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    What Is A Web Shield And Why Do You Need It?

    Web Shield

    A web shield is designed to help your browser avoid dangerous websites by scanning the links for malicious software. It can be thought of as an extra layer of protection that stops hackers from gaining access to your sensitive data.

    Moreover, this solution can protect your device from harmful threats that even the file system shield isn’t able to detect like malicious javascript and web exploits that attempt to infiltrate and infect your system by taking advantage of zero-day vulnerability attacks.

    Keep reading to learn more about popular web shields along with the defensive measures available from the top solutions.

    Best Web Shields For Your Device

    There are many different web shields available and although they deliver similar functionality, each one comes with its own unique set of value-added features. Here are the top four shields that you should consider when hunting for extra protection against ransomware.

    Avast Web Shield

    Avast Web Shield functions as an additional layer of protection that accompanies the Avast Antivirus offering. When browsing the internet, it scans data in real-time to stop any malware attack in its tracks. It’ll also prevent malicious scripts from being downloaded onto your system.

    The main features include:

    • Performs a smart scan to detect and eliminate network and software vulnerabilities
    • Identifies unwanted add-ons
    • Resolves PC optimization issues
    • Uncovers problems with Windows updates
    • Responsible for securing web browsing activity
    • Prevents network vulnerabilities and loss of data
    • Encrypts the connection between the browser and the DNS server
    • Includes Sandbox, which is a safe virtual environment used to test suspicious applications
    • Provides a browser extension with an additional password guard
    • Has a sensitive data shield to protect personal data
    • Checks if apps have been updated 

    Total AV Web Shield

    This popular product is relatively affordable and serves as a powerful contender that matches the security levels of some of the best antivirus solutions available on the market.

    The primary features include the following:

    • The scanner identifies all types of malware, ransomware, and spyware that are hidden in the system
    • Enhances system tune-up and frees up disk space by scanning for junk files, duplicates, and PUPs (potentially unwanted programs)
    • Secures passwords with TDES encryption
    • Keeps your web browsing private by using powerful VPN technology
    • Blocks all phishing sites
    • Includes a secure search engine 
    • Provides a quick scan and system scan
    • Real-time protection allows you to scan files as you download or run them
    • The password vault add-on securely stores, organizes, and retrieves all your passwords

    AVG Web Shield

    This solution focuses on providing basic protection for your device. AVG is considered one of the most reliable antivirus packages on the market. Moreover, the interface is very functional and easy to use, helping it stand out from the crowd.

    Key features include:

    • AVG is designed to keep all files safe and out of reach from hackers
    • Provides email shield technology that automatically scans emails and removes all content that contains malware 
    • With its advanced scanning engine, AVG scans computers even when the system isn’t running 
    • Enables administrators to remotely install and configure the software, thereby empowering easy remote management
    • Includes anti-theft technology that can track lost phones

    Webroot Web Shield

    This is an efficient antivirus solution that offers excellent features expressly designed to defend users’ sensitive information when browsing the web.

    Key features are:

    • Integration with a browser extension that installs automatically in Firefox or Google Chrome
    • Webroot includes backup and sync utility. It can store up to 25 GB of cloud-hosted backup
    • Adds firewall management tools to the basic firewall protection present in every Windows installation 
    • Monitors any USB devices that are connected to your PC
    • Includes a real-time shield that helps block threats and flags harmful websites

    At times, this extension might hinder the performance of Mac devices. If you notice excessive slowness, make sure to learn how to disable the web shield on a Mac to ensure the best performance possible.

    The Bottom Line

    Choosing the right web shield depends on your preferences and how you plan on using it. Consider the additional features that are most important to you and select the most suitable option.

    Also, make sure to download any of these web shield extensions from official provider websites given that hackers may inject viruses into software listed on unverified sites.