- Aug 6, 2012
- 505
INTRODUCING: NEW Avast 2014 "R2" RC (2014.9.0.2010)
from "pavels"
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.
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=142550.0
"This is Beta software use at your own risk"
James
from "pavels"
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.
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=142550.0
"This is Beta software use at your own risk"
James
