Is Avast a safe Antivirus?

Question

I recently found a free antivirus software called Avast. I'm just wondering if it is safe to install and if it is worth it.

If you can, please answer ASAP. My McAfee is running out.

I have seen other users encounter BSoD(STOP) errors and viruses that made its way onto the PC.

My PC is a Dell Inspiron 11 Series 3000. I have no malware or any history of malware(after a reset). I do have an active firewall at the moment(McAfee), but it will run out in a month.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi Comder. I'm Greg, an installation specialist and 9 year Windows MVP here to help you.

No expert in Forums where we see the most cases (by the thousands) recommends Avast, AVG. Norton or McAfee, but we have solved many problems over the years by having them uninstalled.

I would uninstall any 3rd party antivirus and try running only built-in Defender which gives adequate protection, least issues, and is from Microsoft who knows how to protect their OS best.

If you want the best on-demand scanner install and run a full scan with Malwarebytes free scanner: https://www.malwarebytes.com/mwb-download/

You can turn off the free trial at any time in the app's Settings > Account Details.

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and keep me posted. If you'll wait to rate whether my post helped you, I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

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Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

Answer 2

Excuse me, I gave you the very best answer to your question after handling thousands of antivirus cases in forums for ten years. Why would you give me a bad rating for the best possible advice?

Answer 3

Oh right, the website is avast.com and the download link is that big orange button that says "Download for PC."

Answer 4

Avast is ok, but ....odd to use, AVG free has been working for me for almost 10 years.I still leave windows defender on

Answer 5

Suggest reading all of: Best Practices for Safe Computing - Prevention of Malware Infection

especially: 

• Choosing an Anti-Virus Program
• Safe Steps for Replacing your Anti-virus - Why should you use Antivirus software?
• Supplementing your Anti-Virus Program with Anti-Malware Tools
• Choosing a Firewall

and then decide which anti-virus program you want to use.

When you uninstall McAfee please make sure to read/do:

McAfee KB - How to remove McAfee products from a PC running Windows (TS101331) 

In addition you might want to read this post.

Hope this helps a bit.