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What’s bitdefender_avfree1.exe? Is it safe or a virus?

Bitdefender_avfree1.exe is the installer file for Bitdefender Antivirus Free, a lightweight antivirus software developed by Bitdefender SRL. It is used to download, install, and set up the free version of Bitdefender's antivirus program on Windows systems. The antivirus offers essential malware protection by scanning for and removing viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other malicious threats in real-time, ensuring the system's safety. The executable initiates the installation process, connects to Bitdefender's servers, and ensures that the software is up-to-date. It is designed for users seeking basic yet effective protection without heavy system resource usage or advanced customization options.

Researched by Laura @ SpyShelter Labs

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A Trojan is a harmful software that pretends to be a legitimate program or file to deceive users into downloading it. It can steal personal information, damage files, or give hackers control over the infected device.

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More about bitdefender_avfree1.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes bitdefender_avfree1.exe?

We’ve found Bitdefender SRL should be the publisher of bitdefender_avfree1.exe.

How do we know? Our SpyShelter cybersecurity labs focuses on monitoring different types of Windows PC executables and their behaviors for our popular SpyShelter Antispyware software. Learn more about us, and how our cybersecurity team studies Windows PC executables/processes.

What does it mean if someone is the publisher of a PC .exe (executable or process)?

The publisher of an executable is the entity responsible for its distribution and authenticity. Most processes/executables on your PC should be signed. The signature on the executable should have been verified through a third party whose job it is to make sure the entity is who it says it is. Find an unsigned executable? You should consider scanning any completely unsigned .exe on your PC.

Last updated: October 17, 2025

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Why should you trust us?

Our team at SpyShelter has been studying Windows PC executables for over 15 years, to help fight against spyware, malware, and other threats. SpyShelter has been featured in publications like The Register, PC Magazine, and many others. Now we’re working to share free, actionable, and easy to understand information about Windows executables (processes) with the world, to help as many people as possible keep their devices safe. Learn more about us on our "About SpyShelter” page.

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