Avast is a user-friendly application that allows all of its key features accessible from a single menu. This is an enormous help for anyone with limited time or resources for software learning, and the short explanations attached to each simple feature will ensure that you don’t ever need to guess what the function of a feature is. The search function also makes it easy to find the settings you’re looking for.

In addition to the basic antivirus features, you can alter other settings that affect your security and performance. You can disable the blocking of ads and webcams. You can also check for bloatware slowing your device and prevent Avast running background updates. Avast Cleanup can be used to delete unused programs and optimize your computer’s performance.

Avast’s ransomware shield is available in two versions, intelligent and strict. The first checks an entire list of apps to determine whether any trusted applications can access your files. You then decide if the changes are permitted. The second functions as a firewall, allowing only changes that are approved. In either case, before any changes to your files are made you will be notified and asked for your permission.

Upgrading to an Avast premium plan will unlock a host of additional site security and performance-enhancing tools, including anti-phishing protections, an advanced firewall, webcam protection, and a VPN. However, some of these extras compare unfavorably to the features offered by other security solutions at similar prices.