AVG Anti-Virus... is it worth paying for Internet Security?

[OneDay]

I currently run Zone Alarm anti virus and internet security on my PCs. It is becoming expensive ans slows my machine down noticeably.

I've heard good things about AVG (free) but I see they also do a security suite for £40. Has anyone used this? Is it worth paying for the extra security over and above anti virus / malware?

[jeffc]

Hi Oneday.

I have been using the AVG `free` program for 18 months now, with free updates at regular intervals.

Very good secure program: No problems or `gremlins` to date.

Try it first, prior to spending £40 that IMHO is not necessary.

jeffc

[DiscoDes]

OneDay I find Avast free is very good and uses very little in the way of system resources, I'd definately recommend it for older PC's.

I used to use AVG but they got a bit too commercial with pop up ads almost daily wanting you to upgrade to their paid for version so switched to Avast as recommended by a IT specialist.

So i'd use Avast for Virus checking, Windows firewall is good and free and for belt & braces Malwarebytes.

[chykensa]

I've used AVG Free on desktop and laptops for about 3 years with no problems - give it a go and see if you like it!
Andy

[giles]

I've used both, both are good, AVG is arguably a little better anti-virus-software-review.toptenreviews.com/avg-vs-avast.html
In my experience AVG only offers you the paid version when it is updating the definitions or software (which is fairly often) and it is easy enough to say 'no'.
I wouldn't pay for anti-virus (or pretty much any other software) unless you use it professionally.

[Deleted]

I agree with Des, I am in the Avast corner because it works for me although I have not use AVG so couldn't really comment on their security

[Greigster]

If you bank online with Barclays, they supply you with Kaspersky Internet Security X 3 user for free........just a heads up for anyone who doesn't know.

[fiddles]

I am another on the avast side been using it for several years with no probs

[Mev]

Microsoft's own AV program is one of the best free programs out there, there's no need to buy AV programs. Personally I don't even use one but I am the only person that uses my PC and I know what I am doing so never have the need to.

[Super-Shiny]

AVG is good but misses some virus's, i use Microsoft security essentials and i find it much better, AVG can be a bit of a p.c hogger.

[OneDay]

Thanks for all the input guys - the quickest and friendliest forum, as always

I'm going to go with Windows Essentials for now and see how it goes - will bookmark this thread for future reference too.

[absinthe]

Yes it in just in my opinion, but go for Vipre, you can get it for one computer for the lifetime of that computer for one off payment £7.99 off ebay,
there are no more fees to pay, and they have excellent online support, I have used it before.  It does not slow down anything, I would recommend it
to anyone.
I have vipre on both my netbook and desktop, you can also get it for 2 comps,3 comps etc.
When I had avast free I had mega trojan, numerous problems, but that's just me.
With the free programs you do not receive the whole protection package. I tried other ones that are free in the past, but needed total protection.
Any how that is just my personal opinion, Vipre no monthly/annual fees,valid for the life of the computer. Instant online chat/email/remote support,
Hope that helps
ps got it for most of my neighbours too.

[Mev]

You do get full protection with Microsoft Essentials..

There is no AV that protects 100%, that is just the nature of the beast. They compile their lists after a new code/virus reaches a certain number of infections and it's quite substantial numbers too so a lot of PC's have problems first before anything is done about it.

[chrisjw]

I have Avast on my pc & AVG on my notepad.....Both free........never had any problems.

[alvoram]

Used both AVG and Avast, firmly in the Avast corner now for reasons already mentioned above, but both are fantastic IMO

Plus there's nothing funnier than watching your missus crap her pants as your laptop suddenly announces at the top of it's voice that the "Virus database has been updated," pmsl.... Get avast.