It could also be worth checking out the best internet security software (opens in new tab) list as even after reading this comparison there may be another setup that is better suited to you. If you’ve already been in our best home computers (opens in new tab) and ended up getting yourself a new machine, or are thinking about upgrading, it pays to keep that new investment safe. It’s also worth factoring into your spending the fact that some come with AV protection already installed, but often only with a 12 month subscription, so you’ll need to know about upgrading that too. Be sure to read out AVG Antivirus review (opens in new tab) and Webroot SecurityAnywhere (opens in new tab) review for more detail. But for now, let’s look at AVG vs Webroot to see if one of those is all you need.
AVG vs Webroot: Additional Protection
Beyond the basic protection that you expect computer-security software to have, there are some extras that some software applications carry that will add extra protection for your system. When it comes to these add-ons, there is a clear winner in the AVG vs Webroot evaluation. AVG includes protection against backdoor Trojans, for example. This type of malware allows a hacker to control your computer from another location. As you can imagine, backdoor Trojan detection is a very important feature to have. Unfortunately, the makers of Webroot may not share that view since this product doesn’t have protection against Trojans. AVG also includes protection against phishing scams where hackers and scammers disguise themselves as legitimate companies to gain access to your personal information. Again, Webroot doesn’t have this feature. Webroot also falls short on updating third-party security updates and blocking infections from exterior storage devices such as USBs. Both of these processes are part of the AVG package. At the top end, with AVG Ultimate, you also get a VPN thrown in as part of the deal. A great way to stay anonymous online and access geo restricted content. This top-end package also offers ransomware protection both on your machine and your smartphone. It has been reported, though, that AVG protects computers a little too well. It will report that there is a threat to the computer even when there is none. Webroot doesn’t have this problem, giving it an edge over its competitor. Of course, some may argue that too much protection is better than getting a virus. In this case, AVG is still the winner of this round of the AVG vs Webroot battle.
AVG vs Webroot: Additional Features
When it comes to additional features, both products have their drawbacks. Here are the features that Webroot has that AVG doesn’t:
Adjustable security settings that can be changed to fit your security needsPassword-protected control panel that keeps other users from changing the settings that you have chosenCloud storage is included as part of the Internet Security Complete package
Here are the features that AVG has that Webroot does not:
A laptop battery-saving modeA tool that warns users before they click on a link that may lead to an untrustworthy siteA bootable recovery disk that can restore your computer’s system after a crashA 256-bit encryption VPNA free version that offers antivirus for your machineUp to 10 devices covered at once
AVG vs Webroot: Technical Support
The AVG vs Webroot comparison wouldn’t be complete without a look at which company’s technical support is superior. Both software companies offer the general options such as email support. Only Webroot offers every customer service option except an online forum, however. On the other hand, AVG offers an online forum but no phone assistance. The winner here depends on which form of support you value more - phone service or online forums. While both of these anti-virus software applications in the AVG vs Webroot comparison have their downsides, both would do a good job of protecting your computer. The best one for your needs is the one that has the features you find most valuable.
Should you get AVG or Webroot?
The conclusion is that AVG and Webroot each have their benefits. For older systems that need a low impact scan then Webroot is a big help. And for anyone that wants a powerful free antivirus then AVG is a great way to go. Beyond that, for more complex needs, it seems that AVG also takes the lead, but at a price that might deter some people who can go for the other big brand name antivirus competition for the same price or less.
