AVG antivirus is known for its robust protection features, but sometimes users notice a decrease in internet speed after installing or updating the software. If you’re facing slow internet while AVG is running, don’t worry – there are several ways to resolve this issue and restore optimal browsing speed without compromising your device’s security. Here’s how to fix it.
1. Check for Updates
Sometimes, outdated software can cause performance issues. AVG frequently releases updates to improve its functionality and fix bugs that may affect internet speed.
Solution:
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Open AVG and navigate to the Menu.
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Click on Settings and then Update.
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Ensure that your software is up to date by clicking on Update Now. If there’s an update available, install it.
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Restart your computer after the update is complete.
Why This Works:
Software updates often address performance problems, including any issues related to internet speed.
2. Adjust AVG’s Real-Time Protection
AVG’s Real-Time Protection feature scans all data that enters your system, including internet traffic. While this is essential for security, it can sometimes slow down your internet connection, especially when you’re browsing or streaming.
Solution:
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Open AVG and go to Settings.
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Under Protection, select Real-Time Protection.
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Temporarily disable it and check if your internet speed improves. If it does, you can try adjusting the sensitivity settings rather than disabling it completely.
Why This Works:
By lowering the scan intensity or temporarily turning off real-time scanning, you may reduce the strain AVG places on your internet connection.
3. Disable AVG’s VPN
If you’re using AVG’s VPN feature, it might be affecting your internet speed. VPNs can sometimes cause slower connections because they route your traffic through distant servers for added security and privacy.
Solution:
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Open AVG and go to the VPN section.
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Turn off the VPN temporarily and check your internet speed.
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If the connection improves, consider using the VPN only when necessary or switch to a different server location for better performance.
Why This Works:
VPN connections can introduce latency, especially if the server you’re connected to is far from your actual location. Disabling it can lead to a faster internet connection.
4. Disable AVG’s Web Shield
AVG’s Web Shield scans websites in real time to prevent malicious content from affecting your device. While useful, this can sometimes cause slower browsing speeds, particularly on websites with many ads or complex media content.
Solution:
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Open AVG and go to Settings.
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Click on Components and then find Web Shield.
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Temporarily disable it and check if your internet connection improves.
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You can also adjust the Web Shield settings to make it less aggressive.
Why This Works:
Disabling or fine-tuning the Web Shield can help reduce delays caused by real-time web scanning without compromising overall security.
5. Use AVG’s TuneUp Features
AVG also includes PC TuneUp tools that optimize your computer’s performance. Sometimes, other processes running in the background may be consuming your bandwidth, and TuneUp can help identify and eliminate these issues.
Solution:
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Open AVG and go to PC TuneUp or Performance.
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Click on Run Optimization to let AVG clean unnecessary files and optimize your system settings.
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Restart your computer to see the changes.
Why This Works:
Optimizing your PC can help reduce the overall load on your system, including the processes that affect internet speed.
6. Check for Conflicting Software
Sometimes, other security software or even browser extensions may conflict with AVG and slow down your internet connection.
Solution:
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Ensure that you do not have other antivirus programs installed alongside AVG. If you do, uninstall the conflicting software.
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Disable or remove any unnecessary browser extensions that might interfere with AVG.
Why This Works:
Multiple security programs running at once can cause conflicts, slowing down your internet. By reducing the number of security tools, AVG can function more efficiently.
7. Adjust AVG’s Firewall Settings
AVG’s Firewall may sometimes block certain types of traffic or restrict bandwidth, leading to slower internet speeds.
Solution:
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Open AVG and go to Settings.
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Click on Firewall and check the current settings.
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If necessary, adjust the firewall to a less restrictive mode or temporarily disable it to see if it improves your connection.
Why This Works:
A firewall that is too restrictive can block legitimate traffic or slow down your connection. Adjusting it allows smoother data flow without compromising safety.
8. Test Your Internet Speed Without AVG
To confirm if AVG is the cause of your slow internet, test your speed with AVG running and then without it. This can help you determine if the software is indeed the issue.
Solution:
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Run an Internet Speed Test with AVG enabled.
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Temporarily disable AVG and run the speed test again.
Why This Works:
By testing your speed with and without AVG, you can directly compare results and determine if AVG is impacting your internet speed.
Conclusion
AVG provides essential protection for your PC, but sometimes it can slow down your internet connection due to its various security features. By following these steps, you can easily troubleshoot and fix these issues without compromising your computer’s safety. Updating the software, adjusting settings like Real-Time Protection or Web Shield, and optimizing your system can significantly enhance your internet speed. Regular maintenance and proper configuration will allow you to enjoy both fast browsing and top-notch security.
