AVG Antivirus offers strong protection right out of the box. But you can fine-tune its settings for even better performance and safety. Here’s how to get the best results.
Start by opening AVG Antivirus. Click on the Menu icon in the top-right corner. Select Settings from the dropdown list.
Now let’s adjust the key areas.
1. Real-Time Protection
Go to Basic Protection and click on Computer. Make sure File Shield is turned on. Click the gear icon next to it. You can choose when and how files are scanned—like when opened, modified, or saved. Keep all scan options enabled for best protection.
2. Scheduled Scans
Go to Basic Protection and open Virus Scans. Under Scheduled Scans, select Custom Scan. Choose which files or folders to scan. Set the frequency—daily, weekly, or monthly. Select the best time, like during idle hours. Run a full scan weekly and a quick scan daily.
3. Firewall Settings (AVG Internet Security only)
Go to Full Protection and click on Enhanced Firewall. Set your network type to Private if you’re on a trusted home network. Set it to Public for coffee shops or airports. You can also block or allow specific apps.
4. Web and Email Protection
Open Web & Email under Basic Protection. Turn on Web Shield and Email Shield. Click the gear icon to adjust. Enable HTTPS scanning, block harmful email attachments, and whitelist safe websites.
5. Notification Settings
Go to General and open Notifications. Turn off unnecessary alerts like marketing messages. Turn on “Do Not Disturb Mode” to block pop-ups while gaming, working, or streaming.
6. Do Not Disturb Mode
Under Performance, enable Do Not Disturb Mode. Add any apps where you don’t want interruptions. This feature keeps your focus while still protecting your system in the background.
7. Automatic Updates
Under General, go to Update. Set both Virus Definitions and Program Updates to automatic. This ensures your antivirus always has the latest protection.
8. Password Protection
If you use browsers to save passwords, turn on Password Protection under Full Protection. It blocks access to your stored passwords from unknown apps.
9. Save Your Settings
To keep a backup of your custom settings, go to Settings, then Troubleshooting. Click Back Up Settings. Save the file so you can restore it later if needed.
Final Tips
Customizing AVG Antivirus only takes a few minutes. But the benefits last much longer. You get faster scans, fewer alerts, and stronger protection. Set it up once and let it do the work for you.
