It is my pleasure to announce the availability of the RC build of a new “R2” release of Avast 2014 (build number 2010).
You have all been quite helpful providing us with feedback and comments on the previous (“R1”) version and the “R2” beta as well. Speaking about the beta we have fixed following issues:
Fixed reported BSODs related to the WebShield, Networkshield and FW
Browser plugin support in IE11
USB rescue disk creation sometimes fails (WinXP)
Added localizations
In terms of the core product changes, here’s the (incomplete) list:
We have finally fully rewritten the WebShield so that it now doesn’t work as a “transparent proxy” anymore. I.e. no more routing of all HTTP traffic through the AvastSvc.exe process - which should hopefully result in no more conflicts with various firewalls (especially older firewalls that can’t handle transparent proxies) and overall improvement in stability and performance. Besides that (and this is really exciting) it allows us to see and detect more threats (the original webshield had some limitations).
The Firewall component (in IS and Premier) has also changed dramatically. We spent quite some time making it more compatible with other applications, such as Java and various VPN services.
The installer/updater has been improved to allow more reliable installation in case of infected machines. The installer is now protected by the avast self-defense driver from the very beginning, making it harder for active malware to kill it (if you have problems starting the installer in the first place, it may be a good idea to try to rename the executable to a random name first)
The changes in the File System Shield’s driver should result in faster performance, especially in the copy files and install programs scenarios.
We have also beefed up the Browser Cleanup tool to be able to rip off even the more stubborn toolbars and other “PUBEs” (Pontentially Unwanted Browser Extensions :))
We have also fixed a whole bunch of bugs reported in the last couple of months. Especially if you encountered a problem with R1, I suggest you try this new version, chances are that the problem is resolved there.
For trialware users, we have also added an interactive tutorial that explains all the features of the product in a straightforward, concise manner.
In addition to the core, there’s two more things included in this version:
Connectivity to the new avast! GrimeFighter product. GrimeFighter is our take on PC Optimization / tuneup and is the result of the Jumpshot acquisition that we did earlier this year. This will be a standalone product (sold separately) but has some connections into Avast. It is really a cool product (and I encourage everyone to give it a try) - technically, it’s Linux based, although you wouldn’t be able to tell as it’s perfectly skinned and does a good job at hiding all the complexities.
SafePrice is a new, optional module of the Avast browser plugins. It’s designed to combine security (hence the “safe” part) with best deals (hence the “price”) into one, easy-to-use module. It’s pretty silent (almost invisible) unless you search for a specific product – in which case, it would pop up a price comparison and allow you to pick one of the deals in the trusted stores. The feature can be turned on or off through the browser plugin settings.
Will do a custom install over the top of 9.0.2009 to test selection/de-selection of GrimeFighter (option is available to deselect GF).
EDIT: update
Custom Install over the top of .2009 appears to have gone OK, de-selecting GF takes it completely out of the avastUI > Settings > Tools section.
After the reboot for a short time avast reported not protected, opened the UI with the big Red Band, was intending to do a screen capture and it turned to some shields not started. Clicking the start shields (or words to that effect) and they started. I think this may have been down to my firewall seeking confirmation for come changed processes.
A subsequent reboot appears to have resolved that, the AvastEmUpdate.exe and also the randomised (.exe) emergency update check. Tried to do a screen capture on that, but it was gone before I could start my SnagIt program.
I hope that helps. I have been doing clean installs of the last 2 betas due to the addition of all the “new stuff”.
Want to keep all the ducks in a row!
OK, going to install this one over my 2008 - I tried a bit earlier but it showed a one hour download time , guess the servers were choked. This one is now giving the usual 8 minute download time.
Edit: OK, the download went well and upgraded fine. No problems so far except the Network Traffic graph didn’t show after the first reboot but was working after a second one. So far so good.
First of all, thanks for making GF install optional in custom install.
On a less positive note: the firewall still causes high DPC latencies (when browsing and torrenting simultaneously.) Reverting to Windows’ Firewall yet again.
Upgraded from 9.0.2009 to 2010 from GUI, a little crashing on Logitech.com with AOS activated in Windows 8.1 Pro 64bit with IE 11, and Amazon so far, and Walmart so far, overall though pretty stable, can try a clean install shortly and see if it improves any in regards to Avast online security plugin feature. Save Price was working, was finding me cheaper prices for items while I searched for different Chirstmas related items I may get
My Devices show that my android has the free version installed but I actually have the Premium version, I guess this is a glitch with this version so will hang on for now. 9.0.2008 showed the correct information.
Just installed Premier upgrade via Clean Install on my xpSP3 and am rebooting. So far looks good.
Didn’t notice any option to opt out of Google Install but nothing installed??
That’s different ???
This is the real avast 2014. THis new version has near zero impact in system. (no slugish)
All is this : The changes in the File System Shield’s driver should result in faster performance, especially in the copy files and install programs scenarios.
Can someone make it clear:
Is the new Web shield (without proxy) working with all Windows OS versions (XP-W8)? Somewhere I remember I read that in W7, it was not available…
, guess the servers were choked. This one is now giving the usual 8 minute download time.