How to Get Started with avast.com

Getting started with avast.com is designed to be a remarkably straightforward process, whether you’re looking for free antivirus protection, a premium security suite, or specialized tools like a VPN.

The website guides users intuitively from discovery to download and initial setup, making digital security accessible even for those who aren’t tech-savvy.

Step 1: Visiting the Official Website

The very first step is to ensure you are on the legitimate avast.com.

Always type the URL directly into your browser or use a trusted bookmark to avoid phishing sites.

• URL Verification: Double-check that the URL in your browser’s address bar is indeed https://www.avast.com. Look for the padlock icon, which indicates a secure connection.
• Language Selection: Upon arrival, if the site isn’t in your preferred language, look for the language/region selector (often found at the top right or within a dropdown menu). Avast offers an extensive list of global regions and languages, ensuring you can navigate the site comfortably. For English (United States) users, the site should often default to en-us or en-ww.

Step 2: Choosing Your Desired Product

The avast.com homepage is strategically designed to present immediate options.

You’ll primarily see pathways for their free antivirus and premium security suites.

• For Free Antivirus:
  • Look for prominent buttons or sections labeled “Antivirus gratuit” or “Free Antivirus.”
  • Click on the “Télécharger gratuitement” or “Download for free” button. This is the quickest way to get essential protection without a monetary commitment.
• For Premium Security or Other Products (VPN, Cleanup):
  • You’ll see offers like “43% de réduction sur Premium Security” or links like “Acheter premium” (Buy premium). Click these to explore the paid options.
  • If you’re interested in specific tools like the VPN (Avast SecureLine VPN) or Cleanup (Avast Cleanup Premium), navigate to their dedicated sections, usually found by scrolling down the homepage or through the main navigation menu (often under “Products” or “For Home”).
  • You might also find a “Comparer les produits” (Compare products) link, which is excellent for understanding the differences between Avast’s various offerings before making a purchase.

Step 3: Initiating the Download

Once you’ve selected your product, the website will guide you through the download process. How Does avast.com Work?

• Automatic OS Detection: Avast.com is smart. It will often detect your operating system (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS) and present the most relevant download option first. For example, “It seems you are using Windows” with a prompt to download the Windows version.
• Manual Selection (If Needed): If the automatic detection isn’t accurate, or if you want to download software for a different device, look for options like “Windows,” “Mac,” “Android,” or “iOS” buttons or links, typically found near the download call to action.
• Click the Download Button: Once you’ve confirmed the correct version, click the corresponding download button. The website will initiate the download of the installer file to your computer or redirect you to the appropriate app store (Google Play, App Store) for mobile devices.
• Download Confirmation: A small pop-up or notification might appear, indicating that the download has started and providing instructions on how to proceed. It might say something like, “Lancement du téléchargement…” (Download starting…) and “Si le téléchargement ne démarre pas automatiquement, cliquez ici” (If the download doesn’t start automatically, click here).

Step 4: Installing the Software (Post-Website Step)

This step moves from the website to your device, but it’s crucial for getting the software running.

• Locate the Downloaded File: Once the download is complete, find the installer file in your browser’s download folder or the location you specified. It’s usually an .exe file for Windows, a .dmg for Mac, or it will direct you to the app store for mobile.
• Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded file to start the installation process.
• Follow On-Screen Instructions: The installer will guide you through the setup. This typically involves:
  • Accepting Terms and Conditions: Read through them (or at least skim them) before accepting.
  • Choosing Installation Type: Often, a “Recommended” or “Express” installation is suitable for most users. Advanced users might opt for custom installation to select specific components.
  • Selecting Installation Location: Usually, the default location is fine.
  • Completing Setup: The installer will copy files, set up services, and integrate the software with your operating system.
• Initial Configuration/Scans: After installation, the Avast software might perform an initial scan of your system to check for existing threats and guide you through basic configuration, like enabling real-time protection or setting up a personal account.