Ensure your PC is safe online with Avast Free Antivirus

Avast Free Antivirus will keep a computer safe from viruses on the internet and is free of charge to download and install.

Installation is simple. The Google Chrome browser can be installed at the same time bit it is simple to deselect this option.

Registration is required within 30 days of installation. There is no cost but it requires an email address.

Avast scans files when they are open or saved, scans emails as they arrive and are sent and internet traffic. Peer-to-peer networking and instant messaging can also be monitored.

As well as looking for known viruses, Avast will also check for suspicious behaviour such as root kits or unauthorised modifications to the computer.

Avast plays audio alerts to tell you when the program has been updated. Updates are downloaded and installed automatically. There is a special update mode if the computer is connected to the internet via a dial up modem.

A gaming mode prevents any messages from appearing or playing and Avast will not disturb you if a program is running in full screen mode either.

Avast can also send an alert email if it finds a virus on a computer, useful for keeping an eye on a child's computer and what they might be up to.

Avast Pro Antivirus adds Sandbox technology to stop malicious websites from accessing files on your computer. The flagship Internet Security also adds a firewall and spam filter.

Avast Pro Antivirus costs £30 for a one-year licence and Internet Security costs £45 for the same period.