Query from a newbie to Avast

[stmarcus]

Hi,

As a newbie, I have a trial (10 days I think) period for Avast Internet Security. I used AVG before beforehand but I have got rid of this for various reasons.

Really impressed with Avast Internet Security; although I don't use the firewall as I prefer another software package for that function.

I do have a query, which I hope someone can answer. Internet Security provides a security function, which, when I access websites, alerts me that the site may be dangerous (i.e. downloading spyware, etc.) and actually stops me accessing the site. Does the Avast Antivrus freeware also provide this function or will I need to get a license for Pro or Internet Security once my trial finishes.

Many thanks

[Hard_ROCKER]

It's called a web shield and yes the free version of avast also has it. Welcome to the forum.  

Here is a product comparison chart: http://www.avast.com/en-eu/comparison-chart

[stmarcus]

It's called a web shield and yes the free version of avast also has it. Welcome to the forum.  

Here is a product comparison chart: http://www.avast.com/en-eu/comparison-chart

Thanks for your response and the link to the comparison chart.

Looking at the chart, I think that I would need the function 'Lets you safely browse suspicious websites or applications', which the chart says that I can't get with the free version.

Could you confirm.

Thanks

[Hard_ROCKER]

No problem. I guess what they meant by that was the sandbox feature. What a sandbox is you can read here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandbox_(computer_security)

[ImWarm]

With the avast sandbox you can virtualize browsing so that you could even visit infected sites and still be safe, because the virus will only infect the virtual computer. And it's easy to use too, just right-click an application and select run virtualized.

Edit: the sandbox feature is only available in the pro and Internet security versions. The free one doesn't have it but it still has a web shield, which is sufficient protection if you don't visit high risk websites.