Avast VPN Review 2023

Avast SecureLine VPN Overview

When you connect to Avast SecureLine VPN, it creates an encrypted tunnel between your computer and the VPN company server. Information sent through this tunnel will be unreadable to anyone who tries to intercept it.

The encrypted tunnel masks your activities from your internet service provider. This VPN Avast SecureLIne review discusses the service’s promise and various shortcomings.

A VPN may also be used to circumvent internet restrictions that may be imposed by oppressive governments. It is because a VPN can connect to servers located in places other than its actual physical location.

If a government blocks a particular website, a VPN can tunnel out to another country where access to the internet is free. A VPN hides your IP address, and the websites you visit, because your web traffic will appear to be coming from the VPN server, not your computer.

Avast is a Czech software company that has made a name in antivirus products. Avast, as of January 2019, held more than 15% of the anti-malware application market share, especially in the Windows operating system, making it ahead of big names in the antivirus market such as McAfee Inc and Kaspersky Lab. Avast has added a new item to its anti-malware software – VPN service.

SecureLine VPN performs well, although it has a limited feature set. It is a simple VPN from the popular security vendor Avast Software, but powered by the HideMyAss! Network, which is now a part of the Avast group.

The specifications of VPN Avast SecureLine are somewhat ordinary. It has an average-sized network of 55 locations in 34 countries. The company has clients for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. It does not have downloadable OpenVPN configuration files that will manually set up other devices and software.

Avast has no zero-knowledge DNS system, no custom protocol that will bypass VPN blocking, and none of the things that will show any degree of advancement. SecureLine VPN does not offer bad service, but it is not outstanding, either. If we have to describe SecureLine VPN, we can simply say that it is good enough.

A VPN adds an extra layer of security to your internet connection. SecureLine VPN is a product of a leading antivirus company, producing some impressive speed test scores in testing.

However, it fails to qualify as one of the best VPNs, mainly because it is expensive, and it has an inflexible pricing plan. Its server infrastructure is unimpressive. While SecureLine VPN has a core of excellent service, it is in dire need of fleshing out.

What Is Avast SecureLine VPN?

Avast Software has plenty of experience in the production of antivirus software. The company has been operating since 1988 but branched out to VPN services in 2014. The problem with SecureLine VPN is the lack of user awareness, is it entered the VPN scene much later than the other providers.

However, a team with more than 30 years of experience creating a VPN software such as Avast, the result is high-quality and unbeatable too that can compete with any other VPN providers in the world.

Avast SecureLine VPN can be installed on Windows 10 and Mac as well. SecureLine VPN will install on either or both machines without any complications. Uninstalling Avast VPN is as easy as installing it, leaving behind no trace, which shows that it puts great importance on security, transparency, and professionalism.

The operation of Avast SecureLine VPN is simple, as it also has a very simple interface. First, you will see a big connect logo, which you can click on. Then you can connect to any server from any country, with your identity fully hidden. In the background, a complicated encryption algorithm makes all connections unreadable.

Anyone who attempts to trace or read your connection will see nothing but encrypted data. Avast SecureLine VPN uses the latest encryption method – AES with an encryption level of 2560bit. AES is the most secure encryption in the world.

What Does Avast VPN Do?

Avast SecureLine VPN is a subscription-based VPN developed by Avast. It is applicable for macOS, iOS, Android, Microsoft Windows operating systems.

Avast SecureLine VPN encrypts the internet traffic of a user and redirects it through a tunnel via Avast data centers. This changes the geolocation of the IP address of the user to that of the selected VPN server. The VPN may be set to automatically turn on when the user connects to the internet through public Wi-Fi.

Similar to other VPNs, SecureLine VPN works by making the user appear in a different location by changing his IP address, bypassing internet censorship for the country the user is in, or the Wi-Fi network he is using.

A VPN allows you to surf the web in privacy as it is a secure, encrypted connection between two networks or between an individual user and a network.

A simple way to understand how VPN works is to imagine that the internet is a cyber highway, and users zip around it on Tron light cycles. Users visit their favorite websites, check out the portfolio, purchase in shops, get news from various sources, play games, and more.

Anyone who wants to find out what is going on can easily follow the digital highways. Anyone who can see your online activity, who you are, where you like to visit, will be able to do it simply by looking. What makes matters worse is that anyone can follow you home as you are very traceable.

A VPN is like a shroud of disguise, masking your online presence with anonymity. It is like you trading in your easily identifiable light cycle for a rental car with tinted windows. You are cloaked in data encryption and with your identity and location safely hidden by a fake IP address.

Avast SecureLine VPN encrypts everything you send and receive online. By accessing the web through a VPN gate, the source of your connection appears as one of the many VPN routers, not your own.

Avast SecureLine VPN is the closest you can get to true online anonymity. You don’t have to use a TOR network that will bounce your connection around a widely distributed network of relays, which keeps your activity in constant motion to prevent anyone from focusing on it.

SecureLine VPN does not use this kind of protocol, although they offer sufficient and essential protection as you cruise through the deregulated and hacker-lined cyber highways.

Avast VPN Pros

As with other VPN service providers, Avast SecureLine VPN has its share of pros and cons. The general advantage of using SecureLine VPN is its simplicity, making it a simple VPN service to understand and use.

It is perfect for beginners as it can be installed and set up within minutes. You might even forget that it is running on your computer.

• It can be used on Multiple Devices

  Some VPN providers offer protection only for a Mac or a PC. Avast makes SecureLine VPN work seamlessly across multiple devices. You can download it for your Mac or PC or on any iOS or Android device.

  Unfortunately, not all VPN providers have this option. People are now more on the go than before, and secure mobile device technology will help protect your information even when you are surfing while in an unfamiliar location.

  Avast SecureLine VPN customers who use their mobile apps enjoy how comfortable and secure to use them.

  Avast’s simple interface lets you connect to your chosen server with a click of a button. You can even ask your app to connect to the best server location based on your current position.

  The Avast SecureLine mobile apps will not bog down the performance of your mobile device, which is great when you are traveling and experiencing slow internet speeds.

• Geographically Diverse Servers

  While some VPN providers boast of having a huge number of servers, Avast SecureLine VPN is not. SecureLine VPN has only 55 server locations in 34 countries. Servers are found in seven large cities across the United States, making Avast an optimal provider for US users.

  The more locations there are to choose from, the better your chances of having good internet speeds with little lagging. Frequent travelers are familiar with slow hotel Wi-Fi connections, so it is necessary to get a VPN that will not weigh down your speeds even further.

Avast VPN Cons

• Lacking in Features

  A major drawback of Avast SecureLine VPN is the lack of control on how one stays protected. SecureLine VPN does not give you any control. There are no features for you to control, except what the server you want to connect to.

  While it comes in handy when you want to remain as inconspicuous as possible by connecting to a non-local server, it is an option that most VPNs typically provide. SecureLine VPN misses the mark in the area of providing extra features, such as port forwarding, kill switches, ad-blocking, and other features that maintains your privacy and protection.

  Avast is a right choice if you want only protection with a basic VPN bubble. Maybe you should start looking elsewhere if you wish to any type of control over how you stay protected.

  You can even download free VPN plugins for most browsers that provide similar services, without having to pay a monthly or annual fee. For example, the Opera browser has a built-in VPN that you can activate if needed.

• No Router Support

  It is important to note that Avast SecureLine VPN cannot be set up on routers to provide additional protection. Avast is a basic VPN protection for PC, Mac, and mobile devices only.

  This may not be a big deal among most users, but it is something to keep in mind when looking for a VPN provider. The advantage of installing a VPN on a router is that it protects all devices in your house without having to sign in every time you log on. It is most useful if you want to protect your gaming consoles, smart TVs, IoT devices, and your phones and tablets.

  While the absence of this feature is not a deal-breaker, there is always the advantage of having the possibility of using SecureLine VPN with a router.

  VPN cannot be set up on routers to provide additional protection. Avast is a basic VPN protection for PC, Mac, and mobile devices only.

  This may not be a big deal among most users, but it is something to keep in mind when looking for a VPN provider. The advantage of installing a VPN on a router is that it protects all devices in your house without having to sign in every time you log on. It is most useful if you want to protect your gaming consoles, smart TVs, IoT devices, and your phones and tablets.

  While the absence of this feature is not a deal-breaker, there is always the advantage of having the possibility of using SecureLine VPN with a router.

Avast VPN Features

• 

  Safety & Security

  Avast SecureLine VPN uses OpenVPN connection protocol on Windows and Android devices and IPsec on macOS and iOS. OpenVPN runs over UDP, allowing a little bit more speed while streaming and/or torrenting. The macOS and iOS are built on Apple’s proprietary stacks for the ultimate performance and compatibility.

  For encryption, Avast SecureLine VPN uses AES-256 cipher, by far the best and most secure option in VPN. It is using both “military-grade” and “bank-grade” encryption, which is extremely efficient and unbreakable by any computer existing today.

  Avast SecureLine VPN leak protection protects you sensitive information and prevents revealing your actual location or IP address during tests.

  The software has an effective kill switch feature that will terminate your internet connection the moment your VPN gets sabotaged or interrupted.

• 

  Streaming and Torrenting

  Avast SecureLine VPN was not famous for geo-spoofing streaming services, but recently it has decided to allow its users to access Netflix US outside of the country of origin.

  It means that a user in Europe can easily access the US version of Netflix without any problem at all. It is also possible to stream Netflix from Canada, Germany, and France.

  SecureLine VPN does not allow P2P file sharing and torrenting on some of its locations.

  Some servers are marked in the client for easier access, including the following areas:

  • Amsterdam
  • Prague
  • New York City
  • Frankfurt
  • Miami
  • Paris
  • London

  If torrenting is your reason for getting a VPN, Avast has you covered anywhere in the world because of strategically positioned locations.

Avast VPN Pricing And Plans

Pricing and plans are important factors in how people select their VPN providers.

How much does Avast SecureLine VPN Cost?

Avast VPN offers 1, 2, or 3-year subscription options for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android users.

• The 1-year plan costs CAN$59.88 total, which comes out to CAN$4.99 per month.

• The 2-year plan will send you back CAN$110.16 or CAN$4.59 per month.

• The 3-year plan is priced at CAN$150.84, which comes out to CAN$4.19 per month.

If you want to try the first Avast SecureLine VPN before purchasing, you can take advantage of their 7-day free trial. Avast also gives its users a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is more than enough time for you to make sure you like the company’s product.

Avast SecureLine VPN accepts the following payment methods:

• Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)

• PayPal

Avast SecureLine VPN Servers

It is fair to claim that Avast SecureLine VPN covers all continents in terms of servers. The United States is the most represented country with a total of 16 servers.

The United Kingdom has three servers, while Russia, Germany, Spain, and Canada have two servers each. The rest have one server each, such as Norway, Taiwan, Denmark, Belgium, Australia, South Korea, Luxembourg, Malaysia, New Zealand, Portugal, and Israel.

• United Kingdom
• Russia
• Germany
• Spain
• Canada
• Norway
• Taiwan
• Denmark
• Belgium
• Australia
• South Korea
• Luxembourg
• Malaysia
• New Zealand
• Portugal
• Israel

Does Avast VPN Work With Netflix?

There is always an ongoing battle between VPN and Netflix. Unfortunately, Avast SecureLine VPN is losing the battle for now. Netflix knows when you are using an Avast connection, and will not let you stream movies or shows. The same is true for other streaming services like BBC iplayer.

Let us hope that this will change as Avast SecureLine VPN is always working to stay ahead of Netflix’s blocking capabilities.

There are some Avast SecureLine VPN servers that users accessed to work with Netflix. While the number of servers is limited, there are servers in the US and another one in the UK that will let you access Netflix.

Avast VPN Privacy And Logs

Avast SecureLine VPN is open and honest about logging policy. Users know right from the start what they are in for.

On Avast’s support site, the company confirms that it logs these details:

• The time logs of connection and disconnection
• How long you stay online using the VPN
• How much bandwidth you use

Some of your personal information, such as IP address and device name, will be used to log the data. And since Avast SecureLine VPN provides paid-for packages, your account details will not be stored.

You keep your anonymity in what you do while you are logged on. Avast SecureLine VPN does not keep track of:

• Websites you browse
• What you download or upload
• What other IP addresses you access

This knowledge of security will give you some peace of mind that someone is not watching you all the time.

Avast’s expert security comes in handy. The company has a secure infrastructure that limits how this information can be accessed. Only by making a physical visit of their premises or by accessing it using an encrypted VPN can someone view your personal information that can identify you.

Only certain individuals within Avast are authorized to work with this information. These individuals use a secure process incorporating passwords.

Your information is not only kept in Avast’s servers but also on servers owned by other agents or contractors that the company is in partnership with.

The information is stored under 256-bit encryption:

• Collected info under minimum encryption
• More important info such as financial data gets rotating encryption
• When necessary to transmit your data, it will be handled with an https protocol

Avast’s privacy policy mentioned that it must share information in some circumstances. When you sign up to use SecureLine VPN, you agree that the company is allowed to:

• Share information with third parties who provide specific services you request
• Show information to government organizations that require it. This is essential to show that the company adheres to privacy laws of the server location countries. Some servers are located in the E.U., and Avast must comply with the GDPR specifications.

It is specified that your details will never be abused or used for marketing when accessed by these entities.

Avast VPN Support

The support site of Avast SecureLine VPN is a huge resource that is crammed with setup, usage, and troubleshooting guides. However, the vast majority are for the other products of Avast. The SecureLine section is a very basic VPN knowledge base and it does not even have a live chat. Without a live chat, problems cannot be answered in real-time.

The main page has 15 articles organized into three categories – Basic Usage, Subscription and Purchase, and Technical Issues. Many of those are core VPN issues such as creating an Avast Account, etc.

There is also a SecureLine FAQ that has more relevant topics, but with very little detail. It contains nothing that will be comparable to popular VPN providers.

If you cannot find immediate help online, you can try posting a question in the SecureLine Section of the Avast support forum. This is not particularly busy, and most questions receive a response in less than an hour.

If you still have a problem, you can contact Avast support directly. While there is no live chat, there is a web form with the disclaimer that “Avast Support usually responds within two business days.” They also have a 24/7 phone number where you can choose to leave a call back number that support will use to contact you.

Avast VPN Refund Policy

Avast SecureLine VPN offers a 30-day, money-back guarantee on subscriptions that the end-user purchased directly from the company through its online retail stores or Google Play.

If your software purchase qualifies and you carefully follow all the instructions in the Cancellation and Refund Policy within 30 days of the date of purchase, your subscription will be terminated, and refund you 100% of the price you paid for the then-current Subscription Term.

Avast SecureLine VPN also allows you to cancel your subscription and request a refund, which will be prorated for the unexpired or unused portion of the Subscription Term.

Before you start requesting a cancellation and refund from Avast, read first all the restrictions and limitations described in the Cancellation and Refund Policy.

Is Avast VPN Secureline Recommended?

Avast SecureLine VPN does not offer much in the way of features, but it is very easy to use and effective at what it does. With SecureLine VPN, you will be able to designate trusted networks, which are always useful and has the killswitch, which is important.

But if you are the type of user who wants to tinker with other settings, you are out of luck with Avast SecureLine VPN.

If you are planning to use the VPN for torrenting, there are dedicated servers for P2P. But because of our general concern about privacy, you might want to look for other VPN providers for better alternatives.

Privacy is the biggest concern with Avast SecureLine VPN. Avast is honest enough to admit that it logs your IP address and has given customer information to law enforcement agencies in the past, although very rarely. If you are looking for complete privacy from your VPN, you might have to look elsewhere.

Also, the fact that Avast SecureLine VPN does not work with Netflix, or is able to use the BBC iplayer, is a big concern. While not everyone aims to stream over VPN, it is a very common issue for private networks.

The lack of router support, the fact that it is based in Czech jurisdiction, and the pricing that will be easy to beat by other VPN providers combine to make this VPN not on the top of the list of good and recommended VPNs.

The Avast SecureLine VPN review shows that it is not a bad VPN. It is pretty fast; it supports torrenting and only keeps connection logs. Also, its connection is leak-free for the most part.

However, you can get these features without paying that much. It is easy to find a VPN that supports Netflix. In the end, Avast SecureLine VPN is not a bad choice, but it is not the best one.

Is The Avast VPN Good?

This Avast SecureLine VPN review is an in-depth study of the VPN service, and it has shown that it is not up to scratch. However, there are a few things that people will like about Avast SecureLine VPN.

It has a user-friendly app, it has fast connection speeds, and it can access the geo-restricted content on popular streaming platforms, including Netflix at times.

Avast SecureLine VPN may not make it to the top five VPNs since other providers offer even better speeds, server coverage, and ease of use. Avast SecureLine VPN offers a good basic service, but it still costs more than some of the top VPNs on the market that come with more advanced features.

By all means, Avast SecureLine VPN is good. But most of the time, good is not just enough.