For one year free premium protection, the software must be installed no later than Feb 17, 2017 (German Time). No keys required, just download and install. Also, go to settings > general > popups and turn off the popup ads for other Avast products. Chrome translator is your friend. Enjoy :)
Found via HUKD
Thanks TA :)
Good timing…My bitdefender total security has about two months left, but has started bugging me with pop-ups despite being in autopilot mode.
14 days left on Bitdefender here! Looking for another 12 months of protection, I'll check this one out :)
Digital signature on the file in the link matches that of the Avast trial, good to go.
Could you elaborate? How do you tell whether or not malware has been added to the file by the 3rd party site? I checked out the digital signature but could the original file have been tampered with?
is it for Mac too?
Do macs get viruses?
Common misconception that they don't. They get viruses, as can mobile phones.
But Windows is targeted more due to install base.
Just checked their site, it seems to be only for windows:
Operating system: Windows 10, Windows 8 / 8.1, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP SP3
At the time of this deal and as I've read Avast for mac is still free, though just A/V with mail shield and nothing else, download link here; https://www.avast.com/en-au/free-mac-security
Isn't avast always been free,
What's new about this ? any premium features ?
Read title. The $70 Avast version costs $70.
The free avast is for anti virus, this costly one is for internet security, they are different product lines.
Nothing beats a freebie; but for those running Windows, Defender is a fantastic, free, stable, non-intrusive and effective AV package that renders the requirement for 3rd-party AV solutions redundant in many cases.
It also doesn't screw about with your browser traffic: https://it.slashdot.org/story/17/02/01/1334219/google-chrome…
Agreed. I used Avast for 5 years at least, but found that defender sits quietly in the background on win 7 and 10 and doesn't interrupt or interfere when developing.
If you do want an alternative, I do recommend Avast, though.
but found that defender sits quietly in the background on win 7 and 10
Not sure if it's a good thing for a AV software to sit quietly..does it mean it's working?
99.999% of the time, common sense is better than anti-virus (prevention v cure and all that!)
Viruses don't just arrive on PCs, something needs to be done by the user to allow them in.
e.g. Torrents aren't .exe files. Run your keygens in a VM, too :P
@picklewizard: Sandboxie as well. But some are smart and don't run when they detect it in a sandbox.
To clarify, I mean it doesn't grind my laptop to a halt like McAfee always did, and Avast, unless in "gaming" mode, loves to give pop ups. More so lately than before.
As @picklewizard says, prevention is the best cure so a strong antivirus isn't my number 1 priority.
Defender is non-intrusive but it slows down your computer quite a lot, especially file access. Test it yourself if you don't believe me. Avast is better, and Avira better again.
I used Microsoft Security Essentials for years. Got caught napping. It went to garbage and I spent a month recovering from cryptoware.
Don't get caught napping with Windows Defender.
Graph on page 8 says it all. Windows Defender in the bottom half of the pack
https://www.av-comparatives.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/a…
And again here on page 9
https://www.av-comparatives.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/a…
And one of the worst at a totally different site here:
https://www.av-test.org/en/antivirus/home-windows/windows-8/
Perfect. Was using bit defender but it would slow system down.
no english version?
Don't worry it defaults to the local language (English) once installed..
I stopped using add on Antivirus software. I use a standard user account instead of admin (only log in as admin to install software and change settings) and just use windows built in antivirus, Windows defender etc.
Here is an article that claims antivirus may be a risk.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3574724/Is-an…
Daily mail is a trashy joke.
"Daily Mail" and "science" in the same sentence…never thought I'd live to see that, surely there's some reference to "scandal" etc?
Thanks TA.
Valentines day gift sorted.
Women.zip Nice shareware but watch out for viruses..
have just installed it using that link - says i've got 30 days remaining, is there something I need to do to claim the free 1 year?
cheers
same
If you already have Avast on your computer, try uninstalling, restarting, then opening the install file - worked for me :)
There is no reason to use non-Microsoft AV in this day and age on a fully updated Windows 10. (A majority of the protection is built into the OS not some stupid CPU and disk hogging software that does heuristic (read false positives, and let crafted payloads through) and archival (stuff that was dangerous at some stage in the past but isn't even proliferated on your OS anymore).
It's a dying industry.
Use ad-block, don't open exe's you find in spam emails and on websites you didn't deliberately download, and keep MSE (or defender) up to date.
USE COMMON SENSE; and MSE, because you don't have any.
Additionally keep UAC on. Viruses can't do shit if you click 'no' when it tries to cause havoc.
Also no-script plugin for your browser.
The thing with UAC is, everyone just clicks yes automatically.
Or just refresh (format) Windows 10 if you get a virus.
It isn't going to let you know it's there.
MSE will, or Avast won't.
There's actually a (soft-factory) reset feature in Windows 10 which is capable of shaking away most malware whilst keeping your data intact. http://www.laptopmag.com/articles/reset-windows-10-pc
Yep that what I was talking about.
Generally when My computer runs slow, I do the above.
I have all my data on my D drive, and I just refresh the C drive.
Or just don't use your computer! Can't get viruses on it if you don't use it! ;)
Strap 10 plastic bags and a chastity belt on your dick, you're safe from STD's now!
Bit excessive. Glad wrap two layers is all you need.
You can only catch aids once.
That's only sorts out only half the problem.
I think your reasoning is based on false assumptions. If you don't like a disk hog, that's a good reason not to use Defender. It's pretty poor compared to many other free solutions, particularly copying files and installing/uninstalling applications:
https://www.av-comparatives.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/a… (see page 8)
https://www.av-test.org/en/antivirus/home-windows/windows-10…
If you don't believe those, you can always test yourself. I just compared Avira and Defender on my laptop (installing iTunes as a test, a couple of times each to be sure) and it was 13% faster using Avira. I get a nag dialog from Avira whenever I turn on my computer but a small price to pay for better performance and better virus detection. If you don't want your antivirus to slow down your machine, don't use Defender.
13% faster using Avira
For transparency 13% faster when performing certain actions. Not 13% faster all the time.
Also if people are running SSD this 13% hit won't be noticeable in real world applications
I get a nag dialog from Avira
I would rather the slight hit to performance over closing an AVAST notification every time.
For transparency 13% faster when performing certain actions. Not 13% faster all the time.
It is faster performing almost all file actions but I agree that if you have a SSD, it's only a few seconds more here and there unless you're copying a lot of files.
I would rather the slight hit to performance over closing an AVAST notification every time.
That's cool, everyone has their own preferences. But the person I was replying too was mentioning that that "disk hogging" was a negative to non-Microsoft AVs. In fact, the opposite is true - Defender is one of the worst in this regard. I think it's worthwhile correcting this information because it's a common misconception that if it's built-in to Windows, it must be faster than third-party solutions. For those that do value performance over the annoyance of a nag, one of the other free antivirus products is probably a better choice than Defender (eg. Avira). Almost all of them offer better virus protection too.
Far enough. I didn't notice the questions above and your post certainly has very valid points. I also found the performance implications of different AV's interesting.
As you stated everyone has their own preferences on what works best for them. End of the day, better protected then no protection at all.
Avast was once pretty much the 1st piece of software I installed after windows on any PC I owned. It's gotten slower and more annoying over time and I can't bear to use it anymore. Windows Defender works fine.
It's even slower now? Christ, 10 years ago it was unuseable.
A warning for HP Microserver users.
I installed this on a brand new Windows 10 install on a HP N40L and my disk writes (to the NAS) went from 113MB/s to 65MB/s.
Disabling Avast IS shields boosted this to 75MB/s.
After disabling every component and unticking all scanning boxes in the entire app, excluding all file types from scanning and disabling every shield (essentially disabling all of Avast's features) transfers never rose above 75mb/s.
As soon as I uninstalled Avast transfers went back up to 113mb/s. A reinstall delivered the same results as before. Avast must tie into core Windows systems somehow or never fully disable itself when asked to. Avast IS obviously does not run well on low powered CPU's. Which is disappointing considering the first time I ever used and loved Avast back in the day was because of its small and efficient footprint.
Does this actually work better than the inbuilt one in windows?
In tests - a bit better, yes. However what people often forget is that the tests are run using obscure, sometimes even created specially for test purpose malware. In theory: no protection will work 100% at all time. In reality (Win 10):
* use free Windows Defender,
* from time run free, current version of Malwarebytes,
* always think before you click or download and open,
* save your money, ignore "one year free… but we will get you next year" offers.
Do the above, and you are 99.99something% safe.
I have tried using defender / avast etc. but none of them can get rid of the malware (search.com) or whatever that is, which changes your browsers homepage and no matter what u do it still stays. None of the above ever picked up this notorious malware.
Still have it on my laptop and no ways i can get rid off, tried uninstalling the whole browser (chrome) but since we cannot uninstall IE it still exists.
Did you try free version of Malwarebytes? If so and still no joy (which would surprise me), Google "how to remove <enter symptoms here>".
Ask for help in the Spybot Malware Removal forums. They're very good at helping you get rid of sticky Malware completely. Just make sure you read the "Before you post" thread first. https://forums.spybot.info/forumdisplay.php?22-Malware-Remov…
Check your shortcuts, I had one of these things change all the shortcuts to firefox.exe" http://www.malwaresearchcrap.com which causes your browser to launch to that page, no matter what your homepage is set to, and it took me much longer to figure out than it should have.
Thank you very much for this! I never could figure out why my firefox and chrome goes to that russian website each time I opened them.
You will probably find search.com is installed as a browser extension. Check your extensions and remove it
Step 1. download Adwcleaner from Toolslib
Step 2: remove the extension manually from the browser, if you can't just try leaving it and go to step 3.
Step 3: Run AdwCleaner; it'll scan all PuPs (Potentially-unwanted programs), and adware extensions, and malware.
Step 4: Select the adware/PuPs to remove. Delete, and restart PC.
Step 5: whenever browsing or installing freeware - DOUBLE CHECK tick boxes and agreements if its installing random f***ing useless 3rd party software and or extension.
Run Malwarebyte scan in addition.
If you use a lot of freeware, or unknowingly attain copies of software without legal means; always run malwarebyte and use common sense to what programs are running. Google task processes you don't recognize to confirm malware/virus.
If the problem is dire, try running Zemana AV
Looks like it's the full program, but not a registered copy. Trial mode just goes for 365 days, hense, one year free.
Ah that means it will keep nagging you to register.
Pass.
Since using ESET Smart Security 2016, I've never had a virus and also doesn't slow down my PC. Best antivirus!!
Not had a need for a dedicated AV program since Win7. So,approx 6-7 years. Not discouraging anyone to use AV software but a bit of common sense particularly when getting UAC requests should be enough to prevent any virus
I used to work at a computer store, if you want a anti virus that's free Avast is one of the best ones (minus the windows defender as it's literally inbuilt..)
I run avast free personally and will be redeeming this offer on both my machines (I think).
Typically if you think you have a virus run Malwarebytes as mentioned above.
You may also like to run.
Adwcleaner
Hitman Pro (you can get a free scan and one free removal) - can use a fake email
JRT (Junkware Removal tool)
Source; I used to work at a computer shop and they'd charge $199 for a virus removal with a 2 week guarantee. All that we'd do if the person came back with more viruses is we'd run the same 4 programs again and maybe figure out where they were coming from (that's a stretch) and then sell them anti virus that our store sold (its not actually bad..)
Hitman Pro is pretty awful software from memory.
Agree with the rest.
I personally recommend people I built pcs for to just either use the inbuilt MSE or Defender. Sure Avast free but that $70 saving provides little to no benefit over Microsoft's built-in AV. It also may save you from some annoying Avast notifications.
Don't go to dodgy websites and you won't need this stuff
:P
site down?
These comments make me sad. As a tech-nut I am all for making the most of freebies when you can but this is surely one area where you don't want to skimp.
Some of the comments are blatantly incorrect. You definitely do not need to 'click on something bad' or do 'something stupid' to be compromised by malware. Legitimate websites are often attacked and compromised and there is no requirement to manually click on 'virus.exe' to get owned anymore. You can get smashed by simply browsing a website that you visit everyday - through an undisclosed windows or chrome vulnerability for example - which logs keystrokes and sends them out via HTTPS.
Whilst using Windows Defender may be one layer, it is not the only one and certainly shouldn't be counted on to protect you from everything. You'll find a lot of reviews rate Windows Defender poorly for protection - incidentally the purpose of the tool. UAC can also be bypassed as most newer trojans, bots and other payloads don't need escalated privileges to run.
Do your own research before you put the protection of your data in the hands of Microsoft's bolt on 'security' tool.
You have commended other people's recommendations but then made none yourself. People that ask for advice are generally not knowledgeable enough to research and understand information themselves. Not saying those that always reply are either but I haven't seen any really bad recommendations here so far.
By no means is Defender a bad AV program. In Microsoft own words they are what they consider to be the baseline for all AV products. Therefore I would expect every AV program to meet or exceed Microsoft
Comparisons of effectiveness of different AV programs are very very subjective. Test results do not equate to real world results. Most paid AV programs tune their software to breeze through these tests. It would be like picking the fastest car based on Nürburgring lap times.
Is Defender by itself adequate? Throw the following help at it to further improve protection:
Standalone malware software Eg. Malwarebytes
Keep Windows UAE on
Keep Windows up to date
Use a good browser like Chrome and Firebox which blocks many malicious sites and downloads
Add an Ad Blocker to your browser extension. I find ublock origin better that Ad Block
I've given my suggestions/comments to that, what are yours?
So which program do we all recommend… I don't mind paying. Just want the best and lightweight as well.
My McAfee is running out. Didn't pay for it. It came with system.
Use free Windows Defender.
From time run free, current version of Malwarebytes.
So far $0.
Don't mind paying? Here you go: http://seda.visionaustralia.org/how-you-can-help/sponsor-a-p…
Loving Kaspersky at the moment. Bitdefender is fine also, but it's hard to find cheap deals on BD. They used to keep having free trials that you could renew easily. Now they've changed the way trials work and it requires reinstalling, which is a no go.
Saveonit sells Kaspersky 3pc 1 year normally for $10, but often discounts it to $8. Well worth it imo. It's not intrusive or a resource hog.
Avira is one of the better free one you can get out there. For my low powered PCs and tablets, I use Panda. I'd install Malware Bytes Anti-Exploit on any PC. It's good for zero-day attacks. Best alternative is to keep all your applications up-to-date and don't install anything you don't trust.
Last week out of nowhere my computer became very slow and lagging. I check task manager and see the CPU usage is 100% at all time, never went below 100%! Using Process Explorer, I found out that avast was using the most of the CPU. As soon as I disabled it, the CPU usage goes back to normal. I have no idea what happened, I have used Avast for a couple of years without that issue. Anyway, uninstalled now.
Will it nag you about being on a "trial" version and keep popping up asking you to upgrade? Some AV software does this. I remember Panda IS did it. I uninstalled it after a month because I couldn't handle the nagging.
"because I couldn't handle the nagging"… because it is my right to get software you created for free. No, I do not want to pay for it, give it to me. I deserve it.
They have the option to give it for free and nag or not nag. The freebie serves as advertising purposes. If I like it, I'll pay for it.
But just as they have a right to nag, I have a right to not use it if I don't like the nagging.
I do not expect people to give me stuff for free unconditionally. If they want to nag, they can. Doesn't mean I have to use it. I weighed up what I was getting free, with the constant annoyance of their nagging (had video pop ups also) and decided that the nagging and popups was not worth the product I was getting for free and chose to uninstall it. What's wrong with uninstalling something you don't like? I switched to a paid product after that and never looked back.
I have found Zemana AntiMalware an excellent program. It removed a hard to kill browser hijacker that neither Malwarebytes or Adaware could handle.
If you have a specific issue to resolve just download the 2 week fully functional version and you will probably find it to be extremely useful.
If you enter the free Premium code "Zemana-Giveway" after installing you should get 380 days free premium service. It was still working a couple of days ago when I checked.
I can highly recommend the software from personal experience.
I am using AVG and have 237 days left, is this better?
I'm am IT manager at a school and more often than not we've found browser hijacks to be far more prevalent than run of the mill viruses, even on macs. Is indicative of typical teenager and OzBargainer behaviour - always looking for free shit on the net and paying the full price in other ways! ;)
Seriously though, I use windows Defender on my home PC, the kids machines currently have BitDefender. At school we use a souped up version of Windows Defender via SCCM for analytics although we still have yo go through the semi-regular ADW, JRT and Malwarebytes cleanup… I've found Malwarebytes does the best job, always scan with that last.
Am I the only one concerned that this is being provideed by a 3rd party site (rather than Avast)? Feels like a Cnet download(?)
Thanks TA. I was more thinking about additional products being installed at the same time (I hadnt even considered "counterfeit")
spot on, what other crap is getting installed on your computer when you take this offer, now or later.
[Defender + Malwarebytes Free on demand scan user here]
Like dozens of other people in this thread have mentioned, this is a waste of time and effort. Avast is not needed nor will it provide a superior level of protection.
This is namely because traditional viruses are no longer the major delivered payloads. It's much more likely to be malware or adware, with AV software is generally awful at discovering, or by the time it does you've already manually cleaned out all the actual files after a Malware bytes search.
Don't be seduced by "AV Reviews" websites - they are almost usually funded by affiliates or direct payments by AV companies (notice how all the top rated products are paid or subscription based while all the free ones are lower ranked). They also rely on structured payload infections which are staged and very rarely what most people will encounter in the real world. Most people will likely get a drive-by malware infection or attacked by a bot using an open exploit or vulnerability.
If you genuinely care about your security and you run windows, do the following:
You do not need a 3rd party AV. At all. You haven't since Windows 7 came out with MSE as a free added extra.
Thanks. I was just about to have enough of (my current installation of) Avira's intrusive pop ups.
Last I used Avira i used this niffy program to kill them pop ups - http://bgpkiller.weebly.com/
It is another program to install and have down in your program tray but hey it works / did when I used it.
Hope it still does and helps you if you haven't switched yet.
This year, ransomware will be hard hit, even normal people will face Spora, HakunaMatata, Satan etc terrible ransomware, and until now, looks like no solution to get your file back safely without paying ransom, be very very careful when go Internet!.
Also, according to the news, the Spora come from fake Chrome Font Update, once you click the fake advertising side, it will install in your PC seceretly, and even doing the offline encrypt, and, more deadly Sport 2.0 will be release soon.
Anyone else finding that it asks for a subscription after doing a smart scan?
yes!
Nope, even ran a full scan and still there. Says trail - 365 days. Bit odd yours did though.
Thanks Tightarse, always tight as.