Why the need for a `sandbox` in avast antivirus

In the field of Internet security "sandbox" refers to a special mechanism used for safe execution of guest programs. They are most often used for proactive defense when running unverified code that can be malicious. To this technology resorted very many manufacturers of antivirus software with their own products. Company Avast! – is no exception.

What is "sandbox" and why you need it

The so-called sandbox (eng. sandbox) is a relatively new feature in semi-free packages of antivirus Avast! Pro and Avast! Internet Security. This is a special security model, through which the user can visit websites and to run a variety of applications, while being in a safe environment. This feature helps to avoid viruses accidentally navigating to potentially dangerous websites. In contact with a malicious resource, the browser will automatically be placed in the "sandbox", and therefore the infected computer will be prevented.

Free versions of antivirus Avast "sandbox" is missing.

New function can also be run independently with the inclusion of extraneous programs that seem suspicious or unreliable. Just run the program in the sandbox and you will find out if she really is a danger, or your fears are groundless. When testing a program, your system will be protected "Avast". "Sandbox" is often used when testing software downloaded from the Internet.

How to use the "sandbox"

In order to run a questionable app or surf the Internet via the sandbox, click on the query "run a virtualized process". Then navigate to the program you want on the computer. The browser or application opens in a new window, framed in red, indicating that the program is successfully running from the sandbox.

In the tab "advanced settings" you can assign applications that do not need to virtualize and which ones you should run from the sandbox always.

A characteristic feature of "sandbox" – the ability to integrate into the context menu. To connect this option in the Options window select the checkbox of the column "to build in a context menu launched by right-clicking". The option can be made available to all users, and for users with administrator rights. With its help, you will be able to launch any application in a sandbox, just clicking on the icon with the right mouse button and selecting "run virtualized".

Please note: if you click the right mouse button on the application that you placed in the "sandbox" in the context menu you can choose run once out of the sandbox or remove apps from it.