As described in these avast! FAQs:

avast! 2014: Testing whether avast! 2014 is protecting your computer against malware
http://www.avast.com/en-eu/faq.php?article=AVKB32#artTitle

avast! 2014: Checking whether avast! 2014 is installed, up to date, and protecting your computer
http://www.avast.com/en-eu/faq.php?article=AVKB34#artTitle