Avast SecureLine VPN - FAQs | Avast
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Avast SecureLine VPN - FAQs

General

What is a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) protects the data you upload and download by functioning as a private tunnel through the internet. It effectively anonymizes your internet activity and secures your connection when using public Wi-Fi, such as in cafes or airports.

What is Avast SecureLine VPN?

Avast SecureLine VPN is an application that allows you to connect to the internet via secure Avast VPN servers using an encrypted tunnel to protect your online activity from eavesdropping. Avast SecureLine VPN can be used any time you want to connect to the internet with extra security and privacy. This is especially recommended when you are connected to a public or unsecured Wi-Fi network.

Avast SecureLine VPN mainly offers:

  • Protection: When many people connect to the same public network, attackers can capture sensitive data, such as logins and passwords. The encrypted VPN connection provides efficient protection against these types of attacks.
  • Anonymization: With broadband connections, many people have fixed IP addresses that can be tracked when browsing sensitive sites. With a VPN connection, the browsing session is effectively anonymized - the IP address the remote server sees is the address of the VPN server, not the user.
  • Unrestricted access to the internet: When connected to a VPN server in another location, you gain access to content that may be restricted in your location. This allows you to browse freely, even from countries with web censorship.

What's the difference between Avast SecureLine VPN and the VPN feature in Avast Secure Browser PRO?

If you use Avast SecureLine VPN and Avast Secure Browser PRO, you only need to enable one VPN at a time to ensure protection. Refer to the app comparison below:

  • Avast SecureLine VPN: Includes full traffic protection, multiple secure protocols, additional VPN locations, Smart VPN, a Kill-Switch, Auto-Connect, local device access, and private network exclusion.
  • Avast Secure Browser PRO: Protects only traffic from the browser and includes the option to connect/disconnect the VPN, 30 VPN locations, a Kill-Switch, and Auto-Connect.
  • Avast Secure Browser PRO: Includes the option to connect/disconnect the VPN, 30 VPN locations, a Kill-Switch, Auto-Connect, and Device-Wide VPN.

Download and Installation

What are the system requirements for Avast SecureLine VPN?

For Avast SecureLine VPN system requirements, refer to the following article:

Avast SecureLine VPN is not supported and cannot be installed or run on Symbian, Microsoft Windows Phone/Mobile, Bada, WebOS, or any mobile operating system other than Android or iOS.

How can I download and install Avast SecureLine VPN?

For detailed installation instructions, refer to the following article:

Can I use Avast SecureLine VPN without installing Avast Antivirus?

Yes. Avast SecureLine VPN is a standalone application. You do not need Avast Free Antivirus or Avast Premium Security installed on your PC to use Avast SecureLine VPN.

Yes. Avast SecureLine VPN is a standalone application. You do not need Avast Security or Avast Premium Security installed on your Mac to use Avast SecureLine VPN.

Is Avast SecureLine VPN included when I purchase Avast Premium Security?

No. Avast SecureLine VPN requires a separate subscription to use. You cannot use an Avast Premium Security subscription to activate Avast SecureLine VPN.

You can purchase a separate Avast SecureLine VPN subscription via the official Avast website.

What is the Avast SecureLine VPN browser extension?

The Avast SecureLine VPN browser extension is an optional installable component that allows you to conveniently adjust certain aspects of Avast SecureLine VPN behavior directly via Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. To learn how to install and use the Avast SecureLine VPN browser extension on Windows or Mac, refer to the following article:

Subscription and Activation

How do I activate an Avast SecureLine VPN subscription?

For detailed activation instructions, refer to the following article:

Can I use my Avast SecureLine VPN subscription on multiple devices?

When you purchase an Avast SecureLine VPN (Multi-Device) subscription, you can activate your subscription on up to 10 devices simultaneously. You can transfer your subscription freely between devices and platforms.

New Avast SecureLine VPN (Multi-Device) subscriptions purchased from the start of April 2021 are valid for 10 devices. If you purchased your Avast SecureLine VPN (Multi-Device) subscription before April 2021, it is valid for 5 devices during the current subscription period. When your subscription renews, it will upgrade to 10 devices.

To check which subscription you purchased, check the order confirmation email, or your Avast Account that is linked to the email address you provided at checkout.

What happens after my 7-day free trial ends?

When your 7-day free trial ends, your selected subscription automatically starts so that you can continue using Avast SecureLine VPN. You are charged for your subscription on the day that your free-trial period ends.

If you no longer want to use Avast SecureLine VPN, you need to cancel your subscription during the free-trial period via Google Play Store.

If you no longer want to use Avast SecureLine VPN, you need to cancel your subscription during the free-trial period via the App Store.

How can I cancel my subscription?

For information about canceling an Avast subscription, refer to the following article:

Even if you are still in a free-trial period, you need to cancel your subscription via Google Play Store, otherwise you will be charged for the subscription when the free-trial period ends.
Even if you are still in a free-trial period, you need to cancel your subscription via the App Store, otherwise you will be charged for the subscription when the free-trial period ends.

What if I want to start using Avast SecureLine VPN on a new device?

You can use Avast SecureLine VPN on the number of devices specified during purchase. If you have reached the device limit for your subscription, you can uninstall or deactivate Avast SecureLine VPN on a current device, before installing and activating the application on a new device.

For detailed instructions, refer to the following article:

What should I do if activation is unsuccessful?

Ensure that your subscription is valid for Avast SecureLine VPN. You cannot use an Avast Premium Security subscription to activate Avast SecureLine VPN.

If activation is unsuccessful, refer to the following article for advice:

Settings and Usage

How do I start using Avast SecureLine VPN?

To learn how to start using Avast SecureLine VPN, refer to the following article:

How do I know that the VPN is active and working?

After you enable Avast SecureLine VPN by clicking the red OFF slider on the main application screen so that it changes to green ON, Avast SecureLine VPN displays the text Your online privacy is protected.

After you tap Connect on the main app screen, Avast SecureLine VPN displays the text Connected.

How do I adjust Avast SecureLine VPN settings?

  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN and go to ☰ Menu ▸ Settings.
  2. Select from the following options in the left panel:
    • VPN mode: Choose a VPN mode (Manual VPN Mode or Smart VPN Mode).
    • General: Manage notifications, startup preferences, and content language within the app. You can also opt in to become a beta tester for new versions of Avast SecureLine VPN.
    • VPN protocols: Change the VPN protocol used by Avast SecureLine VPN.
    • Pair devices: If you have an Avast SecureLine VPN (Multi-Device) subscription, you can use this option to activate Avast SecureLine VPN on other devices. For instructions, refer to the article: Pairing an Avast SecureLine VPN subscription.
  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN and go to ☰ Menu ▸ Preferences.
  2. Select from the following options in the left panel:
    • VPN: Choose to configure settings between VPN mode and Advanced Settings.
    • General: Choose to show Avast SecureLine VPN icon in menu bar and Open Avast SecureLine VPN when my computer starts up.
    • Subscription: Enter your activation code to activate Avast SecureLine VPN.
    • Privacy: Help us in improving the appby sharing app-usage data with us.
    • Notifications: Control when you should display non-critical notifications and VPN secure connection related notifications.
  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN and go to Settings (the gear icon).
  2. Select from the following options:
    • Account: View your current subscription details. If you have an Avast SecureLine VPN (Multi-Device) subscription, you can tap Pair devices to activate Avast SecureLine VPN on other devices. For instructions, refer to the article: Pairing an Avast SecureLine VPN subscription.
    • Connection rules: Manage your Auto Connect settings, and enable Split Tunneling, Kill Switch, Wi-Fi Threat Shield, Local Network Bypass or change the VPN Protocol.
    • Troubleshooting: View frequently asked questions about the app or access the Avast Forum.
    • General: Rate the app, manage notifications and personal privacy settings, check the app version number, or view the End User License Agreement.
  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN and go to Settings (the gear icon).
  2. Select from the following options:
    • Account: View your current subscription details. If you have an Avast SecureLine VPN (Multi-Device) subscription, you can tap Pair new device to activate Avast SecureLine VPN on other devices. For instructions, refer to the article: Pairing an Avast SecureLine VPN subscription.
    • Connection rules: Manage your Auto Connect settings and change the VPN Protocol.
    • Troubleshooting: View frequently asked questions about the app, or contact Avast Support.
    • General: Rate the app, manage personal privacy settings, check the app version number or view the Privacy Policy, Avast Terms of Service, and Open-source libraries.

What is the difference between Smart VPN Mode and Manual VPN Mode?

Smart VPN Mode is only available in Avast SecureLine VPN on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Smart VPN Mode is only available in Avast SecureLine VPN on Apple macOS 10.15 or later.

Avast SecureLine VPN offers two VPN modes. To change your current VPN mode, go to ☰ Menu ▸ Settings ▸ VPN mode.

Avast SecureLine VPN offers two VPN modes. To change your current VPN mode, go to ☰ Menu ▸ Preferences ▸ VPN mode.

The following modes are available:

  • Manual VPN Mode allows you to connect and disconnect the VPN manually, and select your preferred server location via the main application screen. You can also configure the VPN to connect automatically whenever you are using an unsecured Wi-Fi network.
  • Smart VPN Mode automatically connects or disconnects the VPN based on your predefined settings. For example, you can ensure that the VPN turns on automatically whenever you visit a banking website. You can also specify websites that always trigger Smart VPN connection, and define which server location you automatically connect to each time you visit the website. If no server location is defined, Smart VPN uses the fastest available server location by default.

For more information about managing your Avast SecureLine VPN settings for Manual VPN Mode and Smart VPN Mode, refer to the following article:

Can I ensure Avast SecureLine VPN enables automatically when I connect to an unsecured Wi-Fi network?

Yes. For detailed instructions, refer to the following article:

What is a trusted network?

You can add private networks, such as your home or work Wi-Fi, to your trusted networks list. You can then choose to exclude these trusted networks from your VPN auto-connect settings. This means that Avast SecureLine VPN connects automatically every time you are connected to a Wi-Fi network, except when you are connected to your trusted networks.

To learn how to enable auto-connect and add trusted networks, refer to the following article:

What is Kill Switch?

When Kill Switch is enabled, your internet connection is automatically blocked if Avast SecureLine VPN unexpectedly disconnects. This ensures that your real location is not exposed.

You can activate Kill Switch via ☰ Menu ▸ Settings ▸ VPN mode. Ensure Manual VPN Mode is selected, and tick the box next to Activate Kill Switch.

You can activate Kill Switch by clicking on ☰ Menu ▸ Preferences. In the VPN screen, under Advanced Settings, move the slider to enable Kill Switch.

How do I check which version of Avast SecureLine VPN I have?

  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN and go to ☰ Menu ▸ About.
  2. The application version number is listed under Software version.
  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN and go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ About.
  2. The app version number is listed under Current version.

Connection

How does Smart VPN work?

Smart VPN is only available on devices running Windows 11 and Windows 10Apple macOS 10.15.x (Catalina) or later.

When enabled, Smart VPN automatically connects or disconnects your VPN according to your predefined settings. To manage when Smart VPN automatically connects, go to ☰ Menu ▸ Settings ▸ VPN mode. Click Smart VPN Mode to enable Smart VPN. Tick the following Smart rules to define when Smart VPN will connect automatically:

  • I connect to public networks
  • I use torrent apps and websites
  • I go on banking sites
  • I stream videos
  • Add sites: Allows you to choose specific websites that trigger Smart VPN connection. You can also define which VPN server location Smart VPN will connect to when you visit the site.

Additionally, in the Trusted sites section, click Add sites, then specify any websites that are always excluded from your Smart VPN connection settings.

When enabled, Smart VPN automatically connects or disconnects your VPN according to your predefined settings. To manage when Smart VPN automatically connects, go to ☰ Menu ▸ Preferences ▸ VPN mode. Click Smart VPN Mode to enable Smart VPN. Tick the following Smart rules to define when Smart VPN will connect automatically:

  • I connect to untrusted networks
  • I use torrent apps and websites
  • I go on banking sites
  • I stream videos
  • Add sites: Allows you to choose specific websites that trigger Smart VPN connection. You can also define which VPN server location Smart VPN will connect to when you visit the site.

Additionally, in the Trusted sites section, click Add sites, then specify any websites that are always excluded from your Smart VPN connection settings.

Can I use Avast SecureLine VPN with any type of internet connection?

Yes. Avast SecureLine VPN connects over any wired or wireless internet connection.

How do I connect to a different VPN server location?

  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN, then click Change on the main application screen.
  2. Select a location from the list.

Avast SecureLine VPN automatically connects to the new location you selected.

The option to change the VPN server location via the main application screen is not available when Smart VPN Mode is enabled. This is because Smart VPN always connects to the fastest server location available automatically, or to the server location that you specified in your Smart VPN settings.

For more information about managing your Smart VPN settings, refer to the following section in this article: How does Smart VPN work?
  1. Open Avast SecureLine VPN, then tap Server location at the bottom of the main app screen.
  2. Select a location from the list.

Avast SecureLine VPN automatically connects to the new location you selected.

Can I ensure Avast SecureLine VPN enables automatically when I connect to an unsecured Wi-Fi network?

Yes. For detailed instructions, refer to the following article:

What is a trusted network?

You can add private networks, such as your home or work Wi-Fi, to your list of trusted networks. Trusted networks are excluded from your VPN auto-connect settings. This means that you can configure Avast SecureLine VPN to turn on automatically whenever you are connected to a Wi-Fi network, unless it is one of your trusted networks.

To learn how to enable auto-connect and add trusted networks, refer to the following article:

What is Split Tunneling?

Split Tunneling ensures that certain apps never connect to the internet via Avast VPN servers, even when Avast SecureLine VPN is enabled. For example, you can specify that your email app is excluded from VPN connection, allowing you to send and receive emails from your real location, but still access online content without restrictions when you use your preferred web browser app.

For more information about Split Tunneling, refer to the following article:

What is Kill Switch?

When Kill Switch is enabled, your internet connection is automatically blocked if Avast SecureLine VPN unexpectedly disconnects. This ensures that your real location is not exposed.

The Kill Switch feature is only available on devices running Google Android 8.0 (Oreo, API 26) and later. Kill Switch is also not available on all device types (for example, this feature is not available on Huawei devices).

For more information about the Kill Switch, refer to the following article:

What is Wi-Fi Threat Shield?

When your VPN is off, Avast SecureLine VPN runs a quick scan to check if the Wi-Fi network you are connected to is safe. If a threat is detected and Wi-Fi Threat Shield is enabled, we automatically turn on your VPN to protect your privacy.

To learn how to enable Wi-Fi Threat Shield, refer to the following article:

What is Local Network Bypass?

Your real IP address is hidden while using the VPN and local devices (such as printers, Chromecast, etc) are unable to find you on your shared network. Enabling Local Network Bypass allows you to access these devices even while connected to the VPN.

To learn how to enable Local Network Bypass, refer to the following article:

What kind of encryption does Avast SecureLine VPN use?

Avast SecureLine VPN uses the AES 256 bit encryption key, which is bank grade encryption. It also uses Open SSL and certificate authentication.

What ports does Avast SecureLine VPN run on?

Avast SecureLine VPN for Windows starts primarily with port 553 UDP and then runs on one of the ports in the range of 50 to 32767 TCP.

Avast SecureLine VPN for Mac runs on ports 50, 500, 1701, and 4500.

Can I change the VPN protocol that Avast SecureLine VPN uses?

Advanced users can customize the VPN protocol settings via ☰ Menu ▸ Settings ▸ VPN Protocols. The following options are available:

Advanced users can customize the application VPN protocol settings via ☰ Menu ▸ Preferences ▸ VPN protocols. The following options are available:

Yes. You can change the VPN protocol settings via Settings (the gear icon) ▸ VPN Protocol. The following options are available:

  • Automatic (recommended): Where possible, Avast SecureLine VPN connects using the OpenVPN protocol. If connection via OpenVPN fails, the application automatically switches to the Mimic protocol.
  • WireGuard: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using WireGuard.
  • Mimic: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the Mimic protocol. This is useful in countries with restrictions on VPN use, where OpenVPN may be blocked.
  • OpenVPN: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the OpenVPN protocol.
  • Automatic (recommended): Where possible, Avast SecureLine VPN connects using the IPsec protocol. If connection via IPsec fails, the application automatically switches to the Mimic protocol.
  • Mimic: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the Mimic protocol. This is useful in countries with restrictions on VPN use, where IPsec may be blocked.
  • IPsec: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the IPsec protocol.
Some routers have the option to enable or disable IPsec, sometimes displayed as VPN passthrough. For Avast SecureLine VPN to work properly using the IPsec VPN protocol, IPsec or VPN passthrough must be enabled in your router settings.
  • Automatic (recommended): Where possible, Avast SecureLine VPN connects using the OpenVPN protocol. If connection via OpenVPN fails, the application automatically switches to the Mimic protocol.
  • WireGuard: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using WireGuard.
  • Mimic: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the Mimic protocol. This is useful in countries with restrictions on VPN use, where OpenVPN may be blocked.
  • OpenVPN: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the OpenVPN protocol.
  • Automatic (recommended): Where possible, Avast SecureLine VPN connects using the IPsec protocol. If connection via IPsec fails, the application automatically switches to the Mimic protocol.
  • IPsec: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the IPsec protocol.
  • Mimic: Avast SecureLine VPN always connects using the Mimic protocol. This is useful in countries with restrictions on VPN use, where IPsec may be blocked.

Troubleshooting

How can I uninstall Avast SecureLine VPN?

For detailed uninstallation instructions, refer to the following article:

Removing Avast SecureLine VPN from your device does not automatically cancel your subscription. For information about canceling an Avast subscription, refer to the following article: Canceling an Avast subscription - FAQs

What should I do if Avast SecureLine VPN is unable to establish a connection?

If Avast SecureLine VPN is unable to establish a connection, try the following troubleshooting steps:

  • Check that your internet connection works when Avast SecureLine VPN is disconnected. If your internet connection isn't working, check your network configuration.
  • Select a different Avast server location.
  • Disconnect other VPN services that may be running on your PC. If you are connected to another VPN, it is likely that Avast SecureLine VPN won't work properly.
  • Restart your PC and try connecting to Avast SecureLine VPN again.
  • Check the configuration of your firewall. Firewall configurations vary according to the vendor/manufacturer. Consult the related documentation for information about running a VPN.
  • Confirm that your subscription is active. Open Avast SecureLine VPN, and go to ☰ Menu ▸ My subscriptions. Ensure Active appears next to Avast SecureLine VPN.

If Avast SecureLine VPN is still unable to establish a connection, try to uninstall and reinstall the application. For detailed instructions, refer to the following articles:

  • Check that your internet connection works when Avast SecureLine VPN is disconnected. If your internet connection isn't working, check your network configuration.
  • Select a different Avast server location.
  • Disconnect other VPN services that may be running on your Mac. If you are connected to another VPN, it is likely that Avast SecureLine VPN won't work properly.
  • Restart your Mac and try connecting to Avast SecureLine VPN again.
  • Some routers have the option to enable or disable IPsec, sometimes displayed as VPN passthrough. For Avast SecureLine VPN to connect and function properly, ensure that IPsec or VPN passthrough is enabled.
  • Check the configuration of your firewall. Consult your firewall vendor to check that UDP port 500 and UDP port 4500 are open on your firewall.
  • Confirm that your subscription is active. Open Avast SecureLine VPN, and go to ☰ Menu ▸ Subscription. Ensure Your subscription is active appears at the top of the screen.

If Avast SecureLine VPN is still unable to establish a connection, try to uninstall and reinstall the application. For detailed instructions, refer to the following articles:

  • Check that your internet connection works when Avast SecureLine VPN is disconnected. If your internet connection isn't working, check your network configuration.
  • Select a different Avast server location.
  • Select a different VPN protocol.
  • Disconnect other VPN services that may be running on your Android device. If you are connected to another VPN, it is likely that Avast SecureLine VPN won't work properly.
  • Confirm that your subscription is active. Open Avast SecureLine VPN, go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Subscription. Ensure your subscription type and Activation code appear on the screen.
  • Try to uninstall and reinstall the app. For detailed instructions, refer to the following articles:

If Avast SecureLine VPN is still unable to establish a connection, the problem may be caused by the network policies of the Wi-Fi or cellular network you are connected to.

  • Check that your internet connection works when Avast SecureLine VPN is disconnected. If your internet connection isn't working, check your network configuration.
  • Select a different Avast server location.
  • Disconnect other VPN services that may be running on your iOS device. If you are connected to another VPN, it is likely that Avast SecureLine VPN won't work properly.
  • Confirm that your subscription is active. Open Avast SecureLine VPN, and go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Subscription. Ensure your subscription type and Activation code appear on the screen.
  • Try to uninstall and reinstall the app. For detailed instructions, refer to the following articles:

If Avast SecureLine VPN is still unable to establish a connection, the problem may be caused by the network policies of the Wi-Fi or cellular network you are connected to.

How do I contact Avast Support?

 

We offer many self-help articles on Avast Support pages. However, some issues may require deeper investigation by Avast Support.

 

If you experience issues with Avast SecureLine VPN, you can contact Avast Support. Our support agents will help you resolve your issues.

What if I have a different issue?

For information about other issues you may experience while using Avast SecureLine VPN, including common error messages, refer to the following article:

Other

When is the regularly scheduled maintenance?

Regular maintenance occurs every Saturday at 6PM EST (GMT/UTC -5), or 6PM EDT (GMT/UTC -4) during daylight saving time, and lasts for 1 hour. Your service is not typically affected by this maintenance.

Why is Avast SecureLine VPN a paid product when other VPN services are free?

To support the continued development of Avast SecureLine VPN and give you access to the best VPN technology, Avast SecureLine VPN is a paid product.

Many free VPN services sell your data to third parties, place ads and videos into your browser, and slow down your internet connection.

Avast SecureLine VPN never compromises user experience or privacy. We do not share or sell your data to third parties, nor do we monitor your internet activity. Avast SecureLine VPN does not interfere with your internet connection and does not contain third-party ads.

Does Avast SecureLine VPN log user information?

Avast SecureLine VPN stores connection logs, which include information such as the time you connect and disconnect, the duration of the connection, and bandwidth usage. This information is used for diagnostic purposes and to help prevent abuse of the VPN connection.

We do not log activity such as the websites you visit, what data is transferred, and which IP addresses are accessed. For more information, refer to the Avast Privacy Policy.

How can I provide feedback about the app?

If you want to provide feedback or show appreciation and support for Avast SecureLine VPN, you can:

  • Avast SecureLine VPN
  • Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS


Updated on: 10/10/2025

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