avast internet security 9 - 2014

avast! Internet Security is the latest offering from avast! and offers users a chance to see how far this excellent security app has come

Visually appealing

Traditionally here at Softonic we have a lot of time for avast! Internet Security, so we were really excited to get a look at the newest version. For starters, it looks really slick, with a slim-lined installation process, and a very user-friendly and clear interface

Good installation options

Another nice addition that you'll notice when setting up avast! Internet Security is the option to install as the second line of defense on your computer. There are also plenty of installation options, which allow you to get the most from your anti-virus before it's even installed. Of course, there's also a default installation if the nitty-gritty's not for you

Security improvements

What else does version 8 add to avast! Internet Security? Well, in the first place the developer assures us that there have been considerable updates on the security front, which is obviously what you want from an anti-virus. It also offers a nice Statistics module, as well as a comprehensive Support function that allows you to generate a support package to send to the avast! personnel who are trying to troubleshoot your problem

New features

Two especially useful new functions in avast! Internet Security 8 are the AutoSandbox feature and the Remote Assistance. AutoSandbox allows avast! to automatically place any program it deems suspicious inside a sandbox, so it cannot do damage to your computer. You can edit the programs that are excluded from this behavior in the general settings

SafeZone

avast! Internet Security 8's SafeZone is effectively an extension of the AutoSandbox features, but instead of allowing you to open files and run unknown programs, it provides you with an alternative desktop for sensitive transactions such as internet banking and shopping. As with the rest of avast! Internet Security, it's really easy to use - just click the large Switch to SafeZone button. If you'd like more control, you'll be able to tweak under the Sandbox Expert settings

Firewall

Last but not least, avast! Internet Security's firewall is definitely worth a mention. Since for many users it's one of avast! Internet Security's most coveted features, you'll be glad to hear that it's been updated along with the rest of the program. With its 3 different risk zones and 5 different configurations sub-areas, even the most demanding users will be able to configure it to their liking
We were expecting great things from avast! Internet Security 8, and it hasn't let us down. It's an awesome security tool, and thoroughly recommendable to any user

Recent changes

Improved File system speed
Improved AutoSandbox stability
Improved AutoSandbox controls
Improved gadgets
Compatibility with Win 8 Consumer Preview
Greater stability of Outlook plugins
Fixed a compatibility issue with offline files
Other security and stability-related improvements