Avast Free Antivirus vs ESET HOME Security

Avast Free Antivirus provides antivirus protection and is now part of the Avast One app. Its free protection detects, blocks, and removes malware, including viruses, adware, spyware, and Trojans, with real-time detection and PC scanning. Web Guard helps block scam websites, phishing links in email, and malicious downloads. On PC, File Shield scans files as they are added or opened, while Behavior Shield warns about suspicious app behavior. Mail Shield flags potentially malicious email attachments, and Ransomware Shield helps stop untrusted applications from changing or encrypting personal files. Network Inspector helps protect Wi-Fi networks from intruders; Firewall monitors traffic to help block malicious intrusions. Hack Alerts notify users if Avast detects that email passwords appeared in a leak or hack, while Avast Assistant offers guidance on whether online messages or offers may be scams. The free plan costs nothing for 1 device. Avast specifies Windows 7 or later and macOS 10.14 or later; automatic updates require internet access. Protection can continue indefinitely after activation, though the app may prompt for reactivation after 12 months.

ESET HOME Security is a paid set of home-security subscriptions for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS coverage, with functionality varying by operating system. Essential, Premium, and Ultimate plans provide real-time protection against malware, ransomware, viruses, phishing, and emerging threats, plus secured browser mode, a privacy extension, firewall, and Wi-Fi protections. Parental controls are included, while a password manager is not. Premium adds unlimited VPN traffic and encryption for sensitive files, with VPN access covering up to 40 countries. Ultimate adds router VPN support and identity features including dark-web scanning, credit-report monitoring, and identity recovery services. ESET describes recovery help from US-based Certified Protection Experts as available 24/7 with $1M insurance. The ESET HOME portal and mobile app manage installations across devices. A free 30-day trial requires no credit card, but there is no free plan. Essential is $59.99 a year and Premium $79.99 a year; Ultimate has no displayed price.