General
What is Avast One?
Avast One is an all-in-one security and optimization tool for your Windows PC. It is available as both a free product (Avast One Essential) and paid product (Avast One). Avast One includes the following features:
- Comprehensive Avast antivirus protection
- Access to a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Data Breach Monitoring that alerts you if any of your passwords are leaked online
- Tools to help you prevent online tracking
- Tools designed to improve the speed of your PC
For a full list of Avast One features, refer to the Device protection, Online privacy, and Smooth performance sections of this article.
Avast One is an all-in-one security and optimization tool for your Mac. It is available as both a free product (Avast One Essential) and paid product (Avast One). Avast One includes the following features:
- Comprehensive Avast antivirus protection
- Access to a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Data Breach Monitoring that alerts you if any of your passwords are leaked online
- Tools to help you prevent online tracking
- Tools designed to improve the speed of your Mac
For a full list of Avast One features, refer to the Device protection, Online privacy, and Smooth performance sections of this article.
Avast One is an all-in-one security and optimization tool for your Android device. It is available as both a free product (Avast One Essential) and paid product (Avast One). Avast One includes the following features:
- Comprehensive Avast antivirus protection
- Access to a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Data Breach Monitoring that alerts you if any of your passwords are leaked online
- Tools designed to speed up your Android device and free up storage space
For a full list of Avast One features, refer to the Device protection, Online privacy, and Performance sections of this article.
Avast One is an all-in-one security and privacy tool for for your iOS device. It is available as both a free product (Avast One Essential) and paid product (Avast One). Avast One includes the following features:
- Comprehensive Avast antivirus protection
- Access to a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Data Breach Monitoring that alerts you if any of your passwords are leaked online
For a full list of Avast One features, refer to the Features section of this article.
What is the difference between the free and paid versions of Avast One?
The free version of Avast One (Avast One Essential) includes comprehensive Avast antivirus protection, as well as limited access to VPN Secure Connection, Password Protection, and Software Updater.
The paid version of Avast One includes all the features available in the free version, as well as unlimited access to VPN Secure Connection, Password Protection, and Software Updater. The following additional features are also available:
The free version of Avast One (Avast One Essential) includes comprehensive Avast antivirus protection, as well as limited access to VPN Secure Connection and Data Breach Monitoring.
The paid version of Avast One includes all the features available in the free version, as well as unlimited access to VPN Secure Connection and Data Breach Monitoring. The following additional features are also available:
The free version of Avast One (Avast One Essential) includes comprehensive Avast antivirus protection, as well as limited access to VPN Secure Connection and Data Breach Monitoring.
The paid version of Avast One includes all the features available in the free version, as well as unlimited access to VPN Secure Connection, Data Breach Monitoring, and additional features such as automatic scans, scam protection, and cleaners that boost your device's performance.
The free version of Avast One (Avast One Essential) includes Web Shield protection, as well as limited access to VPN Secure Connection, Photo Vault, and Data Breach Monitoring.
The paid version of Avast One includes all the features and settings available in the free version, as well as unlimited access to VPN Secure Connection, Photo Vault, and Data Breach Monitoring.
How does Avast One protect my device?
Avast One includes features such as File Shield, Web Shield, and Firewall. When these features are enabled, Avast One works continuously to prevent potentially malicious files, websites, and networks from interacting with and infecting your PC.
Avast One includes features such as File Shield and Web Shield. When these features are enabled, Avast One works continuously to prevent potentially malicious files, websites, and networks from interacting with and infecting your Mac.
Avast One includes features such as App Shield, File Shield, and Web Shield. When these shields are enabled, Avast One works continuously to prevent potentially malicious files and apps from interacting with and infecting your Android device.
Avast One includes features such as Smart Scan and Web Shield. When these features are used and enabled, Avast One works to detect potentially malicious files and prevent your iOS device from connecting to harmful websites.
How does Avast One keep my data private?
Avast One includes features such as VPN Secure Connection, Private Mode, and Password Protection. When you use these features, Avast One monitors your network connections and account data to keep your private information safe.
Avast One includes features such as VPN Secure Connection, Data Breach Monitoring, and Clear Browsing Data. When these features are used, Avast One monitors your network connections and account data to keep your private information safe.
Avast One includes features such as VPN Secure Connection, Data Breach Monitoring, and Wi-Fi Scan. When these features are used, Avast One monitors your network connections and account data to keep your private information safe.
Avast One includes features such as VPN Secure Connection, and Data Breach Monitoring. When these features are used, Avast One monitors your network connections and account data to keep your private information safe.
How does Avast One boost the performance of my device?
Avast One includes features such as PC Speedup, Software Updater, Disk Cleaner, and Driver Updater. When you use these tools regularly, you can enhance your PC's performance, clear disk space, and eliminate unwanted programs and security risks.
Avast One includes features such as Disk Cleaner, Duplicate Finder, and App Uninstaller. When you use these tools regularly, they can enhance your Mac's performance, clear disk space, and eliminate unwanted programs and security risks.
Avast One includes the Performance Scan feature. When you use this feature regularly, you can enhance your device's performance, clear storage space, and eliminate unwanted clutter.
What is Online Safety Score?
Online Safety Score is a numerical value based on data from your online behavior, security settings, and external threats. Online Safety Score recommends solutions (such as, changing a setting in Avast One or on your computer) or tips to change your habits to improve your score and be safer online.
To check your Online Safety Score, go to 
Messages.
To check your Online Safety Score, go to 
Explore ▸ Online Safety Score.
How will the release of Avast One affect Avast Premium Security?
For now, Avast Premium Security will continue to receive virus definition updates and application updates as normal.
If you choose to migrate from Avast Premium Security to Avast One, click I accept. Start migration on the Avast One offer screen. If you try to install Avast One by downloading the product from the Avast website, you may encounter problems with the installation due to a conflict with your existing Avast Premium Security installation. To learn more about migrating to Avast One from Avast Premium Security, refer to the following article:
For now, Avast Premium Security will continue to receive virus definition updates and application updates as normal.
If you choose to switch from Avast Premium Security to Avast One, you need to first uninstall Avast Premium Security before installing Avast One. To learn more about migrating to Avast One, refer to the following article:
How will the release of Avast One affect Avast Mobile Security?
For now, you can continue to update and use Avast Mobile Security as normal.
Download and installation
What are the system requirements for Avast One?
- Windows 11 except Mixed Reality and IoT Edition; Windows 10 except Mobile and IoT Edition (32 or 64-bit); Windows 8/8.1 except RT and Starter Edition (32 or 64-bit); Windows 7 SP1 with Convenient Rollup Update or higher, any Edition (32 or 64-bit)
- Windows fully compatible PC with Intel Pentium 4 / AMD Athlon 64 processor or above (must support SSE3 instructions); ARM-based devices are not supported
- 1 GB RAM or above
- 2 GB free space on the hard disk
- Internet connection to download, activate, and maintain application updates and the antivirus database
- Optimally standard screen resolution no less than 1024 x 768 pixels
- Apple macOS 12.x (Monterey), Apple macOS 11.x (Big Sur), Apple macOS 10.15.x (Catalina), Apple macOS 10.14.x (Mojave), Apple macOS 10.13.x (High Sierra)
- Intel based Mac with 64-bit processor
- 512 MB RAM or above (1 GB RAM or higher preferred)
- 750 MB free space on the hard disk
- Internet connection to download, activate, and maintain application updates and the antivirus database
- Optimally standard screen resolution no less than 1024 x 768 pixels
- Google Android 6.0 (Marshmallow, API 23) or later
- Internet connection to download, activate, and maintain app updates
- Apple iOS 13.0 or later
- Internet connection to download, activate, and maintain app updates
Do I need to uninstall previous Avast products before I install Avast One?
Yes. If you have any of the following products installed on your PC, you need to uninstall them before installing Avast One. For uninstallation instructions, refer to the relevant articles below:
- Avast SecureLine VPN ▸ Uninstalling Avast SecureLine VPN
- Avast Driver Updater ▸ Uninstalling Avast Driver Updater
- Avast Cleanup Premium ▸ Uninstalling Avast Cleanup Premium
- Avast BreachGuard ▸ Uninstalling Avast BreachGuard
- Avast AntiTrack Premium ▸ Uninstalling Avast AntiTrack Premium
If you have Avast Free Antivirus or Avast Premium Security installed on your PC, we recommend migrating to Avast One by clicking I accept. Start migration on the Avast One offer screen. If you try to install Avast One by downloading the product from the Avast website, you may encounter problems with the installation due to a conflict with your existing Avast Free Antivirus or Avast Premium Security installation. To learn more about migrating to Avast One, refer to the following article:
Yes. If you have Avast Security or Avast Premium Security installed on your Mac, you need to uninstall these products before installing Avast One. If you try to install Avast One when you already have Avast Security or Avast Premium Security installed on your Mac, the Avast One installation is blocked due to a conflict with your existing Avast product.
For uninstallation instructions, refer to the relevant article below:
If you have separate, paid subscriptions for other standalone Avast products, (such as Avast Cleanup Premium and Avast SecureLine VPN) you can continue using them without interruption.
No. If you already have another Avast app installed on your device, you can continue using it without interruption and install Avast One. For instructions to install Avast One, refer to the following article:
How do I install Avast One?
For instructions to install Avast One, refer to the following article:
Subscription and activation
How do I activate Avast One?
For instructions to activate the paid version of Avast One, refer to the following article:
- Activating an Avast One subscription
- Activating an Avast One subscription
- Activating an Avast One subscription
- Activating an Avast One subscription
Can I transfer an Avast One subscription to another device?
You can activate an Avast One (Individual) subscription on up to 5 devices simultaneously, or an Avast One (Family) subscription on up to 30 devices simultaneously. Check your Avast Account or order confirmation email to confirm which subscription type you purchased.
To transfer a subscription to another device, follow the steps below:
- Uninstall Avast One from the original device.
- Install Avast One on your new device.
- Activate Avast One on your new device.
Can I use my subscription on multiple devices and platforms?
Avast One is available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
The following Avast One subscription types are available:
- Individual: protects up to 5 devices simultaneously.
- Family: protects up to 30 devices simultaneously.
An Avast One Family subscription also includes the Family Sharing feature (available via your Avast Account), which allows you to share your subscription with up to 5 other people. To learn more about Family Sharing in Avast One or transferring your subscription, refer to the following articles:
Device protection
What is Smart Scan?
Smart Scan is a comprehensive scan that detects the following issues on your device:
- Browser threats: Browser extensions that are usually installed without your knowledge and affect the performance of your system.
- Viruses & malware: Files containing malicious code that may impact the security and performance of your device.
- PC cleaning: Junk files and clutter that you can remove to free up space on your PC.
- Browsing privacy: Browsing items that you can remove, such as cookies, browsing, and download history.
- Viruses & malware: Files containing potentially malicious code that may impact the security and performance of your device.
- Mac cleaning: Junk files and clutter on your Mac that you can remove, such as application caches, files already moved to trash, and log report files.
- Viruses & malware: Files containing malicious code that may impact the security and performance of your device.
- Junk files: Dispensable items that you can remove to release storage on your device, including APKs, residual files, visible cache, and shared cache.
- Advanced issues (only appears in the free version of the app — Avast One Essential): Issues that you can resolve by upgrading to the premium version of the app.
What is Scan Center?
Scan Center includes a range of virus scans to protect your PC against malware. To access Scan Center, go to 
Explore ▸ Scan Center ▸ Open Scan Center.
On the Scan now tab, the following scan options are available:
- Deep Scan: Performs an in-depth scan for malware, checking your whole system from top to bottom. This scan may take several minutes to complete.
- Targeted Scan: Performs a scan of the folders or drives that you specify.
- Boot-Time Scan: Performs a scan of your PC as it boots to scan for malware that is hard to reach after startup. This is an advanced scan designed for use when you suspect a threat in the system.
You can also create and schedule your own Custom scans, view Scan history, or run a Smart Scan.
Scan Center includes a range of virus scans to protect your Mac against malware. To access Scan Center, go to Explore ▸ Scan Center ▸ Open Scan Center.
On the Scan now tab, the following scan options are available:
- Deep Scan: Performs an in-depth scan for malware, checking your whole system from top to bottom. This scan may take several minutes to complete.
- Targeted Scan: Performs a scan of the folders or drives that you specify.
- External Storage Scan: Performs a scan of any USB, external drive, or other storage device connected to your Mac.
You can also create and schedule your own Scheduled scans, view Scan history, or run a Smart Scan.
Scan Center includes a range of virus scans to protect your Android device against malware. To access Scan Center, go to 
Explore ▸ Scan Center.
You can select from the following scan options:
- Smart Scan: A comprehensive scan that detects viruses, malware, and junk files, as well as advanced issues that you can resolve by purchasing a premium subscription.
- Quick Scan: Checks the app settings and your device settings for potential security vulnerabilities, as well as scanning your apps for malware.
- Deep Scan: Checks every part of your Android device, not just individual files or folders, for potential security vulnerabilities and malware.
- File Scan: Performs a scan for malware in the files or folders that you specify.
- Network inspector: Checks the networks you're connected to for security risks.
How can I create a custom scan?
To create a custom scan:
- Go to
Explore ▸ Scan Center ▸ Open Scan Center. - Select the Custom scans tab, then click + Create a custom scan.
- Specify the following scan settings:
- Scan name: Create a name for your scan.
- Scan type: Use the drop-down menu to choose a scan type.
- Frequency: Use the drop-down menu to set how often the scan runs.
- Optionally, click Show advanced settings to further customize your scan.
- Click Create.
Your scan is now customized and scheduled to run automatically.
To create a custom scan:
- Go to Explore ▸ Scan Center ▸ Open Scan Center.
- Select the Scheduled scans tab, then click Schedule a new scan.
- Specify the following scan settings:
- Scan name: Create a name for your scan.
- Type of scan: Use the drop-down menu to choose a scan type.
- Frequency: Use the drop-down menu to set how often the scan runs.
- Date and time: Use the drop-down menus to set when the scan runs.
- Optionally, select any of the Advanced settings or add an exception.
- Click Save.
Your scan is now customized and scheduled to run automatically. For detailed instructions to create a new custom scan, refer to the following article: Scanning for viruses with Avast One.
Can I exclude files, folders, or websites from scanning?
Yes. You can exclude specific files, folders, and websites from scanning by all Avast shields and scans.
To set an exclusion:
- Click Account in the left panel, then select Settings.
- Select the Exceptions tab, then click + Add an exception.
- Select your preferred option:
- Website URL exception: Enter a website URL (such as
www.example.com). Website URL exceptions are excluded from scanning by Web Shield. - File or folder location exception: Enter a file or folder path (such as
C:\Downloads). Alternatively, click Browse, then select a file or folder and click OK. File and folder exceptions are excluded from scanning by File Shield and all Avast One scans. - Command line exception: Enter a command and optionally provide command parameters. All files on your hard disk drive that have the same file name, but are located in different folders are excluded.
- Website URL exception: Enter a website URL (such as
- Click Add.
Account in the left panel, then select Settings.Your specified file, folder, or website is now listed on the Exceptions screen. To remove an exception, hover your cursor over the listed exception, and click the X icon.
Can I exclude a file or folder from scanning?
Yes. You can exclude specific files or folders from scanning by an individual Avast scan:
- Go to Explore ▸ Scan Center ▸ Open Scan Center.
- Click Settings (the gear icon) in the panel for your chosen scan.
- Click Add exceptions.
- Navigate to the file or folder that you want to add as an exception, and click Open.
Settings (the gear icon) in the panel for your chosen scan.The file or folder appears on your list of Exceptions and is excluded from scanning by your chosen scan.
Can I exclude a website from scanning?
Yes. You can exclude specific websites from scanning by Web Shield:
- Go to Explore ▸ Web Shield ▸ Open Web Shield.
- Click the Exceptions tab, then select Add exceptions.
- Enter the URL for the website that you want to add as an exception (for example,
example.com). - Specify the exception by selecting the tab for Hide alerts or Don't scan.
- Define the Web server services that you want to exclude from scanning:
- HTTP: The website is excluded from scanning even when the connection is unsecured and unencrypted.
- HTTPS: The website is excluded from scanning when the connection is secure and encrypted.
- Click Add, then enter the password that you use when you start your Mac and click OK.
The website appears on your list of Exceptions and is excluded from scanning by Web Shield.
Does Avast One scan webmail accounts?
If you use a web-based email account, such as Yahoo or Gmail, Avast One does not directly scan your emails. However, Web Shield and File Shield actively protect your PC from malware that could be contained in your email messages.
If you use an email app installed on your device, such as Mail, Outlook, or Thunderbird, Email Guardian scans your emails and blocks dangerous attachments.
What is File Shield?
File Shield scans in real-time for malicious threats in programs and files saved on your PC, before allowing them to be opened, run, modified, or saved. If malware is detected, File Shield prevents the program or file from infecting your PC by moving it to Quarantine.
File Shield is enabled by default. To access File Shield settings, go to Explore ▸ File Shield ▸ Open Field Shield. Select the relevant tab according to your needs:
- Malware & PUPs: Specify how File Shield responds to malware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).
- Advanced settings: Manage advanced settings to customize File Shield behavior.
- Exceptions: Add a file or folder as an exception so File Shield won't scan it.
For more information about using File Shield in Avast One, refer to the following article:
File Shield scans in real-time for malicious threats in programs and files saved on your Mac, before allowing them to be opened, run, modified, or saved. If malware is detected, File Shield prevents the program or file from infecting your Mac by moving it to Quarantine.
File Shield is enabled by default. To access File Shield settings, go to Explore ▸ File Shield ▸ Open Field Shield. Select the relevant tab according to your needs:
- Settings: Specify how File Shield responds to malware and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).
- Exceptions: Add a file or folder as an exception so File Shield won't scan it.
For more information about using File Shield in Avast One, refer to the following article:
What is Web Shield?
Web Shield protects you in real-time by scanning data that is transferred when you browse the internet. This prevents malware, such as malicious scripts, from being downloaded and run on your PC. Web Shield can also block websites, enable HTTPS and script scanning, and protect against botnets designed to hack your data or remotely control your PC.
Web Shield is enabled by default. To access Web Shield settings, go to Explore ▸ Web Shield ▸ Open Web Shield. Select the relevant tab according to your needs:
- Settings: Manage advanced settings to customize Web Shield behavior.
- Blocked websites: Prevent your PC from connecting to specific websites that you think are malicious.
- Exceptions: Add a website as an exception so Web Shield won't scan it.
For more information about using Web Shield in Avast One, refer to the following article:
Web Shield protects you in real-time by scanning data that is transferred when you browse the internet. This prevents malware, such as malicious scripts, from being downloaded and run on your Mac. Web Shield can also block websites, enable HTTPS and script scanning, and protect against botnets designed to hack your data or remotely control your Mac.
Web Shield is enabled by default. To access Web Shield settings, go to Explore ▸ Web Shield ▸ Open Web Shield. Select the relevant tab according to your needs:
- Settings: Manage advanced settings to customize Web Shield behavior.
- Exceptions: Add a website as an exception so Web Shield won't scan it.
For more information about using Web Shield in Avast One, refer to the following article:
What is Email Guardian?
Email Guardian scans emails directly in your online mailbox and flags any suspicious emails.
For more information, refer to the following articles:
What is Network Inspector?
Network Inspector scans your current network for vulnerabilities and security issues that may expose your sensitive private data, or leave the devices on your network vulnerable to attacks. In addition, Network Inspector shows which devices are currently connected to your home network, so you can see if anyone is using your network without your consent.
To access Network scan, go to Explore ▸ Network Inspector ▸ Open Network Inspector. Select the relevant tab according to your needs:
- Network scan: Check any network for vulnerabilities and potential security issues.
- Settings: Manage advanced settings to customize Network Inspector.
- Network history: View a list networks your device has been connected to.
What is Ransomware Protection?
Ransomware Protection secures your personal photos, documents, and files from being stolen, modified, deleted, or encrypted by ransomware attacks. This feature scans for and automatically secures folders that may contain personal data, and allows you to specify other folders you want to protect from untrusted applications. Additionally, you can specify which applications are allowed to modify the files in your protected folders and which applications are always blocked.
Ransomware Protection is enabled by default. To access Ransomware Protection settings, go to Explore ▸ Ransomware Protection ▸ View protected folders.
For more information about Ransomware Protection in Avast One, refer to the following articles:
Ransomware Protection secures your personal photos, documents, and files from being stolen, modified, deleted, or encrypted by ransomware attacks. This feature automatically secures your Documents and Pictures folders, and allows you to specify other folders you want to protect from untrusted applications. Additionally, you can specify which applications are allowed to modify the files in your protected folders and which applications are always blocked.
Ransomware Protection is enabled by default. To access Ransomware Protection settings, go to Explore ▸ Ransomware Protection ▸ Open Ransomware Protection.
To learn more about Ransomware Protection, refer to the following articles:
What is Firewall?
Firewall monitors all network traffic between your PC and the outside world to protect you from unauthorized communication and intrusions. Firewall prevents sensitive data from leaving your PC and blocks hacking attempts. You can also block network and internet communication for a specific application, which stops the application from establishing a connection to the internet or with other networks.
To access Firewall settings, go to Explore ▸ Firewall ▸ Open Firewall.
To learn more about Firewall, refer to the following articles:
What is Quarantine?
Quarantine is an isolated space where you can safely store potentially dangerous files, or send them to Avast Threat Labs for analysis. Files in Quarantine cannot run or access your system and data, so any malicious code contained within a file is unable to harm your PC. Any suspicious or dangerous files detected during a scan of your PC are transferred to Quarantine.
To access Quarantine, go to Explore ▸ Quarantine ▸ Open Quarantine.
To learn more about Quarantine, refer to the following article:
Quarantine is an isolated space where you can safely store potentially dangerous files, or send them to Avast Threat Labs for analysis. Files in Quarantine cannot run or access your system and data, so any malicious code contained within a file is unable to harm your Mac. Any suspicious or dangerous files detected during a scan of your Mac are transferred to Quarantine.
To access Quarantine, go to Explore ▸ Quarantine ▸ Open Quarantine.
To learn more about Quarantine, refer to the following article:
What is Network Inspector?
Network Inspector scans your current network for vulnerabilities and security issues that may expose your sensitive private data, or leave the devices on your network vulnerable to attacks. In addition, Network Inspector shows which devices are currently connected to your home network, so you can see if anyone is using your network without your consent.
To access Network scan, go to Explore ▸ Network Inspector ▸ Open Network Inspector. Select the relevant tab according to your needs:
- Network scan: Check any network for vulnerabilities and potential security issues.
- Settings: Manage advanced settings to customize Network Inspector.
- Network history: View a list networks your device has been connected to.
What is Sensitive Data Shield?
Sensitive Data Shield scans and protects your sensitive personal documents against unauthorized access and malware. Sensitive documents are files that contain your personal information, which if revealed, could compromise your privacy and identity. You can use Sensitive Data Shield to control which applications and users have access to your private data.
Sensitive Data Shield is enabled by default in the paid version of Avast One. To access Sensitive Data Shield settings, go to Explore ▸ Sensitive Data Shield ▸ Open Sensitive Data Shield.
To learn more about Sensitive Data Shield, refer to the following articles:
What is Web Hijack Guard?
Web Hijack Guard secures you against Domain Name System (DNS) hijacking. DNS hijacking is a type of malicious attack that attempts to redirect you from the website you want to visit to a fake one that may look just like it. Hackers utilize fake websites to steal your sensitive personal information, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details.
Every time you enter a website's URL, such as www.example.com, into the address bar of your browser, the URL is translated to the IP address (Internet Protocol address) of the web server where the webpage you want to access is stored. Web Hijack Guard provides an encrypted connection between your web browser and Avast's own DNS server to ensure that the displayed website is the authentic one.
Web Hijack Guard is enabled by default in the paid version of Avast One. To access Web Hijack Guard, go to Explore ▸ Web Hijack Guard ▸ Open Web Hijack Guard.
Web Hijack Guard is enabled by default in the paid version of Avast One. To access Web Hijack Guard, go to Explore ▸ Web Hijack Guard ▸ Open Web Hijack Guard.
What is Webcam Protection?
Webcam Protection prevents applications and malware from accessing your PC's webcam without your consent. With Webcam Protection enabled, untrusted applications cannot capture images or videos and send the content outside of your PC to compromise your privacy.
Webcam Protection is enabled by default in the paid version of Avast One. To access Webcam Protection settings, go to Explore ▸ Webcam Protection ▸ Open Webcam Protection.
To learn more about Webcam Protection, refer to the following articles:
Can I configure Avast One to scan my device for threats automatically?
If you use the paid version of Avast One, you can configure automatic scans.
To enable automatic scanning:
- Go to Explore ▸ Scan Center.
- Under Automation, the following options are available:
- Automatically scan for threats: Scans your device for threats daily.
- Automatically scan Wi-Fi: Scans when you connect to new Wi-Fi networks.
- For each automatic scan that you want to enable, tap the gray (OFF) slider so that it changes to blue (ON).
What is Scam Protection?
Scam Protection is a premium feature that protects you from being exposed to phishing scam websites that might attempt to steal your credit card information, passwords, and other personal information.
When enabled, Avast One opens behind the scenes to quickly scan links from outside of your web browser (for example, from an email, SMS, or messaging app). If the link is safe, it opens in your default browser as usual. If the link is dangerous, you see a pop-up warning so that you can decide to return to safety or continue at your own risk.
To enable Scam Protection:
- Go to Explore ▸ Core Protection.
- Tap Set up next to Scam Protection.
- Tap Start setup ▸ Set default browser. Your device settings screen opens.
- Tap Browser app, then select Avast One as your default web browser in your Android settings. This requirement is only a system formality so that Avast One can scan for threats. Scam Protection is designed to open a link in a third-party web browser after checking it.
The location of default browser app preferences within the Android settings may differ by Android version or device manufacturer. For example, go to Settings ▸ Application ▸ Advanced (if applicable) ▸ Default application ▸ Browser app to set Avast One as your default browser.
Scam Protection is now enabled.
What is App Shield?
App Shield alerts you if you try to install an app that Avast One detects as malware. App Shield is enabled by default. To check the status of this feature, go to Explore ▸ Core Protection.
What is File Shield?
File Shield alerts you if a malicious file or program is detected on your Android device. To enable File Shield:
- Go to Explore ▸ Core Protection.
- Tap the gray (OFF) slider next to File Shield so that it changes to blue (ON).
- If you are configuring Auto-run Wi-Fi Scan for the first time, you may be prompted to grant Avast One permission to access your device location. This allows the app to recognize each time you connect to a new Wi-Fi network.
Follow the on-screen instructions to grant the permission in your device settings.
What is Web Shield?
Web Shield warns you when it detects that you are trying to visit a dangerous website on your device. To enable Web Shield:
- Go to Explore ▸ Core Protection.
- Tap the gray (OFF) slider next to Web Shield so that it changes to blue (ON).
Online privacy
What is VPN Secure Connection?
VPN Secure Connection is the Virtual Private Network (VPN) feature in Avast One. A VPN functions as a private tunnel through the internet that encrypts your data and secures your connection when using public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes or airports. Avast One has servers in several locations, which means you can bypass geolocation restrictions and access your favorite content while traveling.
For more information about using VPN Secure Connection, refer to the following article:
For more information about using VPN Secure Connection, refer to the following article:
For more information about using VPN Secure Connection, refer to the following article:
What is Data Breach Monitoring?
Data Breach Monitoring informs you if your passwords have been leaked online in a data breach. To access Data Breach Monitoring, go to Explore ▸ Data Breach Monitoring ▸ Open Data Breach Monitoring.
Data Breach Monitoring informs you if your passwords have been leaked online in a data breach. To access Data Breach Monitoring, go to Explore ▸ Data Breach Monitoring.
The exact functionality of Data Breach Monitoring varies according to your version of Avast One:
- The free version (Avast One Essential): You can run a one-time breach check for your email address, which tells you if any online accounts that use your email address have already been involved in a data breach. However, Data Breach Monitoring does not continue to monitor for new data breaches. For this reason, we recommend running regular manual checks.
- The paid version: You can add up to 5 monitored email addresses. Data Breach Monitoring informs you about previous data breaches involving your monitored email addresses, and additionally continues to monitor in real-time for new data breaches. You are alerted immediately if any of your online accounts are breached.
To learn how to use Data Breach Monitoring, refer to the following article:
What is Clear Browsing Data?
Clear Browsing Data scans for cached files, browsing history, and cookies that you can safely remove to prevent third parties from creating a long-term record of your browsing activity. You can choose to clear everything or only some of your browsing data.
To review your browsing data, go to Explore ▸ Clear Browsing Data ▸ Review browsing items.
To clear your browsing data, go to Explore ▸ Clear Browsing Data ▸ Scan for browsing data. Select items you want to remove, then click Remove.
What is Privacy Advisor?
Many of your online accounts include settings that allow you to control who has access to your personal data. The Privacy Advisor feature in Avast One helps you to easily locate these settings and adjust them according to your preferences. To access Privacy Advisor, go to Explore ▸ Privacy Advisor ▸ Open Privacy Advisor.
What is Traffic Monitor?
Traffic Monitor checks if any apps are using too much data and slowing down your internet. Also, you can find out where your apps send data and check if any apps are connecting to servers in a specific location.
To access Traffic Monitor, go to Explore ▸ Traffic Monitor ▸ Open Traffic Monitor.
What is Password Protection?
Password Protection informs you if your passwords have been leaked online in a data breach and secures the passwords you store in your web browser.
To access Password Protection, go to Explore ▸ Password Protection ▸ Open Password Protection.
The exact functionality of Password Protection varies according to your version of Avast One:
- The free version (Avast One Essential): You can run a one-time breach check for your email address, which tells you if any online accounts that use your email address have already been involved in a data breach. However, Password Protection does not continue to monitor for new data breaches. For this reason, we recommend running regular manual checks.
- The paid version: You can add up to 5 monitored email addresses. Password Protection informs you about previous data breaches involving your monitored email addresses, and additionally continues to monitor in real-time for new data breaches. You are alerted immediately if any of your online accounts are breached. The Browser protection feature is also available to prevent unauthorized third parties from accessing the passwords stored in your web browsers.
To learn more about Password Protection, refer to the following articles:
What is Email Guardian?
The exact functionality of Email Guardian varies according to your version of Avast One:
- The free version (Avast One Essential): Scans your incoming and outgoing email attachments in real-time for malware. Scanning applies only to messages sent or received using mail management software such as Microsoft Outlook or Mozilla Thunderbird.
- The paid version: Scans directly in your web-based email account and flags suspicious emails that may contain malware or phishing scams.
For more information, refer to the following articles:
What is Private Mode?
Most modern web browsers include an incognito browsing option (often known as 'incognito' or 'private' mode). When you enable incognito browsing, your browser normally does not store your browsing history, search history, cookies, and other temporary browsing data while you browse the internet. Incognito browsing is designed to hide your browsing activity from other people who use your device, however, it does not hide your activity from online advertisers or prevent online tracking.
Private Mode in Avast One offers an enhanced incognito browsing experience by simultaneously enabling VPN Secure Connection and Tracking Prevention before letting you conveniently start an incognito browsing session in your default web browser. This allows you to utilize the benefits of incognito browsing, while Avast One additionally blocks advanced tracking techniques and hides your real location.
To turn on Private Mode:
- Open Avast One and go to Explore ▸ Private Mode ▸ Turn on Private Mode.
- Click Open browser to open a new incognito browsing session in your default web browser.
What is Tracking Prevention?
Tracking Prevention helps you be more private online by preventing data collection companies from assigning you an online ID to track your behavior and sell the data to advertisers.
Tracking Prevention is enabled by default. You can manually disable Tracking Prevention or check the status of this feature via Explore ▸ Tracking Prevention ▸ Open Tracking Prevention.
To enable Tracking Prevention for the first time, go to Explore ▸ Tracking Prevention and click the red (OFF) slider so that it changes to green (ON). You can then check the status of this feature by clicking the Open Tracking Prevention button.
Smooth performance
Performance
What is PC Speedup?
PC Speedup scans for applications that are running in the background on your PC and allows you to safely put them to sleep. This improves the performance of your PC and reserves its resources for the applications you choose to run.
To speed up your PC, go to Explore ▸ PC Speedup ▸ Review unoptimized apps. Next to an app, click Optimize to stop the app from running background processes when you are not using it.
What is Software Updater?
Software Updater keeps common third-party software up to date to eliminate potential security risks. Malicious threats or attackers often use leaks in outdated software to access your PC. Software Updater displays the most popular programs installed on your PC and allows you to easily update all outdated software.
To check for software updates, go to Explore ▸ Software Updater ▸ Review outdated apps.
To learn more about Software Updater, refer to the following article:
What is Disk Cleaner?
Disk Cleaner scans for and allows you to safely delete dispensable files that may be using a large amount of disk space on your PC.
To run Disk Cleaner, go to Explore ▸ Disk Cleaner and click Scan for junk. On the results screen, select the file categories you want to delete. Disk Cleaner may detect the following items:
- Junk files: Unnecessary files (such as driver packages, temporary files, and log files) that occupy a lot of space and slow down your system.
- Downloads & Recycle Bin (unselected by default): The contents of your Downloads folder and Recycle Bin. These items will not be removed from your PC unless you manually select this category.
- Broken registry keys: Links in your system registry that may be outdated or broken.
- Broken shortcuts: Invalid shortcuts leading to non-existent files or applications.
Click Clean now to remove the selected items.
During automatic cleaning, Avast One only removes files that are truly dispensable, such as system caches, and unnecessary log files.
Disk Cleaner scans for and allows you to safely delete dispensable files that may be using a large amount of disk space on your Mac.
To run Disk Cleaner, go to Explore ▸ Disk Cleaner ▸ Scan for junk. On the results screen, select the file categories you want to delete, then click Clean now.
No files are removed from your Mac during an automatic scan. When the scan runs, Avast One identifies dispensable items, then prompts you to select what you want to clean.
What is Driver Updater?
Driver Updater scans your hardware for broken and outdated drivers, and updates them to reduce and prevent problems with your PC. Installing the latest drivers for your device can reduce crashes, fix security issues, and speed up your PC.
To check for outdated drivers, go to Explore ▸ Driver Updater and select Open Driver Updater or Review update.
What is App Uninstaller?
App Uninstaller finds large unused apps that you can safely uninstall to free up space on your Mac. It also ensures that no app junk files are left behind during uninstallation.
To check for apps to uninstall, go to Explore ▸ App Uninstaller ▸ Scan for apps. On the results screen, select apps you want to delete, then click Uninstall.
What is Photo Cleaner?
Photo Cleaner finds and deletes bad or similar photos to make browsing your photo library easier.
To check for photos you might want to delete, go to Explore ▸ Photo Cleaner ▸ Scan for photos. Select folders you want to scan, then click Scan for photos.
What is Duplicate Finder?
Duplicate Finder detects multiple files with identical content, then lets you review the detected duplicate files and select which files you want to remove from your Mac.
To check for duplicate files on your Mac, go to Explore ▸ Duplicate Finder ▸ Scan for duplicates. Select folders you want to scan, then click Scan for duplicates.
What is Performance Scan?
Performance Scan allows you to ensure your device is running smoothly by freeing up space and resources. To run a Performance Scan:
- Go to Explore ▸ Performance Scan.
- Tap Run scan.
The first time you run a Performance Scan, you may be prompted to grant Avast One the following permissions in your device settings:
- Usage Data Access: allows Avast One to identify apps that are running unnecessarily in the background.
- Storage: allows Avast One to scan the photos, media, and files on your device for junk items.
- On the results screen, tick the boxes next to the issue types that you want to resolve. Performance Scan detects the following issues:
- Apps running in the background: apps that are currently using your device memory to run unnecessary background processes. You can stop these processes to free up memory for other tasks.
- Junk files: dispensable items that are occupying your device's storage, including leftover APKs, residual files, visible cache, and shared cache. You can remove these items to free up storage space.
- Tap Improve performance to resolve the selected issues.
Is it harmful to close apps using the Performance Scan feature?
No. Mobile apps are designed to cope with sudden closures, so stopping apps via Performance Scan is not harmful.
What happens when I close apps via Performance Scan?
When you close apps using the Performance Scan feature, Avast One stops the selected apps from running unnecessary background processes, which frees up memory for other tasks.
The effects of this feature are temporary, as most apps can start running background processes again when necessary. This means that you don't need to worry about missing any important messages or notifications.
Can I configure Avast One to clear junk from my device automatically?
If you use the paid version of Avast One, you can configure the app to automatically remove junk files from your device once per day.
Follow these steps:
- Go to Explore ▸ Performance Scan.
- Tap the gray (OFF) slider next to Automatically free up space so that it changes to blue (ON).
Features
What is Smart Scan?
Smart Scan is a comprehensive scan that detects the following issues on your device:
- VPN Secure Connection: ensures that you are connected to the VPN, which helps prevent network security vulnerabilities that could lead to attacks on your router and network devices.
- Device Protection: ensures that Web Shield — the main antivirus protection component of Avast One — is enabled on your device.
- Data Breach Monitoring: ensures that your email address has been added to the Data Breach Monitoring feature, which continuously checks for security leaks involving your email address online.
What is Web Shield?
Web Shield warns you when it detects that you are trying to visit a dangerous website on your device. To enable Web Shield:
- Open Avast One and tap Explore in the bottom panel.
- Select Web Shield ▸ Enable.
- If prompted for permissions, tap Allow, then enter your passcode.
Web Shield is now enabled and turned on. We recommend keeping Web Shield turned on at all times.
To view analyzed web traffic or websites that Web Shield blocks, tap Explore on the main Avast One screen, then select Web Shield.
What is Photo Vault?
Photo Vault protects your photos and images from prying eyes by moving them to a passcode-protected, encrypted vault. With Avast One Essential (the free version) up to 40 photos or images from your device or camera can be added to the vault. With a paid Avast One subscription you can store an unlimited number of photos or images in Photo Vault.
How do I activate Photo Vault?
To activate Photo Vault, first you need to set up a passcode:
- Open Avast One and tap Explore in the bottom panel.
- Tap the Photo Vault tile.
- Tap Create access code.
- Enter a four-digit passcode, then enter the passcode again to confirm it.
Photo Vault is now active and you can add photos and images to the vault to protect them from being accessed by other people using your iOS device.
How do I add photos or images to Photo Vault?
You can add existing photos or images to your Photo Vault from the Photo Library on your device, or you can use the camera on your device to take a photo and import it directly into your Photo Vault.
To add photos or images to Photo Vault:
- Open Avast One and tap Explore in the bottom panel.
- Tap the Photo Vault tile.
- Enter your passcode, then tap the Add photos.
- Select either Photo Library or Camera, then follow the relevant steps below:
Photo Library
- If prompted, tap Allow Access to All Photos to give Avast One permission to access your Photo Library.
- Tap a photo to select it, then tap Import.
- Optionally, tap Delete to remove the photo from your photo library.
Camera
- If prompted, tap OK to give Avast One permission to access your camera.
- Take a photo then tap Retake or Use Photo.
Your photo is imported into Photo Vault.
Can I export my photos from Photo Vault?
Yes. We recommend exporting your photos from Photo Vault before uninstalling the app.
To export your photos from Photo Vault:
- Open Avast One and tap Explore in the bottom panel.
- Tap the Photo Vault tile.
- Enter the passcode.
- Tap Select.
- Tap the photo(s) you want to export. A blue border appears around the selected photo(s).
- Tap Share (the arrow icon) in the bottom-left corner.
- Select your preferred method for exporting or saving the files, then follow the on-screen instructions.
How can I change my passcode for Photo Vault?
To change your Photo Vault passcode:
- Open Avast One and go to Profile ▸ Settings.
- Tap Change access code.
- Enter the current passcode.
- Enter a new 4-digit passcode.
- Enter the new passcode again to confirm it.
Your passcode for Photo Vault has been changed.
What is VPN Secure Connection?
VPN Secure Connection is the Virtual Private Network (VPN) feature in Avast One. A VPN functions as a private tunnel through the internet, which encrypts your data and secures your connection when using public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in cafes or airports. Avast One has servers in several locations, which means you can bypass geolocation restrictions and access your favorite content while traveling.
For more information about using VPN Secure Connection, refer to the following article:
What is Data Breach Monitoring?
Data Breach Monitoring informs you if your passwords have been leaked online in a data breach. To access Data Breach Monitoring, open Avast One from the Home screen of your device, tap Explore, then scroll to the Data Breach Monitoring tile.
The exact functionality of Data Breach Monitoring varies according to your version of Avast One:
- Avast One Essential (the free version): You can run a one-time breach check for your email address, which tells you if any online accounts that use your email address have already been involved in a data breach. However, Data Breach Monitoring does not continue monitoring for new data breaches. For this reason, we recommend running regular manual checks.
- Avast One (the paid version): You can add up to 5 monitored email addresses. Data Breach Monitoring informs you about previous data breaches involving your monitored email addresses, and continues real-time monitoring for new data breaches. You are alerted immediately if any of your online accounts are breached.
To learn how to use Data Breach Monitoring, refer to the following article:
What is Email Guardian?
Email Guardian is a premium feature that scans emails directly in your online mailbox and flags any suspicious emails.
To protect an your email account, go to Explore ▸ Email Guardian and tap Add mailbox and follow the on-screen instructions.
Troubleshooting
How do I uninstall Avast One?
For detailed uninstallation instructions, refer to the following article:
What should I do if Avast One does not accept my purchased subscription?
If you are unable to activate Avast One, check that you haven't exceeded the device limit according to the Avast One subscription you have in your Avast Account, then try to activate the application again. If activation is unsuccessful, follow these troubleshooting steps:
- Uninstall Avast One and restart your device.
- Download and install Avast One.
- Try to activate Avast One again.
If you still experience problems after following the steps above, contact Avast Support.
Where can I get details of my purchased subscription?
You can always find your current subscriptions and download the latest product versions via your Avast Account. To learn more about the subscription management options in your Avast Account, refer to the following article:
Can I temporarily disable Avast One protection?
Yes, but we do not recommend doing this permanently. If you need to temporarily disable the real-time protection components in Avast One, right click the 
Avast icon in the notification area of your Windows taskbar and select Avast shields control. The following options are available:
- Disable for 10 minutes
- Disable for 1 hour
- Disable until computer is restarted
- Disable permanently (not recommended)
Why can't I download and install Avast One?
Currently, Avast One is only available for download in the following countries:
- Americas: Canada, The United States
- Asia & Pacific: Australia
- Europe: Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Switzerland, The United Kingdom
If you are trying to download and install Avast One from one of these regions, check that you do not have another Avast product installed, as this may affect your Avast One installation.
Why isn't VPN Secure Connection connecting?
The VPN Secure Connection feature in Avast One may not connect if you already have Avast SecureLine VPN installed and connected on your Android device. If VPN Secure Connection in Avast One is already connected and you then connect via Avast SecureLine VPN, VPN Secure Connection in Avast One will automatically disconnect.
To ensure your VPN connection remains uninterrupted, we recommend you keep only one VPN enabled at all times.
How do I cancel my Avast One subscription?
To learn about canceling Avast subscriptions, refer to the following article:
How can I control which data I share with Avast and third parties?
When you use Avast One, you share anonymous usage statistics and error reports with Avast and third parties to help improve the app. To manage your data sharing preferences, go to 
Profile ▸ Settings ▸ Personal privacy. Tap the slider next to a data-sharing option so that it changes to 
blue (ON) to opt in, or 
gray (OFF) to opt out.
The following privacy settings are available:
- Improvements
- Share threat data with Avast to improve the security of all Avast antivirus users (Community IQ).
- Share app-usage data with Avast to help us with new product development.
- Collect app-usage data using 3rd-party analytics tools to improve this app.
- Offers
- Share app-usage data with Avast so we may offer you upgrades or other Avast products.
How can I report an issue to Avast Support?
To troubleshoot common issues, we recommend exploring our self-help articles in the Avast Support Center. However, some issues may require deeper investigation by Avast Support.
Report an issue to Avast Support using the instructions below:
- Go to Profile ▸ Help and Support ▸ Contact support.
- Complete the contact form, including a detailed description of your issue, then tap Send us a message.
- Go to Profile in the bottom-right corner of the main Avast One screen.
- Tap Help and support.
- Select one of the contact options, enter you email address and message, then tap Submit.
An Avast Support agent will review your request and contact you via the email address you provided.
- Avast One 22.x for Windows
- Avast One 22.x for Mac
- Avast One 22.x for Android
- Avast One 22.x for iOS
- Microsoft Windows 11 Home / Pro / Enterprise / Education
- Microsoft Windows 10 Home / Pro / Enterprise / Education - 32 / 64-bit
- Microsoft Windows 8.1 / Pro / Enterprise - 32 / 64-bit
- Microsoft Windows 8 / Pro / Enterprise - 32 / 64-bit
- Microsoft Windows 7 Home Basic / Home Premium / Professional / Enterprise / Ultimate - Service Pack 1 with Convenient Rollup Update, 32 / 64-bit
- Apple macOS 12.x (Monterey)
- Apple macOS 11.x (Big Sur)
- Apple macOS 10.15.x (Catalina)
- Apple macOS 10.14.x (Mojave)
- Apple macOS 10.13.x (High Sierra)
- Google Android 6.0 (Marshmallow, API 23) or later
- Apple iOS 13.0 or later
Updated on: 6/2/22
