SHORT ON TIME? HERE’S A QUICK SUMMARY
Avira is a German antivirus solution with a long history that dates back to 1986. Today, it protects over 500 million devices worldwide. Users like it for its simplicity and extensive features that include a VPN, password manager, web and email protection, file shredder, software updater, PC optimizer, and more. Of course, the main draw is definitely its award-winning antivirus scanner and the new anti-ransomware feature. However, with hundreds of antivirus solutions promising full-time protection, is Avira even worth a second look? Take a deep dive into this IT security company with our detailed review down below.
👍 PROS:
- Cloud-based anti-malware engine
- Excellent real-time protection against malware, including ransomware and Banker Trojans
- Comes with a free browser extension that blocks phishing websites, infected popups, trackers, bloatware, and more
- Outstanding independent lab test results
- Straightforward and user-friendly interface
- It works quietly in the background with no annoying interruption as you work or browse the internet.
- Not a resource hog, so it will work smoothly even on old or low-end computers
- Fast and efficient scanning engine
- Avira's free Bootable RescueCD helps clean infected PC
- Constant but unobtrusive updates safeguard your device against potential vulnerabilities and threats
- Fully compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
- Integrated VPN and password manager
- Generous 30-day money-back guarantee
- Decent customer support
👎 CONS:
- The backup module is a bit outdated
- There are numerous popup ads in the free version
- Needs to install each module separately
- No live chat option
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AVIRA ANTIVIRUS KEY DATA
GENERAL INFO:
Price: From $45.99
Money-back Guarantee: YES
Platforms: PC, Mac, Android, and iOS
SCANNING:
Real-time Antivirus: YES
USB Virus Scan: YES
Auto Virus Scanning: YES
Manual Virus Scanning: YES
Registry Startup Scan: YES
Scheduled Scan: YES
THREAT TYPE:
Anti-Spyware: YES
Anti-Trojan: YES
Anti-Phishing: YES
Anti-Adware: YES
Anti-Ransomware: YES
Anti-Malware: YES
Email-Protection: NO
Anti-Worm: YES
Anti-Rootkit: YES
Anti-Spam: NO
Chat/IM Protection: NO
EXTRA FEATURES:
Personal Firewall: YES
Password Manager: YES
Ad Blocker: YES
Gamer Mode: YES
Webcam and mic protection: YES
Smartphone Optimizer: YES
Safe Browser: YES
Parental Controls: YES
VPN Service: YES
Device Tune-up: YES
SUPPORT:
Live Chat: NO
Email Support: YES
Phone Support: YES
Ticket Support: YES
SEE WHAT USERS HAVE TO SAY
Trustpilot Rating: 4.7 out of 5 from 25,584 reviews
“I have been using Avira since it was a Beta product. I still use it to this day. Last update, I purposely installed it on a computer I loaded up with malware and viruses. One scan and it picked everything I had installed and zero false positives. I highly recommend Avira, and I recommend it to others as well.”
“I feel secure when surfing on the Internet, when doing a banking transaction, when working on a file, and when switching off the PC. I know nothing will happen to my precious file the next day I switch on the PC. I thank YOU for making me feel this way.”
“Superb security and also the feature of being able to block the microphone is amazing. I don't have Google listening to me all the time and start randomly talking. It's superb; it's quick at telling you about threats discovered on your device, and it's good at blocking websites with adverts 100% recommend to everyone. I did a test with Avira security and Avast security. I downloaded a virus on purpose to test which one was better, and Avira told me straight away where the problem was, whereas Avast told me that my device was safe. I would 100% give it a try if you haven't got a security software running as they're one of the cheapest and most reliable security programs out there; this program has never let me down.”
“I have been using Avira now for a few years. I have it on my laptops, tablets, and phone. I have never had a problem with it. Always had tech support as well if I needed it. Thank you, Avira for your protection. I always recommend it to other people.”
FEATURES
Avira Antivirus utilizes artificial intelligence, real-time scanner, and cloud technology to protect your computer against viruses, hackers, and spies. The cloud-based virus detector is a game-changer as it allows Avira to constantly update its lists of malware files and risky websites to combat new viruses. Once a threat is discovered, every device under the "cloud" is immediately secured. This happens instantaneously, so you won't have to worry about constantly updating your antivirus software to keep your defenses up-to-date. What's more, all the scanning, detection, and analysis happens in Avira's cloud server, not on your computer. This means the threat is eliminated before it even has a chance to infect your device!
Avira's real-time antivirus protection blocks not just viruses but also worms, trojans, spyware, adware, and ransomware. It also blocks malicious email attachments, phishing, spam, browser hijackers, and other unsafe web resources that may host malware or unwanted software. Avira also blocks botnets, DNS hijackers, banking Trojans, rootkits, and keyloggers to protect your identity, privacy, and banking information. With round-the-clock protection for your computer and files, you can explore the web confidently, download files without worry, or play online games without risking a malware infection!
ARE THERE ANY EXTRAS?
If you're still unsure whether or not Avira is the right antivirus solution for you, take a look at the following additional features. Just bear in mind that not all features are available in every package.
IS IT SAFE AND RELIABLE?
So, just how good is Avira antivirus? Considering its multiple awards from various independent testing labs, we'd say it's on par with the best in the industry! Consider the following awards and certifications:
EASE OF USE AND SETUP
Installing Avira is a cakewalk that probably took 5 minutes tops. After purchasing your desired plan, you'll receive an email with a link "Install and activate now." Just click on the link, create your Avira account, and install the file. The dashboard is also pretty self-explanatory, with no more than four primary tabs: Status, Security, Privacy, and Performance. Even if you haven't used antivirus software before, you'll easily find your way around this program. The default setting should work just fine, but if you're a more advanced user, go ahead and customize your settings.
WILL IT SLOW DOWN MY COMPUTER?
Thanks to its cloud-based antivirus scanner, Avira has one of the smallest system footprints in the industry. It does its job in the cloud, freeing up your resources for work, entertainment, communication, and other online activities.
PRICING AND PLANS
Avira currently has three paid plans: Avira Antivirus Pro, Avira Security, and Avira Prime. We're honestly not too keen on the first two plans because each covers only one device. Prices range between $40.99 to $69.99. For a single device, it's certainly not cheap, so you might as well get Avira Prime to protect up to 5 devices. Considering all the extra features, however, the price is reasonably justified. Fortunately, Avira runs seasonal promotions, and right now, there's a special deal on Avira Prime. Use our link to purchase the most comprehensive plan at a 40% discount!
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
While it's pretty understandable, I find it slightly off-putting that you need to have an Avira license (in short, a subscriber) before you can make a support request. I usually test the responsiveness of a vendor's support team before deciding to purchase a software product. After all, what happens if I encounter a technical issue and support turns out to be pretty much non-existent? Turns out, my fears were unfounded. Once logged in, you'll have access to email and phone support. As per our experience, the support team has been pretty responsive and considerate. There's no live chat, but Prime subscribers get VIP customer assistance. Call via a toll-free number for priority access to Avira's IT specialists.
THE VERDICT
After looking at Avira from all angles, we can say that it is indeed one the best in the industry. On the surface, it may come across as pricey, but dig deeper, and you'll see that you'll get your money's worth, and then some. It has exceeded our expectations of what a stellar antivirus program should be and has blown us away with all the extra security and privacy tools. It's a cross-platform, multi-device antivirus solution that also boasts a user-friendly interface and reliable support.
