Avast SecureLine VPN Review 2024: A Middle-of-the-Road Solution for Internet Safety

Are you looking for a way to protect your browser history? A virtual private network (VPN) is a great tool to add a layer of cybersecurity when using the internet. A VPN masks your IP address, so you can browse the web without it being traced to you. A VPN can also change the location of your IP address, so you can connect to a server in your home country to access Netflix or other services while traveling abroad.

Avast SecureLine VPN is a simple, competitively-priced VPN. Its dashboard makes it easy to see if you’re connected to the VPN and if your browsing data is secure.

Avast has all the necessary features if you’re looking for a VPN. However, not all of its advertised features are available on Mac, PC, and Android platforms, which can be a bit confusing. Read on to learn more about Avast SecureLine’s VPN and its quirks.

Avast SecureLine VPN pros and cons

Overview

4.2

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On Avast SecureLine VPN's website

VPN

Avast SecureLine VPN

• Easy-to-use interface
• Smart VPN feature automatically connects when needed
• Kill switch doesn't work

Our experience

During our testing of Avast SecureLine, we encountered a few hiccups that we believe are important to share. After downloading the free trial for Mac and installing it from the downloads page, there were some difficulties getting it up and running. We received several error messages. While this was a minor inconvenience, it's something to consider. For us to get the product working, it took a full reboot of our system. If that's standard for SecureLine, it should be a prompt in the setup and installation wizard. 

After rebooting, the experience of using the VPN was actually pretty good. We didn't have an issue accessing Netflix, and even with reduced speeds on some servers, we were able to browse without noticeable lag. The only issue we ran into was when we tested the kill switch. No matter how many times we tried or what we did, it wouldn't work. We ended up having to close the VPN and exit our browser more than once to get everything working again. The kill switch did disable the internet, but it didn't allow us to switch between servers without restarting everything.

As far as VPNs go, if this one was included with our antivirus, we would definitely use it. If it was the choice between this as a separate purchase or another VPN, we'd probably go with a competitor.

Who is Avast SecureLine VPN best for?

• Recommended for users looking for browser privacy and to stream entertainment in different locations

Avast SecureLine VPN is a quality solution for users looking for a VPN to help protect their internet activity. However, Avast does not have a vast network of servers, which may be a disadvantage if traveling abroad or needing to connect to a server in a specific area. There are other VPN solutions with more options, but Avast SecureLine VPN is a good solution for simple VPN use.

Prices and subscriptions

Avast SecureLine VPN offers several pricing options for users. If you’re willing to commit to a one-year or two-year plan, you'll enjoy greater savings than if you just purchase the VPN month-to-month. You can pay for Avast using major credit cards or PayPal.

Features

Overall, Avast SecureLine has all the necessary features for a VPN. You can easily connect to the VPN provider and the product’s dashboard shows you exactly what server you’re connected to, along with your virtual IP address. Although there is a device limit, Avast at least allows for 10 simultaneous connections.

Avast also offers both a manual and Smart VPN solution, so you have optimal control over your VPN usage. The Smart VPN feature allows you to set certain situations where you want to be connected to a VPN. If one of these parameters is true, then Smart VPN will connect automatically. This feature can help keep you protected in case you forget to connect to the VPN.

Server count and countries

• 700 servers in 34 countries

Although 700 servers may seem like a lot, Avast SecureLine VPN actually has fewer than some other VPNs. Private Internet Access boasts more than 35,000 servers, and CyberGhost has more than 7,400.

However, the number of servers doesn’t always equate to the quality of the VPN. Servers give you more options on where to connect and flexibility on VPN usage. If you’re looking for a VPN to protect your browsing history day-to-day, Avast’s servers would be sufficient. If you’re traveling the world, looking to protect yourself from government censorship, or something more extreme, more servers may be helpful to you.

No-logs policy and headquarters

• Avast SecureLine VPN logs policy: No logs
• Avast SecureLine VPN headquarters: Czech Republic

Although a VPN encrypts your browser usage and hides your identity, some countries and governments require that VPNs maintain activity logs on its users. This can circumvent the protections a VPN offers. In these locations, the police or government could request user data, which could still show your browser activity once you were connected to the VPN app. A VPN with a no-logs policy can help you alleviate this concern.

Avast SecureLine VPN is headquartered in the Czech Republic. A VPN’s headquarters can also play a role in jeopardizing your privacy. Many countries are part of information-sharing alliances that can require companies to provide customer information to governmental entities. The Czech Republic is not part of one of these alliances.

Kill switch

Avast SecureLine VPN has kill switch functionality. A kill switch is a convenient feature when using a VPN. If your VPN loses connection, your public IP address will no longer be hidden, and your web activity will be more easily accessible. A kill switch blocks your access to the internet when your VPN becomes unexpectedly disconnected. This protects you from browsing the internet without your VPN connection.

The kill switch can be enabled in the settings of the VPN. It was easy for us to activate the kill switch; however, we did notice that connecting to the VPN often took longer if we had the kill switch enabled. Unfortunately, we tried to make the kill switch work and it kept glitching. Instead of allowing us to change servers, we had to shut down the VPN and restart it each time the kill switch was engaged. We had to toggle this feature off for our VPN to be useable.

Split tunneling

Users also have access to split tunneling with Avast SecureLine. Split tunneling allows users to pick and choose what internet activity is protected by the VPN and what information is not. Maybe you’re traveling abroad and want to watch Netflix, but your work email needs to be viewed from your IP address to work. You could use split tunneling to have your Netflix activity go through the VPN while your work email usage does not.

Users can change the split tunneling configuration in the Avast SecureLine settings. Unfortunately, split tunneling is only available on Android devices. It’s not available in iOS or on Avast SecureLine’s desktop apps.

Encryption

A VPN’s encryption is a critical piece of its security puzzle. A strong VPN will use robust encryption to protect your browsing information. Avast SecureLine uses AES 256-bit encryption, which is one of the strongest VPN encryptions available. This encryption is used by the government and banking sites, so Avast’s VPN should keep you safe from hackers.

VPN protocol

The VPN protocol is one of the most important aspects of your VPN's function. Coupled with encryption, the protocol you choose determines how quick and secure a connection you'll receive. Avast SecureLine uses different protocols for different operating systems. 

For Mac and iOS users, you'll have access to Avast SecureLine's proprietary protocol, Mimic, as well as IPsec. Windows and Android users will have a choice between OpenVPN and WireGuard.

Test results

Avast SecureLine VPN has ample features, but does it actually work? We tested the VPN to see how easy it was to use, how well it connected to different servers worldwide, and whether it covered all your VPN needs.

We tested Avast SecureLine for DNS and WebRTC leaks. We also checked internet speeds when connected to VPN servers in the United States, France, Australia, and Canada. Most importantly, we checked whether Netflix worked while connected to the VPN in those same regions.

Speed tests

• Avast SecureLine VPN speed test results: Avast SecureLine VPN failed its speed tests.

We tested Avast SecureLine on a MacBook Pro connected to the internet through a Wi-Fi connection. On any given day, our internet connection speeds range from 100 to 150 Mbps download speed without a VPN. When we were testing, our baseline internet speed was 121 Mbps.

When we first connected to the VPN, it connected to the closest server to our location, which was in Los Angeles, California. SecureLine actually sped up our local connection but didn't fair as well globally.

Each of these connection points also had a dip in overall speed, with the slowest speeds coming while we were connected to a server in the UK.

Avast SecureLine VPN speed test results

Netflix tests

• Avast SecureLine VPN Netflix test results: Avast SecureLine passed its Netflix tests.

There are several reasons to use a VPN to access Netflix or other streaming services. Many programs and streaming services are available only in specific locations, such as BBC iPlayer in the U.K. If you’re traveling abroad and want to watch your favorite Netflix show, you may need to connect to a VPN so your IP address can access Netflix shows from your region.

Based on our testing, Netflix worked in several countries while using Avast SecureLine VPN. We weren't able to connect to Australia at all, but the other catalogs we tried all worked without issue.

Avast SecureLine VPN Netflix test results

DNS leak tests

• Avast SecureLine VPN DNS leak test results: Avast SecureLine VPN passed its DNS leak tests.

A DNS leak test evaluates whether a VPN is properly configured and checks to see whether it is leaking your DNS or Domain Name System to your internet service provider (ISP). If there is a leak, your VPN will not be encrypting your browser history correctly, and your ISP will still be able to see your browsing activity. Avast SecureLine VPN passed this test, providing DNS leak protection.

WebRTC leak tests

• Avast SecureLine VPN WebRTC leak test results: Avant SecureLine passed its WebRTC leak tests.

A WebRTC leak test looks to see if your real IP address is being compromised when using websites that use Web Real-Time Communication. WebRTC is an open-source tool that lets web browsers manage connections in real time like video or audio calls. In some cases, the real-time connection can expose your actual IP address, even if you’re connected to a VPN. We did not encounter any WebRTC leaks when connected to the Avast SecureLine VPN.

Compatibility

When looking for a VPN, it is important to make sure that the VPN will work with your devices. You likely want to use your VPN on your computer, phone, tablet, or whatever you're using. Avast SecureLine VPN is compatible with Windows and macOS, along with Android, iOS, and Android TV. However, Avast is not available on Linux and cannot be installed on routers.

Customer support

Avast offers a robust learning center including blogs, an academy with guides about digital security and privacy, in-depth articles about security threats, and a forum where users can connect directly with Avast community members.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for through its resources, Avast has an easy-to-use form where you can narrow down your question and submit it to the company for an answer. Paid subscribers to any Avast service have access to phone and email support. When we called Avast, it took less than 5 minutes to get assistance. The tech was helpful and solved our issue quickly. 

Alternatives

If you're not satisfied with Avast SecureLine VPN, consider one of the alternatives below. We've tested all of them extensively and are confident in our recommendation for any of them. These are some of the best VPNs available, and we think you'll find something you like.

Price	$3.39–$15.99/mo	$2.19–$17.95/mo	$2.03–$12.99/mo
Free version
Max # of connected devices	10	Unlimited	7
# of servers	6,300+ servers in 111 countries	3,200 in 100 countries	Servers in 100 countries
VPN protocol	NordLynx (WireGuard), OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec	WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2	Lightway, OpenVPN, IKEv2
Encryption	AES-256-GCM	AES-256-GCM	AES-256
No-logs policy	No logs	No logs	No logs
Headquarters	Panama	The Netherlands	Romania
Netflix access
Learn more	Get NordVPN	Get Surfshark	Get CyberGhost

FAQs

Bottom line: Is Avast SecureLine VPN good?

If you’re looking for an easy-to-use and inexpensive solution for a VPN, Avast SecureLine may be a good option for you. The VPN employs the most secure encryption and VPN protocol currently available, so security should not be an issue. Although it is secure, Avast SecureLine VPN does not offer as many server locations, which can be a disadvantage if you need to connect to a specific country or location. If you’re looking to get multiple products from one company, the Avast Ultimate bundle comes with Avast antivirus software as well.

To pick the best VPN service for you, it is important to understand how you will be using the VPN and how important privacy is to you. If you are just looking to protect your browser activity, a solution such as Avast SecureLine VPN is a great option. 

If you need more robust features, consider a VPN with more server locations and security features. There are many other options, such as NordVPN or Surfshark.

4.2

AllAboutCookies writers and editors score products based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

Editorial Rating

Learn More

On Avast SecureLine VPN's website

VPN

Avast SecureLine VPN

• Easy-to-use interface
• Smart VPN feature automatically connects when needed
• Kill switch doesn't work

Author Details

Andrew Adams

About the Author

Andrew Strom Adams is a freelance writer focused on online privacy and digital security. He writes on various topics to help individuals protect themselves on the internet. Andrew has worked in legal marketing, technology, and startups. He has more than 12 years of experience in marketing and communications. He holds an M.B.A. from Westminster College and a B.A. in journalism from Oklahoma Baptist University. When he’s not writing, he’s playing with his two kids or watching reality TV.

Mary James