AVG is one of the best and oldest all-in-one security software packages out there, as testified by its numerous awards and countless satisfied customers.

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Our comprehensive AVG antivirus review covers the many useful features of this world-class protection suite, such as its great antimalware protection, Secure VPN, and TuneUp utility.

Read on to find out if AVG has everything you need to stay protected online in 2022.

Security Features

The AVG Ultimate, AVG Internet Security, and the free AV version stand out from the pack of excellent AV alternatives with a slew of useful protection, privacy, and performance features.

PROS:

  • AVG Antivirus free version
  • Free AVG Secure Browser
  • Impeccable malware detection rate
  • Multi-device support
  • Security solutions can be purchased separately
  • Light on system resources

CONS:

  • Paid plans on the pricier side
  • Parental Control could be better
  • Basic protection only in the free plan

Protection

Since protection is the top priority, AVG includes many security layers that clean existing infestations, protect you from upcoming attacks, and keep your data private:

AVG implements additional features for complete online and offline protection, such as Link Scanner, Web Shield, Email Shield, Wi-Fi Guard, Behaviour Shield, and more.

  • Real-time Device Protection—scans your device for different types of malware and ransomware and eliminates them promptly.
  • Enhanced Firewall—protects all files on your device from unauthorised access.
  • Webcam Protection—forces unauthorised apps to request camera access.
  • Data Shredder—permanently deletes sensitive files.
  • Payments Protection—helps keep your financial transactions private.
  • Password Protection—keeps your browser-saved passwords secure.

Note: If you need more control over your antivirus notifications, look into ESET or Bitdefender and their custom profile modes for gaming, working, or watching movies.

Performance Boost

Like the majority of top-tier AV providers, AVG also offers valuable performance boosting tools to give your device that extra push when it needs it most:

Note: While the AVG TuneUp utility is available as a standalone purchase and as part of the AVG Ultimate plan, you will have to purchase the other performance tools separately.

  • AVG TuneUp—removes your junk files, fixes system errors, updates your programs, and more for overall faster system performance.
  • AVG Driver Updater—updates your drivers from a database of over 8 million entries for over 1300 brands to provide you with better graphics, audio, browsing, and more.
  • AVG Battery Saver—maximises your device’s battery life by intelligently managing its display, processor frequency, wireless connectivity, etc.

Privacy Features

AVG lays any privacy concerns to rest with a varied offering of several utilities that protect your internet presence and grant you control of your online activities:

Note: For security software that offers robust parental controls to keep your children safe online, review Norton Antivirus.

  • AVG Secure VPN—encrypts your online traffic for safe and private browsing, giving you unrestricted, worldwide access to the whole Web.
  • AVG AntiTrack—stops targeted ads, clears your browsing cookies, identifies your trackers, and more.
  • AVG Secure Browser—fast and private browser that ensures maximum threat protection while blocking unwanted ads.
  • AVG BreachGuard—monitors the web for potential leaks of your personal info and stops third parties from misusing it.

AVG AntiVirus Performance

No need to contact the AVG tech support to set up the company’s AV software since the installation process is fairly straightforward and can be completed in 5 to 10 minutes:

  • Download and open the installer from the official website.
  • Choose which components to install.
  • Complete the final steps and run your first scan.
  • Familiarise yourself with the intuitive and straightforward interface.

Note: While you can install the free AVG version on as many devices as you wish, the paid version can be installed on either 1 or 10 devices, depending on your subscription plan.

Interface and Ease of Use

The straightforward AVG antivirus accessibility is also reflected in its user interface. For instance, from the main dashboard you can easily monitor your protection status, access all software settings and your user account, as well as run different types of scanning:

Note: You can also schedule a custom scan to run at any time or repeatedly and adjust its sensitivity to threats, priority, types of files it scans, and more.

  • Smart Scan—quick browser threats and malware scan that takes less than a minute.
  • Deep Scan—long yet thorough malware scan of every nook of your device.
  • Boot-Time Scan—deep scan conducted before the operating system starts.
  • USB/DVD Scan—scans your removable drives.
  • File or Folder Scan—looks for threats in specific locations on your system.

Platforms and Apps

You can install and use AVG like a pro on all major platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. However, some of the company’s products are restricted to a certain operating system. For example, the AVG Driver Updater and Battery Saver are exclusive to Windows.

As for mobile devices, AVG publishes several apps for both Android and iOS, like the AVG Antivirus for Android, the AVG Mobile Security for iOS, the AVG Cleaner for Android, and a Secure VPN and browser for both mobile platforms.

Plans & Pricing

The AVG Ultimate plan includes the company’s most comprehensive protection, albeit at a higher price point. If you are on a tighter budget, look into AVG’s other plans:

Note: AVG’s products are available at discounts of up to 50% during holiday sales.

While AVG’s ultimate offering does not differ greatly from that of other acclaimed competitors, its price might still put off potential buyers. For instance, some software’s best AV products are available at lower prices while offering a similar experience.

For more AV options, check out our detailed Antivirus Software Buying Guide.

In addition to its core AV solutions, AVG also offers separate products (some of which are included in the paid plans) to cover specific protection areas, such as:

Before investing in any AVG product, the company allows you to download a trial version to test it thoroughly. However, even if you subscribe to AVG’s antivirus plans, you can easily cancel them through your account page at any time.

Note: The prices are subject to change without notice, so check the official website for the most up-to-date fees.

Customer Support

If you’re experiencing technical issues with AVG’s software or any problems related to your account or subscription plan, you can use any of the following support channels:

Note: AVG is also present on all relevant social media channels, including LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube.

Verdict: Is AVG Really a Top-Performing Security Software?

Well, is AVG any good? After going through our review, you’d know that AVG offers a light, straightforward, and powerful antimalware solution along with numerous other features that completely protect you both online and offline.

If you are still not convinced of AVG’s effectiveness in keeping every aspect of your online life secure, you can always try it before buying it. Simply download the trial version of any paid product or the AVG free version. We are confident you will not regret it! 

1. Is AVG Antivirus trustworthy?

Yes, it is. Independent lab results show that AVG has a near-perfect threat protection rate score: an astonishing 99%.

2. Is AVG Antivirus really free?

Yes. In addition to its paid plans, AVG offers a free version with the same malware and ransomware protection.

3. How many devices can I use with AVG antivirus?

If you are using the free version, you can install AVG on as many devices as you wish; however, the paid plans allow you to install it on up to 10 devices.

4. Is AVG antivirus safe to install?

Yes, AVG installs safely and quickly. However, during the installation process, you will also be given the option to purchase and install additional AVG products.  

5. What does AVG cover?

As our AVG antivirus review already covered, every AVG solution includes thorough protection for your device, web activity, personal information, and more.