Billionaire Profile
Pavel Baudis
Global Rank
#1897

Image: Unsplash Contributor | Unsplash License | via Unsplash

Pavel Baudis

CEO, Software
CZECH REPUBLIC
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.236B
Estimated based on Software stock value as of April 21, 2026
+0.67% (24h)
Age
65
Source
Software
Industry
Technology
Citizenship
CZECH REPUBLIC

Biography

Pavel Baudiš, a prominent figure in the tech industry, is the co-founder of Avast, a leading cybersecurity company. Born in Prague on May 15, 1960, Baudiš holds a degree in Information Technology from the Prague University of Chemical Technology. His career began at the Research Institute for Mathematical Machines where he identified the Vienna virus, sparking his interest in cybersecurity. Baudiš is recognized for pioneering the "freemium" model in antivirus software, making protection accessible to a global audience. As of early 2024, his net worth is estimated at $2.3 billion, earned through his contributions to the software industry, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity, and his subsequent investments. His entrepreneurial journey exemplifies innovation and a commitment to digital security. Baudiš is known for maintaining a private profile despite his wealth, but is known for his philanthropic efforts to improve palliative care in the Czech Republic.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/21/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Pavel Baudiš was born on May 15, 1960, in Prague, Czech Republic. Not much is known about his early years and childhood, but it is evident that he developed a passion for technology and computers from a young age. He holds a degree in Information Technology from the Prague University of Chemical Technology.

Rise to Success

Baudiš's career began at the Research Institute for Mathematical Machines. There, he encountered the Vienna virus on a floppy disk and developed the first program to remove it, which sparked his interest in cybersecurity. In 1988, Baudiš co-founded Avast (originally ALWIL Software) with Eduard Kučera. Avast pioneered the "freemium" anti-virus model, which democratized access to digital security for billions globally. The company successfully executed its IPO on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) in 2017. The pinnacle of his financial career was the $8.6 billion sale of Avast to NortonLifeLock (Gen Digital) in 2022.

Key Business Strategies

Baudiš's success is built on mastering the freemium model (offering free anti-virus software) and scale distribution of cybersecurity products. He emphasized technological excellence and scale distribution.

Philanthropy

Pavel Baudiš is known for his philanthropic endeavors, including improving palliative care in the Czech Republic. He supports various educational and cultural initiatives. He also invested in a private company that is constructing a rehabilitation clinic.

Career Milestones

1988

Co-founded Avast

Co-founded Avast, a cybersecurity company, with Eduard Kučera.

2017

Avast IPO

Avast's IPO on the London Stock Exchange.

2022

Avast acquired by Gen Digital

Avast was acquired by NortonLifeLock (Gen Digital) for $8.6 billion.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare

Avast Foundation

$XB

The Avast Foundation gives 2% of the company's profits to worthy causes, improving palliative care in the Czech Republic.