File Shield

File Shield is the main layer of active protection in Essential/Premium/Ultimate Business Security. It scans programs and files saved on devices for malicious threats in real-time before allowing them to be opened, run, modified, or saved. If malware is detected, File Shield prevents the program or file from infecting devices.

We strongly recommend you always keep this shield turned on and only make configuration changes if you have an advanced understanding of malware protection principles.

File Shield Settings

File Shield actively scans all programs and files on your hard drive as they are opened, run, modified, and saved. If malware is detected, File Shield prevents the program or file from infecting your PC. You can access these settings by clicking Menu ▸ Settings, then navigating to Protection ▸ Core Shields.

Enable File Shield: turn this shield on or off

Scan auto-run items when removable media is attached: specify whether you want File Shield to scan removable drives for auto-run viruses

Choose types of files to scan:

• Scan recommended extensions: specify if File Shield should scan all files or only those recommended by Avast
• Scan all files: specify if File Shield should scan all files or only those recommended by Avast

Scan programs when executing: specify whether you want File Shield to scan programs, scripts, or libraries each time they are run

Scan files when opening: specify which file types you want File Shield to scan each time the files are opened

Scan file when writing: specify the file types you want File Shield to scan while the files are being created or modified