The free version of Avast software is more than a basic antivirus package. It contains extra features such as antispyware and malicious software protection without the need to download another extra piece of security software. It also protects web browsing, P2P, instant messaging and email.
Because of the many included features and performance in the free version of Avast, it is considered by many of its users as the best free antivirus software available.
According to CNET, Avast's virus definitions perform just as well or better than those that come with Symantec's Norton Antivirus software and Microsoft Security Essentials.
Avast Supported Operating Systems
Avast is supported on all modern variants of Windows including:
- Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)
- Windows Vista (32-bit and 64-bit)
- Windows XP
- Windows 2000
Avast Features in the Free Edition
The free edition comes with most of the computer security protection that most users need. The only security software most users need that doesn't come with the free version of Avast is a firewall. However, Windows Vista and Windows 7 come with a free firewall. The paid version does include a firewall for those that need it.
While browsing the web, Avast protects users from hijacked websites and other threats on-the-fly with its web shield. For example, Avast will prevent the installation of spyware or malware in which a website tricked the user into accepting.
Avast extends its protection with its instant messaging shield to many instant messaging programs. Some of them include Yahoo Messenger, AIM, ICQ, Skype, Google Talk and MSN Messenger as well as many others. Downloads through instant messaging software will be intercepted by Avast and scanned before it becomes available on the computer.
Avast also protects those running peer-to-peer (P2P) software such as Bit Torrent, Kazaa, Morpheus, and Limewire as well as many other P2P software. Because torrents are a common source of viruses, Avast is an excellent choice for those who frequently download files via P2P.
The email shield protects those using Outlook and other email programs from malware and viruses that may be attached. Avast comes with a plugin for Outlook/Exchange. It also scans the network ports used for emails such POP3, IMAP, and SMTP.
For gamers, there is a feature called silent-gaming mode which prevents Avast from interrupting games. Gamers will also appreciate Avast's low overhead on CPU, memory, and I/O.
How to Download Avast for Free
Download Avast from the official website. The software provides a 60 day trial period before requiring email registration, which is free. The email address will be used to send an Avast license that is valid for one year. Every year thereafter, users re-register the software to extend usage by another year.
Compared to its peers such as McAfee, Norton, and AVG, Avast's features and performance makes it a very compelling choice. Avast's performance and reputation are the reasons why there have been over 44 million free downloads of Avast so far.
