What Is a Computer Virus and How Does It Work?
A computer virus is designed to infect programs & files with malicious code, changing how a computer operates and spreading across systems.
Free antivirus is your first step to online freedom
We believe everyone has the right to be safe online, which is why we offer our award-winning free antivirus to millions of people around the world.
Also available for Mac, Android, and iOS
Also available for PC, Android, and iOS
Also available for Mac, Android, and PC
Also available for PC, Mac, and iOS
2024
Top Rated
Top Rated
2024
Best Protection
Best Protection
Award-winning Antivirus
Catch even new & emerging threats
Hundreds of millions of users worldwide
We have 30+ years of experience
2022
Top Rated
Top Rated
Get it for free!
Free download
Free download
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from the App Store
Get free antivirus that comes with advanced privacy and security tools
Avast Free Antivirus is more than just an antivirus — it also includes these specialist tools:
6 layers of security
Effortlessly run smart scans on software, files, and apps to help find vulnerabilities, plus analyze suspicious files in the cloud, get threat alerts, and more.
Easy to install and use
It only takes a moment to install Avast Free Antivirus and once it’s done, it’ll run quietly in the background, helping to protect you against viruses and other malware in real time, 24/7.
Wi-Fi network security
Connect more safely to any Wi-Fi network, even unsecured public networks, plus see who’s using your home Wi-Fi and help block intruders with a click.
Protection against ransomware attacks
Help protect your information. Don't let your personal photos, files, and documents fall victim to hackers using ransomware.
Comprehensive protection for all your devices
Our most advanced protection is your toughest defense against viruses, ransomware, zero-day threats, Wi-Fi vulnerabilities, and more.
Choose a VPN for more online privacy
Help block ISPs from tracking your activity, help avoid geo-restrictions from content providers, and ensure public Wi-Fi is safer with Avast’s Virtual Private Network (VPN).
Enjoy more storage space and a faster device
Reclaim gigabytes of storage space and get your device working like new by removing junk like leftover files, bloatware, and unwanted programs. Avast Cleanup also updates your software automatically, hibernates resource-draining apps, and more.
It’s so easy to install — switching to Avast takes seconds
You can start using Avast’s award-winning antivirus immediately. It’s quick and easy to install, and gives you all the protection you need to live your online life securely. And it’s totally free — so give it a try right now.
Avast has hundreds of millions of users worldwide
I have used Avast for a few years. The protection is the best for the money. I also cover my phones with Avast and I haven’t had any problems yet.
Carol J.
2023-09-12
I have used Avast for many years. The reason is very simple: you offer a great free version that actually works. This lets me afford the other amazing services you offer when needed, like Avast Cleanup.
James M.
2023-08-29
I've used Avast Free Antivirus on my computers, tablets, and smart phones for many years. It updates frequently and automatically. It automatically scans and protects me from malicious web sites. It does what I need. What more could I ask?
OB
2023-06-10
“The well-known security specialist Avast received a total of three awards for its outstanding performance ... shows how reliably and securely the security software renders its service...”
Awarded Top-Rated Product 2023
by AV-Comparatives
by AV-Comparatives
Get privacy and performance tips, straight from the experts
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Pretexting scammers tell lies to steal your money or personal information. Learn how pretext attacks work and how to stay safe.
Keeping people around the world safer & more secure
Using real-time intelligence from hundreds of millions of Avast users, we prevent more than 66 million threats every day.
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