AVG Internet Security review

AVG Internet Security is the paid step above AVG AntiVirus FREE, which AVG says already covers all types of malware, including ransomware, plus unsafe links, downloads and emails. Paying adds an Enhanced Firewall for your home network, webcam protection that blocks untrusted apps, fake website protection for banking and shopping, and alerts when you join unsecured Wi-Fi. The base plan covers one Windows PC or one Mac, which keeps it simple but makes it less useful for households with several devices than Bitdefender or Avast's 10-device option. There is no VPN or password manager at this tier. AVG and Avast share an owner, so their feature sets overlap; AVG suits people who already know its interface. The U.S. page shows prices inside page scripts that our checker cannot read cleanly, so the price is marked pending.

Who it is for

single-PC users who want a firewall and webcam guard

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• Real-time blocking of viruses, spyware and ransomware
• Enhanced Firewall to keep hackers out of your home network
• Webcam protection that blocks untrusted apps
• Fake website protection against phishing and pharming while banking or shopping
• Alerts about unsecured Wi-Fi networks

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: AVG AntiVirus FREE covers malware and ransomware at no cost
• Strength: Separate Windows and Mac versions
• Strength: Webcam and Wi-Fi protections are part of the paid tier
• Weakness: Base plan covers a single Windows PC or Mac
• Weakness: No VPN or password manager in Internet Security
• Weakness: Price shown is a first-year price

Key facts

• Free version: AVG AntiVirus FREE
• Base coverage: 1 Windows PC or 1 Mac
• Firewall: Enhanced Firewall
• Webcam: Blocks untrusted apps

Where it ranks

AVG Internet Security is No. 8 in our Best Antivirus Software verdict.