AVG Internet Security review

AVG is a sensible choice if you want to start on a free antivirus and upgrade only when you need more. AVG AntiVirus FREE is offered for both Windows and Mac. Internet Security, the paid tier, adds protection from fake websites that try to steal card details and passwords, an Enhanced Firewall that guards the home network, webcam protection that blocks untrusted apps, ransomware shielding for sensitive files and alerts about unsafe Wi-Fi. AVG's US page lists a first-year price for one Windows PC, with the regular price shown alongside, but the figure sits in page data we could not quote cleanly, so we have marked the price as pending. Compared with Bitdefender or Norton, the paid suite is narrower: a VPN, BreachGuard and other privacy tools are separate purchases. For a single computer and a buyer who wants a firewall and webcam lock without much else, it is easy to set up and fair value in year one.

Who it is for

Windows and Mac users who want a free antivirus first and a simple paid upgrade later.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Antivirus with ransomware protection for sensitive files
• Protection from fake websites used for phishing and pharming
• Enhanced Firewall that secures your home network
• Webcam protection that blocks untrusted apps
• Unsafe Wi-Fi alerts

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: AVG AntiVirus FREE is available for Windows and Mac
• Strength: Low first-year price for a single PC
• Strength: Covers PC, Mac and mobile in multi-device plans
• Weakness: First-year price only; the page shows a higher regular rate
• Weakness: Fewer extras than Bitdefender or Norton suites
• Weakness: VPN and identity tools are sold as separate products

Key facts

• Free option: AVG AntiVirus FREE (Windows and Mac)
• Firewall: Enhanced Firewall
• Webcam protection: Yes
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Where it ranks

AVG Internet Security is No. 6 in our Best Antivirus Software verdict.