How Avast and AVG Protect Your Computer
In the digital age, computers are constantly exposed to cyber threats such as viruses, malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and spyware. To combat these risks, antivirus software plays a crucial role. Among the many options available in the market, Avast and AVG stand out as two of the most widely used and trusted antivirus programs. Interestingly, both companies are now owned by the same parent organisation—Gen Digital (formerly Avast Software)—but continue to operate as separate brands, offering robust protection with slightly different features and interfaces.
This article explores how Avast and AVG help protect your computer, their features, differences, and which one may suit your needs best.
Overview of Avast and AVG
Avast
Avast is a well-established antivirus solution that offers both free and premium versions. It provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other cyber threats. Avast is known for its comprehensive scanning options, user-friendly interface, and additional security tools like a password manager, Wi-Fi security scanner, and VPN (Virtual Private Network).
AVG
AVG (Anti-Virus Guard) is also a respected antivirus brand, well-regarded for its simplicity and effectiveness. Like Avast, it provides free and premium versions, offering malware protection, email scanning, performance tuning, and web protection. AVG is known for being lightweight on system resources and effective in blocking malicious websites and downloads.
Key Features That Protect Your Computer
1. Real-Time Protection
Both Avast and AVG offer real-time protection, which continuously monitors your computer for suspicious activity. This feature ensures threats are blocked before they can harm your system.
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Avast uses Cyber Capture, a feature that isolates unknown files and analyses them in the cloud.
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AVG uses AI-based detection, identifying and neutralising threats instantly as they appear.
2. Virus and Malware Scanning
Both antivirus programs perform deep scans to detect and remove threats.
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Full system scans and customisation quick scans
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Rootkit detection
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Heuristic analysis to catch new, unknown threats
These scans help maintain the health of your system by cleaning out viruses, Trojans, spyware, and more.
3. Web and Email Protection
Most viruses today originate from the internet or email attachments. Avast and AVG offer solid protection in this area:
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Email Shield: Scans incoming and outgoing emails for malicious content
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Web Shield: Blocks access to known dangerous websites
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Phishing Protection: Prevents fake websites from stealing login credentials or personal information
Additional Security Features
Avast Additional Features:
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Wi-Fi Inspector: Detects vulnerabilities in your home network
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Ransomware Shield: Protects sensitive files from being encrypted
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Sandbox: Runs suspicious files in a safe, isolated environment
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Secure Line VPN: Encrypts your internet connection for privacy
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Software Updater: Ensures your apps are updated and secure
AVG Additional Features:
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File Shredder: Permanently deletes sensitive files so they can't be recovered
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PC Tune-Up: Speeds up performance by cleaning junk files
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Do Not Disturb Mode: Blocks notifications while using full-screen apps
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Webcam Protection: Blocks unauthorised access to your webcam (in AVG Internet Security)
User Interface and Usability
Both Avast and AVG are designed for ease of use, even for beginners.
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Avast has a modern, colourful dashboard with clear options for scanning, protection, and privacy settings.
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AVG offers a more minimalist interface, which is less flashy but equally functional.
Installation and setup are simple for both programs, with guided instructions and default protection modes that work right away.
System Performance Impact
Performance is an important factor when choosing antivirus software. Neither Avast nor AVG is considered heavy on resources, but their performance can vary depending on system specifications.
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AVG is often praised for being more lightweight and less demanding on CPU usage during background operations.
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Avast may use slightly more resources due to its extensive set of features but balances it well with smart scanning options and idle-time updates.
Pricing and Plans
Free Versions:
Both Avast and AVG offer free versions that include:
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Real-time protection
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Malware and virus scanning
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Web and email shields
These free versions are sufficient for average home users.
Paid Versions:
Premium versions unlock additional security and performance features:
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Avast Premium Security
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AVG Internet Security
Both are competitively priced and offer multi-device plans that support Windows, mac OS, Android, and iOS.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Avast if you:
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Want more advanced tools like Wi-Fi Inspector and Sandbox
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Need a built-in VPN
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Prefer a visually rich and modern user interface
Choose AVG if you:
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Prefer a cleaner and more minimal interface
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Want lower system impact
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Focus on core protection and performance features
Since both are owned by the same company, they share the same antivirus engine, meaning their core protection is nearly identical. The choice largely depends on your feature preferences and device usage.
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