our world-class free antivirus with extra layers of security for up to 10 devices so you can protect your friends and family, too. With Avast Premium Security, you’ll get 24/7 protection against:

• Spoofed websites and DNS hijacking — Avast Premium Security will automatically redirect you to safe websites
• Remote access attacks — Avast Premium Security detects and blocks any attempts by hackers to take over your device
• Network threats — Avast Premium Security has an advanced firewall that keeps your network safe from intruders and malware

Enhance your security today with our 30-day free trial.

Yes, Avast is safe. With over 435 million users around the globe, Avast is the world’s most trusted antivirus provider — and the safest way you can protect your devices and data. Our award-winning Avast Free Antivirus routinely earns high praise from independent testing labs and expert reviewers, especially for its advanced malware-detection engine and ease of use.

Yes, Avast is safe to use on Windows 10. While Microsoft’s built-in security software has improved over time, Windows Defender doesn't offer the full range of functionality that Avast Free Antivirus does. With over 435 million users around the globe, Avast is the world’s most trusted antivirus provider — and the safest way to protect your Windows 10 device against new and unknown malware strains, as well as phishing attacks and intruders on your Wi-Fi.

Avast Free Antivirus is rigorously tested by independent third parties including AV-Test, AV-comparatives, and SE Labs, so users can be sure it is trustworthy. Learn more about Avast’s performance in independent tests.

Avast Free Antivirus is one of the best free antivirus solutions for all your devices — and it’s better than many premium products, too. Independent security experts routinely praise our award-winning malware-detection engine, which boasts an impressive collection of built-in security features to prevent and remove ransomware, spyware, and other types of malware. You’ll also get a built-in Wi-Fi network security scanner, as well as protection against phishing attacks.

Avast demonstrates its trustworthiness in many ways. As a public company on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: AVST), Avast is subject to rigorous corporate governance. Avast products are tested by independent third parties including AV-Test, AV-comparatives, and SE Labs. Avast’s Privacy Policy has been independently evaluated and earned TrustArc's TRUSTe certification.

Yes, Avast Premium Security is worth the price because it augments our world-class free antivirus with extra layers of security for up to 10 devices so you can protect your friends and family, too. With Avast Premium Security, you’ll get 24/7 protection against:

• Spoofed websites and DNS hijacking — Avast Premium Security will automatically redirect you to safe websites
• Remote access attacks — Avast Premium Security detects and blocks any attempts by hackers to take over your device
• Network threats — Avast Premium Security has an advanced firewall that keeps your network safe from intruders and malware

Enhance your security today with our 30-day free trial.

Yes, Avast Premium Security is worth paying for in 2022, because it augments our world-class free antivirus with extra layers of security on up to 10 devices — so you can protect your friends and family, too. With Avast Premium Security, you’ll get 24/7 protection against:

• Spoofed websites and DNS hijacking — Avast Premium Security will automatically redirect you to safe websites
• Remote access attacks — Avast Premium Security detects and blocks any attempts by hackers to take over your device
• Network threats — Avast Premium Security has an advanced firewall that keeps your network safe from intruders and malware

Enhance your security today with a 30-day free trial.

Yes, Avast Premium Security is worth paying for, because it augments our world-class free antivirus with extra layers of security on up to 10 devices — so you can protect your friends and family, too. With Avast Premium Security, you’ll get 24/7 protection against:

• Spoofed websites and DNS hijacking — Avast Premium Security will automatically redirect you to safe websites
• Remote access attacks — Avast Premium Security detects and blocks any attempts by hackers to take over your device
• Network threats — Avast Premium Security has an advanced firewall that keeps your network safe from intruders and malware

Enhance your security today with a 30-day free trial.

Yes, Avast Free Antivirus is enough to protect your computer. Avast has the world’s largest threat-detection network and we block more than 60 million cyberthreats every day. With features such as Wi-Fi Inspector, Smart Scan, and Behavior Shield, Avast Free Antivirus defends against all kinds of internet dangers and malicious software.

Avast Free Antivirus offers enough protection to keep your computer safe against all types of viruses and malware, plus phishing attacks, Wi-Fi intruders, and much more.