Protect yourself from computer viruses by using the free AVG antivirus from AVG Technologies - Tutorial 1 - Installing AVG (updated for AVG 2011)

Last updated October 13, 2010 1:41 PM

If you are looking for good protection from computer viruses, the free AVG antivirus package is a great solution for anyone on a tight budget. Even though AVG is completely free, it frequently out-ranks many of the markets leading paid-for Windows antivirus solutions, both in detecting and removing viruses and in scanning speed! In this tutorial, we will show you how to install AVG on your computer. Before you get started, you may wish to check the frequently asked questions on computer viruses and AVG.

OK, let's get started. Download the latest version of free AVG antivirus from AVG Technologies here. Save the file to your desktop, or somewhere where you can access it easily, then double click it to start the installation process. The first window should appear as shown below (note that you will require an internet connection during the installation):-

Choose your preferred language at the top of the window (English should be selected by default) then scroll down to read the license agreement. If you agree to the terms and conditions, click on "Accept" to proceed to the next window shown below:-

You can choose to install free AVG here, or take a trial of AVG Internet Security. AVG Internet Security offers more comprehensive protection than AVG free, but requires a yearly subscription fee. In this tutorial we'll just be installing the free AVG. Click "Next >" when you have made your decision.

You'll now be prompted to enter your license key. For the free version of AVG, this should be filled out automatically, so simply click on "Next >". The following window will then appear:-

You are now prompted to choose the installation type. Quick installation is recommended for most users and this is the kind of installation we will be doing in this tutorial. You can also optionally install the AVG desktop gadget, that gives quick access to scanning from your desktop. Installing this component is entirely optional, if you already have a cluttered desktop you may wish to avoid installing the gadget, though it can always be disabled later.

When you have made your decision, click on "Next >". The following window will then appear:-

Now you need to decide if you want to install the AVG toolbar. The toolbar will enable the AVG link-scanner, which checks for malware on pages that are returned in your search engine results. Although the toolbar can clutter up your web browser, it can be hidden without disabling the link-scanner, so we recommend that you install it.

When you have made your decision, click on "Next >". The following window will then be displayed:-

The installer will now connect to the internet and download the relevant components. You will need to wait while the files are downloaded. When the download is complete, the following window may appear:-

Close any windows listed here and then click on "Retry". The following window will then appear:-

In this window you can optionally enter your name and/or e-mail details in order to get updates about AVG products. Also, unless you deselect the option at the bottom of the window, you will be electing to participate in the AVG product improvement program, which means that AVG Antivirus will occasionally send anonymous data and statistics across the internet back to AVG HQ. This data is used to improve the program, but if you are concerned about private data being sent accidentally, don't forget to deselect this option.

When you are done configuring these options, click on "Finish". The following window will then be displayed:-

AVG Antivirus will now prompt you to carry out a scan of your computer. Click on "Start the scan now". Simply wait for the scan to complete, you can safely run other programs on your PC while you wait, though performance may be degraded slightly until the scan is completed. AVG is now fully installed and your system is protected.

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