What is a VPN? Simple explanation

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a server, hiding your online activity. Your IP is replaced, giving you privacy, security on public Wi-Fi, and access to geo-blocked content.

Updated 2026 30 March 2026 3 min read

Is Avast VPN Good?

🔍 Quick answer:

Avast VPN (SecureLine) is an okay VPN for beginners, but not recommended for privacy-conscious users. Pros: easy to use, works with Netflix and BBC iPlayer, integrates with Avast antivirus. Cons: significant privacy concerns — Avast was caught selling user data through its Jumpshot subsidiary in 2020 (later shut down), and it's based in the Czech Republic (not ideal for privacy). Better alternatives exist: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, or Mullvad offer stronger privacy protections and verified no-logs policies. If you already have Avast antivirus, the VPN is convenient — but for privacy, look elsewhere.

Avast VPN pros and cons

Pros

Easy to use: Simple interface, one-click connect
Streaming support: Works with Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and other streaming services
Good speeds: Decent performance on nearby servers
Integration: Works well with Avast antivirus products
Kill switch: Available on desktop apps
7-day free trial: On mobile devices

Cons

Privacy concerns: Avast was caught selling user data through Jumpshot (2020)
No independent audit: No third-party audit of their no-logs policy
Czech jurisdiction: Based in Czech Republic (not ideal for privacy)
Limited server network: Only 700+ servers in 34 countries
No WireGuard: Only supports OpenVPN and IPSec/IKEv2
Expensive: $79.99/year for the VPN alone
No free tier: Only 7-day trial

Avast's privacy history — what you need to know

⚠️ The Jumpshot scandal (2020)

Avast was caught collecting user browsing data through its free antivirus software and selling it to advertisers via a subsidiary called Jumpshot. The data was de-anonymized and could be traced back to individuals. Avast shut down Jumpshot after the scandal, but the incident damaged trust in the company. While Avast SecureLine VPN was not directly involved, the parent company's privacy track record is concerning.

Avast VPN vs top alternatives

Feature	Avast VPN	NordVPN	ProtonVPN	Mullvad
Jurisdiction	Czech Republic	Panama	Switzerland	Sweden
Independent audit	❌ No	✅ Deloitte	✅ Securitum	✅ Cure53
WireGuard support	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Server count	700+ servers	6,000+ servers	4,500+ servers	700+ servers
Countries	34	60+	90+	45+
Price (annual)	$79.99/yr	$59.88/yr	$59.88/yr	€60/yr
Free tier	❌ 7-day trial	❌ 30-day refund	✅ Unlimited free	❌ No

Verdict: Should you use Avast VPN?

Choose Avast VPN if: You're a beginner who already uses Avast antivirus, you want a simple VPN for occasional use, and you're not deeply concerned about privacy.
Avoid Avast VPN if: Privacy is your top priority, you want a VPN with a verified no-logs policy, or you want the fastest speeds (WireGuard) and best value.

💡 Pro tip: If you're looking for a VPN, consider the privacy track record of the company. Avast's history of selling user data through Jumpshot is a red flag. Better alternatives like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, and Mullvad have proven no-logs policies, independent audits, and better privacy protections — often at lower prices. Try a 30-day money-back guarantee risk-free.

Was this helpful?

Which VPN is Best?

How to Get a VPN Free?