Avira AntiVir Premium

Editor's Review

Avira Antivirus Premium is a leading antivirus software package aimed at home and small business users. Offering definition-driven antivirus support, anti-spyware and anti-malware protection, and a range of user-focused security options, Avira AntiVir Premium is an ideal antivirus software package for new PC users and non-techies. However, despite the simple virus detection and operation, Avira Premium's interface is certainly geared towards tech-savvy users.

A premier antivirus application, Premium offers protection from PC viruses, malware, and potentially dangerous spyware applications. While lacking behavior-based detection, Avira uses advanced virus definitions and profile-based detection to ensure that PC viruses and malicious software can't affect user's PCs.

While slick and sophisticated, Avira AntiVirus's interface is somewhat confusing and jumbled for new users. Power users and tech-savvy users will appreciate the wide range of control options that are available, while new users and casual PC users may feel slightly overwhelmed by the amount of options on display.

In virus detection tests, Avira fares quite well, hovering at a 98-99% detection rate amongst standard malware and virus collections. However, while faring well in the detection of aging spyware applications and PC viruses, Avira Premium doesn't include any behavioral detection modes, severely limiting its ability to detect new viruses and malware.

Virus definitions are released several times daily, but when compared to other applications with intuitive virus detection, Avira doesn't stack up.

In addition, Avira AntiVir Premium turns a range of false-positive results in testing. As a low maintenance antivirus application, Avira holds up effectively. However, for users that require a simple interface and the ability to fine-tune their virus detection, it may be best to look at other applications.

Avira AntiVir Premium: What We Liked

Virus detection rates are good, especially for established viruses and PC malware.

New antivirus, malware, and spyware definitions are available several times daily.

Significantly smaller resource footprint than other antivirus applications.

Avira AntiVir Premium: What We Didn't Like

Viruses are detected through definitions only, not behavior-based scanning.

When tested against other leading antivirus applications, Avira Premium returns more false positives than other applications.

Avira Support

Online support is available for Avira AntiVir users, including software FAQs, documentation and manuals, and a user support forum. Text installation, configuration, and software tutorials are available, along with basic video guides.

About Avira

A leading German PC security and system utilities developer, Avira GmbH offers a range of applications and security suites. With over 350 employees and 100 million customers worldwide, they are one of Europe's largest software developers.