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Avast (part of Gen Digital) is a widely used consumer security brand, best known for its free antivirus. Its paid tiers layer extras — scam protection, a VPN, clean-up and anti-tracking tools — on top of core antivirus, across Windows, macOS, Android and iOS.
Below we look at what Avast sells in Canada, what's different from its US plans, and who it actually suits. Plan contents and prices change, so check the renewal price in Canadian dollars (CAD) on Avast's official Canada site before you buy.
Strengths and limitations
Strengths
- A genuinely free starting point from an established vendor
- Paid tiers add scam blocking, a VPN and clean-up tools in one app
- Familiar, approachable interface
Limitations
- Upgrade prompts can be noticeable in the free and lower tiers
- First-term pricing rises at renewal
- Its parent company's past sale of browsing data is worth knowing about
Who it’s for
- People who want to start free with a recognized name
- Users who'll make use of the bundled scam blocking and VPN
Who should look elsewhere
- Users who want a minimal, prompt-free experience
- Anyone who already owns a preferred standalone VPN
What you get in Canada
In Canada, Avast sells Avast One as Free Antivirus, Premium Security and Ultimate. Paid plans come for one Windows PC plus one mobile device, or for ten devices across PC, Mac, Android and iPhone/iPad.
- Premium Security and Ultimate list blocking scam SMS messages and scam calls.
- Ultimate adds Premium VPN, Cleanup Premium and AntiTrack — the VPN isn't part of Premium Security.
What's different from the US plans
Avast's US store sells Secure Identity, its identity monitoring and restoration product; it isn't offered on Avast's Canadian site, and the Canadian plans list no identity insurance or credit monitoring.
Is Avast worth it?
The free version is a reasonable baseline for one PC and one phone. Paying makes sense when you want protection on more devices and will use the extras — scam call and text blocking, the VPN or the clean-up tools.
It's worth knowing the history: in 2024 the US Federal Trade Commission finalized an order against Avast over browsing data sold through its former Jumpshot subsidiary. Avast has since closed Jumpshot, and our free-antivirus guide covers what that means for choosing a free product.
Before you buy: renewal and refund policy
Avast's Canadian policy describes a 30-day money-back guarantee (14 days on monthly plans), with a pro-rated refund option for consumers in Quebec. Prices are in Canadian dollars; Avast says renewals are charged up to 35 days before the anniversary and that it notifies annual subscribers up to 65 days ahead.
Avast alternatives
- Avast vs Norton
Two Gen Digital brands — a free-first suite against a paid bundle.
- Avast vs Avira
Which free tier gives you more.
- Is free antivirus enough?
When free protection is fine — and when it isn't.
- McAfee review
Unlimited devices on higher tiers for bigger households.
Our verdict
Avast is a sensible pick for people who want a familiar brand, a free starting point and a broad paid suite in one app. If you want a minimal, upsell-free experience or won't use the extras, a leaner option may suit you better.
