Adaware Antivirus Total - Detailed Review

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    Adaware Antivirus Total - Product Overview



    Adaware Antivirus Total Overview



    Primary Function

    Adaware Antivirus Total is the top-tier security solution offered by Adaware, designed to provide comprehensive protection against various cyber threats, ensuring the security, privacy, and performance of your computer.



    Target Audience

    This product is ideal for individuals and families who require advanced and all-encompassing security features to safeguard their personal information and maintain their computer’s health. It is particularly beneficial for those who frequently shop and bank online, as well as parents looking to protect their children from inappropriate content.



    Key Features



    Antivirus and Anti-Spyware Protection

    Adaware Antivirus Total includes award-winning antivirus protection that stops viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other forms of malware. It automatically scans, blocks, and removes threats in real-time.



    Real-Time Protection

    This feature works in the background to scan files for potential malicious activities, ensuring continuous protection as you use your computer.



    Web Protection

    It actively blocks dangerous websites and online threats, protecting you from phishing attacks and malware distribution sites.



    Firewall and Network Protection

    The powerful firewall shields your computer from hackers and network intrusions, while network protection monitors and secures your home network.



    Email Protection

    This feature scans all incoming and outgoing emails to protect against malware and spam, ensuring your email communications are secure.



    Parental Control

    An extension of the Web Protection feature, it allows parents to filter online content based on their child’s age and specific needs, helping to block inappropriate websites.



    Privacy Tools
    • VPN: Enhances your online privacy by encrypting your internet connection.
    • Password Protection: Tracks your passwords and alerts you to any breaches.
    • Microphone and Camera Protection: Blocks hackers from accessing your microphone and camera.


    Performance Optimization
    • Speed Up and Optimize Your PC: Repairs PC problems, boosts startup times, and optimizes disk space.
    • Clean Up Your PC: Removes unnecessary junk files, deletes duplicates, and frees up disk space.


    Data Security
    • File Encryption and Digital Shredder: Provides additional layers of protection by encrypting files and securely deleting sensitive data.

    Adaware Antivirus Total is a comprehensive solution that combines advanced security features with tools to enhance your computer’s performance and protect your privacy, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking thorough protection against cyber threats.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - User Interface and Experience



    User Interface of Adaware Antivirus

    The user interface of Adaware Antivirus, including the Total version, is designed to be highly intuitive and user-friendly.



    Interface Layout

    The interface is clean and simple, modeled after the streamlined look of Windows 8. It is clearly divided into separate functions, which are easily accessible from the left-hand side of the dashboard. These functions include Home, Scan Computer, RealTime Protections, Web Protection, Network Protection, and App Management.



    Ease of Use

    Adaware Antivirus is extremely easy to install and use. The installation process is quick, and the software guides you through a brief tutorial of its features upon the first boot-up. You can skip this tutorial if you prefer. The interface is highly intuitive, making it accessible even for beginners. However, experts might find the lack of customization options somewhat limiting.



    Scan Options

    Users have the flexibility to choose from three different scan options: Quick, Full, and Custom. The Custom option allows for complete customization with easy checkbox inclusions. You can also schedule scans, which is a useful feature for maintaining regular system checks.



    Additional Features

    The software includes various settings and features that can be managed through the Protection Settings and Options sections. This includes tweaking real-time protection, browsing options, and enabling or disabling Safe Browsing. There is also a Gaming Mode that can be quickly toggled from the main interface or the taskbar.



    Performance and System Impact

    During scans, Adaware can have a noticeable impact on system resources, particularly CPU and disk utilization. However, this impact is generally manageable, and scans can be paused if they slow down the system too much. The interface provides clear notices indicating whether your system is safe and if any action is needed.



    Customer Support

    Adaware offers a good FAQ section with helpful articles, a live chatbot assistant, and email support. While there is no live chat function with human representatives, there is a community section where users can get support and advice from other users.

    Overall, the user interface of Adaware Antivirus Total is practical, simple, and easy to use, making it a solid choice for those seeking a straightforward antivirus solution.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Key Features and Functionality



    Adaware Antivirus Total Overview

    Adaware Antivirus Total offers a comprehensive suite of security, privacy, and performance features, each designed to provide robust protection and convenience for users. Here are the main features and how they work:

    Real-Time Protection

    This feature works in the background to scan files for potential malicious activities as you work or play. It blocks malicious processes and infected files in real-time, ensuring your computer remains protected against the latest threats.

    On-Demand Scanner

    The on-demand scanner provides multiple scan options:
    • Quick Scan: Scans your computer’s active processes to detect malicious activity.
    • Full Scan: Thoroughly checks all processes and files on your computer.
    • Custom Scan: Allows you to select specific locations to scan for malicious activity.
    • Automated Scan: Enables scheduling of scans to fit your schedule.


    Active Virus Control

    This feature scans and prevents malicious processes in real-time by monitoring the actions of applications at the process level to identify and stop malware activities.

    Web Protection

    Adaware Antivirus Total includes Web Protection that warns you if a website you are trying to visit is suspected of phishing or distributing malware. It consults multiple databases to provide up-to-date protection against online threats.

    Network Protection

    The Network Protection feature includes a firewall that stops hackers from infiltrating your home network and accessing your files. It closes potential entry points and allows monitoring of process changes and network adapters for malicious alterations. An optional stealth mode makes your PC invisible on the network.

    Email Protection

    This feature scans all incoming and outgoing emails to ensure they are free from malware and spam. It logs and deletes malicious attachments and notifies users of spam messages. Emails scanned by Adaware are marked with a footer indicating they have been checked.

    Parental Control

    Parental Control allows parents to filter online content based on their child’s age and needs. It provides preset categories of banned websites and the option to create custom filters. However, it cannot be applied to individual Windows user accounts simultaneously.

    Firewall

    The firewall feature in Adaware Antivirus Total controls network safety by blocking unauthorized access and protecting against network intrusions.

    VPN

    The VPN feature enhances your online privacy by encrypting your internet connection, making your online activities safer and more private.

    Password Protection

    Adaware includes a password protection tool that helps track your passwords and alerts you to any breaches, ensuring your personal information remains secure.

    Microphone and Camera Protection

    These features block hackers from accessing your microphone and camera, protecting your privacy from unauthorized surveillance.

    Performance Optimization

    Adaware Antivirus Total includes tools to speed up and optimize your PC. It can repair PC problems, boost start-up times, and optimize disk space. It also removes unnecessary junk files and deletes duplicates to free up disk space.

    AI Integration

    While the provided sources do not explicitly detail the integration of AI in Adaware Antivirus Total, the use of advanced scanning technologies and real-time protection suggests that AI-driven algorithms may be involved in enhancing detection rates and optimizing the scanning process. For example, the smart scan technology in Real-Time Protection checks previously-scanned files less frequently to conserve system resources, which could be facilitated by AI-driven optimization. In summary, Adaware Antivirus Total offers a wide range of features that collectively provide strong security, privacy, and performance enhancements, though the specific role of AI in these features is not explicitly outlined in the available sources.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Performance and Accuracy



    Performance

    Adaware Antivirus Total is known for its relatively speedy scan times. Quick scans typically take around four minutes, while a full scan of 50GB of data takes approximately 21 minutes on the first run and just over a minute on subsequent runs.

    However, the software does have an impact on system resources, particularly during full scans. CPU utilization can increase significantly, from 5% to 73%, and disk utilization jumps from 3 MB/s to 867 MB/s. This can result in a slowdown in certain processes like downloading, installing apps, or launching files while the scan is running.

    In independent performance tests, Adaware was rated as slow for tasks like downloading files and file copying on the first run, but it performed very well in archiving and launching applications.



    Accuracy

    The accuracy of Adaware Antivirus Total is a mixed bag. While it is certified by VirusBulletin, where it blocked 99.9% of threats in the October 2020 VB100 results, this is slightly below the performance of top-tier antivirus software like Avast Free, which blocked 100% of threats in the same test.

    Adaware is not included in tests by major independent labs such as AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, or SE-Labs, which makes it harder to gauge its performance against industry standards.

    In custom tests, Adaware showed some limitations in behavior monitoring. For example, when an executable used a standard Windows tool to launch PowerShell and download a malicious file, Adaware did not recognize the danger at the behavior monitoring level as effectively as competitors like Bitdefender and Kaspersky.



    Features and Protection

    Despite these limitations, Adaware Antivirus Total offers a range of protective features. It includes real-time protection, active virus control, email protection, web protection, and network protection. The web protection feature, for instance, warns users about phishing sites and malware distribution by consulting multiple databases for the latest threats.

    The parental control feature, available exclusively in the Total edition, allows parents to filter online content based on their child’s age and specific needs, providing an additional layer of protection.



    Areas for Improvement

    One of the main areas for improvement is in the antivirus’s ability to detect and respond to new, unrecognized threats. The lack of inclusion in major independent testing labs also makes it difficult to fully assess its performance against other antivirus solutions.

    Additionally, while Adaware’s scan times are generally fast, the significant impact on system resources during full scans could be optimized further to minimize user disruption.

    In summary, Adaware Antivirus Total offers good performance in terms of scan speed and a range of protective features, but it has some limitations in terms of accuracy and system resource usage. Users should be aware of these points when considering this antivirus solution.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Pricing and Plans



    Pricing

    • Adaware Antivirus Total is the top-tier product in the Adaware lineup.
    • It costs $89.99 per year for a single device.
    • To protect up to five devices, it costs an additional $9.99, bringing the total to $99.98 per year.


    Features

    • Adaware Antivirus Total includes all the features from the lower tiers (Free and Pro), plus several additional ones:
    • Real-time Antivirus Protection: Blocks malicious processes and infected files in real-time.
    • Web Protection: Actively blocks dangerous websites and online threats.
    • Email Protection & Antispam Filters: Provides real-time email protection and advanced antispam filters.
    • Network Protection: Blocks malicious intrusions with advanced network monitors.
    • Shop & Bank Safely Online: Protects against cybercriminals trying to steal personal information.
    • Parental Control: Allows parents to filter internet content based on their child’s age and specific requirements.
    • Firewall Shield: Shields against hackers and network intrusions.
    • PC Optimization: Includes tools to repair PC issues, boost startup times, remove trackers, delete hidden activity logs, and free up disk space.


    Additional Options

    • You can also add a VPN to the Adaware Antivirus Total subscription for an additional $20 per year for new subscribers.


    Free Option

    • While there is no free version of Adaware Antivirus Total, Adaware does offer a Free Antivirus version that includes basic features such as real-time antivirus, behavior monitoring, and automatic scanning of downloads. However, this free version lacks many of the advanced features available in the Total package.

    This structure provides a clear hierarchy of protection levels, with the Total version offering the most comprehensive set of features for users seeking advanced security and PC maintenance tools.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Integration and Compatibility



    Integration with Other Tools

    Adaware Antivirus Total includes a range of integrated tools to enhance security and privacy:

    Firewall

    This feature controls network safety by stopping hackers from infiltrating your home network and accessing your files. It monitors process changes and network adapters for malicious alterations.

    Web Protection

    This feature actively blocks dangerous websites and online threats, consulting multiple databases for the latest phishing and malware links.

    Email Protection

    It scans all incoming and outgoing emails for malware and spam, logging and deleting malicious attachments before they can infect your computer.

    VPN

    The VPN feature, available in the Total package, enhances online privacy by encrypting internet traffic and making your online activities safer.

    Password Protection

    This tool helps track passwords and alerts you to any breaches, ensuring your personal information remains secure.

    Parental Control

    Integrated with Web Protection, this feature allows parents to filter online content based on their child’s age and unique needs.

    Compatibility Across Different Platforms and Devices

    Adaware Antivirus Total is compatible with various Windows operating systems, including:

    Supported Windows Versions

    • Windows 10
    • Windows 8, 8.1
    • Windows 7


    System Requirements

    It requires specific system resources to function effectively:
    • A 4.5 or higher version of Microsoft Windows Installer
    • 1.8 GB of available free hard disk space (at least 800 MB on the system drive)
    • A 1.6 MHz processor
    • 1 GB of memory (RAM).
    There is no mention of compatibility with non-Windows operating systems such as macOS or Linux, or with mobile devices. Therefore, if you are using a different operating system or need protection for mobile devices, Adaware Antivirus Total may not be the suitable choice.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Customer Support and Resources



    Customer Support

    Adaware provides various channels for customer support to help you with any issues or questions you might have:



    FAQ Section

    Adaware has a comprehensive FAQ section that answers many common questions about their antivirus software, including general inquiries, support, and feature-specific information.



    Support Tickets

    You can submit support tickets directly through the Adaware website to get assistance from their support team.



    Contact Form

    There is typically a contact form available where you can send messages to the support team.



    Additional Resources



    User Guides and Documentation

    Adaware often provides detailed user guides and documentation that explain how to use each feature of the antivirus software. This includes setup, configuration, and troubleshooting guides.



    Feature Descriptions

    The website offers detailed descriptions of each feature, such as the on-demand scanner, real-time protection, firewall, web protection, and more. This helps you understand how each component works and how to use them effectively.



    Privacy and Security Tools

    Adaware Antivirus Total includes a range of privacy tools, such as a VPN, email breach monitoring, password tracking, and controls for your microphone and camera. These tools are explained in detail on the website, helping you to use them to enhance your privacy and security.



    Community and Forums

    While the provided sources do not explicitly mention community forums or user groups, it is common for antivirus software providers to have these resources available. You may want to check the Adaware website or contact their support to see if such community resources exist.

    By leveraging these support options and resources, you can ensure that you are well-equipped to manage and protect your computer with Adaware Antivirus Total.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Pros and Cons



    Advantages and Disadvantages of Adaware Antivirus Total



    Pros

    • Affordable Prices: Adaware Antivirus Total is priced competitively, making it an accessible option for those seeking antivirus protection without breaking the bank.
    • Simple and Intuitive Interface: The software features a user-friendly interface, which is beneficial for users who are not tech-savvy or do not want to spend a lot of time configuring their antivirus program.
    • Free Baseline Real-Time Protection: Adaware offers a free version with real-time protection, which is a good starting point for basic security needs.
    • Parental Control: The Total edition includes parental controls, allowing parents to filter online content based on their child’s age and specific needs. This feature is an extension of the Web Protection function.
    • Comprehensive Protection Features: Adaware Antivirus Total includes various protection features such as On-Demand Scanner, Real-Time Protection, Active Virus Control, Email Protection, Web Protection, and Network Protection. These features help protect against malware, phishing, and other online threats.
    • Smart Scan Technology: The software uses smart scan technology that checks previously-scanned files less frequently to conserve system resources, making scans quicker and less resource-intensive.
    • Email Breach Scanner and Web Protection: Additional features like the Email Breach Scanner and advanced Web Protection help in identifying and blocking harmful websites and checking for data breaches.


    Cons

    • Mixed Lab Test Scores: Adaware has received mixed results in lab tests, indicating it may not detect malware as effectively as other antivirus programs. It has missed a significant portion of threats in some tests.
    • Limited Configuration: The software offers limited configuration options, which might be a drawback for advanced users who prefer more control over their antivirus settings.
    • System Slowdown: During full scans, Adaware can cause noticeable system slowdowns, affecting tasks like downloading files, copying files, and launching applications.
    • No Protection for Mobile Devices: Adaware Antivirus Total does not offer protection for mobile devices, which is a significant limitation in today’s multi-device environment.
    • No Compatibility with macOS: The software is not compatible with macOS, making it unsuitable for users who use Apple devices.
    • Limited Independent Testing Results: There is a lack of transparency and limited independent testing results available, which can make it difficult to assess the software’s effectiveness fully.

    These points provide a balanced view of what you can expect from Adaware Antivirus Total, helping you make an informed decision about whether it meets your security needs.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Comparison with Competitors



    When Comparing Adaware Antivirus Total

    When comparing Adaware Antivirus Total with other products in the privacy and security software category, several key features and alternatives stand out.



    Unique Features of Adaware Antivirus Total

    • Comprehensive Protection: Adaware Antivirus Total offers multiple layers of protection, including antivirus, anti-spyware, firewall, anti-phishing, email protection, and parental control. It also includes a VPN for enhanced online privacy and tools to monitor email breaches and protect passwords.
    • Real-Time Protection: This feature works in the background to scan files for potential malicious activities, using smart scan technology to conserve system resources.
    • Web Protection: Adaware Total warns users about suspicious websites and blocks those known for phishing or distributing malware, consulting multiple databases for the latest threats.
    • Network Protection: The firewall feature controls network safety, closes potential entry points, and offers a stealth mode to make the PC invisible on the network.
    • Privacy Tools: It includes features to block hackers from accessing the microphone and camera, and a password hacking tool to track breaches.


    Potential Alternatives



    Norton 360

    • Norton 360 offers a similar suite of protections, including antivirus, anti-spyware, firewall, and web protection. It also includes a VPN, password manager, and parental controls. However, Norton 360 may have more extensive cloud storage options and a more comprehensive password manager.
    • Unique Feature: Norton 360 includes a feature called “SafeCam” which blocks unauthorized access to the webcam, similar to Adaware’s camera protection.


    Kaspersky Total Security

    • Kaspersky Total Security provides a broad range of security features, including antivirus, anti-spyware, firewall, and web protection. It also offers a password manager, online banking protection, and parental controls.
    • Unique Feature: Kaspersky includes advanced features like file encryption and a secure browser for online transactions, which might be more detailed than Adaware’s offerings.


    Bitdefender Total Security

    • Bitdefender Total Security is another strong competitor, offering antivirus, anti-spyware, firewall, and web protection. It also includes a VPN, anti-phishing protection, and parental controls.
    • Unique Feature: Bitdefender has a feature called “Anti-Tracker” which helps remove trackers and delete hidden activity logs, similar to Adaware’s privacy tools but with a focus on tracker removal.


    Market Presence and Customer Base

    While Adaware has a smaller market share compared to larger competitors like Norton, Kaspersky, and Bitdefender, it still maintains a loyal customer base. Adaware’s market share is significantly lower than that of VirusTotal, for example, but it remains a trusted name in the antivirus and anti-spyware arena since 1999.

    In summary, Adaware Antivirus Total offers a comprehensive suite of security and privacy features that are competitive with other top-tier security software. However, users may want to consider alternatives based on specific needs such as more extensive cloud storage, advanced password management, or specialized features like secure browsers for online transactions.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Frequently Asked Questions



    Frequently Asked Questions about Adaware Antivirus Total



    Q: What types of scans are available in Adaware Antivirus Total?

    Adaware Antivirus Total includes an on-demand scanner that offers several scan options. You can perform a Quick Scan to check active processes, a Full Scan to thoroughly examine all processes and files, a Custom Scan to select specific locations, and an Automated Scan to schedule scans according to your preferences.

    Q: How does the Real-Time Protection feature work?

    The Real-Time Protection feature works in the background, continuously scanning files for potential malicious activities as you work or play. It uses smart scan technology to check previously scanned files less frequently, conserving system resources.

    Q: What is the role of the Firewall in Adaware Antivirus Total?

    The Firewall feature in Adaware Antivirus Total helps control network safety by stopping hackers from infiltrating your home network and accessing your files. It closes potential entry points and can monitor process changes and network adapters for malicious alterations. An optional stealth mode can make your PC invisible on the network.

    Q: How does Web Protection work in Adaware Antivirus Total?

    The Web Protection feature warns you about sites suspected of phishing or distributing malware. It consults multiple databases to provide up-to-date protection against the latest online threats, automatically blocking dangerous websites that could put your computer at risk.

    Q: What email protection features are included in Adaware Antivirus Total?

    The Email Protection feature scans all incoming and outgoing emails to ensure they are free from malware. It logs and deletes malicious attachments before they can infect your computer and also notifies you of spam messages. This feature is particularly useful for users of desktop email clients like Microsoft Outlook.

    Q: Does Adaware Antivirus Total include Parental Control features?

    Yes, Adaware Antivirus Total includes Parental Control, which is an extension of the Web Protection feature. This allows parents to filter online content based on their child’s age and unique needs. Parents can use preset categories or create their own custom filters to block specific websites.

    Q: How does the VPN feature in Adaware Antivirus Total enhance privacy?

    The VPN feature in Adaware Antivirus Total helps make your online experience safer and more private. It encrypts your internet connection, protecting your data from being intercepted by hackers and ensuring your online activities remain anonymous.

    Q: What is the Password Hack tool in Adaware Antivirus Total?

    The Password Hack tool, or more accurately, the password breach tracking tool, helps you stay up-to-date on any breaches involving your passwords. This feature alerts you if your passwords have been compromised, allowing you to take immediate action to secure your accounts.

    Q: How does Adaware Antivirus Total protect my microphone and camera?

    Adaware Antivirus Total includes features to block hackers from accessing your microphone and camera. These features prevent unauthorized access, ensuring your conversations and personal moments remain private.

    Q: Are there any additional data security features in Adaware Antivirus Total?

    Yes, Adaware Antivirus Total includes additional data security features such as file encryption (Digital Lock) and a file shredder. The Digital Lock uses strong encryption to protect your files and sensitive information, while the file shredder permanently deletes sensitive digital information. If you have any more specific questions or need further details, you can refer to the product manuals or contact Adaware’s technical support for personalized assistance.

    Adaware Antivirus Total - Conclusion and Recommendation



    Final Assessment of Adaware Antivirus Total

    Adaware Antivirus Total is a comprehensive security solution that offers a wide range of features to protect your computer, privacy, and online activities. Here’s a breakdown of what it provides and who would benefit most from using it.



    Security Features

    • On-Demand Scanner: Allows for quick, full, custom, and automated scans to detect and remove malware.
    • Real-Time Protection: Continuously scans files and processes in the background to block malicious activities.
    • Active Virus Control: Monitors application processes to identify and prevent malware activities.
    • Email Protection: Scans incoming and outgoing emails for malware and spam, ensuring your email client is secure.
    • Web Protection: Warns and blocks access to phishing and malware-infected websites.
    • Network Protection: Includes a firewall that secures your home network by closing potential entry points and monitoring network changes.


    Privacy Tools

    • VPN: Enhances online privacy by encrypting your internet connection, making it safer to browse and surf the web.
    • Email Breach Scanner: Checks if your personal information has been compromised in data breaches.
    • Microphone and Camera Protection: Alerts and blocks unauthorized access to your microphone and camera.


    Additional Features

    • Parental Control: Allows parents to filter online content based on their child’s age and needs, ensuring a safe browsing environment.
    • Digital Lock: Encrypts sensitive files for extra security.
    • File Shredder: Securely deletes files to prevent data recovery.
    • Technical Support: Offers 24/7 technical support for any issues or questions.


    Who Would Benefit Most

    Adaware Antivirus Total is ideal for individuals and families who need comprehensive protection for their computers and online activities. Here are some groups that would particularly benefit:

    • Families: With parental controls and web protection, families can ensure their children are safe online.
    • Home Users: Those who use their computers for everyday tasks like browsing, emailing, and online shopping will appreciate the real-time and web protection features.
    • Users of Public Networks: The VPN feature makes it a great option for those who frequently use public Wi-Fi networks.
    • Small Business Owners: The additional security features such as email protection, network protection, and the firewall can safeguard business data and operations.


    Overall Recommendation

    Adaware Antivirus Total is a solid choice for anyone seeking a comprehensive security and privacy solution. It offers a wide array of features that cover various aspects of computer and online security. The inclusion of a VPN, email breach scanner, and microphone/camera protection adds a significant layer of privacy protection. While it may not be the cheapest option, the Total plan provides substantial value with its extensive feature set and 24/7 technical support.

    If you are looking for a reliable and feature-rich antivirus solution that also prioritizes your privacy, Adaware Antivirus Total is definitely worth considering.

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