Many security software developers produce free antiviruses. Even Kaspersky Lab JSC presented a free version - Kaspersky Free. How much of the basic functionality is enough to prevent infection in real-world conditions - for example, when surfing the web? How do you pay for free cheese? Let's find out.
Testing methodology
We provided the most identical conditions for all participants in the experiment. Using VirtualBox, a test system was created - a virtual machine with a clean Windows 7 OS in the “Maximum” edition with the first service pack and all updates. Then it was cloned three times and only one antivirus was installed in each of the clones. Analysis of changes and current activity was carried out using portable software (TCPView, Autoruns with the VirusTotal plugin via API, ProcessExplorer, Regshot, AVZ and other utilities from the system administrator’s first aid kit).
The sources of threats were sites from the Clean MX database that were marked as infected and/or potentially dangerous. Only active sites added in the last 24 hours were selected for the test. We visited them one by one through the IE browser and logged the results of antivirus activation (if any). During the test, the antivirus and firewall on the host system were disabled.
All tests were performed with default settings. Any free antivirus only reduces the likelihood of infection, but does not completely eliminate it. To improve security, you should use more aggressive settings and additional tools - a firewall, proactive protection tools, isolation of potentially dangerous code, anti-phishing and others. In paid antiviruses, most of them are already integrated, but if you wish, you can make a similar set of free utilities yourself.
Like any programs, managers virtual machines also contain errors. Using various vulnerabilities, malware can go beyond the test system and infect the main operating system. Be careful!
1 Kaspersky Free
The volume of the distribution kit version 16.0.1.445 is 147.8 MB. After installation and update, Kaspersky Free takes up 232 MB of disk space. It provides basic protection that includes a virus scanner, resident monitor, automatic update, quarantine management and report viewing tools. Additional functions marked as inactive - this is a kind of advertising full version KIS and KTS.
When you first start on home page antivirus, a full-size window appears asking you to register. You can click on the inconspicuous button with the image of a gear in the lower left corner, and it will disappear. However, then the registration reminder will constantly appear again in the form of pop-up messages. Additionally, when you first launch it, the store page opens by default in the browser. Google Play with a suggestion to install Kaspersky Internet Security, and Kaspersky Protection Toolbar is built into the browser itself. It is impossible to refuse its integration at the installation stage - there are simply no settings in the installer. However, the toolbar can be deactivated using the browser itself.
In our test, Kaspersky Free did not miss a single real threat. Some malicious sites were blocked by the Microsoft SmartScreen filter, while access to others was blocked by the antivirus. Sometimes they worked simultaneously.
However, the antivirus is not strict enough to prevent the user from “shooting himself in the foot.” If you select a potentially dangerous executable from the download list that was previously blocked by the smartscreen and forcefully launch it, Kaspersky Free will allow you to do this with Buddhist indifference. It allows the installation of a program with an invalid digital signature, which 17 antiviruses of the VirusTotal online scanner complain about.
Moreover, Kaspersky itself recognizes it on VirusTotal as Downloader.Win32.Bundl.aq, but ignores it when checking locally with the free version. Even if it is not a virus, but a means of delivering a “combat load”, this does not make it any easier for the user.
2 Avira Free Antivirus 2016
Avira Free antivirus also has limited functionality and quite annoyingly advertises the transition to the paid version. Advertising for various Avira products pours out like a cornucopia even during installation by the web installer. That's probably why it took so damn long. Tired of watching the progress indicator, I managed to finish writing another article.
After installation, Avira took up 1329 MB including databases, and only half of this space was in the \Program Files\Avira\ directory. The rest was in \ProgramData\Avira and other places. Avira Free includes a software firewall (which is rare for free antiviruses), but its presence does not explain such a high appetite for disk space.
The interface itself is also surprising. The entire installation is displayed in Russian. After clicking on the tray icon, the language turns into Russian-English, and in the main window it becomes simply English. It’s not a problem, but it’s strange to see such superficial localization.
The antivirus allowed the executable file from Downloader.Win32.Bundl.aq to be downloaded. When I forced it to run, a message appeared stating that the file was being analyzed by Avira. Seconds later it was recklessly declared safe.
Having detected a malicious java script, Avira displayed a warning. By chance, it coincided with the design of the site and looked like part of it - an inexperienced user may not notice.
After clicking Remove, the script was blocked and no redirect to the phishing page occurred. Then Avira immediately launched a quick system scan - I think this is a justified additional measure.
Avira also did not notice the malware packaged in ZIP at first and only discovered it after manually unpacking the archive.
After forcing the download of an executable file blocked by the smart screen, Avira determined that it belongs to the PUA (potentially unwanted programs) category.
If you try to navigate to a page containing multiple exploits, Avira immediately displays a warning but allows you to download the content. In this case, no infection occurs.
Same as Kaspersky Free, sometimes Avira antivirus worked together with the SmartScreen filter.
3 AVG Antivirus Free Edition
The Czech antivirus AVG has undergone significant changes since last fall. Now it is actually a utility for collecting user data with some antivirus functionality. On disk, AVG Free occupies 192 MB, but this value quickly increases as data is cached and sent to the company's servers. By official version, this is done for cloud scanning and analysis of suspicious files. That's just what you can suspect in a clean OS, where, except AVG antivirus Free, there are no third party applications And user files?
The installation itself is quick and almost without advertising, but there is a catch in the installer. At the next stage, it suggests installing a 30-day trial version of a paid antivirus instead of the initially selected free one. You must manually select AVG Free and continue with the installation.
Immediately after installing AVG Free, a pop-up window prompts you to install the AVG SafeGuard by Ask toolbar and make Ask the default search engine, and a page with an advertisement for the AVG application for Android opens in the browser.
A potentially dangerous executable that Kaspersky Free ignored was blocked by AVG when I tried to download it. Foolproofing worked clearly better.
Another malicious executable file AVG allowed to download and only then recognized it as a threat.
Wherein malicious files AVGs were found in the ZIP archive only after manually unpacking the archive.
Web pages often contain malicious Java scripts that try to redirect the user to another page or infect his computer. AVG detects them and displays a blocking request, but after the message “the threat has been successfully removed”, a redirect to the phishing site still occurs, which is already blocked by SmartScreen... if you're lucky.
Sometimes there are several threats on websites at once. In this case, AVG displays summary information and usually prompts you to select the desired action. Sometimes it prohibits all elements itself. In this case, no action is required - you can only view the description of the found infection.
One of the web pages, which was considered infected by six antiviruses on VirusTotal, was ignored by AVG. He discovered the infection only when it was on the hard drive and trying to become active.
4 Avast! Free Antivirus (11.1.2245)
At Avast installation! you also need to be careful: it is checked by default Google installation Chrome and Google Toolbar for IE. After installation without additional components, the antivirus takes up 604 MB - a lot, but half the size of Avira Free.
Even the main antivirus window is full of hidden advertising. The promised gift turns out to be a formal discount on paid products. The “Tools” tab does not list additional protection modules, but advertising links to their descriptions. Once you click one of them, the offer to select the option of additional paid protection will reside in the main Avast window for a long time.
When trying to manually launch a blocked MSS executable from Avast! We do not meet any resistance. A potentially dangerous file (downloader) with an invalid signature is ignored by the antivirus.
Malicious Java script and Avast exploits! blocks immediately, and infected web pages do not load at all. However, the message about detected threats does not look informative - it is the same for different malware and does not even allow one to judge their number.
Avast malware archive! allowed me to download, but checked it myself and immediately detected a threat - even before I tried to look at the list of downloads.
Another executable file that is detected as malicious by 34 antivirus programs on VirusTotal, Avast! ignored. He silently allowed it to be downloaded and forced to run, bypassing the MSS block.
Big Brother Footsteps
With the instigation of Microsoft, which released "", the practice of open surveillance of users is becoming generally accepted among software developers. It is directly stated in the user agreement, but who reads it? For example, for Avira this item looks like this:
“We may collect, store and use information that identifies you, your device (as defined below), and your device's interactions with other devices (such as device ID, device IP address, location, content, language preferences, IMEI code device, device brand and model, battery status, device OS version, device phone number, SIM number, network provider name, memory status, geo-information based on GPS/Wi-Fi/network location and any other technical information... Some This information may be used to identify you, including, but not limited to: name, address, telephone number, email address, social security card number, information about credit card, facial image, voice sample or biometric data (collectively, “Personal Information”) and may include data stored on your device. We may also transfer your personal information to other countries where our product providers' equipment is located.".
Other developers have slightly different wording, but the general principle remains the same. They collect all the data that is technically possible to obtain. Since the antivirus is deeply integrated into the OS, installs its own drivers and intercepts system calls, it has access to all information - including encrypted information, since the user himself has decrypted it at least once.
Against this background, the statement Evgeniy Kaspersky made when announcing the release of a free antivirus named after himself is encouraging:
However, even here it is not without a share of slyness. Kaspersky Free itself collects only general anonymized statistics, such as the number of threats found by type. However, it is enabled by default cloud service Kaspersky Security Network, and KSN is known for its information-gathering appetite. Detailed logs are sent to it, which include a list installed programs along with paths, detailed monitoring of user work, lists of running processes, application usage statistics and other private data. You can disable it on the corresponding tab.
conclusions
As you can see from this little experiment, all free antiviruses reacted slightly differently to the same threats. Some blocked the link by displaying a warning at an early stage. Others did not allow the infected file to be downloaded or prevented the launch of a malicious script, while others responded only to the local launch of the malware or skipped it altogether. The point here is not that a paid antivirus is better than a free one from the same developer - they have the same engine and base. It’s just that the paid versions use additional protection modules, thanks to which threats are recognized and blocked not only by signature analysis.
Overall, Kaspersky Free did not cause any significant complaints. It is very similar to a stripped-down KIS, from which optional components and foolproof protection were removed, advertising was added and KSN was hidden deeper.
Avira was distinguished by its monstrously long installation time and gluttony. It took up the most space, and the computer with it significantly slowed down during basic operations. It practically does not work with archives. In any case, it does not check those downloaded from the Internet before manually unpacking them.
Avast! ignored a couple of serious threats (one is enough for the user) and is also replete with sly advertising. It blocks detected malware immediately, but it is impossible to understand what happened without a detailed analysis of the log. Antivirus messages look the same and do not imply a choice on the part of the user - usually they are simply notifications about a decision made.
AVG generally looks adequate, but the company's policy regarding user data leaves much to be desired. If it weren't for the information collection ultimatum, it could be recommended as a good free antivirus.
Antivirus protection is a very important element for safe use computer, because it protects user data and prevents malicious code from entering the system. Surely even a novice PC user can immediately name several antivirus programs. And here the problem of choice appears. For example, people often face a dilemma: “Which antivirus is better: Avast or Kaspersky?”. We have made a detailed comparison of these products and are ready to present it to you.
To be objective, you need to compare according to certain criteria, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of both programs. We decided to define the following:
- Efficiency of protection.
- Ease of use, appearance.
- Availability (we are talking about the availability of paid/free publications plus antivirus versions for various platforms).
Let's go through each point in more detail.
Quality of virus protection
Perhaps this is the most important criterion for comparing antiviruses. But on the other hand, it is also the most controversial. After all, there is no way to say that Kaspersky is less reliable. And there are several reasons for this:
- Both projects protect the user's computer from all known threats. In addition, they are regularly updated, learning to identify new viruses.
- In some cases, protection is even excessive - regular programs are determined for some reason to be malicious, although they are not.
- Avast and Kaspersky companies produce their products not only for private use, but also for the business segment. This means that protection against them is chosen not only for ordinary computers, but also for large companies with a worldwide reputation.
So both antiviruses are safe enough for home use.
User comfort
The installation procedure in both is intuitive, so let's look at the interfaces of each program.
Avast has a modern “blocky” interface that is immediately noticeable; the appearance of various elements is accompanied by some kind of animation. The color palette is dominated by gray and purple. 
Kaspersky has a more familiar design, which can be called classic. Animations are also present, and they are smoother. Among the colors, the main aspect is made of white (as a background) and green (to highlight the controls). 
Each interface has its own fan, and it’s up to you to choose which option is more attractive.
Computer resource consumption
We conducted an extremely crude and unrepresentative study in which we ran both Avast and Kaspersky threat scans simultaneously, and then looked at computer load information in Task Manager. 
It showed that Kaspersky consumes more computer resources when compared with a real competitor. The same information is confirmed by numerous user reviews.
Distribution model
Standard protection from both Avast and Kaspersky is free. But advanced publications are already available by subscription. Moreover, they are presented for Windows, Mac OS and Android in both cases. So the distribution model here is similar, and it was also not possible to identify the leader using this criterion.
conclusions
In this comparison, we could not identify a clear leader. Both antiviruses are quite secure and are available for all current desktop mobile platforms. This means that your choice should be based on the consumption of computer resources and personal comfort. 
With ordinary use, Kaspersky loads the system a little more, but it is not a fact that the situation will not change with subsequent program updates.
In terms of ease of use, everything is not so clear:
- Avast has a modern appearance, it will appeal to people who strive for minimalism.
- Kaspersky's interface is somewhat reminiscent of its competitor, but still closer to the classic version.
The final decision is up to you. Our advice is extremely simple: use Avast first and, if necessary, switch to Kaspersky. Then you can form your own opinion regarding each antivirus.
There are a great variety of software products of this kind and their number continues to grow every year. While preparing this article, I have already weeded out the mediocre options and selected the four most famous antiviruses so that now, having studied their features in detail, I can find the best one.
Which antivirus is better - Kaspersky, Nod32, Avast, Dr. Web?
Degree of protection
The main criterion for selecting an antivirus is its ability to detect malware and then isolate or destroy it. Not every program copes with this task fully, but only shows false activity. What is the best antivirus for this component? Let's get a look:
- Kaspersky is far ahead of all its competitors in terms of protection. Its mechanisms allow you to block all external threats at high speeds, in real time, even before they penetrate the computer. Even if the malicious code is archived, the antivirus will detect it and notify the user about it. Of course, you will have to pay a price for extensive opportunities, but more on that later.
- Nod32 contains the entire set of tools necessary to prevent virus programs from entering your computer, and if they do manage to penetrate, it will be able to fight them thanks to file removal and disinfection tools. Unfortunately, everything is good only in words, but in reality there are enough security holes for some viruses to get through them. Plus, the large number of false protection alarms on absolutely safe files is very annoying (you have to constantly pull them out of quarantine and add them to exceptions).
- Avast antivirus, as for free software, copes well with its tasks - it fights various kinds of threats, periodically scans the system and monitors operations with files and folders in real time, which makes it possible to quickly eliminate almost any threat. Even while the Windows screen saver is showing, Avast is already starting to check for malicious code in the system.
- Dr. Web is an excellent solution for those who want to protect their computer from unauthorized intrusion from the outside. The program successfully fights file viruses, Trojans, polymorphic viruses, spyware and a bunch of other unwanted guests. The operating mechanisms are designed in such a way that most of the currently known viruses are not able to interfere with the operation of the algorithm or bypass it.
Easy to install and configure
There shouldn't be any problems installing and configuring security software, because its priority is to start protecting your computer as soon as possible. And it’s best if you don’t need to spend a long time fiddling with options before doing this.
There is nothing special to write about at this point and it is difficult to determine the best one, since most antivirus programs have long since arrived at a certain unified working model. To install each product, you just need to run the executable file and follow the instructions provided. Activation for paid versions occurs by entering the code and username, after which all functions will become available, including automatic updating. To take full advantage of the opportunities free product, you will have to go through the registration procedure. All the reviewed antiviruses have all the main services enabled by default - real-time protection, scheduled scanning and others, without which it is impossible to guarantee the security of the system.
Load on computer resources
One of the most important criteria in choosing an antivirus program, especially for owners of little powerful computer ov. If the program is poorly optimized or full of unnecessary services, the user will experience performance problems.
- No matter what the experts say who are trying to convince us that Kaspersky Anti-Virus does not load the system, it does not sound convincing, because any user can notice with the naked eye a significant decrease in performance during scanning and slow file opening, which is associated with the anti-virus constantly hanging in the processes monitor. The salvation from all of the above is a truly powerful PC configuration.
- Nod32 has no problems with speed. Moreover, this is probably the fastest modern antivirus that is focused on minimal use of computer resources. I myself have long been a fan of this antivirus precisely because of its negligible impact on computer performance. At one time, Nod even ran on a computer with 256 megabytes of RAM.
- Avast is famous for its low resource consumption and low requirements for computer resources. Even on low-power systems, scanning is fast enough and has virtually no effect on applications running in parallel by the user, be it a video editor, browser or 3D application. In February 2010, Avast was awarded the award for the fastest antivirus monitor.
- Dr. Web shows average results in terms of load on computer resources and is somewhere between Kaspersky and Nod. Copying files, booting the system, browsing the web - all this happens quite quickly. The only thing I can complain about is the compression speed of ZIP archives when the maximum level of protection is enabled. At this point, the load increases significantly.
Additional functionality
Modern antiviruses not only perform the main task assigned to them, but also solve a number of other problems, for example, block users’ access to phishing sites, check the integrity of the registry, and so on (each program has its own characteristics).
- In addition to protecting against viruses, Kaspersky fights advertising programs, checks Java and Visual Basic scripts, analyzes and blocks browser vulnerabilities Internet Explorer(this, in my opinion, is an unnecessary function, since this browser itself is a walking vulnerability and no one uses it). Kaspersky Anti-Virus also has a set of tools with which you can create a system emergency recovery disk.
- Nod32 doesn't have much additional features, like its competitors, but what little is provided to users is implemented on high level. For example, an anti-spam module that allows you to filter out suspicious emails, thereby increasing the security of your work, or a personal firewall, which is many times more reliable than the standard solution from Microsoft or other operating system manufacturers.
- Additional Avast functionality varies greatly depending on the version you choose. Of the shareware builds, it would be best to take Premier, which has an antispam filter, the ability remote control PC, firewall and many other services. And if you shell out for a paid license, the most functional will be the Endpoint Protection Suite, which incorporates the capabilities of all other versions and has its own unique ones.
- Doctor Web also boasts a wide range of additional functionality - here is the opportunity Reserve copy data with subsequent recovery, and centralized protection management corporate networks, and a behavior analyzer. In general, the list can be continued for a long time, especially since the company is actively working to improve its product.
Updates
Attackers never sit idle and do nothing but invent new ways to harm you and your computer. Therefore, it is very important that the antivirus updates its defense mechanisms in a timely manner. Which one is better for this component?
- Kaspersky AV is updated in automatic mode and quite often. The company's employees, in collaboration with users, look for new vulnerabilities and update anti-virus databases and the registry of phishing and other sites with potentially dangerous content. If automatic updating is disabled (in order to improve system performance, for example), you will have to launch it from the main program menu.
- Nod32 is updated as critical updates to antivirus and other databases are released. If you wish, you can configure the launch of this function according to the task scheduler, at the time you specify. For example, by setting to check for updates only during the first launch operating system and no more than once a day. It makes no sense to disable auto-updates, since they weigh little.
- Avast functionality allows you not only to promptly download new anti-virus databases, but also to promptly update the version of the program itself without reinstalling it again. To do this, just go to the corresponding section of the menu and see if there are more new version, and then, if necessary, start the update process. This is a rather long procedure if a lot of time has passed since the previous update.
- Doktov Web offers us a slightly inconvenient option for updating the program version, in which you should remove old version before installing a new one. If an error occurs during deletion, or “bits” remain in the system, users are asked to use the emergency recovery utility or contact service technical support. Everything is fine with updating the anti-virus databases - it happens automatically.
Mobile versions
In this paragraph we will look at antivirus software from reviewed manufacturers, designed for mobile devices– tablets, smartphones, pocket computers. We will briefly describe the advantages and disadvantages of these programs, and try to identify the best one.
- The mobile version of Kaspersky, called Kaspersky Mobile Security, works with Symbian, Android and Windows Mobile, providing electronic devices running these operating systems with a full range of security services. These include antivirus protection, SMS spam protection and much more. Particularly noteworthy is the Anti-Theft function, which allows you to block a stolen/lost smartphone by sending an SMS message with a code.
- The solution from ESET (Nod32 Mobile Security) also covers the three mobile platforms listed above and does an excellent job of its main task - protection against viruses and spyware, including the main problem of smartphones - applications that can automatically send SMS messages from your number to any other. Like its older brother, the mobile version is gentle on system resources.
- Avast supports work with PDAs running on Android systems, Palm, Windows CE. Other popular platforms, unfortunately, are not available. It comes in two versions - regular, containing only a basic set of features, and Premium, which has advanced functionality.
- Mobile version of Dr. Web is extremely popular among users of portable devices. For example, in the Russian-language Android Market this antivirus application ranks second in terms of downloads. As in the Kaspersky program, there is Anti-Theft technology, black and white lists that allow you to filter calls and SMS messages coming from other numbers.
Technical support
Large antivirus companies typically provide their clients with additional online or offline assistance—additional resources, Email, phone number. Let's evaluate the effectiveness of the technical support of our four competitors.
- Kaspersky Anti-Virus developers are actively working on a solution technical problems related to the operation of their product - user support is available around the clock, both online and offline. Unfortunately, many will be upset by the fact that older versions of this software (1.5-2 years old) are no longer supported, and for some, updates are not even released.
- ESET, which develops Nod32 and other antivirus solutions, has a very advanced system online help. There is even a feature where you give a technical support employee remote access to your computer and he will fix all the problems himself. Alternatively, you can simply express your problem to one of the specialists by calling or sending an email.
- Avast has a detailed reference guide, translated into more than 40 languages. Therefore, almost any common problem can be solved without even contacting technical support. However, you can always ask your question on the official forum, where not only experts, but also other users will listen to you, or fill out a form on the website.
- Technical support Web allows clients to as soon as possible get an answer to the question posed. If the problem cannot be solved on your own, with the help of a Virtual Engineer, company employees will gain access to your PC and fix the problem (of course, with your consent). In addition, if any file seems suspicious to you, you can immediately send it for analysis.
Let's sum it up
Choosing the best antivirus product is not as easy as it seems at first glance. There's enough powerful protection from Kaspersky, but it does not spare computer resources - if you have a powerful computer and want to protect valuable information, this is for you. There is Nod32, lightweight and fast - an excellent solution for an office or home gaming PC, it does not load the system, and somehow copes with its responsibilities. Well, don’t forget about the shareware Avast and Dr.Web – they are suitable for those who don’t want to spend money on buying an antivirus (we don’t take piracy into account).
In general, each program has obvious advantages on some points and directly opposite indicators on others. Therefore, each user will have to decide for himself what is more important to him - speed, security, price or something else.
Reviews
Thank you very much for the article. I completely agree with the author of the article, but, however, I cannot help but add about an antivirus such as MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials). It is free, has a constantly updated virus database, works quickly, and is quite flexible in use. I can’t say that he was worse - he never “missed” an extra virus. I also highly recommend the utility from Dr.Web - Cure IT. It is free and is great for one-time or regular PC checks, as well as for PC treatment in critical situations, in safe mode and so on.
I talked about this topic with my hacker IT specialists, and everyone unanimously believes that buying anti-virus software is a waste of money, because... Each of the products on the market can successfully fight some viruses/spyware, but will also easily ignore others, or may do both poorly. Best protection computer - compliance with basic safety rules on the network. The most acceptable way that I found for myself is to install a Linux-based operating system - they either don’t have viruses at all or they do, but they are very unpopular. Plus the security policy and rights are implemented differently remote access to the car. True, it is very possible to infect a computer with a virus, but since... viruses are written in 99% of cases under Win, this will not affect the performance of Linux in any way (another thing, it can damage everyone’s favorite “windows”). Accordingly, there is no need to install an antivirus, although they are available.
There is no clear answer to the question of which antivirus is better. I don't like any of the antiviruses listed. I have been using VIPRE for many years now, in my opinion it is the best antivirus. But periodically I also clean it with herdProtect. It seems that God has been merciful so far.
Polina, by the way, I remember when I was using Windows and inadvertently picked up viruses - AVZ was a great help. A lightweight, simple antivirus that operates on the basis of scripts. It helps with a bang against known viruses or exploits, there is a special community that develops scripts for treatment. And if not, then you can scan the system yourself and send the log file for analysis. Virtual healing gurus always help
On Linux there really are no problems with viruses, but this system is not suitable for everyone. Regarding the issue of preventing infection, it is worth noting that the main flow of viruses (about 90%) is usually associated with executable files downloaded from the Internet, or those that are executable, but are disguised as other types, so to speak. For example, a torrent downloaded from an unreliable resource. So, to secure this main source, you can use browser add-ons that check the reliability of the resource, for example, “WOT” for Mozilla Firefox. Of course, you need to keep an eye on it yourself - a suspicious resource will always give itself away with an overly rubbery layout and “strained” comments. There are also special add-ons that allow the browser itself to check a file for a virus and block self-opening windows. If you follow these precautions, the chance of contracting the virus is extremely low.
I used it while using Linux. Either I’m doing something wrong or the sites around me are suspicious. I'm tired of constantly poking the button to close the warning and confirm that I intend to switch to an “unsafe” resource. And still there is no fear that I will catch the virus, a kind of state of surfing freedom. That's why I demolished it. And for Win users, of course, I also recommend installing this add-on.
Sometimes the assessment is not entirely adequate, or the resource is based on a third-party engine. It's quite rare for me to have glitches or misjudgments; perhaps it's gotten better now. There may be better add-ons, but I personally installed it because... it is the most popular and has the highest rating.
I don’t use any of the above antiviruses; I have Mc Affee.
I had it too. Very peculiar, once it missed a virus, another time it displayed unnecessary messages. How is it in your work?
Just great, only sometimes he swears at many sites on the Internet. Moreover, if he misses something, Panda will finish it off)
Yes, it’s hard to say which antivirus is better; Kaspersky is the most popular, that’s for sure. I used to use Windows and catch viruses with all antiviruses - Kakspersky, Nod32, Avast. Then I switched to a Mac and I’m not worried about the best antivirus, I don’t use it at all and everything is fine. But I’m afraid that soon the Mac will become popular and I’ll have to worry about choosing the best antiviruses again.
In general, it is advisable never to install a large number of antiviruses at the same time, because they can “detect” each other as viruses, because keep them in quarantine. In addition, it results in an unjustified load on the RAM.
I use on different computers Kaspersky and Avast antiviruses. There is definitely no need to install more than one antivirus at the same time, what are you guys doing? Which is better is an eternal question, just like in comparing Mercedes and BMW, some prefer one, others prefer the other. It would probably be more correct to ask the question not which antivirus is better in general, but to divide it into criteria:
Which antivirus is the fastest
Which antivirus is the easiest
Compare some settings
Etc
But in general, it is impossible to objectively answer the question of which is better: Avast, Doctor Web, Kaspersky, NOD32.
If your computer is weak in hardware, then nod32 is suitable for this case. If you think that your computer is of average health, then Avast and dr.web are suitable for this. Well, for powerful computers, Kasperskyi is suitable, well, this is my opinion, because it overloads the system. And also, never put nod32 and lasperskyi on medium and weak computers in place because it will hang up a lot.
I use Avast, well, it constantly says “Threat”, almost every 12 hours “The virus database has been updated.” I’ve been using it for almost a year, there have been no problems with viruses, and if there are any, it’s entirely my fault. I’m skipping them myself once again)
I use Avast and am completely satisfied. Doesn't bother you with notifications and does a great job.
Everyone has their own opinion, but it still seems to me that Kaspersky is better. I used to have Doctor Web and it didn’t really help, in other words, I had to tear down the system and install a new one. And when I installed Kaspersky, initially I didn’t like that it blocked almost everything, but now I’ve been using it for about a year and I don’t complain because not a single infection gets in. My friends told me that Avast is still good. Otherwise, I don’t really know since I’m not a programmer or an expert in this field.
Sergei Medvedev
First, I’ll ask a question: what guides you when choosing an antivirus program? What parameters do you choose?
- Reliability? (will not miss a single enemy!);
- Ease? (even if it lets someone through, but it doesn’t slow down the computer);
- By recommendation? (everyone says he’s just super!);
I'm sure most people reading these questions will choose the first option! Although they will be sure that they are guided only by this, it will not be entirely true!
In fact, most PC users choose an antivirus program only on recommendation! This is especially true for beginners and inexperienced people...
But how to make the right choice?
What is the best antivirus?
Three years ago I was like that myself! For me, Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2009 was the height of perfection and I didn’t even want to think about any other anti-virus program! It couldn't be more reliable!
Even now I don’t want to hear about all sorts of Avira, AVG, Nod, etc.
And I used it until mid-2010. Until the computer reached such a state that I had to call an adjuster from the legal guide! I then blamed the provider for not giving me the promised Internet speed!
It turned out that everything is not so simple...
Do you know what he did first? Disabled Kaspersky! And after that we had an interesting conversation...
Why does Kaspersky antivirus suck?
He said that he has not used Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2009 for a long time and does not even think about installing the new one, 2010!
And he told about the experiment that they carried out out of curiosity.
He and the guys wrote their own virus, put it on a flash drive and began to stick it into computers with different anti-virus programs one by one...
On one there was Kaspersky, on the other Dr.Web, on the third Avast. Free Avast!
Interestingly, the first two (Kaspersky and Web) did not react at all. Avast said that this program was performing some suspicious actions and sent it to quarantine.
The databases were updated according to schedule, as if nothing had happened...
This is where I first thought...
Which antivirus program should I use?
I was told before that Avast better than Kaspersky, but I didn’t believe it! How can free be better than paid?
But after all this, I reinstalled the system and installed free Avast! There were a lot of concerns!
The first thing I liked was the computer, as if the handbrake had been taken off! Or the clutch was repaired (motorists will understand me!)
Second, I stopped getting bothered by all sorts of stupid warnings about suspicious programs and actions!
And third, after some time I realized that if viruses penetrate me, they are not serious...
There is a good utility Malwarebytes" Anti-Malware. It finds all sorts of spyware, Trojans, worms, etc. on your computer.
Free version to a simple user Enough for the eyes! It is better to use once a week... You can download Malwarebytes" Anti-Malware for free
By the way, while I was writing, she was scanning the computer. Result - 28 spy objects!
Upon closer examination, you can see that four of them are registry keys responsible for updating the system, archiving files and checking programs at startup, which I personally disabled!
Two registration keys and 22 cracks and keygens!
Therefore, if you use it, then carefully review what Malwarebytes "Anti-Malware found! Otherwise you will be left without cracked toys and programs!
Yes, this utility regularly finds all sorts of bad things! But I’ll tell you a great secret - there is not a single antivirus program that protects your computer 100%!
It’s just that I often meet people (sometimes inexperienced, sometimes downright stupid) who blindly trust their antivirus program more than people...
They, like drowning people, hold on to this straw and are afraid to let it go!
Kaspersky Anti-Virus is lying to you!
Kaspersky Anti-Virus writes that it is a virus and they believe it unquestioningly! And they have no idea that:
- Kaspersky is stupid and often reacts this way to completely normal programs or scripts
- Kaspersky does not always react this way to real viruses
- Kaspersky simply complicates the user's life and prevents it from working normally
Don't believe me?
And you conduct an experiment! The next time Kaspersky informs you about a virus, copy the name of this virus, type “online virus check” into the search engine and check whether such a virus is in the databases.
And for the advanced - download the file that Kaspersky considered a virus in online service and see what happens...
You can do the same with the site that Kaspersky “swears” at!
Now you understand that I am not for Avast, I’m just against Kaspersky! It interfered with my work when I used it and it interferes now that I no longer use it!
The fact is that someone is downloading my files, and Kasper says that there is a virus there! And they accuse me of spreading viruses!
They come to my blog, and Kasper says that there are viruses on it! Casper is turned off, viruses disappear!
This is all annoying!
Also understand this simple thing - viruses will not get onto your computer on their own, without your permission! Now, if you download something, then it’s easy.
A virus is a program! And in order for it to start working, it must be loaded! And nothing else...
By the way, almost a year ago, I decided to try Avast Internet Security. Shouldn't have done this...
The fact is that, as I understand it, I simply don’t go to virus breeding grounds. I don’t go to porn sites, gaming or warez sites. I also don’t like to look at torrents, so every Avast report stated that 0 viruses were detected!
It turns out that for me, both the paid and the free version provide equally reliable protection...
As you can see, I wrote this post not as a specialist, but as a simple user! Just someone with experience...
Recently I was fiddling with my laptop. I installed the system, configured it... They brought Kaspersky antivirus! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen how, after installation, computer performance drops several times!
And this is a double-edged sword! People heard that Casper good antivirus, bought it, now we understand that it’s bullshit, but it’s a shame to throw it away! We've already paid! Now they will suffer for a year!
What you do is up to you to decide. If you like to suffer, suffer! If you don't like it, change something...
By the way, you can read how I fought with Kaspersky
In addition, if you are interested, you can look at the rating - the best antiviruses,
And I will be glad to hear your opinion about Kaspersky and Avast antiviruses in the comments!
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172 comments: Don't trust your antivirus!
Something itched in my soul when Sergei Medvedev thought that if Kaspersky was praised, it meant it was Keys employees. After all, it’s also possible to identify Avast employees?))) I used to use pirated keys for Kaspersky, but now I buy one-year licenses and am happy with the performance of the KIS2015 antivirus (15.0.1.415) If the chat is open for weighing the pros and cons, then KIS very popular in the world. I was in Japan, it is displayed there in the windows of computer software, even rejoiced for the Russian manufacturer. It is known that Sberbank is protected by Kaspersky, and the Ministry of Justice is too. And they won’t use unreliable programs there. In general, I still have my computer cluttered with programs and files with Kaspersky and plows like a workhorse around the clock. A colleague brought her buggy netbook to clean and set up, and Avast was there. It will have to be surgically removed again. It doesn't want to be removed using the uninstaller. It's 2015, and Avast has the same problem as years ago.
Bitdefender Internet Security - Your opinion!!!???
Avast helped me out. For example, I go to Yandex, and it’s blocked, I turn on Casper, silence. Avast pulled Virya out of the system code, and everything worked) I swear, guys! Even now Avast. They brought no beech! And Casper won’t start! Avast I started it up without any problems, checked it out, and for the sake of experimentation I demolished Avast, installed Casper) and lo and behold, shitty Casper started up! GIP GIP Avast!
Good day, Sergey! Yes, Gire may have answered incorrectly, but as I read his last offensive phrases addressed to you, my fingers began to tap on the keyboard. I tried to answer him in his language! He came to your blog and still shits!!! I subscribed to your newsletters a long time ago and am studying and testing strategies, of course, on paper!!! Yesterday I uninstalled Kaspersky and installed a paid version of the anti-advertising software Adguard for a year (before that it was trial version) via your link. As a bonus, they gave me the Emsisoft Anti-Molware antivirus software with a key, also for a year. A little about myself: I am a mechanical engineer myself, but who needs us now are mechanical engineers, and especially machine builders. I work at a private enterprise, but I think that this enterprise will not exist much longer with such unfortunate owners. So I want to earn additional income for myself on BO. I really liked your report about your family vacation on Yarovoye. I read it, looked at the photographs and felt like visiting my homeland! I was born and raised in Slavgorod. It was then, after studying in Krasnoyarsk, that my wife and I moved to Kuzbass in Kemerovo. So I’ve been familiar with these salt lakes since childhood. True, I rarely go to my homeland, once every 3-4 years. It’s a pity, but more often than not it doesn’t work out. And the mud is better on Maly Yarovoy (they take it for the mud baths on Bolshoy Yarovoy). So you and your family have improved your health for at least a year! Sergey, I have the following question for you. At the end of January I really want to register and transfer the deposit to the broker, at a crossroads! On your blog I got acquainted (based on the size of the deposit that I will make) with brokers BINOMO and VOSPARI. Using your link I can register with VOSPARI, if with BINOMO, then as you answered my earlier question, there will be no benefits for me there. What do you recommend? With respect and gratitude, Alexander.
Answers:
Greetings Alexander.
We were on Yarovoye for two years in a row. I didn’t blog about my trip last summer, but it was also interesting. This time our daughter was persuaded to come with us. The influx of tourists is increasing year by year, when we arrived we spent the night on the beach, in the car, since we were cheated out of housing :)
About work. I wrote this about Binomo because I can’t vouch for this broker since I don’t work closely with him. But, if you like him and want to work with him, then no problem, make a deposit, write to me by email and I will send training materials.
P.S. And people like this Girya do dirty tricks wherever they can. After all, they know that nothing will happen for this :)
Alexander Answers:
Good day, Sergey. I registered with the Binomo broker and even started trading, but not very successfully. If possible, training materials have been published, otherwise I may not take everything into account when trading. Best regards, Alexander.
Hello! Online since 1997. I have always used Avast, although I have tried many antiviruses. From 13 to 15 (summer) Komodo. but when I tried 360 Total Internet Security, I realized that this is the best antivirus program
1. Absolutely does not load the system and loads from 15 seconds to 1 minute. If the computer is free of garbage, it boots quickly.
2. Finds real viruses.
3. accessible and easy interface.
4. Useful mode scanning, which immediately optimizes the computer, searches for viruses and cleans the registry
After literally working with it for 1 day, I got so used to it that it seems like I’ve always had it.
Having installed it on my phone, I couldn’t be happier with it either.
Yes, this is all nonsense. If you are a quiet and harmless user who is short of time and has no comrade ready to help, alas, you will have to endure difficult situations or pay unreasonable money to the experts. If you are ready to rise a little higher from the teapot level, you will definitely discard the question “which antivirus is better” after reading the first ten headlines in the search engine.
Don’t pollute the system with a lot of unnecessary software, carefully wipe out all startup options, clean the registry and speeds, even with CCleaner, if you still did something nonsense. And forget about ready-made assemblies"useful software" Figure out what functionality is required for a particular task, and do not install unnecessary things in office packages, Photoshop, etc. Don’t forget to defragment, don’t disdain Scandisk, don’t be lazy to check the S.M.A.R.T. parameters of the hard drive from time to time. Create a partition for the OS of normal size, taking into account that you will most likely install the software in the standard path in Program files. Keep personal files separately, and not on system partition, Backup important data from time to time. Turn on system restore, not paying attention to the advice of overly “advanced” users. Make an image of the freshly installed system immediately after installing the drivers. If your computer does not have an OS recovery partition, create an OS recovery disk and save it to a cheap, slow but reliable USB 2.1 flash drive for 300 rubles. Configure any antivirus and firewall without leaving it with default settings. Know how to behave on the Internet and not fall for outright scams. Place dust filters in appropriate places system unit or demand it from the assembler in the store. Install a cooler with sufficient power HDD, and not just the processor and video card, etc...
And Kaspersky will stop overloading the system, and Avast will be removed normally and without “tails”, etc. And the desire to write ridiculous posts in defense of this or that antivirus will disappear.
Don't be lame, learn new things, and RTFM!!!
AVAST Software products are considered one of the most popular in the IT world. According to know-it-all Wikipedia, free antiviruses under this brand rank first in popularity among users. At the same time, the company's developments themselves often compete with each other.
In this article we will find out who would win in a battle Avast Free Antivirus vs. Avast Internet Security, and how Avast Free differs from Pro.
By the way: Find out which free antiviruses are the most effective.
As a result of the comparison, it turned out that the best Avast for use on a home computer is Avast! Free Antivirus. This version perfectly detects and neutralizes viruses, spyware and rootkits. In addition, the antivirus evaluates the reputation of downloaded files and blocks potentially dangerous downloads. Browsing sites in " virtual sandbox” even before downloading them to the PC also significantly increases security.
According to test results, Avast provides the most reliable protection! Internet Security. But it is advisable to install this program only for commercial purposes, on servers or work computers. If the likelihood that your machine could become a target for hackers is low, you do not conduct monetary transactions through it and do not store top-secret files, then we recommend downloading and installing free Avast.
Data on three popular versions AVAST antivirus! we presented in the table:
So, we have decided on the arsenal of possibilities. Now let's figure out what of all this functionality you really need.
Protection against viruses and spyware
All three versions are equipped with the famous avast antivirus engine! with integrated anti-spyware technology. By and large, it was the effective defense against viruses and spyware with a quickly updated database that made the free Avast (the “native” name of which is “Avast Home Edition”) the No. 1 antivirus in the world - more than 200 million users installed it. The same core is found in Avast Pro Antivirus and Avast Internet security.
Blocking rootkits
It is worth saying that not every antivirus can boast of a highly effective anti-rootkits module. But it is this thing that prevents malicious applications from entering your computer through hacked websites and vulnerabilities in Internet browsers. Therefore, the presence of such a “feature” in free version- a good argument “for” Avast.
File reputation assessment
An innovative cloud-based service called FileRep scans the downloaded file before it reaches your computer. Its data is sent to the avast! file reputation service, and if it is found to be suspicious, the download is stopped. Of course, such a check is very important, because the average user on average downloads up to 10 pictures, up to 20 audio recordings and about 3-4 videos per day.
Automatic sandbox
The developers included latest version avast! Free 7 AutoSandbox Virtualization technology, which allows you to open sites in a virtual environment rather than on a computer. Avast Pro antivirus and Avast Internet Security also have it. Autosandbox allows you to view suspicious web pages in a “cloud environment” without passing them on your PC. Undoubtedly, this will be useful, because many sites are teeming with incoming advertising offers, porn links and spies.
Customizable sandbox
What distinguishes Avast Free from Pro and Internet security is that in the latter two, if desired, the user will be able to set up a protection configuration defined by himself using command line. A customizable sandbox allows you not only not to skip “stupid” files on your computer, but also to run programs in the “cloud”. However, this advanced option will most likely be of interest to system administrators and testers.
Secure online shopping and financial transactions
The SafeZone feature is useful for businessmen who prefer to conduct complex and expensive financial transactions safely and confidentially. Such actions can be performed in an “isolated virtual window.” However, at home, the need for SafeZone is unlikely to arise.
Protection of personal data and information
The script shield, which intercepts suspicious scripts and blocks programs that can be launched from outside, is present only in Avast Internet Security. But this shield will only be useful for commercial companies that protect confidential information and data on accounting fraud.
Antispam
Only Internet Security has built-in anti-spam protection. It prevents phishing attacks and annoying pop-ups - but a similar feature can be implemented free programs or browser plugins, for example AdBlock plus.
Built-in firewall
The integrated firewall, which by default blocks unauthorized access to the PC, duplicates almost everything Windows firewall, installed, as a rule, on every home PC.
