Table of Contents
Introduction
In this secure VPN review, we will take a closer look at Avast SecureLine VPN and evaluate its features, pricing, safety, performance, and alternatives. Avast SecureLine VPN is a virtual private network offered by Avast, a well-known antivirus software provider. While Avast is primarily known for its antivirus products, its VPN service aims to provide users with online privacy and security.
Pricing
Avast SecureLine VPN offers a variety of pricing plans:
- 1 year: $4.59 per month
- 2 years: $4.39 per month
- 1 month: $10.99 per month
While the pricing is in the midrange compared to other VPN services, the features and server network offered by Avast SecureLine VPN may not justify the cost. It would be beneficial if Avast had more affordable pricing options to differentiate itself from its competitors. However, one saving grace is the 60-day free trial offered by Avast SecureLine VPN, which is one of the longest free trials available in the VPN market.
Safety
On paper, Avast SecureLine VPN appears to have the necessary protocols and features to ensure user safety. It utilizes the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, which are widely regarded as secure protocols for VPNs. Additionally, it has its proprietary security protocol called Mimic. Avast SecureLine VPN also employs AES-256 encryption, offers a kill switch, and protects against DNS leaks.
However, there are some concerns regarding Avast’s privacy controversies. Avast experienced a cyberattack in 2019, and in 2020, it was reported that Avast’s free antivirus software was selling user web browsing data. While these controversies do not directly involve SecureLine VPN, they are important factors to consider when evaluating the overall safety of Avast’s services.
Avast SecureLine VPN does have a no-logs policy, but it lacks an independent audit to verify this policy. However, Avast publishes Transparency Reports and Warrant Canaries, which provide valuable information about government requests and warrants issued to the company. Additionally, Avast is based in the Czech Republic, a country that is not a member of any data sharing or intelligence alliance.
Key Features
Avast SecureLine VPN offers several key features to protect user data:
Smart VPN Mode
SecureLine’s Smart VPN mode allows users to set personalized rules for turning the VPN on or off. This feature provides flexibility based on the user’s specific needs and workflow. Users can set the VPN to automatically turn on when connected to a public network, banking sites, torrenting apps, or streaming sites. Trusted sites can also be exempted from the VPN if they are considered safe.
60-Day Free Trial
Avast SecureLine VPN offers a generous 60-day free trial on all supported platforms. Unlike other VPNs that typically offer 7-day free trials or 30-day money-back guarantees, Avast’s extended trial period allows users to fully experience the VPN service without the need for an initial payment. The free trial only requires PayPal or Mastercard details, making it a customer-friendly approach.
Up to 10 Device Connections
Avast allows users to connect up to 10 devices simultaneously with a single VPN subscription. While unlimited device access is ideal, having 10 allowable connections is already on the higher end compared to other VPN providers. This feature is beneficial for users who need to secure multiple devices.
Performance
In terms of speed, Avast SecureLine VPN performs average to below average. During testing, the VPN was used for various tasks such as working in Google Workspace, streaming music, attending video calls, and watching YouTube videos. While the connections were generally stable, the speed felt slower than usual, particularly when loading webpages and image thumbnails.
The upload speeds with SecureLine VPN experienced a significant drop of 85% compared to the internet service provider’s speeds. However, the download speeds had a more reasonable drop of around 38%. Despite the decrease in speed, SecureLine VPN performed well in terms of DNS leak protection, with zero DNS leaks recorded during testing.
The Windows app for Avast SecureLine VPN is simple and intuitive, making it easy to use. However, it lacks advanced features and may feel too basic for users who require more customization options.
Servers and Locations
Avast SecureLine VPN provides access to servers in approximately 36 countries and up to 60 locations. While the exact number of servers in SecureLine’s network is not disclosed, reports suggest that there are around 700 servers. This server network is relatively small compared to other VPN providers, limiting options for speed and location flexibility.
However, SecureLine VPN offers a decent spread of servers across different regions, including Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Asia Pacific, and Africa. The VPN also segments servers specifically for streaming and torrenting, which can be advantageous for users seeking VPNs for these specific purposes.
On the downside, Avast SecureLine VPN lacks certain security-focused server features like split tunneling (only available on the Android app) or multihop servers, which may be important for privacy-conscious users.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 60-day free trial
- Smart VPN mode for personalized rules
- Up to 10 simultaneous device connections
- Decent country and location spread
- Simple and intuitive Windows app
Cons
- Lack of an independent audit for the no-logs policy
- Privacy controversies associated with Avast
- Small server network
- Slower speeds
- Lack of advanced security features
Who is Avast SecureLine VPN Best For?
Avast SecureLine VPN may be suitable for users who value a generous free trial period and a user-friendly interface. The 60-day free trial gives users ample time to test the VPN service without an initial payment. The simple Windows app can also appeal to first-time VPN users who prefer a straightforward experience.
However, Avast SecureLine VPN may not be the best choice for users looking for advanced security features and a larger server network. The privacy controversies associated with Avast and the lack of an independent audit may also be concerning for some users.
Alternatives to Avast SecureLine VPN
If Avast SecureLine VPN does not meet your requirements, here are some alternatives to consider:
Surfshark
Surfshark is a well-known VPN service that offers an easy-to-use interface, strong encryption, and 24/7 customer support. It allows unlimited simultaneous connections, making it suitable for users with multiple devices.
NordVPN
NordVPN is a comprehensive security platform that offers a wide range of features. It has a large server network, built-in protection against malware, and consistently fast speeds. NordVPN also prioritizes independent third-party testing for increased transparency.
ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is another reliable VPN solution that supports multiple platforms and offers a strong threat manager feature to block suspicious sites. It also provides a split tunneling feature, allowing users to choose which traffic goes through the VPN and which goes through their internet service provider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Avast SecureLine VPN offers a 60-day free trial and a user-friendly interface, making it a viable option for users seeking a VPN service. However, it falls short in terms of advanced security features, server network size, and speed performance. The privacy controversies associated with Avast and the lack of an independent audit may also be factors to consider. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and explore alternative VPN options to find the best fit for your specific needs.