Avast Free: Barrier Mode - activate it or not?

[Nunzio77]

Hi,
a doubt, the default barrier mode is not active but do you recommend activating it?
Is there a risk that it will also block some trusted files?
Are you still safe without barrier mode active and ransoware protection active? Will the analysis in the virtual sandbox still be reliable and effective?

Thanks.

[Asyn]

Please elaborate or post a screenshot, I’m not aware of anything called “barrier mode” in Avast.

[McMcBrad]

I believe “barrier” mode is “hardened mode”.

If that’s so, aggressive detection methods always carry a risk of trusted files being blocked, specially if they are new and/or don’t have a Class 3 signature.
This is usually the case with less known programs from small developing groups.

Hardened mode affects CyberCapture analysis, as untrusted code is not executed at all and doesn’t reach this layer.

Without this mode active, you are still protected by IDP (behavioural blocker) and CyberCapture. Web Shield prevents downloading secondary payload.

Hardened mode is recommended for users that are involved in risky behaviour e.g. frequently downloading apps from untrusted sources, such as torrents.

[Nunzio77]

@McMcBrad post:3

I believe “barrier” mode is “hardened mode”.

If that’s so, aggressive detection methods always carry a risk of trusted files being blocked, specially if they are new and/or don’t have a Class 3 signature.
This is usually the case with less known programs from small developing groups.

Hardened mode affects CyberCapture analysis, as untrusted code is not executed at all and doesn’t reach this layer.

Without this mode active, you are still protected by IDP (behavioural blocker) and CyberCapture. Web Shield prevents downloading secondary payload.

Hardened mode is recommended for users that are involved in risky behaviour e.g. frequently downloading apps from untrusted sources, such as torrents.

Sorry I meant the “hardened” mode, in Italian the program also translates it as “barrier” mode.

Thanks were the info I was looking for, you were very thorough with the explanation.

[Asyn]

Excerpt from the FAQ: Enable Hardened Mode: Recommended for inexperienced computer users who want to really secure their PC. Hardened Mode uses information based on reputation services to determine which executable files are safe to open.