Avast SecureLine VPN Overview

What Is a VPN?

The easiest way to use a VPN is to use this technology to anonymize your internet surfing. All traffic will pass through your local work network servers or the provider's server as encrypted information. On the other hand, Internet resources are accessed via the IP of the corresponding VPN server. Since the traffic then makes a kind of detour, the connection speed is reduced.

For other purposes, VPNs provide a simple point-to-point connection between two machines or a secure internal network to exchange encrypted data. People can connect the entire local networks in this way. For example, a router-to-router connection using a VPN connection is used by companies to exchange internal data between different offices and remote employees securely.

Introducing On With AVG Secure VPN

Until the time creators introduced Microsoft Security Essentials, AVG Anti-Virus was one of the popular free programs that helped protect their devices from cyber attacks and viruses. When the Internet appeared, every person used AVG since the program coped well with the tasks, and today, the program is actively functioning. But the demand for this program is less popular, as competitors create new convenient features. For this reason, AVG's management has created a new product that is no less popular at the moment.

Therefore, we decided to explore a new direction of this company - AVG VPN, which the developers have created to protect your online activities. AVG Secure VPN is perhaps one of the most straightforward and most concise VPN or proxy services on the Internet. It is so uncomplicated that it is suitable for beginners who are not versed and have never used such products. Well, if you are a super-pro, you will also be interested to know how this software differs from its kind.

Despite its simplicity, the software is not that convenient functionally. It does not contain those features that we all usually appreciate and use when connecting to VPN services. There is no good pricing policy, cross-platform, data transfer speed, and network security. These are the qualities we look at when choosing a good VPN client, and almost all of them are not included in AVG Secure VPN.

The developers promise us military-grade encryption, but only one protocol is supported - OpenVPN. The support service is also slow. After testing, it seems that the utility will not cope with some streaming video services and torrents. Would you like to know more about these evaluation criteria? Then read the article carefully.

Pricing?

The cost of the program's services is quite high. Before buying a subscription, the developer and we advise you to download a free trial version of AVG Secure VPN. AVG VPN costs $ 89.99 for one year, $ 179.99 for two years, and $ 269.99 for three years. As you may have noticed, AVG is quite expensive. At this price and poor performance, AVG VPN is not worth buying.

The only sensible thing this VPN offers is a free trial that can be used on one device. If you don't want to use this service long-term, you can also take advantage of the AVG VPN free trial, valid for seven days. Unfortunately, with payment, not everything is so rosy and unambiguous. Judge for yourself - only a few ways to purchase a subscription is to pay for it with a Visa or PayPal card. This is one of the main disadvantages, since choice of payment is small, which means that many users will not use the program.

We can say that there are cheaper programs that provide good quality. It is worth noting that whichever subscription you choose - for a year, two, or three, you get the same functions. Also, the leaders did not provide an opportunity to pay for cryptocurrency, which is very important for the user. When paying with cryptocurrency, the user should not worry about their privacy. The site does not have international payment options - AliPay or WorldPay. What should people from countries where there is no PayPal do in such a situation? The developers ignore this inconvenience.

If you decide to take the trial version to make sure AVG Secure VPN works well, we note that you do not need to provide any personal information, including your credit card. That is, you test the program without paying a cent, which is very convenient. But this feature is popular among all VPN programs, so we didn't notice anything special. To test the program, you need to install it on the selected device. But you will not be able to use the program on multiple devices, as AVG Secure VPN is designed for only one device. Conveniently? No, because if you cannot use the program simultaneously on a tablet, phone, or laptop, why do we need such programs? Probably money is a priority for developers.

An important fact is the age of funds within 30 days, but this offer also has its limitations. The user can get their money back provided that they have used less than 10 GB of data and have not connected to the VPN service more than 100 times. It is enough to contact the support service via chat, email, or phone to use this function.

Servers - Support China & Torrenting

The AVG Secure VPN server network is minimal. This provider only offers about 50 servers in 36 countries. Compared to other VPNs, it doesn't even come close. So, if you prefer access to a wide variety of VPN servers, it's best to choose another VPN service.

Does AVG VPN work in China?

No, AVG VPN is currently not working in China. This isn't too surprising given the fact that AVG only offers limited servers. Also, unlike other VPNs operating in China, AVG doesn't support obfuscated servers to bypass the Big Firewall.

Does AVG VPN allow torrenting?

Yes, AVG VPN allows torrenting on a limited number of servers. Now, if you've ever used a VPN for torrenting, you know what the difference is between servers. From my own experience, we have encountered both slow speed and connection issues when loading and filling.

Policy

Having opened the AVG Privacy Policy section, the first thing that catches your eye is the very long paragraphs, which describe what information the site collects, registers, and stores. We will consider a section that indicates what information the site will collect:

• Your IP address information. This information is needed to find out your Internet service provider. Fortunately, the company does not collect your data through the IP address.
• Information of the IP address of the VPN to which you are connecting. This is necessary to understand how the server works, find problems, and troubleshoot problems.
• Information about connecting and disconnecting to the VPN server.
• The time frame of stay when connected to VPN.
• Information on the total amount of data transmitted during the entire operation of the VPN.

As you can see, the site collects a lot of unnecessary information. What is it connected with? The site is poorly functioning, and the servers often give errors and do not want to connect, so the guide can fix problems using this information. The site stores all data for 30 days, sometimes more. During this period, managers study the problem, and if you violate the Acceptable Use Policy, managers will inform you about it. Now, look at some of the points that indicate AVG is not tracking:

• The full IP address for user confidentiality.
• DNS queries when connecting to a VPN server.
• Activity logs are applications, services, websites that you have visited, purchased, or downloaded.

Speed Tests

AVG Secure VPN lags far behind other similar service providers in terms of speed. Ordinary schoolchildren can use VPN to work on an essay, abstract, project, but large companies that want to download large files will not be able to do it quickly. Since AVG Secure VPN only has 36 servers on its list, it is wise to choose the closest to your country. In this case, when watching a movie, writing a project, downloading games, the speed will be acceptable. Internet speed will decrease by about 20-30%.

Before you want to use the nearest server, we recommend that you test some of them to understand which VPN server provides the maximum speed. We did a little experiment and noticed that a VPN server in the UK runs 67 megabytes per second, while a server in the Netherlands runs 76 megabytes per second. At first glance, the two countries are close to each other, but their speed is different. If you want to use a server that is far from you, then you will fail.

Let's consider the specific results of the experiment. Before connecting to AVG Secure VPN, Internet speed was:

After connecting to AVG Secure VPN, the test showed the following results:

Based on the results, we concluded that the download speed without AVG Secure VPN was 95Mbps, after connecting to this server 76Mbps - a speed loss of 20%. But when we used servers, which are far away, the download speed dropped to 60%. For clarity, study some of the test results that outrage us:

• When connected to a VPN server in the UK, the speed was 40Mbps.
• When connected to a US VPN server, the speed was 13Mbps.
• When connecting to the VPN server Singapore, the speed was 4Mbps.
• When connected to VPN server Australia the speed was 4Mbps.

Through our research, you can see for yourself that the download speed of AVG Secure VPN is very slow. Therefore, if you want to use the torrent program to download files, this service will not suit you. It can take a whole day to download a file.

VPN Protocols

AVG VPN uses only a few protocols in its program. OpenVPN protocol is suitable for both Windows and Android. For macOS and iOS, developers use the IKEv2 protocol. Both protocols used by the company are basic and developed long ago. Only OpenVPN is capable of providing stable performance. It is also open source. Users can quickly correct any potential problems. For those with macOS and iOS, the situation looks sad because IKEv2 is weaker than its functionality.

What surprised me most was the fact that AVG VPN does not use the WireGuard protocol. The company positions itself as a modern service that has modern technologies but does not use WireGuard. Although the protocol is very reliable, AVG VPN fails to access it due to its weak system. Only a few companies could use the WireGuard protocol in their work, even though they have been working in the VPN services market for a very long time. People who use VPN to play games will not enjoy fast speed since the most immediate is WireGuard, which can be easily matched with requests. For AVG VPN, the lack of such a modern protocol may not seem like a problem, but users prefer new technologies. For some reason, AVG VPN ignores this.

Hands-On With AVG Secure VPN

To evaluate AVG Secure VPN in practice, we installed the program on a laptop that supports Windows 10. Upon review, we noticed that the application was easy to use. All the necessary functions are located in the center of the screen, making it easy to navigate. The plus is the fact that the program tells you what to do after installing the program. Anyone can understand the instructions.

This is where the pros end. The program itself looks awkward, and some details distract attention. Also confusing is the fact that the program takes up a lot of memory. We have something to compare with, and we can say that a large volume can affect the program's operation as a whole. Imagine a car with twelve wheels, and they move in different directions, not helping the cargo well. The same happens with the VPN program. There are many functions, but some of them are useless.

The app looks simple but doesn't attract attention. We have seen many bright programs, the design of which is significantly different. In the case of AVG Secure VPN, the design looks poor. The developers didn't bother with the design and combined only two colors. Someone may like the simplicity. But at the same time, it is repulsive.

After you install the application, the program will automatically select the optimal VPN server. That is the server's location, which is closest to you and will function optimally without slowing down the Internet speed. If the automatically selected server does not suit you, you can change it yourself. When switching to another server, the program will present you with a list of 36 servers. You can find the server you need using the search button at the top of the screen. To find geographic filters, you need to go down the page. P2P and Streaming can select servers that fit the specified goals.

We want to point out a very inconvenient feature. By choosing the server, you will not be able to learn more about it. All the same, AVG Secure VPN imposes its servers, not allowing the user to get acquainted with the advantages and disadvantages. Having paralleled with other servers, the difference is noticeable because other programs will enable you to view the entire list of servers and save the ones that are optimal for future use. AVG does not provide users with a server map. If the site had maps, it would be easier for users to see which servers are next to each other since not all people are well versed in geography. Accordingly, with the map of servers, it would be easier to make a choice.

As for settings, there is little useful information. A person who wants to manage a VPN server on his own will not be able to do this. AVG is limiting actions, not allowing you to customize the program as convenient for the user. AVG does not have such useful features as Kill Switch. This function is capable of disconnecting from the VPN if the Internet is lost. No feature allows you to detect your computer on trusted networks.

Installation on Windows

We will not dwell on the description of installing and configuring AVG Secure VPN - since everything is standard and straightforward here. The software starts when the laptop or PC starts. There are not many tabs in the program, and the main one is the server country's choice.

Installing AVG Secure VPN on Android and iOS

The mobile versions of the application are designed to protect your data on the Internet, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks. A proxy server allows you to view information anonymously and select a location to bypass various censorship types and blocking. The program does not work fast enough and does not work well, and, in principle, does not fulfill its functions. There is a significant drawback in it - the presence of 1 license for one device. This is already a problem for owners of electronic devices with different operating systems—for example, a tablet for Android and an iPhone for iOS.

Streaming – Does AVG Secure VPN Work With Netflix?

Everyone knows that Netflix hates unlocking a program through a VPN. Netflix's current aggressive attitude towards VPN is that the program wants to protect its regional streaming agreements. Of course, we tested AVG Secure VPN when unblocking Netflix. We were very disappointed because the app could not cope with unlocking Netflix. Users who download VPN to view Netflix will not enjoy the program, even though AVG Secure VPN says otherwise. Perhaps a few will be able to unblock Netflix, but judging by the reviews, the next day, Netflix is ​​blocking the entrance. AVG Secure VPN guarantees stable work with Netflix, but it is obvious that this is a hoax..

Customer Support

The customer support that AVG runs is disappointing for its users. The company is proud to say that it has many satisfied customers and is actively involved in cybersecurity. But the question arises - how can a person get quick and qualified help if there is no online chat on the site?

The support section is unremarkable. It will take you a long time to figure out where to go for help. The site does not have a separate section of the support service, only links in the articles themselves, where they offer to contact in case of questions. The absence of such an element as an online chat indicates that the site is not ready to instantly solve user problems.

The site has designed a section that contains answers to frequently asked questions about AVG Secure VPN. You can also find some helpful materials for setting up the program and some common troubleshooting tips. The site cares about its popularity, and therefore in each article, it contains links to the community forum. AVG Support does not participate in these communities as they are user-created. Why, then, are communities where program managers cannot answer?

If you want to answer essential questions, then the site's creators advise you to fill out the support request form on the website, after which a specialist will contact you. You can only get an answer from an expert if you have a paid subscription to AVG VPN. People who want to get free consultation will not be able to do this, which is very dissatisfied. People who have not bought the program can read the answers to frequently asked questions. Even if you bought a subscription and asked a question, the answer will take a long time.

Online Reputation

Online reputation is what users learn about a company on the Internet. A company's online reputation is essential to its success. It is influenced not only by the quality of the company's services but also by how business representatives work with customer feedback. AVG Secure VPN’s online reputation isn't the best. After reading the comments, you can conclude that the site ignores the comments and will not fix them. To make sure that AVG Secure VPN offers substandard services, we suggest you read user reviews.

Pros and Cons

To make the right choice, we have provided a list of the pros and cons of AVG Secure VPN.

Pros:

• No logs are kept.
• Free trial available.
• 30-day money-back guarantee.
• Servers in 20 countries of the world.

Cons:

• The limited number of servers.
• Not quite a professional support team.
• The situation with the company's confidential data (partial storage) is unclear.
• Support for OpenVPN protocol only.
• Inconvenient payment system (in fact, only by card).
• Connect only one device at a time.
• Low level of data encryption.
• Doesn't open access to Netflix.

Do We Recommend AVG Secure VPN?

No, we strongly discourage buying AVG Secure VPN. You can use the trial version if you need a VPN for a short period, but it's not worth spending money on. Users are enticed that AVG Secure VPN is in a secure jurisdiction, with ease of use. That's probably all. The service cannot provide reliable protection against information leaks and cyber attacks. Plus, the site is cheating that it can unblock Netflix. This is not so.

There are a few more essential points to note because we strongly discourage using AVG Secure VPN. These aspects include a small server network, low speed, poor logging policy, and no connection to China. Need more confirmation? Okay. Are you willing to pay big bucks for terrible customer support, substandard servers? Of course not.

Therefore, do not waste time thinking. Better to use our selection of the best VPN services. For a reasonable price, you get better deals, security features, settings, discounts. Are you looking to hide information with AVG Secure VPN securely? You will not be able to do this since the company does not care about users but prioritizes money.

FAQ: Answers to the popular questions about AVG Secure VPN

Do you have questions about AVG Secure VPN? Then the answers below will give you more information.

Can everyone use the free trial version of AVG Secure VPN available?

Of course, everyone can use the trial version. As soon as you install the program on the selected device, a trial version will be available to you. Within seven days, you can get acquainted with all the functions of the product. To activate the trial version, you need to go to the appropriate section. The trial version will be automatically disabled, and your task is to click the "enable." You will have a "Start Trial Option" icon. From the moment you click on the icon, the free version will be active. This offer will automatically disconnect upon the expiration of the trial period, and the company will offer to make a purchase.

Can AVG Secure VPN be used on multiple devices at the same time?

AVG Secure VPN offers two options today. You can subscribe to one device for a month, a year, or two. If you want to use the program simultaneously for several devices, then you need to pay extra for this function. You can connect to five devices simultaneously. But we consider this a disadvantageous deal, as other companies offer subscriptions for one price for several devices at once, without additional charges. You need to decide which subscription you choose at the payment stage - for one device or several. Managers will send the price to you by email.

Can AVG Secure VPN be configured to connect automatically?

To set up the automatic connection to the VPN, you need to follow several steps. First, go to the Settings section, located in the upper right corner of the screen. Then check that the "Network Security" tab is selected on the panel displayed after entering the section. If the tab is selected, click on the "Automatically when connected to the Internet" button. Immediately, we note that it cannot automatically connect to any network after installing AVG Secure VPN. You need to customize the program to suit your requirements. If you want to disable this function, you need to turn off the button "Automatically when connected to the Internet" and build the data that was installed earlier.

Does your internet speed slow down when connected to AVG Secure VPN?

The company provided a very vague answer to this question. Users ask it very often. The company claims and does not hide that Internet speed will decrease when connected to AVG Secure VPN. The company explains this phenomenon because VPN encrypts traffic and data before they are sent to the server. But why then do other sites reduce internet traffic by only a few percent? Since the distance between servers is large, VPN can cause a rather low Internet connection. There are only 36 countries in the AVG Secure VPN servers list, which means that not all users will find the optimal position.

Can prevent information using AVG Secure VPN?

Since various browsers support the WebRTC function to provide comfortable use of voice calls, video chats, and file sharing, AVG Secure VPN cannot guarantee that there will be no information leaks. In Windows, macOS, and Android systems, this extension can quickly reveal your IP address, and VPN will not be able to hide it. So why is there AVG Secure VPN if it can't handle such a simple task? The only solution offered by the company is to block or disable WebRTC. Managers also recommend using less popular browsers that do not support WebRTC. The recommendations look absurd, especially for people who work remotely and discuss issues using voice calls, video chats.