Avira Antivir 10: No behaviour-based detection in 64-bit Windows

Avira's AntiVir 10 may offer behaviour-based ProActiv detection, but the feature is only available with 32-bit Windows systems. While this isn't a tragedy in itself, the vendor had failed to point out clearly enough that ProActiv doesn't work with 64-bit systems. Although the FAQ and downloadable manual contained the appropriate information, the product pages did not mention the restriction.

Avira say that, at present, 64-bit systems can't be supported for technical reasons. Avira's Elisabeth Rothbart said in a statement made available to The H's associates at heise Security "The module right now uses so-called kernel hooks to monitor the system. Those kernel hooks are not available on 64-bit systems. Work on a technical solution for Windows Vista and Windows 7 64-bit systems is in progress".

The vendor has so far not given an availability date and for now has added "Only available for Windows 32-bit systems Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7" to the product's literature and web page.

Avira has also confirmed that a flawed update for Antivir 9 Professional deployed last week caused spontaneous reboots on certain Windows systems. Originally, a reboot was meant to require user confirmation – but the update didn't request it. A modified update fixes the problem.

See also:

• Avira AntiVir 10 released, a report from The H.

(crve)