Free antivirus software is a known topic of hot debate. No wonder there are multiple misconceptions about free security tools. The central belief is that free antivirus software provides only a minimal level of protection.
However, the situation could be more complex. The level of security provided by free antivirus software is determined by several factors. First and foremost, the choice of a tool. Some services offer quite a weak protection, whereas others (Avast, for instance) make quite a compelling case for all free antiviruses.
Let’s look at five reasons to use free antivirus software and address widespread misunderstandings.
Reason #1 - Simple installation
If you have yet to gain experience customizing antivirus software, starting with a free solution is undoubtedly a good idea. Free antiviruses are developed primarily for personal use. Therefore, it’s aimed at non-professional PC users.
We’ve already mentioned Avast antivirus as a high-quality free antivirus, so let’s refer to it as an example. To start running Avast, a user must download an EXE file and install the software. The installation process is straightforward. All a user has to do is click on ‘Next’ and ‘Done.’
Once the tool is installed, it’s ready to run. As your PC proficiency grows, users may choose to perform further customization in the ‘The settings’ panel. However, it’s by no means required. If you are confident in your experience of defining security settings, it’s advisable to stick to default settings.
Advantage #2 - Free mobile versions
Considering that most Internet browsing is now done from a smartphone, securing a mobile device is not a luxury but a necessity. However, built-in security services cannot successfully detect ad trackers and often miss viruses, worms, and trojans. That is precisely where free antivirus software is of immense help.
The majority of free antivirus tools also have Android and iOS apps. This spares the necessity of purchasing an additional security solution for a mobile phone. Also, users do not have to adjust to new functionality and interface - mobile versions are similar to desktop originals.
Advantage #3 - Users can change software anytime
Relying on a free tool provides surprisingly much more freedom. Users don’t have to keep track of subscriptions, depending on tariff changes, or stick to an old tool simply because the subscription was paid in advance.
Whenever a free tool user wants to change an antivirus client, they can just do it. Those who have acquired a subscription must go through the hassles of canceling the plan, returning the money, or contacting a support team.
Advantage #4 - A simple interface
Granted, free security tools have more limited functionality than paid alternatives. Paid software is overpacked with redundant features, and most are never used by a regular PC user. However, this simplicity comes with a bonus which is an uncluttered interface.
A beginning user most certainly can handle a wide selection of firewall settings, not only because most of them will never be used but also because customizing them requires deep knowledge of technical aspects.
Accessible versions, however, keep functionality moderate and straightforward. All features are at a one-two-click distance. There are no endless drop-downs and pop-up windows. All functions are laid out on the main screen and can be accessed quickly. 
As you can see, the interface of Avast antivirus is edge, clean, and uncluttered. All menu categories are laid out on the left panel, while main features are displayed directly on the main screen.
Advantage #5 - No unnecessary upgrades
Being forced to install unsolicited upgraded versions is always quite a bother. For one thing, users get used to the old interfaces and functionality and form their preferences. Frequent updates result in a turbulent user experience - remembering the location of each feature and adapting to new functions takes a lot of work.
Another area for improvement is the process of updating itself. Whenever the software downloads additional installations, users have to restart the tool, the entire operating slows down, and, in most cases, using a computer becomes difficult.
Luckily, free solutions are upgraded much less frequently. Even if an upgrade is done, it’s minor and does not disturb an everyday experience.
Conclusion
Free antiviruses provide a sufficient level of security for personal use. With an established reputation and proven expertise in malware detection, software like Avast remains reliable even in its free version.
Even though the functionality of free tools is significantly limited but for beginning users, it’s instead an advantage. Free solutions require no additional customizations, and all features are located at a one-click distance.
Changing a free antivirus anytime is possible without depending on subscriptions and tariff plans.
No frequent upgrades, only tried-and-proven features.
