Ad-Aware Pro Security 11 Review

When it comes to antivirus tools, there are always some heavy names that seem to be glued to the top (just like with web browsers). We tend to overlook lesser-known apps, but sometimes they will pleasantly surprise us.

In our opinion, this rule applies to Ad-Aware Pro Security. Part of a set of four versions (Free Antivirus+, Personal Security, Pro Security and Total Security), this tool is very quick at detecting almost all known malware agents to date, backed by a powerful real-time guard. It comprises a few handy security modules and scanning modes for users of any skill level.

Presenting the whole package

The app can be evaluated for 30 days without any limitations. At the end of this period, Pro Security may be purchased for €36 / $49.74.

The setup operation takes a while and requires a system reboot to finish. Those who already have an antivirus application installed on their computer are advised to exclude the real-time guard from the package and set Pro Security as a secondary line of defense against malware, in order to prevent any compatibility issues that will likely cause system crashes.

Apart from the core files, the program offers to install its own safe browsing module that ensures PC protection while navigating web browsers (Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox). It comprises a security toolbar that shows webpage ratings, blocks domains which are known to contain malware, and sets Lavasoft SecureSearch as the default search provider.

The interface's take on simplicity is indisputable, as Ad-Aware adopts an elegant look and organized structure. Rather than trying to make a fashion statement like other products in its area of expertise, this one prefers to blend in with Windows.

The primary modules are broken down into six groups on the left side of the screen, namely scanning, real-time safeguard, web, email and network protection, in addition to app management options. The parental control module can only be unlocked by purchasing Ad-Aware Total Security. In Pro Security, the “Home” area facilitates one-click activation/deactivation for the real-time shield and displays information on the last scan, definitions release date, total virus definitions and notifications (if any).

Scanning methods

Computer scanning can be performed in four ways (excluding the vigilant real-time guard): quick, full, custom and contextual. The first one looks only into known hiding places for malware such as active processes, the second covers all system areas by definition so it takes the longest time. The custom scan mode lets users handpick the exact locations and threat types to check for malicious activity, between archives, rootkits, email, processes, cookies, registry and boot sectors.

Scanning behavior

During a scan job, Ad-Aware shows the scan type and mode (manual or automatic), elapsed and estimated remaining time, along with the current file's path. The task can be paused and resumed at a later time. When any suspicious activity is detected, the files can be quarantined, deleted, ignored, or disinfected (attempted).

The protection modules

As the name says, the real-time guard is designed to identify infected files on sight, as soon as they are saved on the computer. It covers both local and network files, and can be disabled altogether or for any of these two areas.

App management options

All notifications can be hidden by enabling gaming mode, which allows users to enter fullscreen applications and carry on with normal activity without being interrupted by update or threat dialogs. Furthermore, notifications ignored throughout Pro Security's runtime can be analyzed and removed. All settings can be restored to default.