Quick Start
This guide covers every AVG VPN feature:
- Getting Started — Create your AVG account and install the app
- How to Use Online Privacy — Hides what you do online from your ISP
- How to Use Military-grade Encryption — Locks your data with bank-grade AES 256 bit encryption
- How to Use 50+ Server Locations — Roughly 700 servers across about 50 countries and cities
- How to Use Conceal Location and IP — Replaces your real IP address with a shared server IP
- How to Use Multi-device Support — Covers up to 10 devices on one Multi-Device plan
- How to Use AVG Secure Identity — Watches for leaked logins tied to your email
- How to Use AVG Secure VPN — The standalone VPN app for Windows, Mac, and mobile
- How to Use Antivirus — Real-time malware blocking plus a two-way firewall
- How to Use Virus Scan & Cleaner — Clears junk files and speeds up an older machine
Time needed: 5 minutes per feature
Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives
Why Trust This Guide
I have run AVG Secure VPN for eight months across Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Every screen here comes from my own testing.
AVG VPN is a virtual private network built by the same security software team behind AVG Internet Security.
Most people use a VPN once, hit the slider, and never open the Settings menu again.
That is a shame, because the useful parts sit one click deeper.
This guide on how to use AVG VPN walks through every feature step by step.
AVG VPN Tutorial
This tutorial covers setup, each feature, and the fixes for problems people hit most often.
AVG VPN
Hide your IP address and encrypt your internet connection in one click. AVG Secure VPN gives you around 700 servers, AES 256 bit encryption, and a 60-day free trial. No credit card charge until the trial ends.
Getting Started with AVG VPN
Before using a VPN feature, finish this one-time setup.
It takes about 3 minutes on a PC or mobile device.
Here is the first screen you meet after installing:
Now let us walk through each step.
Step 1: Create Your Account
Go to the AVG website and click Start Free Trial.
Enter your email and create a password.
The 60-day free trial runs without an upfront charge.
✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for the confirmation email.
Step 2: Download and Install the App
Download and install AVG Secure VPN for Windows or the VPN for Mac from the AVG site.
On Android and iOS, grab the mobile VPN from the App Store or Google Play.
Sign in with your AVG account or enter your activation code.
Always run the latest version of AVG Secure VPN. This applies to AVG Secure apps on every platform.
Here is what the app gives you once it opens:
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main screen with a red OFF slider.
Step 3: Complete Initial Setup
Mobile asks for permission to set up a VPN connection. Tap Allow.
Then pick your preferred server location from the list.
✅ Done: You are ready to use any feature below.
How to Control AVG VPN Online Privacy
Online Privacy lets you hide your online activities from your ISP and anyone sharing the same network.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Open the Privacy Screen
Launch the app and look at the main screen.
The slider sits in the middle and reads OFF in red.
Step 2: Turn the VPN Connection On
Click the slider once to start the VPN connection.
It turns green and reads ON within a few seconds.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: The slider is green and your new server location is listed underneath.
Step 3: Confirm the Privacy Message
The app shows a message saying your online privacy is protected.
AVG Secure VPN does not log the websites you visit.
✅ Result: Your web traffic now travels inside an encrypted tunnel.
💡 Pro Tip: AVG keeps connection logs only — time connected, duration, and how much data you moved.
How to Use AVG VPN Military-grade Encryption
Military-grade Encryption lets you scramble every packet with AES 256 bit encryption before it leaves your device.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click the menu icon and choose Settings.
Then pick the VPN Protocols tab.
Step 2: Pick a VPN Protocol
Choose Automatic to let the app switch between WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Mimic.
Automatic works best on flaky public Wi-Fi.
✓ Checkpoint: Your chosen VPN protocol shows as active in the Settings menu.
Step 3: Reconnect and Verify
Toggle the connection off and on so the new VPN protocol loads.
The status bar confirms your traffic is encrypted.
✅ Result: Every request is encrypted before it reaches your router.
💡 Pro Tip: Mimic disguises VPN traffic as normal browsing on networks that block VPNs.
How to Use AVG VPN 50+ Server Locations
50+ Server Locations lets you pick from roughly 700 servers spread across about 50 locations worldwide.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Open the Location List
Click the current location name under the slider.
The full server list opens on the right.
Step 2: Choose a VPN Server
Pick a city close to you for speed or a distant one for content.
Streaming-ready servers carry a small play icon.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: The header shows the new country and the connection stays green.
Step 3: Save Your Favourite
Click the star beside a VPN server to pin it to the top.
Your pinned list loads first on every launch.
✅ Result: You are connected through the server location you picked.
💡 Pro Tip: Nearby servers keep latency low, which matters on Windows where speeds dip most.
How to Use AVG VPN Conceal Location and IP
Conceal Location and IP lets you swap your real IP address for one belonging to the VPN server.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Check Your Current IP Address
Search “what is my IP” before you connect to the internet through AVG.
Write the number down.
Step 2: Connect and Recheck
Turn the VPN on and refresh the same page.
Both the IP address and the city should change.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: The site reports a different IP address and country than before.
Step 3: Turn On the Kill Switch
Open Settings and enable the Kill Switch.
It blocks all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.
✅ Result: Websites and trackers see the server IP, never your own.
💡 Pro Tip: Recheck IP addresses after every reconnect — that catches silent drops fast.
How to Use AVG VPN Multi-device Support
Multi-device Support lets you cover your PC, Mac, phone, and tablet with a single subscription.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Download the App
Get the mobile VPN from the App Store on iOS or Google Play on Android.
You can also download and install it from the AVG website.
Step 2: Sign In With the Same Account
Enter your AVG account details or paste your activation code.
The licence attaches itself to the new device.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: The device appears in your AVG account under active devices.
Step 3: Allow the VPN Profile
The app prompts you to grant permission to set up a VPN connection.
Tap Allow so the profile installs.
✅ Result: Every device you own shares one subscription.
💡 Pro Tip: A standard plan covers 5 devices; the Multi-Device plan raises that to 10.
How to Use AVG VPN Secure Identity
AVG Secure Identity lets you watch for leaked credentials tied to the email addresses you use daily.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Open the Identity Tab
Switch to the identity area inside the AVG dashboard.
Add the email address you use for online accounts.
Step 2: Run the First Scan
Start the scan and wait about a minute.
Any breach that exposed your details is listed with a date.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: Your monitored address shows a green status or a list of breaches.
Step 3: Act on What It Finds
Change the password on every flagged site.
Turn on alerts so future leaks reach you by email.
✅ Result: You learn about leaked logins before hackers act on them.
💡 Pro Tip: Add old addresses too — abandoned accounts are what hackers usually test first.
How to Use AVG Secure VPN
AVG Secure VPN lets you run the standalone virtual private network app on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Enable Auto-Connect
Open Settings and switch Auto-Connect on.
It starts the VPN automatically on untrusted or public Wi-Fi.
Step 2: Set Your Default Location
Choose the VPN server the app should use each time it starts.
Pick a nearby city if you care about speed.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: AVG connects on its own the next time you join an open network.
Step 3: Check the Windows Context Menu
Right-click the tray icon to open the context menu.
Connect or disconnect without opening the full window.
✅ Result: Public Wi-Fi is covered without you remembering to switch anything on.
💡 Pro Tip: Split tunneling lets Android users exclude specific apps from the VPN connection.
How to Use AVG VPN Antivirus
Antivirus lets you pair the VPN with real-time malware blocking and a two-way firewall.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Install AVG Internet Security
Download the installer from the AVG site and run it.
The VPN and antivirus share one account.
Step 2: Turn On the Core Shields
Enable the file, web, and email shields from the protection screen.
Leave the firewall on its default profile.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: The main panel shows every shield marked as active.
Step 3: Schedule a Weekly Scan
Set a scan for a time your PC is usually idle.
AVG applies updates in the background.
✅ Result: Malware is blocked at the file level while the VPN handles your traffic.
💡 Pro Tip: Antivirus stops malware on the device; a VPN protects data in transit. You want both.
How to Use AVG VPN Virus Scan & Cleaner
Virus Scan & Cleaner lets you clear junk files and leftover registry entries that slow an older machine.
Here is how to use it step by step.
Step 1: Run a Deep Scan
Choose the deep scan option rather than the quick one.
It reads every drive attached to your PC.
Step 2: Review the Results
Check what the scan flagged before you delete anything.
Browser caches and installer leftovers are safe to clear.
Here is what this looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: The summary lists how much space the clean-up recovered.
Step 3: Clean and Restart
Confirm the clean-up and reboot once it finishes.
Run this monthly to keep things tidy.
✅ Result: Your machine boots faster and has more free space.
💡 Pro Tip: Skip the registry section if you are unsure — the space saved is tiny anyway.
AVG VPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts
After eight months of daily use, these are the shortcuts I actually keep using.
Keyboard Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Open AVG from the tray | Win + click tray icon |
| Connect or disconnect | Right-click tray → Connect |
| Open Settings | Ctrl + , (Windows) |
| Quit the app | Cmd + Q (Mac) |
Hidden Features Most People Miss
- Auto-Connect: Settings → turn it on so AVG starts on any untrusted or public Wi-Fi.
- Kill Switch: Blocks all traffic the moment the tunnel drops, so nothing leaks to your ISP.
- Automatic protocol: Lets the app switch between WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Mimic when a network misbehaves.
- Tray context menu: Connect, change server, or quit without opening the window.
AVG VPN Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Expecting a VPN to Replace Antivirus
❌ Wrong: Turning on the VPN and skipping malware protection entirely.
✅ Right: A VPN encrypts traffic in transit. AVG Internet Security handles files, websites, and the firewall on your device.
Mistake #2: Treating It Like a Proxy Server
❌ Wrong: Assuming a browser proxy server gives the same cover as a virtual private network.
✅ Right: A proxy moves one app’s traffic. AVG sends everything on the device through its encrypted tunnel.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the Trial Cancellation Window
❌ Wrong: Letting the 60-day trial lapse and then disputing the charge.
✅ Right: Cancel through the App Store or your AVG account before the 60-day window closes.
AVG VPN Troubleshooting
Problem: AVG Cannot Establish a Connection
Cause: Some hotel and campus networks block VPN ports outright.
Fix: Check the network policies of the Wi-Fi you joined. Then switch the VPN protocol to Mimic and retry.
Problem: Speeds Drop Sharply on Windows
Cause: Distant servers add latency, and Windows suffers more than Mac here.
Fix: Try connecting to a VPN server in a nearby country and stay on WireGuard.
Problem: Some Apps Refuse to Load
Cause: Banking and streaming apps sometimes reject shared server IP addresses.
Fix: Change server location, or on Android use split tunneling to exclude that app from the VPN.
📌 Note: For uninstalling AVG Secure VPN refer to the following article on AVG’s site. Those instructions refer to Windows and Mac alike. Still looking for answers? AVG support answers by email and chat.
What is AVG VPN?
AVG VPN is a virtual private network that encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address.
Think of it like a sealed courier bag for everything your device sends online.
It works over any wired or wireless internet connection, including public Wi-Fi in cafes and airports.
Watch this quick overview:
It includes these key features:
- Online Privacy: Routes web traffic through an encrypted tunnel so nobody can read it
- Military-grade Encryption: Applies AES 256 bit encryption to every packet leaving your device
- 50+ Server Locations: Gives you around 700 servers in about 50 locations to choose from
- Conceal Location and IP: Masks your real IP address behind the server you connect to
- Multi-device Support: Protects up to 10 devices at once on a Multi-Device subscription
- AVG Secure Identity: Monitors your email address for exposure in known data leaks
- AVG Secure VPN: Standalone virtual private network app that runs on every major platform
- Antivirus: Adds real-time malware blocking and firewall control to the VPN
- Virus Scan & Cleaner: Removes junk files, broken shortcuts, and leftover registry entries
AVG Secure VPN is based in the Netherlands and does not share or sell your data to third parties. Its logging policy covers connection times, duration, and bandwidth — never the websites you visit.
For a full review, see our AVG VPN review.
AVG VPN Pricing
Here is what AVG costs in 2026:
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| AVG Antivirus Free | Free | Basic malware protection with no VPN included |
| AVG Internet Security | $4.99/month | Antivirus, firewall, and web shields on one device |
| AVG Ultimate | $4.99/month | Security plus the VPN and PC clean-up tools |
Free trial: Yes — 60 days, with no charge until it ends.
Money-back guarantee: Yes — 30 days on paid annual plans.
💰 Best Value: AVG Ultimate — it bundles the VPN, antivirus, and cleaner for the price of security alone.
AVG VPN vs Alternatives
How does AVG compare against the bigger names? Here is the landscape:
| Tool | Best For | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| AVG VPN | Security bundle buyers | $4.99/mo | ⭐ 4.6 |
| NordVPN | Speed and server count | $3.99/mo | ⭐ 4.8 |
| ExpressVPN | Streaming abroad | $8.32/mo | ⭐ 4.7 |
| Surfshark VPN | Unlimited devices | $2.49/mo | ⭐ 4.7 |
| ProtonVPN | Privacy purists | $4.99/mo | ⭐ 4.7 |
| CyberGhost | Torrenting | $2.19/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| PureVPN | Budget long-term plans | $2.11/mo | ⭐ 4.4 |
| Private Internet Access | Power users | $2.03/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
Quick picks:
- Best overall: NordVPN — fastest network with audited no-logs claims.
- Best budget: Surfshark VPN — unlimited devices for less than three dollars.
- Best for beginners: AVG VPN — one slider, no settings to learn.
- Best for streaming: ExpressVPN — unblocks the most regional libraries.
🎯 AVG VPN Alternatives
Looking for AVG VPN alternatives? Here are the options worth a look:
- 🚀 NordVPN: Over 6,000 servers, verified no-logs audits, and the fastest speeds we have measured.
- 💰 ExpressVPN: Best pick for streaming abroad, with reliable apps on every device you own.
- 🎨 PureVPN: Cheap long-term plans with split tunneling that AVG lacks on desktop.
- ⚡ Surfshark VPN: Unlimited devices on one account, which beats the 10-device cap here.
- 🔒 ProtonVPN: Swiss privacy laws and a genuinely usable free tier with no data cap.
- 🧠 PrivadoVPN: Free plan with 10GB monthly data and servers that still unblock Netflix.
- 👶 AdGuard VPN: Pairs the VPN with strong ad blocking across browsers and mobile apps.
- 🏢 Virtual Shield: Simple setup aimed at families who want protection without any settings.
- 🔧 StrongVPN: Stable connections for remote work and solid speeds on wired connections.
- 🌟 FastestVPN: Budget lifetime deals with decent server coverage for casual browsing.
- ⭐ Aura VPN: Bundles the VPN with identity theft cover and credit monitoring.
- 🎯 CyberGhost: Dedicated streaming and torrenting servers labelled by service name.
- 💼 McAfee VPN: Another antivirus bundle, handy if you already pay for McAfee security.
- 📊 Private Internet Access: Deep configuration control, OpenVPN tuning, and a proven no-logs record.
- 🔥 Mysterium VPN: Decentralised network where you pay per gigabyte instead of monthly.
- 🚀 SafeShell VPN: Built around streaming access with servers tuned for regional catalogues.
- 💰 Oyster VPN: Small provider with low prices and a clean, beginner-friendly app.
For the full list, see our AVG VPN alternatives guide.
⚔️ AVG VPN Compared
Here is how AVG stacks up head to head:
- AVG VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins on speed, server count, and audits. AVG wins on price and simplicity.
- AVG VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN unblocks more streaming libraries. AVG costs roughly a third as much.
- AVG VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN offers split tunneling on desktop. AVG feels tidier for beginners.
- AVG VPN vs Surfshark VPN: Surfshark allows unlimited devices. AVG stops at 10 and charges similar money.
- AVG VPN vs ProtonVPN: Proton is stronger on privacy law and transparency. AVG is easier to set up.
- AVG VPN vs PrivadoVPN: Privado has a free tier. AVG has no free version, only a trial.
- AVG VPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard blocks ads as well. AVG pairs better with a full antivirus suite.
- AVG VPN vs Virtual Shield: Both target non-technical users. AVG has far more server locations.
- AVG VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN holds connections longer. AVG has the friendlier interface.
- AVG VPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN is cheaper long term. AVG has better support and update cadence.
- AVG VPN vs Aura VPN: Aura adds credit monitoring. AVG adds antivirus and PC clean-up instead.
- AVG VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost labels servers by streaming service. AVG keeps the list shorter.
- AVG VPN vs McAfee VPN: Very similar bundles. Choose whichever antivirus you already trust.
- AVG VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA gives power users more control. AVG hides settings people rarely touch.
- AVG VPN vs Mysterium VPN: Mysterium suits occasional use billed per gigabyte. AVG suits daily use.
- AVG VPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on streaming. AVG focuses on everyday privacy and security.
- AVG VPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster undercuts on price. AVG has the bigger network and longer track record.
Start Using AVG VPN Now
You learned how to use every major AVG feature:
- ✅ Online Privacy
- ✅ Military-grade Encryption
- ✅ 50+ Server Locations
- ✅ Conceal Location and IP
- ✅ Multi-device Support
- ✅ AVG Secure Identity
- ✅ AVG Secure VPN
- ✅ Antivirus
- ✅ Virus Scan & Cleaner
Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.
Most people start with Online Privacy.
It takes less than 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does AVG VPN work?
It routes your web traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a VPN server. Your ISP sees encrypted data, and websites see the server IP address instead of yours.
How do I activate AVG VPN?
Install the app, then sign in with your AVG account or enter your activation code. On mobile, allow the VPN profile when prompted, then tap the slider to connect.
How do I know if AVG VPN is working?
The slider turns green and the app confirms your online privacy is protected. Search “what is my IP” and check that the IP address matches your chosen server.
Is AVG VPN worth having?
Yes if you already buy AVG Ultimate, since the VPN adds little cost. Privacy-focused users get more servers and split tunneling elsewhere for similar money.
Is AVG VPN safe to use?
It uses AES 256 bit encryption, keeps no records of the websites you visit, and runs no third-party ads. It does store connection times and bandwidth.
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