Features
Avast Antivirus for Windows 7 is overly generous when it comes to the number of features you’ll receive. Even the free version is packed with multiple tools you can use to protect your files, data, browser, and computer in general. The best part is that you’ll continue to receive the latest updates to the malware database, even if the operating system doesn’t.
Before we dive into the heart of this review, we’ll look at the general features, threat protection, and scanning capabilities available. These functions not only defend against viruses but also maintain your computer’s health. In this way, the operating system runs smoothly, and you won’t become frustrated at constant lagging or attacks.
General Features
There’s a common misconception that an antivirus program only deals with viruses. While this may be true for other brands, Avast Windows 7 goes the extra mile. It has some additional tools you can use to clean up your system and make it less vulnerable to online and offline threats.
Cleanup Premium is one such example. It’ll scan your PC to see if there are lingering issues causing poor performance and perhaps opening the gateway to malware and ransomware. Avast will optimize your device as regularly as needed, providing a better experience when you watch movies or play games online.
Threat Protection
One element you’ll enjoy from the Avast features on Windows 7 is the Core Shield platform. There are four modes that you can toggle on and off, letting you decide what type of protection you need. If you find that one of the selections causes slow performance, you can switch it off until you can get more ram or storage space.
These are the four core shield modules:
- File Shield: ensures that none of your files become corrupted
- Behavior Shield: monitors your apps to see if there’s any suspicious behavior
- Web Shield: prevents attacks on your browser
- Mail Shield: blocks mails that contain malicious attachments
Scanning
The Smart Scan mode is where Avast Antivirus for Windows 7 shows its powerful performance. There are four ways you can hunt for viruses and malware, depending on what your operating system can handle. For example, Boot-time Scan monitors your computer as it starts up, but it may not be able to take it if you have low memory.
A targeted scan is available if you only want to check specific folders, or you can run a full one. The final option lets you customize several options, where you can allocate system resources to how much work Avast can do per sweep. This tool is significant for older systems like Windows 7.
Performance and Protection
Whether you’re using Windows 7, 8, or 10, you’ll receive the same protection and features. The only difference is determining which of the functions you need the most so that it doesn’t cause your operating system to suffer from poor performance. Fortunately, Avast Windows 7 isn’t resource hungry, so you can install most of the tools without too much of an impact.
Let’s look at the protection you’ll receive with this antivirus product.
Malware Protection
Malware and viruses are some of the most common threats found on the internet. Gone are the days where you need to worry about USB infections, although these still exist in some form or another. Now, when you’re merely surfing the internet at your leisure, anyone can send you a malicious file simply by you clicking on a bad link.
Avast takes every precaution to ensure this doesn’t happen to you. It’s a mistake thinking no one will target your Windows 7 device, as you’re visiting the same online pages as someone with Windows 10. Before the malware can infect your system, the software blocks it and sends you an alert.
Ransomware Detection
Experiencing a ransomware attack can be devastating if you aren’t prepared. Some email providers, like Gmail, automatically send these to the spam folder. However, it doesn’t catch all of them, and you might find your content blocked until you can pay for its release.
There’s a Ransomware Shield in Avast Antivirus for Windows 7 that protects your device from anyone stealing your files, images, and folders. If you see a message stating that someone has your content hostage, you’ll receive an alert stating that it’s false information and your data is safe. You’ll need to have the shield turned on for it to work, though.
Phishing Detection
Avast also assists in detecting any attempts at phishing. Hackers have become excellent at replicating recognized services where you need to enter a username and password. If you come across this with your Windows 7 browser, the antivirus product will alert you to this malicious form of stealing your information.
Spyware Detection
Some Windows 7 laptops have webcams installed on them, or you might have an external one attached to your desktop. There are applications out there that seem genuine but serve to spy on you while watching online content. While they may find some enjoyment from this nefarious activity, Avast ensures that you’re protected in the privacy of your home or office.
Firewall Protection
Another excellent feature of Avast Windows 7 is the firewall shield. Your operating system has a built-in firewall, but it can only do so much against the latest attacks. The main reason is due to Microsoft no longer providing technical updates or support. Thankfully, this tool has the newest virus and malware details, which means it’ll stop any such threats from infecting your system.
Privacy and Security
How much do you value your privacy? Some hackers thrive on stealing personal information to claim your money or sell it to the highest bidder. Most malware uses recognized brands and sites to replicate sign-in pages, obtaining your username and password when you enter it to log in.
Instead of providing one solution to this problem, Avast Antivirus for Windows 7 has several that you can choose from or activate all at once. It does everything in its power to ensure that your data remains secure, no matter what you’re doing at the time. Whether you’re playing online games, downloading files, or steaming movies, it’ll ensure that no one gets your account details.
Browsing Safely
First up is surfing the internet with your Windows 7 browser. There are cookies that track your activity or sites that hack into your settings and steal your passwords. Avast blocks these attempts, sending you an alert so that you’re aware of it.
Another issue may arise from public or home Wi-Fi that is unsecured. The software checks whether there are any vulnerabilities in the network, closing them down and encrypting them so that no one can access your device.
SecureLine VPN
One option available to you is browsing the internet via an encrypted server. Avast’s SecureLine VPN is available for Windows 7, hiding your activity and blocking anyone from spying on you. You’ll also be able to view content restricted to other countries.
Unfortunately, the VPN service is only available for Premium membership. You can also pay for it as a separate subscription if you don’t want the complete upgrade. In any event, you’ll be able to visit the site safely without anyone watching your every move.
Password Management
When it comes to privacy, passwords are of the utmost concern. When hackers obtain this information, they can access your accounts and claim your funds or personal information. Avast Windows 7 hides them for you in a vault, while you can also sync them across all your devices that have the antivirus software installed.
Ad and App Blocking
Some adverts and apps may look innocent, but that’s because hackers designed them that way to fool you. Avast has two features to assist with this issue. The first one blocks malicious marketing campaigns on the internet, while the other prevents harmful apps from running without your permission.