With the increase in online activities comes the challenge of having to upscale security on most gadgets connected online. In most households, gadgets such as printers, tablets, game consoles, media boxes, audio equipment with computers, smartphones, smart TV’s and security cameras have been the most prevalent worldwide, hackers are always on the scout in developing various means of gaining access to these internet-connected devices.
An image showing the vulnerability of gadgets connected to a router.
Statistical data from Avast shows that 40.8% of digital homes worldwide contain at least one device that is vulnerable to cyber-attack which can put an entire home at risk. In the United States, 15.5% of digital homes have at least ten or more devices connected to the internet mostly via a router (central point in smart homes that serve as a gateway to the internet) with 59.7% of routers having vulnerabilities or weak credentials. All a cybercriminal would require to gain access into a smart home is just a single vulnerable device connected to a router, hence the need for good software that would detect vulnerabilities in real-time.
Avast Internet Security or Avast Premier?
When it comes to security, it is always a conundrum to decide which software package would serve one better. Listed below are the various characteristics of the Avast internet security and Avast premier;
Similarities
· Antivirus and Anti-spyware: Avast internet security and Avast premier software when installed prevent the spread of the virus (a malicious programme written by hackers) that may cause system damage, loss of valuable data. A virus can also be used to install spyware (a program that can be used to collect one’s data such as credit card details without one’s consent).
· Cyber Capture: Both software not only detect, but also destroy malware (malicious software) threats by simply scanning unknown files.
· Secure Https Scanning: Most antivirus software scan Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) Sites for malware and other threats but they end up slowing down one’s system. But Avast internet security and Avast premier software carry out the same function perfectly without slowing down a system.
· Wi-Fi Inspector: Just like we have seen, a single vulnerability from a router can be easily used to hack one’s system. But Avast internet security and Avast premier usually scan routers for vulnerabilities and then keep the network safe by fixing the vulnerabilities.
·Browser Cleaner: For security reasons, it is pertinent to always clear browser history and this can easily be achieved with Avast internet security and Avast premier software.
·Safe Zone Browser: Sometimes, ads can pose a nuisance when one is browsing the internet. But this can be avoided with the use of a safe zone browser present in both Avast internet security and Avast premier software.
·Real Site: With the presence of various false sites on the internet, coupled with some difficulty in distinguishing a fake site from a real one, Avast internet security and Avast premier have an in-built automated function that avoids false sites that may want to steal one’s data.
· Anti-spam: Avast internet security and Avast premier software are equipped with the ability to keep one’s mailbox free of dangerous and annoying spam.
Distinction
It is clear to see that both versions of Avast antivirus play vital functions. But it is also pertinent to see that Avast premier security offers more in terms of;
· Firewall: Avast premier is capable of monitoring your internet connection (like a scout) to see that no one gathers personal information from you by spying on your system.
·Web Cam monitoring: For reasons untold, a stranger may want to approach you during a webcam session. With Avast premier software, this can be avoided and no stranger can approach you without your consent.
·Data Shredder: With Avast premier, you can permanently erase data on your hard disk as the software is equipped with data shredding property and no one can ever access the erased data.
As funny as it may sound, the printer in your home is the most targeted gadget by cyber-criminals as it is not usually checked and maintained. This is a life hack that should be looked into from this day forward. Avast antivirus also updates itself and virus definitions automatically, thereby erasing the need for manual updates saving you the stress of searching for updates regularly.
Most people try to make use of different software packages for internet protection which most times result in various problems, so it would be in one’s best interest to uninstall a previous software before using either Avast internet security or Avast premier. Considering the extra security measures Avast premier has in place compared to Avast internet security, it would be advisable to go for the former.
1) How do I download Avast?
Avast can easily be downloaded here
2) How safe is Avast antivirus?
Avast antivirus regularly receives the Virus Bulletin 100% award for its ability to detect 100% of in-the-wild viruses. Hence it can be rated as safe to use.
- What is Avast Sandbox?
Avast sandbox is a function that prompts users to run suspicious applications in the virtual sandbox environment.
- Can I use two different versions of Avast?
You don’t need to do that as each version comes with a unique function.
- What happens when the Avast license expires?
Visit Avast to download a free license that would be sent directly to your mail.
