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Avast Secure Browser - FAQs

Refer to the relevant section(s) below:

General

What is Avast Secure Browser?

Avast Secure Browser is a web browser with built-in security tools and features, available in the Security & Privacy Center, that allows you to manage your online privacy, identity, and personal data to keep you safe online.

Avast Secure Browser is a web browser with built-in security tools and features, available in the security and privacy features settings, that allows you to manage your online privacy, identity, and personal data to keep you safe online.

Is Avast Secure Browser compatible with other browsers?

Yes. Avast Secure Browser is designed to function alongside your other browsers and allows you to import browsing history, bookmarks, saved passwords, cookies, and more from Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Opera, and Mozilla Firefox.

Yes. Avast Secure Browser is designed to function alongside your other browsers and allows you to import browsing history, bookmarks, saved passwords, cookies, and more from Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Opera, and Safari.

For detailed instructions to import bookmarks and data to Avast Secure Browser, refer to the following article:

Yes. Avast Secure Browser is designed to function alongside your other mobile browsers.

What's included in Avast Secure Browser PRO?

Avast Secure Browser PRO is the paid version of Avast Secure Browser. If you upgrade to the PRO version, it will replace the free version on your device.

Avast Secure Browser PRO includes all of the same features as Avast Secure Browser; plus, it automatically encrypts your internet connection via a fast, unlimited built-in VPN with over 30 locations and allows you to block all ads and trackers automatically.

Avast Secure Browser PRO includes all of the same features as Avast Secure Browser, plus the following features:

  • VPN locations: Allows you to choose from our full list of VPN locations. The free version of the app automatically connects to the fastest VPN location possible for your device.
  • Device-Wide VPN: All apps on your device can connect securely to the internet via Avast VPN servers. With the free version of the app, the VPN is only available when you are using Avast Secure Browser.

Download and Installation

What are the system requirements for Avast Secure Browser?

Apple macOS 10.15.x (Catalina) is last supported on Avast Secure Browser version 116.
  • Windows 11 except Mixed Reality and IoT Edition or Windows 10 except Mobile and IoT Edition (32 or 64-bit)
  • Windows compatible PC with Intel Pentium 4 / AMD Athlon 64 processor or above (must support SSE3 instructions); ARM-based devices are not supported
  • Internet connection to download the browser and receive updates
  • Optimal standard screen resolution no less than 1024 x 768 pixels is recommended
  • Apple macOS 14.x (Sonoma), Apple macOS 13.x (Ventura), Apple macOS 12.x (Monterey), Apple macOS 11.x (Big Sur)
  • Intel-based Mac with 64-bit processor or Apple silicon chip (M1)
  • Internet connection to download the browser and receive updates
  • Optimal standard screen resolution no less than 1024 x 768 pixels is recommended
  • Google Android 9.0 (Pie, API 28) or later
  • Internet connection to download the app and receive updates
  • Apple iOS 15 or later
  • Internet connection to download the app and receive updates

How do I install Avast Secure Browser?

For detailed installation instructions, refer to the following article:

Which permissions does Avast Secure Browser need?

The following permissions are necessary for Avast Secure Browser to run properly on your Android device:

Mandatory permissions

  • Full network access: Ensures Avast Secure Browser's VPN can fetch, retrieve, and connect to either Wi-Fi or mobile network connection.
  • View network connections: Ensures Avast Secure Browser can detect when your device is offline and adapt the network connection.

We recommend granting the following additional permissions to take advantage of all features in Avast Secure Browser:

Optional permissions

  • Storage: Allows you to save, open, and manage downloaded files outside of Media Vault, and allows you to share saved files via Avast Secure Browser.
  • Photos/Media/Files: Allows Avast Secure Browser to encrypt your data and access your file storage to save your downloaded files.
  • Camera: Allows Avast Secure Browser to read camera input when a QR or barcode is scanned.

We recommend granting the following permissions to take advantage of all features in Avast Secure Browser:

Optional permissions

  • VPN: Permission to create VPN profiles the first time you activate the VPN.
  • Camera: Allows Avast Secure Browser to read camera input when a QR or barcode is scanned.

PRO Subscription and Activation

Do I need to provide my payment details to start the PRO free trial?

Yes. To start your 30-day free trial of Avast Secure Browser PRO, you need to add your payment details and email address.

If you do not want to continue using the paid features, you need to cancel the trial subscription before it ends. If you do not cancel the trial subscription, you are charged for the next subscription period on the last day of your free trial.

How do I upgrade to Avast Secure Browser PRO?

To purchase Avast Secure Browser PRO, tap Upgrade now in the top-left corner of the main Avast Secure Browser screen, then follow the on-screen instructions. After the payment is processed, your subscription activates automatically on the device used for purchase.

To purchase Avast Secure Browser PRO, tap See upgrade options in the top-left corner of the main Avast Secure Browser screen, then follow the on-screen instructions. After the payment is processed, your subscription activates automatically on the device used for purchase.

Alternatively, if you already have a PRO subscription, refer to the following article:

How do I activate my PRO subscription?

For detailed activation instructions, refer to the following article:

Where can I manage my PRO subscription?

To manage your PRO subscription:

  1. Sign in to your Avast Account.
  2. Click Manage subscriptions on the My subscriptions tile.
  3. Under Avast Secure Browser PRO, click Manage subscription to view subscription details.
If you cancel your subscription, you will no longer have access to PRO features once your subscription period ends. However, you can still use the free version of Secure Browser. For detailed instructions on canceling a subscription, refer to the article: Canceling an Avast subscription - FAQs.

Can I use VPN on my mobile with a Secure Browser PRO subscription?

Yes. Your PRO subscription is valid on up to 5 devices across Windows, Android, and iOS.

Do I have Avast Antivirus Premium or Avast SecureLine VPN if I have Secure Browser PRO?

No. Each of these products - Avast Antivirus, Avast SecureLine VPN, and Avast Secure Browser PRO - requires a separate subscription.

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

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

  • 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.
  • 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.

Features

What is Avast Sync?

Avast Sync allows you to share your bookmarks and browser history across devices and platforms using end-to-end encryption, which encrypts your data locally on the device and remotely in the Avast data center. Encryption works by changing your data to random characters, ensuring that nobody (including Avast) can read your data except you. You can only read encrypted data if you have access to the specified encryption key via your sync settings.

For detailed instructions on how to sync Avast Secure Browser across your devices, refer to the following article:

What is the Security & Privacy Center?

The Security & Privacy Center is a console of tools and features that allow you to manage your online activity. Most features are enabled by default to offer our highest level of security and privacy. You can personalize Secure Browser by manually turning certain features on or off by clicking the slider on a tile so it changes from blue (ON) to gray (OFF).

To open the Security & Privacy Center, click the blue Security & Privacy Center icon in the top-right corner of the Avast Secure Browser screen.

The following options are available:

  • Security Check: Allows you to see the number of malicious downloads, phishing attempts, and malicious sites blocked since you started using Avast Secure Browser. Click Review to check if there are any security issues that require your attention.
  • Avast Antivirus: Protects you in real-time against viruses, malware, and other threats. Click Download on the Avast Antivirus tile to install it. Alternatively, if Avast Antivirus is installed, click Open. For more information about Antivirus, refer to the relevant article: Avast Premium Security and Avast Antivirus for Windows - FAQs or Avast One - FAQs.
  • Avast Antivirus: Protects you in real-time against viruses, malware, and other threats. Click Download on the Avast Antivirus tile to install it. Alternatively, if Avast Antivirus is installed, click Open to open Avast Antivirus. For more information, refer to the relevant article: Avast Premium Security and Avast Security for Mac - FAQs or Avast One - FAQs.
  • Bank Mode: Provides a virtual desktop that acts as a safe and clean PC within your real PC. For more information, refer to the Bank Mode section.
  • Secure Browser VPN (PRO): Encrypts your online activity, loads web pages faster, and gives you access to over 30 locations worldwide. For detailed information, refer to the Secure Browser VPN section.
  • Privacy Guard (enabled by default): Prevents ads from loading on the web pages you visit and trackers from downloading tracking scripts onto your device, which improves the privacy and safety of your online activity. For detailed information, refer to the Privacy Guard section.
  • Web Shield (enabled by default): Blocks malicious websites and phishing attempts while you browse the web. It also prevents downloading potentially malicious content that could infect your PC.
  • Private Mode: Prevents your browsing history from being stored and deletes any tracking cookies or web caches you acquire during your Private Mode browsing session. To open a web page in Private Mode, click Launch Window on the Private Mode tile.
  • Password Managers (enabled by default): Allows you to select a password manager to use in Avast Secure Browser. A password manager securely stores your passwords in one location, while you only have to remember one master password. Click the Password Managers tile, then use the drop-down menu to select which password manager you want to use.
  • Extension Guard (enabled by default): Prevents untrusted extensions (also known as add-ons and plug-ins) from being installed in your web browser.
  • Privacy Cleaner: Clears your browsing history and other data stored in your browsers, such as cached images and cookies. For more information, refer to the Privacy Cleaner section.
  • Hack Check: Checks if your email address has been involved in a data breach. For more information, refer to the Hack Check section.

What is Screen Sharing Mode?

Screen Sharing Mode provides privacy and security when you share your browser screen with anyone by hiding your personal browser data, such as your bookmarks, search history or suggestions, and extensions. To enable Screen Sharing Mode, click the ⋮ Menu (three dots) in the top-right corner of Avast Secure Browser and select Enable Screen Sharing Mode.

When Screen Sharing Mode is active, there is the blue Screen Sharing status next to the ⋮ Menu (three dots) in the top-right corner of Avast Secure Browser.

To turn off Screen Sharing Mode, click the ⋮ Menu (three dots) in the top-right corner of Avast Secure Browser and click Disable Screen Sharing Mode.

What is Bank Mode?

The Bank Mode feature is only available when Avast Antivirus is installed and running on your PC. For detailed installation instructions for Avast Antivirus, refer to the article: Installing Avast Free Antivirus.

Bank Mode provides a virtual desktop that acts as a safe and clean PC within your real PC. This protects against a potentially hijacked host or network and prevents keyloggers and network-based eavesdropping from capturing any of your data. We recommend using Bank Mode whenever you want to access a banking website.

To access Bank Mode, open the Security & Privacy Center and click Open on the Bank Mode tile, or click ⋮ Menu (three dots) in the top-right corner of Avast Secure Browser, and select New Bank Mode Window.

To learn more about using Bank Mode, refer to the following article:

What is Privacy Cleaner?

Privacy Cleaner clears your browsing history and other data stored in your browsers, such as cached images and cookies. This protects your privacy and clears disk space on your PC.

Privacy Cleaner clears your browsing history and other data stored in your browsers, such as cached images and cookies. This protects your privacy and clears disk space on your Mac.

To clear your browsing history:

  1. Open the Security & Privacy Center.
  2. On the Privacy Cleaner tile, click Launch Cleaner.
  3. Select the tab for Basic or Advanced.
  4. Optionally, select a Time range from the drop-down menu.
  5. Tick the box next to browsing data items to clear.
  6. Click Clear data.
This action cannot be undone once you select it.

What is Hack Check?

Hack Check is a feature within Avast Secure Browser that allows you to check if your email address has been involved in a data breach. This service uses Pwned Passwords technology in combination with Avast's internal database of stolen email addresses to check for possible leaks.

To ensure none of your login details have been compromised:

  1. Open the Security & Privacy Center.
  2. On the Hack Check tile, click Open.
  3. Type your email address into the text box, then click Check.

What is HTTPS Encryption?

HTTPS (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure) is a more secure version of the standard HTTP connection that adds encryption that prevents others from eavesdropping and helps ensure that you are connected to the intended server. HTTPS Encryption in Avast Secure Browser ensures that each website you visit uses an HTTPS connection where supported.

What is Video Downloader?

Video Downloader may not be compatible with all websites.

Video Downloader is an extension for Avast Secure Browser that allows you to download video and audio content from your favorite sites easily. To install this feature, open the following link in your Avast Secure Browser and click Add Extension:

Once you install the extension, open the video you want to download, hover your cursor over it, and select Download.

How do I check if a website's connection is secure?

When visiting different websites with Avast Secure Browser, you can check the security of a website's connection:

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser and navigate to a website.
  2. Locate the icon that appears to the left of the web address:
    • Lock icon: Indicates that the site's connection is secure.
    • Information icon: Indicates that the site is not secure or more information is available.
    • Warning icon: Indicates that the site is not secure or dangerous.
  3. Click the icon you see to view a summary of the website's connection.
  1. Tap the Avast Secure Browser icon on the Home screen of your device and navigate to a website.
  2. The Lock icon that appears to the left of the web address indicates that the website's connection is secure.

What is Coupons?

Coupons is only available in the United States.

Coupons is a free extension to your browser that finds you better deals when you shop online. It does the hard work for you, scanning store homepages, newsletters, and the web daily to find relevant and up-to-date coupon codes. In one click, Coupons can find, test, and apply the best codes without you having to leave the checkout page.

Coupons appears automatically at checkout at thousands of the most popular e-commerce stores. Click Apply all codes to get started. You can run the automatic application of coupons again at any time by clicking the Coupons icon in your browser toolbar and selecting Apply all codes again.

How can I use separate user profiles?

Avast Secure Browser allows you to create user profiles for friends, family, work, or personal use with separate bookmarks, extensions, browsing histories, and more.

To set up profiles:

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser and click the Account icon in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Click Add New profile, then select your preferred option:
    • Sign in: Enter your Avast Account credentials and click Continue, then click Profile name and picture to edit your existing profile's name, theme, or avatar.
    • Continue without an account: Select this option to create a profile without connecting an Avast Account.
  3. Enter a name or label and optionally select a theme.
  4. Click Done.

The next time you open Secure Browser, on the Who's using Avast Secure Browser screen, select which profile you want to use.

To manage your profiles, open Secure Browser and click the Account icon in the top-right corner of the browser, then click Manage profiles (the gear icon). For the relevant profile, click ⋮ More actions (three dots), then select Edit or Delete.

What is Browser VPN?

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) functions as a private tunnel through the internet, which encrypts your data and secures your connection. Avast Secure Browser automatically connects to the fastest location server. To access all VPN locations and enable Device-Wide VPN to disguise your location for all of your apps, upgrade to Avast Secure Browser PRO.

To enable the VPN in Avast Secure Browser, go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser VPN is off, then tap the gray (OFF) slider on the Browser VPN screen so that it changes to green (ON).

To change your VPN location in Avast Secure Browser PRO, go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser VPN is on, then tap the location name and select your preferred location.

To enable the VPN in Avast Secure Browser, go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser VPN disabled, then tap the gray (OFF) slider on the Browser VPN screen so that it changes to green (ON).

To change your VPN location in Avast Secure Browser PRO, go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser VPN enabled, then tap the location name and select your preferred location.

What is AdBlock?

AdBlock prevents advertisements from loading on the web pages you visit, which improves the speed and safety of your browsing sessions. Every time you visit a website, Avast AdBlock technology compares the script that the website runs against filter lists to determine what content the website can load.

For detailed instructions on using AdBlock modes, refer to the article: Avast Secure Browser - Getting Started ▸ Adjust AdBlock.

To disable this feature, go to Settings (the gear icon) and tap AdBlock is on, then tap the green (ON) slider so that it changes to gray (OFF).
To disable this feature, go to Settings (the gear icon) and tap AdBlock enabled, then tap the green (ON) slider so that it changes to gray (OFF).

What is Security Scanner?

Security Scanner is a feature that scans your browser settings for vulnerabilities caused by disabled protection settings. To access Security Scanner:

  1. Go to Settings (the gear icon).
  2. Tap Security Scanner to view the scan results.
  3. Detected issues are listed under Needs attention. To resolve all issues, you may need to upgrade to Avast Secure Browser PRO.
  4. Detected issues are listed under Unresolved issues. To resolve all issues, you may need to upgrade to Avast Secure Browser PRO.

What is Web Shield?

Web Shield is a feature that automatically blocks access to malware and phishing sites to protect your personal data from theft. To enable Web Shield:

  1. Tap Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Web Shield.
  2. Tap the gray (OFF) slider so that it changes to green (ON).

What is Device-Wide VPN?

Device-Wide VPN is a feature, available in Avast Secure Browser PRO, that disguises your location for all of your apps. To enable:

  1. Go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Device-Wide VPN is off.
  2. Go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Device-Wide VPN disabled.
  3. Tap the gray (OFF) slider so that it changes to green (ON).
  4. Tap Allow permission ▸ OK to allow Avast to protect your identity and set up a VPN connection.
  5. Optionally, next to Device-Wide VPN auto-connect, tap the gray (OFF) slider so that it changes to green (ON) to automatically connect on device startup.
  6. Optionally, next to Auto-connect Device-Wide VPN, tap the gray (OFF) slider so that it changes to green (ON) to automatically connect on device startup.

What is Browser lock?

Browser lock allows you to keep your browsing history and data safely locked within Avast Secure Browser. After you enable Browser lock and set your PIN, you cannot open Avast Secure Browser without it. If you lose or forget your PIN, Avast Secure Browser cannot recover your PIN for you.

To enable Browser lock:

  1. Tap Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser lock.
  2. Next to Passcode tap the gray (OFF) slider to set your PIN.
  3. Next to Use passcode tap the gray (OFF) slider to set your PIN.
  4. Tap the confirm icon to set your passcode.

After activation, go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser lock to enable Fingerprint or face unlock, manage Lock options, or Change passcode.

After activation, go to Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser lock to enable Use Face ID, manage Lock options, or Change passcode.

What is Fingerprint or face unlock?

This feature will only work if the fingerprint or face sensor on your device is already enabled and set.

If your device has a fingerprint sensor enabled, you can also use your fingerprint to unlock Avast Secure Browser. You can enable this feature when you set your PIN or via Settings. To enable via Settings:

  1. Tap Settings (the gear icon) ▸ Browser lock.
  2. Tap the gray (OFF) slider next to Fingerprint or face unlock so that it changes to green (ON).
  3. Tap the gray (OFF) slider next to Use Face ID so that it changes to green (ON).

What is Media Vault?

When you download media files, Avast Secure Browser encrypts them and stores them in your Media Vault. You can only decrypt and access downloaded media using our built-in media player.

To access Media Vault, tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen, then tap Media Vault. Your encrypted files are organized by type. Tap a file type to access the contained media files, then open your chosen file using Avast Secure Browser's built-in media player.

What is Downloads?

When you download media files, Avast Secure Browser encrypts them and stores them in your Downloads.

To access Downloads, tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen, then tap Downloads. Your encrypted files are organized by type. Tap a file type to access the contained media files, then tap your chosen file again to open it.

What is Video Downloader?

Video Downloader may not be compatible with all websites.

Video Downloader allows you to easily download video and audio content from your favorite sites. All the videos you download are encrypted and stored in the Media Vault.

To use this feature, tap the Download icon that appears in the search bar when a video is detected. You can then rename the video file, define a folder location where you want to download the video, and tap Save.

Privacy Guard

What is Privacy Guard?

In Avast Secure Browser version 100 or earlier, Privacy Guard was called AdBlock.

Privacy Guard prevents ads from loading on the web pages you visit and trackers from downloading tracking scripts onto your device, which improves the privacy and safety of your online activity. Every time you visit a website, Privacy Guard compares the script that the website runs against filter lists to determine what content the website can load or download.

To determine the strength of Privacy Guard, click the Privacy Guard icon to the right of the address bar and click Change settings, then select your preferred blocking option:

  • Basic Blocking: Blocks all ads that violate the industry standards for user-friendly ads, such as pop-ups and auto-playing videos. As well as all known trackers that follow you around while you surf the web.
  • Balanced Blocking (recommended): Blocks all Basic Blocking ads and trackers in addition to social media ads, improving the speed of your browser and keeping your online identity safe while you surf the web.
  • Strict Blocking: Blocks all known ads, push notifications, all known and unknown trackers, and prevents browser fingerprinting. We do not recommend this level of blocking, as it may cause websites not to load properly or even make certain websites completely inaccessible.
  • Strict Blocking PRO: Available in Avast Secure Browser PRO, blocks all search engine advertising. Additionally, your search history and search results will no longer be personalized, it will be as though you are searching for the first time.

To disable this feature, open the Security & Privacy Center and click the blue (ON) slider on the Privacy Guard tile so that it changes to gray (OFF).

What are Privacy Guard filter lists?

The filter lists that Privacy Guard uses differ according to your chosen blocking option. The table below shows which filter lists are used by each available option:

FILTER LISTDESCRIPTIONPRIVACY GUARD OFFBASICBALANCEDSTRICT
EasyList
  • A block list that contains URLs of all known ads for English websites.
  • Goal: To automatically remove unwanted content, including unformatted images, ads, banners, and tracking.
NOYESYESYES
Regional Easy List
  • A block list that contains URLs of all known ads on region-specific websites globally.
NOYESYESYES
Acceptable Ads (ACC) filter list
  • Approved content and ad formats.
  • Goal: Supports websites by allowing some non-intrusive ads to appear on the website.
    Acceptable ads allowlist is usually enabled by default when you install an ad blocker.
NOYESNONO
Local lists
  • Your personal list of websites that can always show ads.
  • Goal: Allows you to customize Privacy Guard behavior according to your exact requirements.
NOYESYESYES
Custom lists
  • Avast Search Partner allowlist.
  • Goal: Allows trusted and non-intrusive search-related content to appear while you browse the web so that you can have a more personalized experience.
NOYESYESNO

Can I disable Privacy Guard on certain websites?

Yes. Privacy Guard allows you to set your own level of privacy according to your preferences while you surf the web.

To always allow ads on a particular website:

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser and navigate to the website you want Privacy Guard to ignore.
  2. Click the blue Privacy Guard icon to the right of the address bar.
  3. Next to Ads & trackers blocked, click the blue (ON) slider so that it changes to gray (OFF).

Privacy Guard no longer blocks any ads or trackers when you visit this site.


Alternatively, you can completely turn off Privacy Guard by following the steps below:

  1. Click the blue Privacy Guard icon to the right of the address bar.
  2. Select Change settings. Privacy Guard settings will open.
  3. Click the blue (ON) slider so that it changes to gray (OFF). When disabled, the Privacy Guard icon to the right of the address bar is red.

What is Browser fingerprinting?

Browser fingerprinting is only available if Privacy Guard is set to Strict Blocking. To enable, click the Privacy Guard icon to the right of the address bar, then click Settings (the gear icon) and select Strict Blocking.

The browser fingerprint method (also known as device identification) collects specific data about your entire online activity, your browser type/version, operating system, add-ons, screen resolution, and various other active settings on your device. Browser fingerprint can be active even if cookies are off or tracking protection is enabled.

Additionally, browser fingerprinting can be used to fully or partially identify individual users for security reasons, such as accessing your online bank account. Most banks use browser fingerprinting to protect you from fraud or identity theft, therefore the remember my device option will not work if Privacy Guard is set to Strict Blocking.

To disable Browser fingerprinting, click the Privacy Guard icon to the right of the address bar, then click the blue (ON) slider next to Browser fingerprinting blocked so that it changes to gray (OFF).

Secure Browser VPN

What is Secure Browser VPN?

Secure Browser VPN, available in Secure Browser PRO, is an advanced security feature that fully encrypts your online activity, loads web pages faster, and gives you access to over 30 locations worldwide. Avast Secure Browser automatically connects to the optimal location to disguise your location. Typically, the optimal location is the VPN location for your device that provides the fastest browsing experience (not necessarily the closest location), but it may depend on your internet provider.

To enable, click the VPN icon in the top-left of your browser, then click the OFF slider so that it changes to ON.

For more information on using Secure Browser VPN, refer to the following article:

How can I change Secure Browser VPN settings?

To modify your Secure Browser VPN settings, go to ⋮ Menu ▸ Settings ▸ Privacy and security and click VPN Settings. The following options are available:

  • Show Secure Browser VPN in toolbar (default): Disable to hide the VPN icon from the address bar.
  • Activate Kill Switch: Enable to prevent privacy leaks by blocking all internet access if Secure Browser VPN suddenly disconnects.
  • On untrusted networks: Select an action for when connected to untrusted networks such as public Wi-Fi.
  • Auto-connect VPN on browser launch: Automatically enable Secure Browser VPN when you open your browser.
  • Auto-connect VPN in Private Mode: Automatically enable Secure Browser VPN when you open a Private Mode Window.

What is Avast's log policy?

Our strict no-log policy means your data is 100% encrypted from third-party snoopers, trackers, government, internet providers, and companies.

Settings

How do I make Avast Secure Browser my default browser?

For detailed instructions, refer to the following article:

    These steps can differ slightly depending on your device model, operating system version, and its vendor customizations.
  1. Open your device Settings and go to Apps.
  2. Tap Avast Secure Browser.
  3. Select Browser app.
  4. Ensure Avast Secure Browser is selected.
  1. Open your device Settings, then scroll to and tap Avast Secure Browser.
  2. Tap Default Browser App.
  3. Ensure Avast Secure Browser is selected.

How do I change the default search provider?

For detailed instructions, refer to the following article:

  1. Tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen.
  2. Tap Search engine and select your preferred search engine.

How do I change the browser's language?

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser and go to ⋮ Menu (three dots) ▸ Settings.
  2. In the left panel, click Languages.
  3. Click Add languages.
  4. Tick the box next to your preferred language and select Add.
  5. From the Advanced Settings screen, click ⋮ More actions (three dots) next to the added language, and tick the box next to Display Avast Secure Browser in this language.
  6. Click Relaunch to start an Avast Secure Browser session in your preferred language.

How do I clear my browsing history, cookies, and cache?

This action cannot be undone once you select it.

To clear your browsing history:

  1. Tap the Avast Secure Browser icon on the Home screen of your device to open the app.
  2. Tap Settings (the gear icon), then tap History.
  3. Tap ... Menu (three dots) at the bottom of the screen, then tap History.
  4. Choose either History - Default Mode or History - Private Mode.
  5. In the top-right corner, tap ⋮ More options (three dots) ▸ Delete all.
  6. Tap ⋮ More options (three dots), then tap the Trash icon.

To clear your cache and cookies:

  1. Tap the Avast Secure Browser icon on the Home screen of your device to open the app.
  2. In the top-right corner of the screen, tap Settings (the gear icon).
  3. Tap Advanced settings.
  4. Tap Clear cookies & data.
  5. Tap Clear cookies and data.

How do I reset Avast Secure Browser settings to default?

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser, then go to ⋮ Menu (three dots) ▸ Settings.
  2. In the left panel, click Reset settings.
  3. Click Restore settings to their original defaults, then select Reset settings to confirm.
    This action cannot be undone once you select it.
  1. Tap the Avast Secure Browser icon on the Home screen of your device to open the app.
  2. In the top-right corner of the screen, tap Settings (the gear icon).
  3. Tap Restore default browser settings.
  4. Tap Restore default settings.

How can I enable cookies for a particular website?

Some websites cannot function or load correctly unless cookies are enabled. You can add individual websites to your list of websites that are always allowed to use cookies:

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser and go to ⋮ Menu (three dots) ▸ Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy and security ▸ Site settings.
  3. Under Content, click Third-party cookies.
  4. Next to Sites allowed to use third-party cookies, click Add.
  5. Type the web address for the website that you want to allow (for example, www.example.com). If you type [*.] before the domain name, you add all web pages included in that domain. For example, when you type [*.]avast.com, you add all web pages that are part of the Avast domain (such as www.avast.com/store and www.avast.com/free-antivirus-download).
  6. Click Add.

The website now appears on your list of Sites that can always use cookies.

How can I enable JavaScript for a particular website?

Some websites and media cannot run unless JavaScript is enabled. You can add individual websites to your list of websites that are always allowed to use JavaScript:

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser and go to ⋮ Menu (three dots) ▸ Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy and security ▸ Site settings.
  3. Under Content, click JavaScript.
  4. Next to Allowed to use JavaScript, click Add.
  5. Type the web address for the website that you want to allow (for example, www.example.com). If you type [*.] before the domain name, you add all web pages included in that domain. For example, when you type [*.]avast.com, you add all web pages that are part of the Avast domain (such as www.avast.com/store and www.avast.com/free-antivirus-download).
  6. Click Add.

The website now appears on your Allow list.

How can I manage performance settings in Avast Secure Browser?

The Performance features in Avast Secure Browser help active tabs run smoothly and extend your computer's battery life. To manage your performance settings:

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser and go to ⋮ Menu (three dots) ▸ Settings.
  2. In the left panel, click Performance.
  3. Scroll to the relevant option:
    • Memory Saver: Saves your computer's memory and boosts its performance by suspending inactive tabs. To enable, click the gray (OFF) slider so that it changes to blue (ON). Optionally, create an exception for specific sites by clicking Add next to Always keep these sites active, then enter the web address (for example, google.com) and click Add.
      A suspended tab is not permanently removed unless you manually close it. Click a suspended tab and click the refresh icon to reload the content.
    • Energy Saver: Automatically reduces Secure Browser's image capture rate and other background tasks when your device is unplugged or your battery is low. To enable, click the gray (OFF) slider so that it changes to blue (ON), then select your preferred option for when Energy Saver should automatically turn on.

How can I adjust the security and privacy features settings?

Avast Secure Browser includes tools and features that allow you to manage your online activity. Using the app Settings, you can manually enable or disable certain features, access tools such as Browser VPN and AdBlock, and modify general or advanced settings.

To open Settings, tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the main browser screen.

For detailed information about adjusting features and advanced settings, refer to the following article:

What are the Browser Modes?

Avast Secure Browser groups your tabs and browsing activity into one of two different modes. This allows you to quickly organize your browsing activity according to the mode best suited for the sites you visit.

Modes included in Avast Secure Browser:

  • Default Mode: Your default Mode in Avast Secure Browser, which enables AdBlock, DNS over TLS, and includes the option to enable VPN and Web Shield.
  • Private Mode: Enables the same security options as Default Mode, but also disables screenshots and automatically deletes all browsing data and history when you close the browser.

For detailed instructions about using Browser Modes, refer to the following article:

What are AdBlock filter lists?

The filter lists that AdBlock uses differ according to your chosen AdBlock mode. The table below shows which filter lists are used by each available mode:

FILTER LISTDESCRIPTIONADBLOCK OFFBASICBALANCEDSTRICT
EasyList
  • A block list that contains URLs for English websites.
  • Goal: Removes unwanted content, including unformatted images, ads, banners, and tracking.
NOYESYESYES
Coalition for Better Ads(CBA) filter list
  • Approved content and ad formats.
  • Goal: Supports websites by allowing non-intrusive and user-friendly ads to appear on the website.
  • CBA-approved ads are always enabled in chromium browsers.
NOYESNONO
Acceptable Ads (ACC) filter list
  • Approved content and ad formats.
  • Goal: Supports websites by allowing some non-intrusive ads to appear on the website.
NOYESNONO
Local lists
  • Your personal list of websites that can always show ads.
  • Goal: Allows you to customize AdBlock behavior according to your exact requirements.
NOYESYESYES
Custom lists
  • Avast Search Partner allow list.
  • Goal: Allows trusted and non-intrusive search-related content to appear while you browse the web.
NOYESYESNO

How can I change my DNS?

Avast Secure Browser comes with built-in DNS options. To change the DNS:

  1. Tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen.
  2. Tap Advanced settings ▸ Secure DNS over TLS.
  3. Select a DNS from the list, or tap Add Custom DNS... at the bottom.
  4. Select a DNS from the list.

How can I switch a website from mobile to desktop view?

To view a website in desktop view:

  1. Open the website you want to see in desktop view.
  2. Tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen.
  3. Tap … Menu (three dots) at the bottom of the screen.
  4. Select Desktop version.

The website is now in desktop view. To revert back to mobile view, follow steps 1-2 above, then tap Mobile version.

How can I remove website data?

If you visit a website you don't want to save data for, even if this data is encrypted, you can remove all the saved data associated with that domain.

To remove the data associated with a website, go to the website, tap … Menu (three dots) at the bottom of the screen, then tap Remove site data.

Can I encrypt or decrypt files that are already stored on my device?

Yes. Avast Secure Browser automatically encrypts all the files you download, but you can also encrypt files from local storage by moving them to your Media Vault. You can also decrypt any files in your Media Vault that you want to share.

Encrypt and save files to the Media Vault

  1. Tap the Avast Secure Browser icon on the Home screen of your device and tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen.
  2. Tap Media Vault.
  3. Select the Local storage tab. If prompted, tap Allow to grant the access permission.
  4. Touch and hold the files you want to encrypt, then tap Encrypt (the shield icon).

The encrypted files are now available in your Media Vault via the Avast vault tab.


Decrypt and share files from the Media Vault

  1. Tap the Avast Secure Browser icon on the Home screen of your device and tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen.
  2. Tap Media Vault.
  3. Ensure the Avast Vault tab is selected, then tap the file type you want to decrypt.
  4. Touch and hold the files you want to decrypt, tap ⋮ More options, and decrypt using one of the following options:
    • Decrypt and share: Select an app to share the file with.
    • Decrypt to: Select a folder on your device where the decrypted file will be stored.

Does Avast Secure Browser protect me against DNS leaks?

Yes. Avast Secure Browser ensures that all traffic is sent through your VPN, which secures both your location and data. Additionally, you can verify that traffic is not leaking from your private network by running our advanced IP/DNS test:

  1. Tap the Avast Secure Browser icon on the Home screen of your device and tap Settings (the gear icon) in the top-right corner of the screen.
  2. Tap Security Scanner.
  3. Scroll to the bottom and tap Launch advanced IP/DNS test.
  4. Scroll to the bottom and tap Start an advanced online activity and location exposure test.

Troubleshooting

What can I do if I encounter an issue with Avast Secure Browser?

For detailed information about issues you may experience while using Avast Secure Browser, including common error messages, refer to the following article:

How do I uninstall Avast Secure Browser?

For detailed uninstallation instructions, refer to the following article:

How can I report an issue with Avast Secure Browser?

You can report an issue with Avast Secure Browser using the relevant method below:

  • If you have a paid Avast subscription, you can report any issues with Avast Secure Browser directly to Avast Support.
  • If you do not have a paid Avast subscription, you can report any issues with Avast Secure Browser in the Avast Forum.

We recommend including the following information in your report:

  • Diagnostic Information: Open Avast Secure Browser and enter secure://settings/diagnosticInfo in the address bar. Click Copy to clipboard. You can then paste the Diagnostic Information into your report.
  • Log file: We recommend attaching the szb.log file to your report. First, it is essential to reproduce the steps that triggered your issue. After reproducing the issue, you can find the szb.log file in the following location:
    • C:\ProgramData\AVAST Software\Avast\log

We recommend including Diagnostic Information in your report. Follow the steps below:

  1. Open Avast Secure Browser, enter secure://settings/diagnosticInfo in the address bar, then press the Enter key on your keyboard.
  2. Click Copy to clipboard. You can then paste the Diagnostic Information into your report.

Why is Windows 7 and 8/8.1 no longer supported?

With Avast Secure Browser version 109 and later, we no longer offer support for devices running Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1 due to Microsoft's end of support for these operating systems.

Previous versions of Avast Secure Browser will continue to work, but there will be no further browser updates. We recommend using Windows 10 or later with the latest version of Avast Secure Browser to receive important security updates and features that keep you safe while browsing online.

  • Avast Secure Browser PRO
  • Avast Secure Browser
  • Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS


Updated on: 21/12/2024

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