Overview
AVG Internet Security is the paid step up from AVG's well-known free antivirus. The additions are the ones that matter for a machine holding real data: a proper firewall, a ransomware shield that locks down nominated folders, webcam protection and shields for email and spoofed websites.
Worth knowing: AVG and Avast are the same company and share a detection engine, so independent lab scores for the two products track each other closely. The choice between them comes down to interface preference and what each bundle includes, not underlying protection.
Key specifications
- Devices covered: 3
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android
- Firewall: Yes — enhanced firewall on Windows
- Ransomware protection: Folder-based shield
- Webcam protection: Windows only
- VPN: Not included — AVG Secure VPN is separate, or bundled in AVG Ultimate
- Detection engine: Shared with Avast
- Renewal: Auto-renews by default
Feature sets and bundled extras change between yearly releases and by region. Check the vendor's current plan comparison before renewing.
Features at a glance
- Enhanced firewall with network intrusion blocking
- Ransomware Protection for chosen folders
- Webcam Protection against unauthorised access
- Email Shield and Fake Website Shield
- Sensitive Data Shield for personal documents
Who the AVG Internet Security is for
Users who liked AVG Free and want firewall, ransomware and webcam protection added, across up to three devices.
Common problems and how to fix them
The ransomware shield blocks an app you trust
That is the shield doing its job — it stops unrecognised programs writing to protected folders. Open Ransomware Protection and add the application to the allowed list rather than switching the shield off entirely.
A safe file keeps getting quarantined
Restore it from the Quarantine, then add an exception under Settings, Exceptions. If it is something you built yourself or a niche tool, submit it as a false positive so the definition gets fixed for everyone rather than only on your machine.
Slow boot times after installing
Turn off the boot-time scan if it is running every start-up rather than on demand, and check the passive-mode setting if another security tool is also installed. Only one product should hold real-time protection.
Frequently asked questions
What does AVG Internet Security add over AVG free antivirus?
An enhanced firewall, ransomware protection, webcam protection, email and fake-website shields, and Sensitive Data Shield.
Is AVG the same as Avast?
They are separate products from the same company and share the same detection engine, so protection results are effectively equivalent.
Does it include a VPN?
No. AVG Secure VPN is sold separately, or comes bundled in AVG Ultimate.
Still stuck?
Our technicians work with AVG every day. Call +1-8887342713 any time, or send us the details and we will get back to you.