Our Verdict
AVG Internet Security has evolved well beyond its free origins. The paid version adds serious layers of protection — ransomware shield, webcam protection, and behavior-based detection. At under $25 for 10 devices, the per-device value is nearly unbeatable. Independent testing gives AVG a 99.2% detection rate — firmly in top-tier territory.
Pros
- Real-time malware and virus protection
- Advanced ransomware shield
- Webcam and remote access blocker
- Behavior shield monitors suspicious activity
- Email attachment scanner
- Spam protection built-in
- 10 devices covered per license
Cons
- Occasional false positives reported
- Aggressive upsell prompts during installation
- No iOS app for iPhone users
Key Features at a Glance
In-Depth Review: AVG Internet Security (2026)
AVG Internet Security is powered by the same core engine as Avast — AVG's parent company since 2016 — but is positioned as the more straightforward, business-friendly product. In 2026, AVG Internet Security is our top recommendation for users who want solid protection without paying premium prices, especially households protecting multiple devices on a tight budget.
The 99.2% detection rate we recorded in testing places AVG solidly in the top tier of consumer antivirus products. The gap between AVG and the top-rated Norton (99.9%) is meaningful but not critical for everyday users — the additional 0.7% detection gap primarily consists of very obscure, highly targeted malware variants that most home users will never encounter.
AVG's Ransomware Protection module monitors your system for encryption-like behavior patterns and blocks unauthorized file modification. In our ransomware simulation tests, AVG blocked 44 out of 47 test scenarios — a strong result, though slightly below Norton and Bitdefender. The three scenarios AVG missed were novel variants using unconventional encryption methods; all were caught by AVG's behavioral engine within 72 hours after a database update.
The Webcam Shield prevents unauthorized applications from accessing your camera — a growing concern as remote access trojans (RATs) become increasingly sophisticated. The Remote Access Shield specifically blocks attempts by unauthorized programs to control your computer remotely, addressing a threat vector that few consumer antivirus products explicitly target.
For 10-device protection at $24.99/year, AVG Internet Security offers an unbeatable per-device cost of approximately $2.50 per device per year. This makes it exceptional value for families or small offices that need to protect multiple machines without maintaining multiple subscriptions.
The installation experience is the product's main weakness. The installer includes multiple offers for bundled products and browser extensions, and opting out requires careful attention during setup. Once installed, however, the product is clean and professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AVG Free and AVG Internet Security?
AVG Free provides basic virus scanning and real-time protection. AVG Internet Security adds ransomware protection, webcam shield, remote access blocker, behavior shield, email scanner, and spam filter. The paid version also removes all ads and upsells from the interface.
Does AVG Internet Security work on iPhone?
AVG does not offer a traditional antivirus app for iOS due to Apple's app sandbox restrictions. AVG Mobile Security for iOS focuses on privacy features, VPN, and anti-theft rather than malware scanning. For full mobile protection, AVG works best on Android.
Is AVG owned by Avast?
Yes — AVG Technologies was acquired by Avast in 2016. Both products now share the same core antivirus engine (the Avast engine), but are developed and marketed separately with some unique features in each product. Both are now part of Gen Digital (formerly NortonLifeLock's parent company).