I've heard nothing but bad things about AVG and how unstable it is, and how it screws up a lot of systems pretty bad. I've given up on most AV programs and their massive local databases and the constant need to update them. I've been hit by stuff before that goes right through that. I currently recommend zero-day cloud-based scanners like here - https://www.qualys.com/offer/zero-day-vulnerabilities-require-defense-depth-strategy The databases are online, so no updating. They are always updated as soon as new stuff is discovered. Some of these programs will download a small database every few hours on their own to help detect the current top malware faster. They are also very small. I'm also using Avira https://thinkmobiles.com/blog/best-free-antimalware/ with an edit to stop the pops and windows defender and also "Hosts" edited to prevent pops and redirects from taking over my computer as well. So A/V and malware will work but if you edit your host's file that will kill most pops that come one other web sites trying to redirect or make you click on them thinking they are legit or giving you any relevant help. But I read that AVG has insider hacking or that someone inside has a grudge against AVG as the Virus that attacks it seems to knows what exact codes to go after. If that isn't scary enough one has to ask how secure is AVG now that it's got insiders attacking their own program?