G DATA Antivirus Review 2024 In the world of cybersecurity, G DATA is a trusted name that offers comprehensive protection against various cyber threats. Its robust malware detection system and advanced security and performance tools make it an excellent choice for individuals seeking top-notch online safety. Its real-time protection is particularly effective in defending against ransomware, never-before-seen malware, and exploits found in commonly used PC software.G DATA’s anti-phishing tools, banking protection, parental controls, and secure online backups are some of its advanced features that ensure maximum security for your personal data. With its user-friendly interface and easy-to-use setup process, G DATA is a go-to solution for anyone concerned about their online security. Its regular updates ensure that it stays up-to-date with the latest threats, providing peace of mind to its users. Whether you are an individual or an organization, G DATA’s cybersecurity services can help keep your digital life safe from all kinds of cyber threats.
G DATA Antivirus Review 2024
While basic features are included in most online security subscription plans, advanced features like cloud storage, firewall protection, password management, and parental controls are available in higher-priced subscriptions. These additional features can offer enhanced security and convenience to users. Cloud storage enables you to store crucial files securely in the cloud while password managers help keep track of complex passwords for various accounts. Firewall protection and parental controls offer an extra layer of security to protect against cyber threats and monitor children’s online activities, respectively.When deciding on a subscription plan that best suits your needs, it is worth considering these advanced features.
They can provide an added level of protection for your personal information and online activities. Additionally, some subscription plans may include a combination of these advanced features at a discounted price, making them more affordable than purchasing each feature separately. Ultimately, investing in a comprehensive online security solution with advanced features is essential for protecting yourself and your digital assets from potential cyber threats.
G DATA Antivirus Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly configurable
- Excellent malware detection
- Email and banking protection included in base plan
Cons
- macOS version lacks extra features and tools
- VPN not included in any subscription plan
- Base subscription plan is very bare-bones
- App experience inconsistent between desktop and mobile
What Is G DATA?
G DATA CyberDefense, a German cybersecurity company with over 30 years of experience in the antivirus industry, has developed the G DATA antivirus solution. The company introduced the first antivirus in 1987 and has since enhanced its security technology to safeguard both businesses and consumers. G DATA offers various features and tools based on the subscription plan, which is divided into three tiers. The initial plan, known as the “Antivirus” plan, includes the following features:
- An antivirus scanner is used to identify malicious software like viruses, spyware, trojans, rootkits, and other types of malware.
- Protection for emails and banking
- Continuous protection from software exploits, ransomware, and emerging malware in real-time
- Safeguarding against harmful USB devices
The next level of the plan is named “Internet Security,” and it includes all features from the previous level along with a firewall and parental controls. Starting from this level, users have the choice to include a virtual private network (VPN) as a separate add-on for an extra fee.
The third tier called the “Total Security” plan adds more features, which include:
- Password manager
- PC performance optimization tools
- File encryption
- USB device access control
G DATA provides a security package for businesses, consisting of a range of tools beyond antivirus, such as mobile device management, endpoint protection, security awareness training, and other features.
What Sets G DATA Apart
While G DATA may not offer as many features as some of its competitors, we believe that its feature set is well-rounded for consumer-level security needs. In fact, we have recognized G DATA as one of the top antivirus software solutions of 2023 due to its comprehensive features. Furthermore, G DATA utilizes impressive proprietary technologies BEAST and DeepRay, which are specifically designed to identify unknown and disguised malware in real time. These technologies, in conjunction with G DATA’s dependable antivirus scanner, result in a reliably secure antivirus solution. G DATA’s interface is sleek and provides ample customization options. While novice users may find these customization capabilities overwhelming at first, advanced users will appreciate the level of control they offer over G DATA’s functions.
We hope that the basic plan had more features to better compete with other providers offering additional features like a VPN and parental controls at a similar price. G DATA currently does not include a VPN in any subscription plans, but users can purchase it separately or bundle it with the antivirus subscription. At the time of writing, G DATA seems to primarily focus on Windows. The macOS version lacks many features available on Windows, such as bank and email protection, a password manager, performance optimizer, and parental controls. Therefore, G DATA may not be a suitable choice for macOS users seeking more than just antivirus protection.
Pros
- BEAST and DeepRay technologies detect unknown and camouflaged malware
- Interface allows many configuration options
- 30-day free trial
Cons
- macOS version lacks features offered on Windows
- Base version is quite basic
- VPN not included in any subscriptions
G DATA Core Features
Take a detailed look at several of G DATA’s fundamental features.
Antivirus Scanner
G DATA’s antivirus scanner provides users with various scanning options that can be customized for different purposes. Scheduled scans can be set up as a one-time, hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly occurrence. Additionally, users can perform scans on directories, files, and removable media such as USBs.The scanner also features an idle scan option that automatically performs scans when the system is not in use. Furthermore, users can create a boot medium on a USB stick to scan for viruses before the operating system starts up. This feature can be particularly useful in eliminating rootkits and other persistent malware. Overall, G DATA’s antivirus scanner offers a versatile range of scanning options that cater to the individual needs of each user.
Real-Time Protection Technology
G DATA offers real-time protection against both known and undiscovered malware. For known malware, G DATA’s cloud-based system updates virus signatures hourly, while for undiscovered malware (also called zero-day malware), it employs BEAST technology that monitors system behavior to detect new files that exhibit malware-like activity.To minimize the impact on system performance, G DATA uses a lightweight graph to record system behavior. However, independent research by AV-Comparatives found that there is a slight slowdown in system speed when using G DATA. While it does not significantly affect usability, it is worth noting.Despite this minor issue, G DATA’s real-time protection capabilities are highly effective and provide users with secure and reliable antivirus software to protect their systems from potential threats.
Apart from BEAST, G DATA offers users Exploit Protection, DeepRay, and Ransomware Protection. Exploit Protection safeguards against exploits that may be present in popular software like the Microsoft Office Suite. DeepRay technology identifies disguised malware that is intended to integrate into a system and cause extensive damage before being detected. Ransomware Protection prevents your files from being taken over, encrypted, and held for ransom. All four of these real-time defenses can be enabled or disabled, providing users with additional customization options.
Browsing and Email Protection
G DATA’s browser extension offers comprehensive protection against a range of online threats and can be installed on popular browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. The extension is designed to safeguard users from spam, adware, spyware, and phishing attacks. Notably, it scans incoming and outgoing emails for malicious content and identifies spam-like attributes in messages that are free of malware.To enhance its spam detection capabilities, the extension references a database of spam and virus patterns to detect mass spam mailing proactively. Furthermore, the keylogger protection feature included in the extension can be activated as per your program preferences. With G DATA’s browser extension installed, users can browse the internet with confidence knowing they are well-protected from various online threats.
Banking and Shopping Protection
BankGuard is a security feature provided by G DATA that offers protection while banking and shopping online. It is a simple process to activate this feature through the Security Center console and it provides users with a secure environment for carrying out their banking transactions. BankGuard is designed to safeguard against cybercriminals who use specialized banking trojans to gain unauthorized access to online banking accounts. This feature automatically detects these trojans and repairs any damage they may have caused, ensuring that users’ sensitive information stays safe and secure. By utilizing BankGuard, users can confidently conduct their financial transactions without fear of cyber threats jeopardizing their personal information.
G DATA Pricing & Plans
G DATA provides its users with promotional discounts when they opt for longer-term subscription plans and protect multiple devices. Apart from this, the company also offers an auto-renewal discount, which reduces the price of the plan by 30% from the second year onwards if you keep auto-renewal active.Currently, G DATA offers different subscription plans with varying costs based on the number of devices and features that come with them. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change. G DATA’s subscription plans start at one device per year and offer a plethora of security features such as virus protection, firewall protection, anti-spam filter, banking protection, and parental controls. They also provide a 30-day money-back guarantee for customers who are not satisfied with their service. Overall, G DATA’s subscription plans cater to the needs of both individuals and businesses looking for reliable antivirus software.
The chart above clearly shows that G DATA does not offer a good deal for macOS users. While the Antivirus for Mac plan is priced similarly to the Internet Security package, it lacks all the additional features that come with the latter. As such, macOS users may feel short-changed when compared to Windows users who can access a range of security features for the same price. It is imperative that antivirus providers cater equally to all operating systems and provide value for money to their customers.
G DATA Security & Privacy
G DATA, an antivirus software, has received the highest scores in malware protection and detection from independent research organizations, AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives. These organizations specialize in testing antivirus software and regularly revisit products for new testing. Therefore, these scores are subject to change depending on G DATA’s ability to keep up with modern cybersecurity problems. However, based on their recent performance in these tests, we can conclude that G DATA is a safe and reliable product to use for protecting your device against malware threats. It is always important to regularly update the software to ensure maximum protection against the ever-evolving cyber threats.
Should You Trust G DATA?
While using antivirus software may require a trade-off between security and privacy, it is important to understand the extent of the data being processed. For example, G DATA’s privacy policy acknowledges that certain components of their antivirus software process personal data, such as the user’s IP address and device identifiers. However, this does not necessarily mean that users should immediately distrust the software. It is crucial to carefully review each antivirus software’s privacy policy and weigh the potential risks against the benefits of protection. Additionally, utilizing additional privacy tools such as virtual private networks (VPNs) can further mitigate any potential privacy concerns.
For more than thirty years, G DATA has been a prominent figure in the cybersecurity industry, maintaining a flawless record when it comes to handling data. The company’s VPN operates with a no-logs policy, ensuring that it does not retain any records of user activity, a significant advantage for privacy-conscious individuals. It’s important to note that each antivirus company manages customer data differently, so privacy-minded individuals should always review the company’s privacy policy.
These policies offer insight into how a company prioritizes user data privacy and can help users evaluate the company’s trustworthiness and its product. A comprehensive privacy policy should detail the data collected from users, its usage, and potential sharing, as well as the security measures taken to protect user data from unauthorized access. By reviewing this information, users can make informed decisions about entrusting their personal information to a specific antivirus provider.
G DATA Device Compatibility
G DATA can safeguard a maximum of 10 devices under one subscription and is suitable for the following platforms:
- Windows 10, 8.1 and 7 (SP1): minimum 2GB RAM, CPU with x86- or x64-architecture
- macOS 10.15 or higher, 2GB RAM
- Android 4.1 and higher
- iOS 11 and higher
G DATA’s browser extension can be used with leading web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge. This compatibility ensures that users can seamlessly integrate G DATA’s security features into their existing browsing experience without having to switch to a new browser. Furthermore, this compatibility increases the accessibility of G DATA’s browser extension, making it easier for users to protect themselves from online threats regardless of which browser they prefer to use.
G DATA Alternatives and How They Compare
We will compare G DATA’s standard subscription packages with those of its competitors to gain a better understanding of its features and pricing. By using similarly priced packages as a baseline, we can assess the value for money that G DATA offers compared to its competitors. This analysis provides users with valuable insights into which cybersecurity provider is best suited for their needs. It enables them to make informed decisions about the security of their personal or business data.
G DATA’s antivirus software distinguishes itself from other solutions by offering a steady subscription price, unlike other providers that offer low introductory rates that increase after the first year. This pricing strategy makes G DATA’s Internet Security plan more affordable in the long run. However, this cost does not include a VPN, which can be purchased as an additional service or bundled with a G DATA antivirus plan. A VPN adds an extra layer of security and privacy to your online activities, making it worth considering as part of your overall cybersecurity strategy. Additionally, G DATA’s antivirus software boasts a range of features such as anti-phishing protection and real-time malware scanning which make it one of the best options in the market.
G DATA vs. McAfee
For users who prioritize privacy, McAfee is a strong option due to its identity monitor, file shredder, and VPN. Although the non-promotional price of McAfee is higher than that of G DATA, it covers up to five devices, making it a justifiable expense for many. On the other hand, G DATA offers more flexibility as users can choose how many devices they want to protect (up to 10) and can add a VPN if necessary in the future. G DATA’s banking protection is particularly useful for those who handle finances or shop online frequently.
G DATA vs. F-Secure
Both G DATA and F-Secure provide various features including banking protection, ransomware protection, and browsing protection. However, F-Secure goes a step further by offering parental controls that can be remotely managed through the My F-Secure app. Upgrading to F-Secure’s Total plan also includes identity monitoring, a feature not found in G DATA. On the other hand, G DATA offers additional security features such as critical vulnerability protection, file encryption, and a firewall. When comparing these options, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. While F-Secure may be more costly, its extra features may be worthwhile for those requiring parental controls or identity monitoring. Conversely, for those with budget constraints or seeking additional security measures like a firewall or file encryption, G DATA might be the better choice despite lacking parental controls and identity monitoring. Thorough research and comparison of different antivirus software options are recommended to ensure the best choice for individual requirements.
G DATA vs. Bitdefender
Compared to G DATA, Bitdefender comes with additional features such as a VPN, performance-enhancing tools, social network protection, a password manager, and a file shredder. Although G DATA offers some of these features, you would need to upgrade to its most expensive plan and pay separately for the VPN to match what Bitdefender provides. Therefore, Bitdefender is a better value for money than G DATA. It is no surprise that we named Bitdefender the best overall antivirus software in 2023. While promotional pricing may be tempting, it’s essential to consider the long-term value offered by each product when making your decision.
Who Is G DATA Best For?
G DATA offers a reliable and customizable antivirus solution for individuals using the Windows platform, providing real-time protection against various types of malware. The basic plan includes email and banking protections, which are valuable additions to the overall package. However, some users may find that other antivirus solutions provide more features and tools at a similar price point. While G DATA’s Total Security plan is the most expensive option, it offers the best value proposition in terms of features and benefits. With this plan, users can enjoy comprehensive protection against cyber threats while also benefitting from additional features such as parental controls and device optimization tools. Overall, G DATA is a solid choice for those seeking dependable antivirus protection on their Windows devices.
G DATA for Business Use
Businesses, except for very small ones with less than 10 staff members, will need to seek alternative antivirus technology as G DATA’s subscription covers a limited number of devices (maximum of 10) and is not suitable for businesses. However, G DATA offers a suite of security products called G DATA Business that extends beyond antivirus, catering to various business-related security requirements including endpoint protection, security awareness training, and managed endpoint security.
Summary
G DATA Antivirus is a powerful antivirus solution that offers a wide range of features to keep your devices protected from malware and other online threats. With its robust scanning engine, real-time protection, and proactive behavior monitoring, G DATA provides comprehensive security for both Windows and Mac users. While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as occasional system slowdowns during scans, the overall performance and effectiveness of G DATA Antivirus make it a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable antivirus software. If you’re in need of top-notch protection for your devices, give G DATA Antivirus a try and experience peace of mind knowing your digital life is safeguarded.
G DATA Antivirus Review 2024: Frequently Asked Questions
What devices are compatible with G DATA?
G DATA is able to work with the following devices:
- Windows 10, 8.1 and 7 (SP1): minimum 2GB RAM, CPU with x86- or x64-architecture
- macOS 10.15 or higher, 2GB RAM
- Android 4.1 and higher
- iOS 11 and higher
Is there a free trial for G DATA?
Certainly, G DATA offers a 30-day free trial during which you can test any of its versions, including the comprehensive Total Security version.
Is G DATA a good antivirus?
Certainly, G DATA serves as an effective antivirus solution. It achieved a flawless score in the protection category of AV-TEST and was acknowledged by Forbes Advisor as a top antivirus for 2023 due to its extensive features.
