On this page15 sections
- Ratings and complaints
- Avast vs. competitors
- Pricing
- Step by step
- Avast legitimacy and licensing
- Avast pricing and renewal costs
- Avast Free vs Premium Security vs Ultimate
- How Avast Works
- Stand Out Features
- Avast privacy record and data sharing
- Avast complaints and how to avoid problems
- How to cancel Avast and get a refund
- What customers say
- Alternatives
- FAQ
Avast's free Windows product scored 6 out of 6 for protection, performance and usability in every AV-TEST round from December 2025 to August 2026, and AV-Comparatives named it a 2025 Top-Rated Product. It is a legitimate antivirus from a Czech company that has been part of Gen Digital, Norton's parent, since September 2022. The catches are the price jump at renewal (Premium Security goes from $49.08 to $77.99 a year), constant upgrade prompts in the free app, and a privacy record that includes a 2024 FTC order and a $16.5 million payment over the sale of browsing data. It is a good free pick for one Windows PC; if you pay, turn off auto-renewal or set a reminder before the second-year charge.
Your options
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Avast This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. This review Windows users who want a free antivirus with top lab scores, or a cheap first year of a paid suite covering up to 10 devices.
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TotalAV This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. Alternative People who want an easy antivirus app across several phones and computers and will manage the renewal date themselves.
- Owner
- Gen Digital Inc. (also owns Norton, LifeLock, AVG and Avira); Avast merged with NortonLifeLock on September 12, 20226
- Free version
- Avast Free Antivirus for Windows, plus free apps for Mac, Android and iPhone or iPad1
- Premium Security price
- $49.08 first year, renews at $77.99 a year (1 PC plus 1 mobile device); 10 devices $69.48 first year, renews at $99.99 (as listed October 2026)2
- Ultimate price
- $49.08 first year, renews at $109.99 (1 PC plus 1 mobile); 10 devices $69.48 first year, renews at $139.99. Adds VPN, Cleanup Premium and AntiTrack3
- Refund window
- 30 days for annual plans and each annual renewal; 14 days for a first monthly charge, later monthly charges not refundable4
- Lab results
- AV-TEST August 2026: 6 protection, 6 performance, 6 usability for Avast Free Antivirus 26.65
- Privacy enforcement
- 2024 FTC order bans Avast from selling or licensing browsing data for advertising; about $15.3 million went to 103,152 customers in December 20257
Pros
- Free tier on Windows, Mac, Android and iPhone with no time limit
- Perfect 18 of 18 AV-TEST scores in every Windows round from December 2025 to August 2026
- AV-Comparatives 2025 Top-Rated Product and Gold award for performance
- 10-device plans cost only about $20 more than single-device plans in year one
- 30-day refund on annual plans and on each annual renewal
Cons
- Renewal prices run 44% to 124% above the first-year price
- Free app pushes paid upgrades and add-ons often
- 2024 FTC order and a separate Czech regulator fine over the sale of browsing data
- Monthly renewals after the first charge can't be refunded
- Same parent and engine as AVG and Norton, so switching among them doesn't change much
Best for: Windows users who want a free antivirus with top lab scores, or a cheap first year of a paid suite covering up to 10 devices.
Skip it if: You don't want a company with a recent browsing data enforcement record, or you know you'll forget to cancel before a higher renewal charge.
Avast vs. competitors
| Company | First year | Renews at | Devices | Money-back | AV-TEST Aug 2026 (protection, performance, usability) | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avast Premium Security | $49.08 | $77.99 | 1 PC plus 1 mobile | 30 days | 6, 6, 6 (Free Antivirus) | Visit site |
| AVG Internet Security | $39.99 | $79.99 | 1 PC | 30 days | 6, 6, 6 (AVG Antivirus Free) | Read review |
| Norton 360 Deluxe | $49.99 | $124.99 | 5 | 60 days | 6, 6, 6 | Visit site |
| Microsoft Defender Antivirus | Free, built into Windows | Free | Each Windows PC | Not applicable | 6, 5.5, 6 |
Antivirus software we reviewed
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Avast This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. This review BestGuide rating: 4.6 out of 5. Set by our editorial team from published factors such as cost, credentials, reputation, customer experience, services and guarantees. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first; they are always labeled BestGuide Partner. Best for: Windows users who want a free antivirus with top lab scores, or a cheap first year of a paid suite covering up to 10 devices. -
TotalAV This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. BestGuide rating: 4.8 out of 5. Set by our editorial team from published factors such as cost, credentials, reputation, customer experience, services and guarantees. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first; they are always labeled BestGuide Partner. Best for: People who want an easy antivirus app across several phones and computers and will manage the renewal date themselves. -
AVG BestGuide rating: 4.7 out of 5. Set by our editorial team from published factors such as cost, credentials, reputation, customer experience, services and guarantees. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first; they are always labeled BestGuide Partner. Best for: Windows users who want a free antivirus with strong lab results, or a cheap first year of protection for one PC or a 10-device household. -
Webroot This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. BestGuide rating: 4.7 out of 5. Set by our editorial team from published factors such as cost, credentials, reputation, customer experience, services and guarantees. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first; they are always labeled BestGuide Partner. Best for: People with older or slower PCs who want light, low-maintenance antivirus across a few devices and will manage renewal themselves. -
Malwarebytes This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. BestGuide rating: 4.6 out of 5. Set by our editorial team from published factors such as cost, credentials, reputation, customer experience, services and guarantees. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first; they are always labeled BestGuide Partner. Best for: People who want light, well-tested antivirus with web scam blocking, or a free second-opinion scanner to clean up an infected PC. -
PC Matic This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. BestGuide rating: 4.5 out of 5. Set by our editorial team from published factors such as cost, credentials, reputation, customer experience, services and guarantees. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first; they are always labeled BestGuide Partner. Best for: People who mainly use well-known programs and want inexpensive, low-maintenance protection on several devices. -
ESET This company pays BestGuide when you connect with it through our site. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first. Payment never changes what we report about fees, terms or complaints. BestGuide rating: 4.4 out of 5. Set by our editorial team from published factors such as cost, credentials, reputation, customer experience, services and guarantees. Verified partners are scored on our partner verification program and can be listed first; they are always labeled BestGuide Partner. Best for: People who want proven antivirus that stays light on older or lower-powered computers, without paying for a large bundle. -
Trend Micro Best for: Families who want scam protection and parental controls across many devices, including Chromebooks.
Avast pricing at a glance
Avast plans for Windows, as listed October 20262
| Plan | Devices | First year | Renews at | What it adds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Free Antivirus | 1 device per install | $0 | $0 | Real-time malware scanning, Web and File Shields, Wi-Fi (Network) Inspector, scam guidance |
| Premium Security | 1 PC plus 1 mobile | $49.08 | $77.99 a year | Advanced firewall, webcam protection, Remote Access Shield, fake website checks, scam SMS blocking |
| Premium Security | 10 devices | $69.48 | $99.99 a year | Same, across Windows, Mac, Android and iOS |
| Ultimate | 1 PC plus 1 mobile | $49.08 | $109.99 a year | Premium Security plus Premium VPN, Cleanup Premium and AntiTrack |
| Ultimate | 10 devices | $69.48 | $139.99 a year | Same bundle across 10 devices |
First-year prices are promotional and the plan renews automatically at the higher price. Avast also sells a separate Avast One app line and small office plans.
Avast, step by step
Download the free app
Install Avast Free Antivirus from avast.com. No payment card is needed, and the free tier has no time limit.
Run a Smart Scan
The first scan checks for malware, weak network settings and outdated apps, and it will suggest paid tools along the way.
Upgrade if you want more
Premium Security adds a firewall, ransomware and webcam shields; Ultimate adds a VPN and cleanup tools. Both start at a discounted first-year price.
Watch the renewal date
Paid plans renew automatically at the full price. You can cancel renewal under My Account, then My Subscriptions.
Ask for a refund in time
Annual plans and annual renewals can be refunded in full within 30 days of the charge; a first monthly charge within 14 days.
Avast legitimacy and licensing
Yes. Avast is a real Czech security company that bought rival AVG in 2016 and merged with NortonLifeLock in September 2022; the combined company renamed itself Gen Digital in November 2022. Its software is tested by the major independent labs, and the free Windows product scored 6 out of 6 for protection, performance and usability in AV-TEST’s August 2026 round and in every round since December 2025.
Safe for your device is not the same as safe for your data. The FTC charged that Avast collected browsing data through its antivirus software and browser extensions and sold it, without adequate notice or consent, to more than 100 third parties through a subsidiary called Jumpshot. The FTC’s 2024 order bans Avast from selling or licensing that data for advertising and required a $16.5 million payment; the FTC sent about $15.3 million to 103,152 customers in December 2025. Czech regulators separately fined Avast CZK 351 million (about $14.8 million) under the GDPR in 2024. Download Avast only from avast.com, and be wary of pop-ups or emails claiming your Avast subscription renewed, since scammers copy the brand.
Avast pricing and renewal costs
The free tier costs nothing. Premium Security is $49.08 for the first year on 1 PC plus 1 mobile device, then $77.99 a year; the 10-device version is $69.48, then $99.99. Ultimate, which adds Avast Premium VPN, Cleanup Premium and AntiTrack, is $49.08 for the first year and then $109.99, or $69.48 then $139.99 for 10 devices.
The renewal price is the number to budget for. If you only need one Windows PC protected, compare a second year of Premium Security ($77.99) with the free Microsoft Defender already on your PC. Buying through Apple, Google Play or a retailer means refunds go through that store, not Avast.
Avast Free vs Premium Security vs Ultimate
Avast Free Antivirus includes the same scanning engine that earned the lab scores, plus Web and File Shields, a Wi-Fi network scanner and scam guidance. Premium Security adds an advanced firewall, webcam protection, a Remote Access Shield against unauthorized remote desktop logins, fake website checks for shopping and banking, and scam text blocking on phones. Ultimate bundles Premium Security with a VPN, Cleanup Premium for junk files and AntiTrack against browser fingerprinting.
For most people the jump from Free to Premium is about the firewall and webcam controls; Windows already has a firewall. The VPN in Ultimate is the main reason to pay more, so compare it with a standalone VPN if privacy on public Wi-Fi is your goal.
In the vast landscape of cybersecurity, few names are as recognizable as Avast. With hundreds of millions of users worldwide, this software giant has cemented itself as a go-to solution for individuals seeking robust protection without necessarily breaking the bank. In this comprehensive Avast Review, we will dig deep into the software’s capabilities, performance impact, and overall value proposition to help you decide if it is the right shield for your digital life.
Choosing an antivirus is no longer just about blocking viruses; it is about privacy, Ransomware. Malware that locks or encrypts your files and demands payment to release them. Compare antivirus software protection, and minimizing system impact. Throughout this Avast Review, we analyze how the software holds up against modern threats and whether its “free” label comes with hidden costs. Whether you are a casual browser or a power user, understanding the nuances of your security software is critical.
How Avast Works
Avast operates on a multi-layered security model designed to intercept threats at various stages of attack. At its core, the antivirus engine uses a combination of traditional signature matching and advanced heuristic analysis. This means it doesn’t just look for known viruses; it looks for suspicious behavior that indicates a new, unknown threat (zero-day exploits).
When you install the software, it deploys several “shields” that run silently in the background. The File Shield scans programs as they are opened or downloaded. The Web Shield intercepts malicious scripts and blocks dangerous URLs before they can load in your browser. Meanwhile, the Behavior Shield monitors active processes for anything out of the ordinary, such as a program suddenly trying to encrypt your documents, a tell-tale sign of ransomware.
This Avast Review found that Avast includes cloud-based components, such as CyberCapture, which can submit unrecognized files to Avast Threat Labs for analysis in a safe virtual environment. By offloading certain types of Malware. Any software designed to harm a device or steal data, including viruses, spyware and ransomware. Compare antivirus software analysis to the cloud, Avast aims to keep your local PC fast while maintaining a real-time database of the latest global threats.
Stand Out Features
While the core antivirus engine is the star of the show, Avast offers several standout features that differentiate it from the competition.
- Smart Scan: This is Avast’s signature all-in-one maintenance tool. With a single click, Smart Scan checks for malware, outdated software, weak passwords, and network vulnerabilities. It streamlines the maintenance process, making it easy for non-technical users to keep their systems healthy.
- Ransomware Shield: Included in both free and premium versions, this feature adds an extra layer of protection to your most sensitive folders (like Documents and Photos). It strictly controls which applications are allowed to modify files in these directories, effectively neutralizing ransomware attacks.
- Network Inspector: Formerly known as Wi-Fi Inspector, this tool scans your local network to identify devices connected to your Wi-Fi and highlights any potential security holes, such as weak router passwords or outdated firmware on IoT devices.
- Sandbox (Premium): For paying users, the Sandbox feature is a highlight. It allows you to open suspicious files in a completely isolated virtual environment. If the file turns out to be malicious, it cannot harm your actual operating system.
What customers say about Avast
Recurring themes across the review sites and complaint records listed above, not individual quotes.
Common praise
- Free protection that runs in the background without slowing the PC much
- Simple setup and a clear interface
- Long-time users report years without infections
- Strong independent lab scores
Common complaints
- Unexpected renewal charges at a higher price than the first year
- Trouble cancelling a subscription or getting a refund
- Frequent pop-ups and upsells for add-on tools in the free app
- Distrust over the past sale of browsing data
Avast privacy record and data sharing
The FTC alleged that Avast told users its products would protect their privacy by blocking third-party tracking while it sold detailed browsing data to more than 100 third parties through Jumpshot. The final order, approved June 27, 2024, bans Avast from selling or licensing browsing data from Avast products for advertising, requires affirmative express consent before it sells browsing data from non-Avast products for advertising, and orders it to delete the data sent to Jumpshot and any products or algorithms built from it. Check the privacy settings in the app after you install it and turn off any optional data sharing you don’t want.
Avast complaints and how to avoid problems
Avast’s Trustpilot score is 4.3 out of 5 across 46,513 reviews, but the one-star reviews (12%) cluster around billing: renewals at a higher price than expected, recurring charges people did not recognize, and trouble cancelling. The free app’s upgrade prompts are the other common gripe. The BBB rates parent Gen Digital A+, with 908 complaints in three years across all of its brands.
To avoid surprises, write down the renewal date when you buy, turn off auto-renewal under My Account, then My Subscriptions, if you are not sure you want a second year, and request a refund within 30 days of any annual charge. If a charge was made without your consent and Avast won’t fix it, dispute it with your card issuer and report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
How to cancel Avast and get a refund
Sign in to your Avast account, open My Account, choose My Subscriptions and click Cancel Renewal or Manage Subscriptions. Avast says the change can take up to 24 hours to show and that it sends a confirmation email. Annual subscriptions and each annual renewal can be refunded in full within 30 days of the charge. A first monthly charge can be refunded within 14 days; later monthly charges can’t. Uninstalling the app does not cancel the subscription.
Alternatives to Avast
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Microsoft Defender Antivirus
Free, already on Windows and without upgrade pop-ups; enough for many people who only need malware protection on one PC.
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AVG
Sister brand on the same engine with a cheaper first year for one PC, if you want the same protection with a different look.
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Covers 5 devices with a VPN and a 60-day refund window, though it renews at a higher price.
-
BitdefenderA paid suite from a company outside Gen Digital, worth a look if Avast’s privacy history bothers you.
Next steps
Avast reviews
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Frequently asked questions
Is Avast safe to use in 2026?
For malware protection, yes: Avast Free Antivirus scored 6 out of 6 for protection in AV-TEST's August 2026 Windows test. For privacy, keep in mind the 2024 FTC order over Avast's past sale of browsing data, and review the app's data sharing settings.
Is Avast really free?
Yes. Avast Free Antivirus has no time limit and doesn't need a payment card. It shows frequent prompts to upgrade to Premium Security or Ultimate.
How much does Avast cost?
Premium Security is $49.08 for the first year on 1 PC plus 1 mobile and renews at $77.99. Ultimate is $49.08 the first year and renews at $109.99. Ten-device plans start at $69.48 for the first year (prices as listed October 2026).
Does Avast still sell your data?
The 2024 FTC order bans Avast from selling or licensing browsing data from its products for advertising and requires it to delete the data it passed to its former Jumpshot subsidiary. You can still review the app's optional data sharing settings.
Did Avast pay refunds to customers?
Yes. In December 2025 the FTC sent about $15.3 million to 103,152 Avast customers who filed valid claims in the browsing data case. The claims process has closed.
Who owns Avast?
Gen Digital Inc., the Tempe, Arizona and Prague company that also owns Norton, LifeLock, AVG and Avira. Avast merged with NortonLifeLock in September 2022.
Is Avast better than Windows Defender?
Both scored 6 out of 6 for protection in AV-TEST's August 2026 round; Avast scored 6 for performance and Defender 5.5. Defender is built in with no upsells, while Avast adds extras like a Wi-Fi scanner and, on paid plans, webcam protection and a VPN.
Avast vs AVG: what's the difference?
They share an owner and scanning engine and score the same in lab tests. The differences are the interface, the bundles and the prices; AVG Internet Security is $39.99 for the first year on one PC versus $49.08 for Avast Premium Security on 1 PC plus 1 mobile.
Does Avast slow down your computer?
Lab results say little: Avast scored 6 out of 6 for performance at AV-TEST and won AV-Comparatives' 2025 Gold award for performance. Add-on tools and full scans use more resources than the background shields.
How do I cancel Avast and get my money back?
Cancel renewal in your Avast account under My Account, then My Subscriptions. Request a refund within 30 days of an annual charge or within 14 days of a first monthly charge; purchases made through app stores are refunded by the store.
Sources (14)
Facts on this page come from company websites, government agencies and regulators, checked on the dates shown. Editorial standards
- Avast: Compare antivirus plans (accessed October 12, 2026)
- Avast: Premium Security (accessed October 12, 2026)
- Avast: Ultimate (accessed October 12, 2026)
- Avast: Cancellation and refund policy (updated August 9, 2026) (accessed October 12, 2026)
- AV-TEST: Avast test results, Windows (accessed October 12, 2026)
- SEC: Gen Digital Inc. Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022 (Avast merger and name change) (accessed October 12, 2026)
- FTC: Payments to consumers impacted by Avast’s deceptive privacy claims (December 2, 2025) (accessed October 12, 2026)
- FTC: FTC finalizes order with Avast banning it from selling or licensing web browsing data for advertising (accessed October 12, 2026)
- Czech Office for Personal Data Protection: fine of CZK 351 million for GDPR infringement (accessed October 12, 2026)
- AV-Comparatives: Consumer Summary Report 2025 (accessed October 12, 2026)
- Trustpilot: Avast reviews (accessed October 12, 2026)
- BBB: Gen Digital Inc. (accessed October 12, 2026)
- Gen Digital newsroom: Avast announces agreement to acquire AVG (July 7, 2016) (accessed October 12, 2026)
- AV-TEST: Windows 11 home users, August 2026 (accessed October 12, 2026)
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