Avast Ultimate is a security software with an impressive detection rate and numerous additional features. Its malware scanner scored 100 percent in my tests. Also, its web protection stopped phishing websites that were able to slip past Chrome’s and Firefox’s default security. Other features include the Rescue Disk, a secure browser for online shopping and banking, advanced tracker blocking, and an VPN.

The user interface of the suite is user-friendly. The main screen displays an array of icons that clearly explain the purpose of each tool. Avast employs an orange, white and blue color scheme that is pleasing to the eyes and easy to read.

In the Explore menu, you can find more more detailed tools’ controls, including custom scans, boot-time scanning as well as an automatic updater. You can also save certain types of scans to the “Scan Center”, so you can run them in the future.

Avast’s advanced features help stop ransomware by observing your computer for suspicious activities, and encrypting files that may have been targeted. It can detect trojan horses (malicious programs disguised as legitimate software and sneak into your computer) and block them from running.

Avast’s security offerings are backed by 24 hours of live chat, email, and phone support. The free versions of Avast are supported by a vast community of knowledge and. Paid plans offer advanced features, such as identity protection, USB protection, patch management, and an unlimited VPN.