AVG Secure VPN - Detailed Review
Privacy Tools
AVG Secure VPN - Product Overview
Introduction to AVG Secure VPN
AVG Secure VPN is a user-friendly virtual private network (VPN) service that focuses on providing a simple and secure way to protect your online activities. Here’s a breakdown of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
AVG Secure VPN serves as a secure tunnel through the internet, protecting your data from eavesdropping and anonymizing your internet activity. It is particularly useful when using public or unsecured wireless networks, such as those in cafes or airports, by encrypting your connection and hiding your IP address.Target Audience
This VPN is best suited for individuals who are new to VPNs or prefer a straightforward, no-frills service. It is ideal for those who need basic VPN features without the complexity of advanced settings. This includes users who want to securely browse the internet, access geo-restricted content, and protect their data from hackers.Key Features
Encryption and Security
AVG Secure VPN uses AES-256 encryption, which is considered military-grade and highly secure. It also supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Mimic.Server Locations
While the exact number of servers is not transparent, AVG Secure VPN has servers in over 50 locations across the globe, including North America, South America, Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. It also offers specialized servers for streaming and torrenting.Kill Switch
This feature automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, ensuring your data remains secure.Auto-Connect and Trusted Networks
You can configure the VPN to automatically connect when you join unsecured networks and exclude trusted networks like your home or work Wi-Fi from the VPN.Local Network Bypass
This feature allows you to access local devices such as printers or Chromecast even while connected to the VPN.Wi-Fi Threat Shield
If a threat is detected on your Wi-Fi network, this feature automatically turns on the VPN to protect your privacy.Split Tunneling
Although this feature was previously available, it is currently not offered by AVG Secure VPN. However, other features like local network bypass help in managing your network access.Logs Policy
AVG Secure VPN does not maintain a strict no-logs policy, as it collects connection logs, including timestamps and the amount of data used. However, it does not log your browsing history or transferred data.Trial and Pricing
AVG Secure VPN offers a generous 60-day free trial and supports up to 10 simultaneous device connections. The pricing ranges from $4.39 to $4.49 per month. Overall, AVG Secure VPN is a reliable choice for those seeking a simple, user-friendly VPN with strong security features and decent privacy standards. AVG Secure VPN - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of AVG Secure VPN
The user interface of AVG Secure VPN is designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, making it an excellent choice for those new to VPNs or preferring a straightforward service.
Ease of Use
Installing and using AVG Secure VPN is a hassle-free process. The VPN apps are user-friendly and easy to install, similar to any other app. The interface is clean and sharp, avoiding the clutter of esoteric settings that might confuse non-technical users.
User Interface
The main window of the AVG Secure VPN app is simple and intuitive. It features a prominent slider that allows you to easily toggle the VPN on and off. When you click the slider to turn the VPN on, it automatically connects you to a default server, although you can choose a different location if needed.
Server Selection
Choosing a server is straightforward; the app presents a list of servers from various countries, and it even recommends an optimal location for you. This makes it easy for beginners to select and connect to a server without any confusion.
Additional Features
While the interface is basic, it includes essential features such as a kill switch, which can be activated in the settings area to protect you if the VPN connection fails. The app also supports industry-standard encryption, such as AES-256, to ensure your online activities remain secure.
Performance and Connection
The connection times are generally good, usually ranging between three and five seconds, with occasional longer connection times. Once connected, the VPN maintains a solid and stable connection without interruptions.
User Experience
Overall, the user experience with AVG Secure VPN is positive, especially for those who value simplicity. The service is easy to set up and use, even for those who are new to VPNs. However, it lacks some advanced features that power users might prefer, such as split tunneling (which was available in the past but is no longer an option) and a larger number of servers.
Conclusion
In summary, AVG Secure VPN offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, making it a great option for individuals seeking a straightforward and secure VPN solution without the need for advanced settings or complicated processes.
AVG Secure VPN - Key Features and Functionality
Key Features of AVG Secure VPN
AVG Secure VPN offers several key features that enhance user privacy, security, and convenience. Here’s a detailed look at each of these features and how they work:
Encryption
AVG Secure VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption, which is considered the highest level of encryption and is used by governments, banks, and the military. This encryption ensures that your data is scrambled and unreadable to anyone who might intercept it, providing strong protection against eavesdropping and data theft.
VPN Protocols
The VPN supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Mimic. OpenVPN is an open-source protocol known for its security and reliability. WireGuard is another industry-leading protocol that offers fast and secure connections. Mimic is a protocol developed by AVG to bypass VPN restrictions when other protocols are blocked.
Kill Switch
The kill switch is a critical security feature that automatically disconnects your internet connection if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This prevents your real IP address and data from being exposed. The kill switch works at the system level, meaning it will shut down your entire internet connection to protect your privacy.
Split Tunneling
Split tunneling allows you to choose which apps use the VPN and which use your regular internet connection. This feature is useful if you want to use the VPN for certain activities, such as online banking, while keeping other activities, like streaming, on your regular connection. You can select which apps to include or exclude from the VPN tunnel in the settings.
No-Logs Policy
While AVG Secure VPN does not have a strict no-logs policy, it does not log your online activities such as the websites you visit or the files you download. However, it does collect some data like timestamps and the amount of data used for managing the service, handling abuse, and troubleshooting. This data is used to improve the service and ensure speeds remain high for all users.
Server Locations and Specialized Servers
AVG Secure VPN operates in over 37 countries across various regions, including North America, South America, Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. It also offers specialized servers for streaming and torrenting, although the total server count is relatively low compared to other VPN providers.
Auto-Connect Options
You can configure AVG Secure VPN to automatically connect to the VPN when you join public or unsecured networks. This feature ensures that your data is always protected when you’re using potentially risky networks. You can also mark networks as public or private to control when the VPN connects automatically.
DNS Leak Protection
AVG Secure VPN includes DNS leak protection to prevent your DNS queries from being exposed. It also allows you to change your DNS settings to use a different DNS server, adding an extra layer of security and privacy.
Local Network Bypass
This feature allows you to access local devices such as printers or Chromecast even when connected to the VPN. By enabling Local Network Bypass, you can maintain access to your local network while keeping your real IP address hidden.
Wi-Fi Threat Shield
When your VPN is off, AVG Secure VPN can run a quick scan to check if the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to is safe. If a threat is detected and Wi-Fi Threat Shield is enabled, the VPN will automatically turn on to protect your privacy.
AI Integration
There is no specific information available on how AI is integrated into AVG Secure VPN. The features and functionalities described are based on standard VPN technologies and do not explicitly involve AI-driven components.
Conclusion
In summary, AVG Secure VPN provides a range of features aimed at protecting user privacy and security, though it may lack some of the advanced features and server counts of other VPN providers.
AVG Secure VPN - Performance and Accuracy
Performance and Accuracy Evaluation of AVG Secure VPN
Speed Performance
AVG Secure VPN’s speed performance is somewhat inconsistent. Tests have shown that while it can achieve reasonably fast speeds, there are significant variations depending on the server location. For instance, download speeds dropped by an average of 28% across various servers, with notable drops when connecting to servers in the U.S. and Canada, and better performance when connecting to servers in the U.K. and Australia. Here are some specific speed test results:- Download speeds ranged from 141.61 Mbps to 262.50 Mbps, depending on the server location.
- Upload speeds and latency also varied significantly, with latency increases of up to 1,718% when connecting to distant servers.
Server Network
One of the major limitations of AVG Secure VPN is its relatively small server network. The service does not disclose the exact number of servers but operates in over 37 countries, which is lower than many competitors. This limited server count can lead to slower connection speeds and reduced ability to bypass geo-restrictions.Streaming and Torrenting
AVG Secure VPN has mixed results when it comes to streaming and torrenting. While it supports torrenting with P2P-optimized servers in several countries, it often fails to unblock most popular streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. It can access BBC iPlayer and YouTube, but its streaming capabilities are generally limited.Security and Privacy
The VPN uses high-class encryption, including AES 256-bit, and supports secure protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard. However, AVG Secure VPN’s privacy policy is a concern as it logs and shares connection data, such as timestamps, which may not be ideal for users seeking strict anonymity.Additional Features
AVG Secure VPN lacks many advanced features that are common in other VPN services. It does not offer split tunneling, VPN obfuscation, multi-hop servers, or dedicated IP addresses. The service also does not include tools like ad and tracker blockers or GPS spoofers. The only notable additional feature is a kill switch and auto-connect options.Customer Support
Customer support for AVG Secure VPN is basic and sometimes inadequate. While it offers 24/7 live chat and an FAQ page, the live chat option is hard to find, and responses can be slow and impersonal.Bypassing Censorship
AVG Secure VPN is not effective in bypassing internet censorship in restrictive countries. Tests in China showed that it was repeatedly detected and blocked, making it a poor choice for users in such regions.Conclusion
In summary, while AVG Secure VPN provides basic VPN functionality with good encryption and simple-to-use apps, it falls short in several critical areas such as server network size, speed consistency, streaming capabilities, and advanced features. For users with more complex needs or those requiring strong privacy protections, other VPN services may be more suitable. AVG Secure VPN - Pricing and Plans
Subscription Plans
AVG Secure VPN offers several subscription plans, each with a different commitment period:
- 1 Year Plan: This plan costs $4.49 per month, totaling $53.88 for the first year. After the initial year, the price increases to $89.99 per year.
- 2 Years Plan: This plan costs $4.39 per month, totaling $105.36 for the first two years. After the initial two years, the price increases to $179.99 for the next two years.
- 3 Years Plan: This plan costs $3.99 per month, totaling $143.64 for the first three years. After the initial three years, the price increases to $269.99 for the next three years.
Features
All AVG Secure VPN plans include the following features:
- 10 simultaneous connections: You can use the VPN on up to 10 devices at the same time.
- 256-bit encryption: This secures your online activity from unauthorized access.
- Access to over 50 server locations: This allows you to unblock websites and access geo-restricted content.
- No logging: AVG Secure VPN does not log the websites you visit, the data you transfer, or the IP addresses you access.
Bundle Plan
In addition to the standalone VPN plans, AVG offers a bundle plan called AVG Ultimate. This plan includes the VPN along with antivirus protection, device lock, payment protection, and other security features. The AVG Ultimate plan costs $4.99 per month for a one-year plan.
Free Trial
AVG Secure VPN offers two types of free trials:
- 60-day free trial: This trial requires a credit card and automatically signs you up for a two-year plan if not canceled before the trial ends.
- 7-day free trial: This trial does not require payment details on desktop apps but does on mobile devices with auto-renewal enabled. It offers all the features of the paid version.
Money-Back Guarantee
AVG Secure VPN also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test the product and get a refund if you are not satisfied.
In summary, AVG Secure VPN does not offer a fully free version but provides generous trial periods and a money-back guarantee to help you decide if the service meets your needs.
AVG Secure VPN - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Other Tools
AVG Secure VPN is designed to work seamlessly with other AVG and Avast products, but it does not integrate with a wide range of third-party tools. Here are some key points:Key Integration Points
- If you use both AVG Secure VPN and AVG Secure Browser PRO, you only need to enable one VPN at a time to ensure protection. The VPN in AVG Secure Browser PRO protects only browser traffic, while AVG Secure VPN provides full traffic protection across all apps.
- There is no mention of integration with other privacy or security tools outside of the AVG and Avast ecosystem.
Compatibility Across Different Platforms and Devices
AVG Secure VPN is compatible with a variety of platforms and devices:Supported Operating Systems
- Operating Systems: It supports Windows (11, 10, 8/8.1, 7 SP1 and later), macOS (from 10.13 High Sierra to the latest versions), Android (9.0 Pie and later), and iOS (14.0 and later).
Supported Devices
- Devices: It is compatible with iPhones, iPads, iPod touches, and Android devices. However, it does not support Linux, Symbian, Microsoft Windows Phone/Mobile, Bada, or WebOS.
Simultaneous Connections
- Simultaneous Connections: AVG Secure VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections per subscription, enabling you to protect multiple devices at the same time.
Device-Specific Features
Mobile Device Features
- On mobile devices (Android and iOS), you can configure settings such as Auto Connect, Split Tunneling, Kill Switch, and Wi-Fi Threat Shield. These features help in automating VPN connections, excluding certain apps from VPN encryption, preventing IP and DNS leaks, and automatically turning on the VPN if a Wi-Fi threat is detected.
Desktop Platform Features
- On desktop platforms (Windows and macOS), you can also customize VPN protocol settings, such as choosing between OpenVPN, WireGuard, Mimic, and IPsec protocols.
Internet Connection Compatibility
AVG Secure VPN can connect over any wired or wireless internet connection, making it versatile for various network types. By ensuring broad compatibility and integrating well within the AVG and Avast product suite, AVG Secure VPN provides a comprehensive solution for users looking to enhance their internet security and privacy across multiple devices. AVG Secure VPN - Customer Support and Resources
Contacting Support
For direct help, you can contact AVG Support through various channels. You can reach out via email, 24/7 live chat, or by sending a support ticket. These options are accessible through the Support & Help section of the VPN app or on the AVG Support website.
Self-Help Resources
AVG provides a comprehensive knowledge base and FAQs that cover a wide range of topics, including installation, activation, troubleshooting common issues, and managing subscriptions. These resources are available on the AVG Support website and can be very helpful in resolving many common problems on your own.
Community Forum
In addition to direct support, AVG also has a community forum where users can discuss issues and share solutions. This can be a valuable resource for finding answers from other users who may have encountered similar problems.
Troubleshooting Guides
For technical issues, AVG offers detailed troubleshooting guides. For example, you can find instructions on how to troubleshoot VPN connection problems, slow internet connections, and how to generate diagnostics reports or locate log files for further investigation by support agents.
Log Files and Diagnostics Reports
If you need to report a technical issue, AVG Support may ask for log files or a diagnostics report. You can find the log files in the C:\ProgramData\AVG\Secure VPN\log directory on Windows, and there are specific instructions for generating a diagnostics report available on the support pages.
Version Information
To troubleshoot effectively, it’s often helpful to know the version of AVG Secure VPN you are using. You can find this information by opening the app, going to the menu or settings, and looking for the “About” section where the version number is listed.
These resources are designed to help you resolve issues quickly and efficiently, ensuring you get the most out of your AVG Secure VPN service.
AVG Secure VPN - Pros and Cons
Pros of AVG Secure VPN
Security and Encryption
AVG Secure VPN uses industry-standard encryption, specifically AES 256-bit, to ensure your online activities remain secure. It also employs secure VPN protocols such as OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Mimic, which help in maintaining privacy and security.
Kill Switch
The VPN includes a kill switch feature that automatically disconnects your device from the internet if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, preventing data exposure.
Ease of Use
The VPN is easy to install and use, making it a good option for newcomers who want a straightforward privacy solution.
Global Server Coverage
Although the server count is limited, AVG Secure VPN has servers in over 37 countries across various regions, allowing users to access content from different locations.
Specialized Servers
It offers specialized servers for streaming and torrenting, which can be useful for specific user needs.
No Major Intelligence-Sharing Obligations
Being headquartered in the Czech Republic, AVG Secure VPN is not obliged to retain user data or share it with foreign governments due to the absence of major intelligence-sharing agreements.
Cons of AVG Secure VPN
Limited Server Count
The VPN has a relatively small server network compared to competitors, which can lead to slower connection speeds and reduced performance, especially if many users are connected to the same servers.
Slow Speeds
Speed tests have shown significant drops in download speeds, particularly when connecting to servers in certain regions. For example, there was a 28% average download speed drop across all tested servers.
Logging Policy
AVG Secure VPN keeps some logs, including timestamps and the amount of data used, which could be a concern for users seeking maximum privacy. This data is used for managing server capacity and troubleshooting but may still raise trust issues.
Trust Issues
The parent company, Avast, has a past history of collecting and selling user data, which can erode trust in AVG Secure VPN’s ability to protect user privacy.
Limited Platform Support
The VPN does not support Firestick, Linux, or routers, which limits its usability for certain users.
Pricing
After the initial discount, the subscription price is considered high compared to the value offered, especially given the limited server network and slower speeds.
Overall, while AVG Secure VPN offers good security features and ease of use, its limitations in server count, speed performance, and logging policy, along with the parent company’s past actions, make it less recommendable compared to other VPN services.
AVG Secure VPN - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing AVG Secure VPN with Other Products
Unique Features of AVG Secure VPN
- Encryption and Protocols: AVG Secure VPN uses AES-256 bit encryption, which is considered bank-grade security. It also supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Mimic, a proprietary protocol designed to bypass VPN restrictions.
- Kill Switch: AVG Secure VPN includes an automatic kill switch that disconnects your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing data leaks. This feature is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
- Specialty Servers: It offers dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting, which can be beneficial for users who need these specific services.
- Multi-Device Support: You can connect up to 10 devices simultaneously, which is convenient for households or individuals with multiple devices.
Potential Alternatives and Comparisons
- Server Count and Locations: Unlike some competitors, AVG Secure VPN does not disclose the exact number of its servers but operates in over 50 locations. This limited transparency and server count might affect connection speeds and the ability to access regional content. Alternatives like ExpressVPN or NordVPN offer a much larger server network, which can improve performance and access to geo-restricted content.
- No-Logs Policy: AVG Secure VPN collects some logs, including timestamps and data usage, which might be a concern for users seeking strict no-logs policies. Competitors like ExpressVPN or Surfshark have more stringent no-logs policies, which could be more appealing to those prioritizing maximum privacy.
- Price: AVG Secure VPN is priced between $4.39 and $4.49 per month, which is relatively competitive. However, some VPNs offer more features or better performance at similar or lower prices. For example, Surfshark offers unlimited device connections and a larger server network at a comparable price point.
- Additional Features: While AVG Secure VPN provides essential features like a kill switch and good security protocols, it lacks some advanced features found in other VPNs. For instance, NordVPN offers features like double VPN, Onion over VPN, and a more comprehensive set of specialized servers.
Privacy and Security
- Data Leaks: AVG Secure VPN has been tested and found to be completely leak-proof, with no DNS or WebRTC leaks detected. This is a strong point in its favor, ensuring that your real IP address and online activity remain hidden.
- Headquarters: Being headquartered in the Czech Republic, AVG Secure VPN is not obligated to retain user data or participate in major intelligence-sharing agreements, which adds to its privacy credentials.
Conclusion
In summary, while AVG Secure VPN offers good speeds, decent security, and essential features like a kill switch, it may fall short in terms of server count, transparency, and a strict no-logs policy compared to some of its competitors. Users seeking more comprehensive VPN services might want to consider alternatives that offer larger server networks, stricter privacy policies, and additional advanced features.
AVG Secure VPN - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about AVG Secure VPN
What is AVG Secure VPN and how does it work?
AVG Secure VPN is a virtual private network that secures your internet connection by creating an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. This encryption disguises your real location and protects your data from third-party snoopers, trackers, and other potential threats.How do I connect to AVG Secure VPN?
To connect to AVG Secure VPN, open the AVG Secure VPN app and click the “Connect” button or the red (OFF) slider on the main screen until it changes to green (ON). The app will automatically choose the best server for you, but you can also manually select a different location if needed.Can I use AVG Secure VPN with any type of internet connection?
Yes, you can use AVG Secure VPN with any wired or wireless internet connection. It works over all types of internet connections, ensuring your data is secure regardless of how you are connected to the internet.How do I change the VPN server location in AVG Secure VPN?
To change the VPN server location, open AVG Secure VPN, click on “Change location” or “Server location” on the main application screen, and select a new location from the list. The app will automatically connect to the new location you selected.Can AVG Secure VPN automatically connect when I use an unsecured Wi-Fi network?
Yes, you can configure AVG Secure VPN to automatically connect when you are on an unsecured Wi-Fi network. Go to the settings, select “Network Security,” and specify when you want to automatically connect to the internet via AVG Secure VPN servers. You can also add trusted networks that will be excluded from this auto-connect feature.What encryption does AVG Secure VPN use?
AVG Secure VPN uses AES 256-bit encryption, which is considered bank-grade encryption. It also employs Open SSL and certificate authentication to ensure your data is highly secure.Does AVG Secure VPN allow torrenting?
Yes, AVG Secure VPN allows torrenting through specific data center locations. These locations include Prague, Czech Republic; Frankfurt, Germany; Amsterdam, Netherlands; New York City, New York; Miami, Florida; Seattle, Washington; London, United Kingdom; and Paris, France.What is the Kill Switch feature in AVG Secure VPN?
The Kill Switch feature ensures that your internet connection is automatically blocked if AVG Secure VPN unexpectedly disconnects. This prevents your real location from being exposed and maintains your privacy. However, this feature is not available on all device types, such as Huawei devices.Can I exclude certain apps from using the VPN connection?
Yes, AVG Secure VPN offers a feature called Split Tunneling. This allows you to specify which apps should never connect to the internet via the VPN servers, even when the VPN is enabled. For example, you can exclude your email app to send and receive emails from your real location while still accessing other online content securely.What is Local Network Bypass in AVG Secure VPN?
Local Network Bypass allows you to access local devices (such as printers or Chromecast) on your shared network even while connected to the VPN. Normally, your real IP address is hidden while using the VPN, making it difficult for local devices to find you on the network. Enabling this feature resolves this issue.Does AVG Secure VPN have a no-log policy?
Yes, AVG Secure VPN follows a strict no-log policy. This means that your data is 100% encrypted, and AVG does not collect or store any logs of your online activities, protecting your privacy from third-party snoopers, trackers, government, internet providers, and companies. AVG Secure VPN - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of AVG Secure VPN
AVG Secure VPN is a viable option for individuals seeking a user-friendly and secure VPN service, although it has some limitations that might affect its appeal to more advanced users.Security Features
AVG Secure VPN boasts several strong security features. It uses AES 256-bit encryption, which is the highest level of encryption and is employed by governments and military agencies. The VPN supports multiple protocols, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, and a proprietary protocol called Mimic, although the security of Mimic is uncertain due to the lack of third-party audits. It also includes an automatic kill switch, available on Windows and macOS, which prevents IP and DNS leaks by blocking all internet connections if the VPN connection is lost.Privacy
While AVG Secure VPN does not log your online activities, it does store connection logs, including the duration of the connection and bandwidth usage. This might be a concern for users who prefer a strict no-logs policy.Server Network
The VPN operates with around 700 servers in 56 locations worldwide, which is relatively modest compared to other VPN services. This limited server count could lead to slower connection speeds if many users are connected to the same servers.Additional Features
AVG Secure VPN offers some useful features such as WiFi Threat Shield, which protects against threats on public WiFi networks, and split tunneling, although this is only available on the Android version. It also allows torrenting and provides dedicated P2P servers, but it does not unblock popular streaming services like Netflix.User Experience
The VPN is easy to install and use, making it a good choice for beginners. The interface is simple, and connecting to a server is straightforward.Who Would Benefit Most
AVG Secure VPN is best for:- Individuals new to VPNs who prefer a simple and user-friendly service.
- Those who need basic security and privacy features without advanced configurations.
- Users who want to protect their data on public WiFi networks.
- Those who engage in torrenting and need dedicated P2P servers.