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AVG Internet Security
- Antivirus, malware, and spyware protection
- Internet and email protection
- Coverage for all your PCs
- Enhanced firewall
- Android protection included
AVG Internet Security at a Glance
Owned by the same company that created Avast Antivirus, AVG is one of many internet security options out there. Along with adequate antivirus and malware protection, users get email scans, webcam blocking, and fake website detection.
For most mobile users, antivirus is already embedded into the operating system on your smartphone or tablet, so it’s unlikely that you’d need a separate antivirus program. But for PC users, malware, phishing, worms, and other viruses can cause real issues—so an antivirus product like AVG is useful.
AVG Internet Security
- Antivirus, malware, and spyware protection
- Internet and email protection
- Coverage for all your PCs
- Enhanced firewall
- Android protection included
AVG offers a basic antivirus program—AVG AntiVirus FREE—and its Internet Security program is the next step up. At $70 per year, it does pack some sticker shock, but it will cover every Windows and Android device in your household, and it comes with a bunch of features that the free version doesn’t include, like an enhanced firewall and webcam protection.
In our tests, AVG Internet Security was easy to navigate on mobile devices and on a Windows PC—once you got used to the system. It also didn’t seem to slow down our devices at all, which can be a problem with some antivirus software. On our Windows PC (which is a few years old), we did have to uninstall Microsoft Security Essentials to get AVG to work.
Pricing and Plans
| AVG AntiVirus
FREE |
AVG Internet Security | |
| Antivirus/Malware Protection | Y | Y |
| Email Protection/Spam Filter | Y | Y |
| PC Performance Problem Detection | Y | Y |
| Real-Time Security Updates | Y | Y |
| Personal File Security | N | Y |
| Webcam Protection | N | Y |
| Fake Website Detection | N | Y |
| Enhanced Firewall | N | Y |
Pros
- Price Point
If you need AVG Internet Security for only one PC, $70 per year could seem steep. But if you have a household full of devices, they’ll all be covered under one license, making the price a pretty good deal.
- Free Trial
You can test out AVG Internet Security free for 30 days before making any commitment.
Cons
- Constant Upsells
When using the free trial on your mobile device, you’ll see a lot of ads for other AVG products. And on your PC, the main AVG menu will constantly show an upgrade option. - Extra Costs for Live Customer Support
If you need help beyond the support articles on AVG’s website, you’ll have to pay for a Premium Support subscription.
Features and Usability
This product is fairly easy to install—but using it isn’t as easy, especially when you get into the more complex setup required for small businesses or multiple devices.
Pros
- Easy Installation
The prompts for installing the program made the entire setup take only a matter of minutes. - File Security
We love that AVG’s Internet Security suite gives you options to secure your personal photos and other documents. - Many Layers of Protection
This program offers a comprehensive security plan and protects you from all kinds of malware, like ransomware, viruses, spyware, and Trojans. And it will protect you while you’re surfing the web, opening email attachments, banking, and shopping. - PC Optimization
AVG will not only scan your computer for problems but will also clean up your hard drive so your computer will work faster.
Cons
- Counterintuitive Menus
AVG antivirus software is organized differently than a lot of competitors, so it can take some getting used to if you’ve been using a different program.
FAQs
I already have Windows Defender/Microsoft Security Essentials. Do I really need another antivirus?
You can’t have multiple antivirus or security suites running on your PC at the same time. What level of antivirus protection you need depends on how often you use your PC and what you use it to do. For average users, the built-in security systems should work fine. But if you do a lot of online shopping, have a webcam, or do anything that requires a lot of file downloads, you may require a stronger security suite.
Will AVG Internet Security work with my smartphone?
Yes, this plan works with Androids. iPhones already have antivirus software built in and don’t require any extra help.
Is AVG compatible with iOS?
AVG Internet Security is compatible only with PCs and Android, though there other AVG products for Macs, and Apple users report success with the security suite.
What customer support options does AVG offer?
The AVG website has a lot of links for information and a built-in community to offer support. But unless you pay for a Premium Support account, you can’t call or chat with a customer support rep.
Can I install AVG on my Chromebook?
AVG is currently not compatible with Chrome. Chrome has a solid, highly effective antivirus program already built in.
The Bottom Line
If you’re concerned about threats to your personal files or you’re worried about hackers using your webcam to spy on you, AVG Internet Security offers a full security suite to protect you. One license is good for all your devices, so every PC and Android in your household is covered. Live customer support isn’t included, so if you need a more hands-on service, you may have to spring for a Premium Support package.
Pros
- Reasonable price for multiple devices
- Comprehensive security services
- Solid antivirus and ransomware protection
- Easy installation
Cons
- Counterintuitive user interface
- Few customer service/tech support options
How We Evaluated AVG Internet Security
We evaluated this product by testing it on a Windows PC and Android mobile devices. We also scoured online forums and looked at technical reviews. For more information, see our Methodology.
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