AVG Secure VPN – A Beginner-Friendly Option

Company Overview

AVG Technologies, originally founded in 1991 in the Czech Republic, has established itself as a trusted antivirus company in the cybersecurity industry. Over the years, they expanded their product line beyond traditional antivirus solutions, integrating tools like AVG Internet Security and their own virtual private network (VPN). In 2016, AVG was acquired by Avast, another leading cybersecurity firm, which later merged with NortonLifeLock in 2021. This consolidation placed AVG under one of the largest digital security corporations, further reinforcing their expertise in online privacy and security solutions.

As part of their commitment to online safety, AVG introduced AVG Secure VPN, a tool designed to provide VPN users with a private and secure internet connection. The service functions by creating an encrypted tunnel between the user’s local device access and the VPN server, preventing ISPs, hackers, and third parties from monitoring web traffic, DNS queries, and the amount of data transferred. By routing traffic through proxy servers and specific servers optimized for various use cases, AVG Secure VPN enables anonymous browsing, reduces tracking, and enhances security on public Wi-Fi networks.

Their VPN is designed for both individuals and small businesses who seek a straightforward and effective way to protect their online activity. Unlike some VPNs that require manual configurations, AVG Secure VPN prioritizes ease of use, offering a seamless user experience with detailed instructions for setup. Users can download AVG Secure VPN on Windows PCs, macOS, and Android devices, ensuring compatibility across multiple platforms. The service provides essential VPN features, including AES-256 encryption, automatic Wi-Fi protection, and a kill switch, which help safeguard sensitive information from cyber threats.

Despite AVG’s strong reputation in cybersecurity, their VPN network is relatively smaller compared to leading competitors. With over 700 servers in 37 countries, the network is adequate for general use, but they lack the extensive global reach offered by top-tier VPN providers that boast thousands of servers across 90+ locations. This limitation affects users who rely on geo-unblocking capabilities or need access to VPN protocols optimized for speed and performance. Additionally, the address of the VPN server plays a role in speed and accessibility, with some locations experiencing congestion or slower connections compared to larger VPN services.

Features & Services

AVG Secure offers a standard set of features, focusing on security, anonymity, and accessibility.

• AES-256 encryption: AVG Secure VPN uses AES-256-bit encryption, the same standard utilized by government agencies and financial institutions. This ensures robust protection against hackers, ISPs, and other third parties, keeping your data secure
• Automatic Wi-Fi protection: The VPN automatically activates when connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. This feature is ideal for travelers, remote workers, or anyone using public hotspots in cafés, airports, or hotels
• Kill switch: AVG Secure VPN includes a kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection unexpectedly drops. This ensures that sensitive activities, like online banking or torrenting, remain private
• Dedicated servers for streaming and torrenting: AVG offers dedicated servers optimized for accessing geo-restricted content and securely downloading files. While it works with Netflix US and BBC iPlayer, compatibility with other platforms like Hulu and Disney+ is limited
• Limited streaming server options: Although AVG provides some streaming servers, the selection is relatively small. Users looking for extensive streaming compatibility may need to explore more versatile VPN options
• No split tunneling: AVG Secure VPN lacks split tunneling, a feature that allows you to route specific traffic through the VPN while keeping other activities outside the encrypted connection
• No multi-hop connections: The VPN does not offer multi-hop connections, which could provide an additional layer of encryption by routing traffic through multiple servers.
• Simple and user-friendly interface: AVG Secure VPN features an intuitive interface, making it easy for beginners to navigate and activate key settings without technical knowledge.
• Cross-platform support: AVG Secure VPN is compatible with major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring comprehensive device coverage for most users
• Limited advanced features: While AVG offers essential features for security and privacy, it lacks advanced functionalities like obfuscation or rotating IPs, which are useful for users in heavily monitored regions

These features highlight AVG Secure VPN’s focus on simplicity, security, and accessibility, though its limited advanced options and server choices may not suit power users.

Protocols and speed performance

AVG Secure uses a combination of IKEv2/IPsec and OpenVPN protocols, both of which are well-regarded for balancing security and speed.

Performance tests show that local server connections are generally fast and stable, with minimal browsing, streaming, and gaming impact. However, long-distance connections can suffer from noticeable slowdowns, particularly on heavily trafficked servers. While speeds are adequate for HD streaming, users looking for 4K streaming or competitive online gaming may experience some latency issues.

For torrenting, AVG Secure offers specialized P2P servers, but speeds can be inconsistent. Download and upload speeds vary significantly based on server congestion, and some users have reported occasional connection drops.

AVG Secure VPN’s speed performance is average at best compared to other providers. This makes them a decent option for general browsing but less ideal for high-speed tasks.

Security & Privacy Measures

Security is a primary focus of AVG Secure VPN, but there are some concerns regarding privacy policies.

On the positive side, their use of AES-256 encryption ensures that all user data remains protected from cyber threats. Their kill switch feature also adds an extra layer of security by preventing accidental data exposure.

However, their logging policy raises some red flags. Unlike strict no-log VPNs, AVG Secure does store some connection logs for 30 days, including timestamps, bandwidth usage, and real IP addresses. Although they claim this data is used for troubleshooting and service improvements, privacy-focused users may find this concerning.

Additionally, the company does not provide independent security audits, which have become a standard practice among top-tier VPN providers to verify privacy claims. While AVG is based in the Czech Republic—outside of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance—their parent company (NortonLifeLock) is headquartered in the US, where data-sharing agreements with intelligence agencies are common.

Overall, while AVG Secure VPN offers solid encryption and security features, their logging policy and lack of third-party audits may be a deal-breaker for privacy-conscious users.

Plans & Prices

AVG Secure offers three subscription plans, each providing access to up to 10 devices under a single account. The service is available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making them a flexible option for users who need VPN protection across multiple platforms.

The pricing structure is based on longer commitments offering initial discounts, but renewal prices are significantly higher, which is something users should be aware of before subscribing. Additionally, they provide a 60-day free trial, allowing users to test the service without any upfront payment.

The 1-Year Plan

The one-year plan costs $53.88 for the first year, which breaks down to $4.49 per month. This represents a 46% discount compared to the renewal rate of $99.99 per year, meaning that once the promotional period ends, the cost per month effectively doubles to $8.33.

This plan is best suited for users who want to test the service for a full year before committing to a longer subscription. However, those planning to use AVG Secure VPN beyond the first year should factor in the significant price increase upon renewal.

The 2-Year Plan

The two-year plan offers a bigger upfront discount, costing $105.36 for the first two years, which averages out to $4.39 per month. This still reflects a 46% savings compared to the standard renewal price of $99.99 per year, but after the initial period, users will need to pay $99.99 annually, effectively increasing the cost to $8.12 per month.

For users who are confident in AVG Secure VPN’s performance and plan to use it long-term, this plan provides better overall value than the one-year option. However, the renewal price remains a concern, as there are competitor VPNs that offer more features at a lower cost after renewal.

The 3-Year Plan

The three-year plan provides the lowest introductory cost, priced at $158.04 for the first three years, which equates to $4.39 per month. Like the two-year plan, it comes with a 46% discount compared to the renewal price. After the initial three-year term, users will be billed $99.99 per year, increasing the cost to $8.19 per month.

This plan is the best choice for users looking for long-term savings and a set-it-and-forget-it approach. However, given that AVG Secure VPN lacks advanced features like split tunneling, multi-hop connections, or RAM-based servers, some users may prefer investing in alternatives that offer more value over a three-year period.

Free trial & money-back guarantee

The provider offers a 60-day free trial, which is relatively generous compared to other VPNs that typically provide 7-day trials. Users can try the service without making an upfront payment, allowing them to test the speed, security, and streaming capabilities before committing to a paid plan.

Advantages & Disadvantages

When choosing a VPN, users need to balance ease of use, security, speed, and pricing. AVG Secure VPN has several advantages that make them appealing to casual users and those looking for basic online protection, but it also comes with notable drawbacks that might make advanced users hesitate. Below, we explore both the strengths and weaknesses of this service provider in detail.

Advantages

Simple and user-friendly interface
One of the biggest selling points of AVG Secure is their simplicity and user-friendly interface. Unlike some VPNs that come with a steep learning curve, this provider offers an intuitive setup process that even beginners can navigate without difficulty. The interface is clean and straightforward, making them easy to switch servers, enable security features, and configure settings without technical knowledge. Users who simply want a VPN that works without complex configurations will appreciate this approach.

Good for streaming and torrenting
Another strong advantage is their support for streaming and torrenting. Many providers struggle to consistently unblock streaming platforms due to aggressive anti-VPN measures. However, AVG Secure VPN includes dedicated servers optimized for streaming, which help users access platforms like Netflix US and BBC iPlayer. While their streaming server selection is more limited than top-tier VPNs, they still provide a reliable option for casual streamers. Additionally, their P2P servers support torrenting, offering a secure way to download files while maintaining privacy.

Strong encryption for data protection
In terms of security, AVG Secure VPN employs AES-256-bit encryption, the industry standard for safeguarding online traffic. This level of encryption is trusted by governments, financial institutions, and cybersecurity experts worldwide, ensuring that user data remains protected from hackers and surveillance. Combined with their automatic Wi-Fi protection, the VPN provides an extra layer of security when using public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops, airports, and hotels. This feature automatically activates the VPN when it detects an unsecured connection, helping users avoid potential cyber threats without manual intervention.

Multiple device support for added flexibility
For users with multiple devices, AVG Secure VPN allows up to 10 simultaneous connections under a single subscription. This is particularly beneficial for households where multiple family members need VPN protection or for individuals who use several devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Some competitors limit the number of devices per account, so this feature gives AVG Secure VPN an advantage for users seeking broad device coverage.

Disadvantages

Lacks advanced features for power users
Unlike premium VPNs, AVG Secure VPN does not include advanced functionalities like split tunneling, multi-hop servers, or RAM-based servers. The absence of split tunneling means users cannot selectively route specific traffic through the VPN, which can be inconvenient for those who want to access local content while encrypting other online activity. Similarly, multi-hop servers, which provide an extra layer of security by bouncing traffic through multiple locations, are missing. These missing features make the provider less appealing to tech-savvy users or those with advanced privacy needs.

Questionable privacy policy with some logging
While many leading VPNs emphasize strict no-log policies, AVG Secure stores some connection logs for 30 days, including timestamps, bandwidth usage, and real IP addresses. Although the company claims this data is used for troubleshooting and performance improvements, they may still concern privacy-conscious users. Furthermore, no independent security audits have been conducted to verify their privacy claims, which raises questions about how user data is managed and stored.

Inconsistent speeds depending on server location
While local connections typically provide fast and stable speeds, performance varies significantly when connecting to distant servers. Users may experience noticeable slowdowns, particularly when accessing heavily congested servers or streaming in 4K resolution. Some users have reported latency issues during online gaming, making AVG Secure less reliable for high-speed activities compared to other providers.

Limited server network compared to competitors
With only 700+ servers in 37 countries, AVG Secure VPN falls behind leading VPNs like CyberGhost and NordVPN, which offer thousands of servers across 90+ countries. A smaller server network means fewer options for bypassing regional restrictions, and users may experience congestion on popular servers. This can be particularly frustrating for individuals who frequently switch locations or need stable access to multiple global regions.

Expensive renewal pricing
While the initial subscription prices are competitively discounted, renewal costs increase significantly after the first term. For example, the one-year plan jumps from $53.88 to $99.99, nearly doubling the monthly cost from $4.49 to $8.33. Many competing VPNs, such as Surfshark and CyberGhost, offer more features at a lower long-term price. This makes AVG Secure VPN a less budget-friendly option for users who want a consistent, affordable VPN experience over multiple years.

Customer Experience

When evaluating a VPN, user feedback provides valuable insights into real-world performance, ease of use, and potential drawbacks. AVG Secure VPN receives mixed reviews across different platforms, with some users appreciating their simplicity and security features, while others express frustration over inconsistent speeds and limited customization options.

On Trustpilot, AVG Secure holds an average rating of 3.5/5 stars, indicating moderate satisfaction among users. The most common positive remarks focus on ease of use, security, and reliable connections for general browsing. However, there are complaints about speed inconsistencies and a lack of advanced features, which lowers their rating compared to premium VPN providers.

On Google Play Store, the service fares better with a 4.2/5 rating, suggesting that Android users have a more positive experience. Many reviews highlight the VPN’s stable mobile performance, intuitive interface, and ability to unblock streaming services. Some users, however, criticize connection drops and slower speeds when using distant servers, especially when switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.

On the Apple App Store, they have a slightly higher rating of 4.⅗ stars, indicating that iOS users generally find them reliable. Many reviewers praise the seamless integration with iPhones and iPads, along with the quick connection setup and automatic Wi-Fi protection feature. Nevertheless, some users note that the VPN disconnects unexpectedly in certain regions and that the lack of advanced settings limits control over network preferences.

Positive feedback

One of the most frequent points of praise is AVG Secure VPN’s simple and user-friendly interface, which makes them easy to install and navigate even for beginners. Unlike some VPNs that require manual server configuration, this service offers a one-click connection, allowing users to secure their internet traffic without hassle. Many users appreciate this minimalist approach, particularly those who only need basic online protection rather than an advanced feature set.

Another commonly mentioned advantage is the VPN’s reliability for general browsing. Users note that the service provides stable connections for activities like checking emails, banking online, and casual web surfing. While speeds may not be the fastest, many users report that they experience minimal connection drops when using servers within their region.

For streaming enthusiasts, AVG Secure has received positive remarks for unblocking Netflix US and BBC iPlayer. Some users successfully access geo-restricted content, allowing them to stream shows and movies that would otherwise be unavailable in their location. While the selection of optimized streaming servers is limited, those that work generally provide a smooth streaming experience without major buffering issues.

Critical feedback 

Despite their positive aspects, AVG Secure VPN also receives notable criticism, particularly regarding speed consistency. Many users complain that server speeds vary widely, with some locations providing fast and stable connections, while others result in significant slowdowns. This is particularly problematic for users who rely on VPNs for gaming or high-definition streaming, as slow speeds can lead to latency issues and buffering delays.

Another major complaint is the lack of split tunneling, a standard feature in many competing VPNs. Without split tunneling, users cannot choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection while allowing others to connect directly to the internet. This means that users who want to encrypt certain activities (like torrenting) while accessing local content without a VPN must constantly enable or disable the service, making them less convenient than alternatives that offer this feature.

Privacy-conscious users have also raised concerns about AVG Secure VPN’s logging policy. Unlike strict no-log VPNs, this provider retains some user data for 30 days, including timestamps, bandwidth usage, and real IP addresses. While AVG claims this information is only used for troubleshooting and performance monitoring, some users remain skeptical, particularly those who prioritize anonymity and absolute data privacy. The absence of independent audits further raises doubts about how securely user data is handled, leading some users to opt for VPNs with proven no-log policies.

Customer Support

AVG Secure VPN offers 24/7 customer support, providing users with multiple ways to seek assistance. One of the most notable support options is 24/7 phone support, which is available in several regions, including the United States, at +1 844 259 8811. You can also go to their Support page and submit a ticket or check their FAQs and their extensive knowledge base.

Conclusion

AVG Secure VPN is a straightforward and easy-to-use VPN that provides a secure connection for anonymous browsing and protects sensitive data across multiple platforms, including Windows PC, Apple macOS, iOS devices, and Google Android. Users can quickly download the setup file, enter an activation code, and follow detailed activation instructions to start using the service. The VPN allows users to mask their real location by selecting a virtual location, making them useful for privacy protection and secure browsing.

However, while they excel in simplicity and accessibility, they fall short in privacy, transparency, and advanced functionalities. The logging policy, inconsistent speeds, and limited server network may not meet the needs of users who prioritize strict anonymity, fast global access, or advanced security configurations. Competitors like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark offer better performance, stronger privacy protections, and more extensive server networks.

For those looking for a paid product that integrates well with AVG Antivirus, this VPN is a decent choice for casual users. However, long-term affordability and advanced features may be concerns. Users can find support through AVG Support and the AVG Support Community for troubleshooting installation, activation code issues, or secure browsing inquiries.

If you’re still exploring options, our VPN comparison tool and detailed reviews can help you assess different providers based on security, speed, pricing, and features. Whether you need a VPN with a strict no-logs policy, extensive server networks, or advanced security measures, our expert insights and blogs will guide you toward the best choice for your privacy needs, technical preferences, and budget.