G Data Internet Security Light

Editors' ReviewDownload.com staffSeptember 14, 2014 G Data Antivirus Free doesn't excel in terms of interface and features but nevertheless proves to be a reliable security app, offering a super fast scanner and a good permissions manager. While it's ad-free, it includes in its main menu features that can only be used if you upgrade to G Data MobileSecurity 2, the app's older, wiser brother.Pros Super fast scanning: G Data Antivirus Free pleasantly surprised us with its system scanning speed. On a 16GB Nexus 7 it took only 15 seconds to scan the installed apps, and just 24 seconds to scan all files, apps included. This is one of the fastest free antiviruses for Android. Easy permissions management: You can easily check what permissions the apps installed on your device are requiring, including Calls, SMS, and GPS location, and easily uninstall apps that are too cheeky in their demands. Managing Permissions through this app is fast, easy, and effective.Cons Drab interface: While the lack of advanced security features makes the interface accessible, with scanning, managing permissions, and updating only a tap or two away from the main window, the grayscale color scheme and old-fashioned buttons give the app a rather dreary look, at least compared to other mobile antivirus apps. Incomplete: Unlike other stripped-down versions of paid security apps, this one does not offer Web protection, which is crucial for any mobile user in our day and age. To enjoy this feature, as well as spam, app and anti-theft protection, you have to make a pricey upgrade.Bottom Line Not many security apps can compare with G Data Antivirus Free in terms of scanning speed. Other than quick scanning and the handy Permissions feature, however, this app doesn't have much to offer you. It's definitely better than nothing, but to keep your smartphone or tablet safe you need a few more security features, which more complete apps can readily offer.