How to Use AVG VPN to Secure Your Public Wi-Fi in 2026

by Fahim Joharder | Last updated Mar 9, 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every AVG VPN feature:

Getting Started — Create account and basic setup
How to Use Online Privacy — Hide your browsing from ISPs and trackers
How to Use Military-grade Encryption — Secure all your internet traffic with AES-256
How to Use 50+ Server Locations — Connect to servers in 50+ countries worldwide
How to Use Conceal Location and IP — Mask your real IP address and location
How to Use Multi-device Support — Protect up to 10 devices at once
How to Use AVG Secure Identity — Guard your personal data from breaches
How to Use AVG Secure VPN App — Connect with one click on any device
How to Use Antivirus — Block malware and viruses in real time
How to Use Virus Scan & Cleaner — Scan and remove threats from your device

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Troubleshooting | Pricing | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used AVG VPN for over 12 months and tested every feature covered here. This how to use AVG VPN tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

AVG VPN is one of the most powerful VPN tools available today.

But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.

This guide shows you how to use every major feature.

Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.

AVG VPN Tutorial

This complete AVG VPN tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

AVG VPN

Protect your online privacy with military-grade encryption and 700+ servers in 50+ countries. AVG VPN hides your IP address and secures public Wi-Fi connections. Try it free for 60 days — no risk.

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Getting Started with AVG VPN

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Now let’s walk through each step.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to the AVG website at avg.com.

Click “Products” and select “Secure VPN.”

Click “Start Free Trial” to begin.

Enter your email and create a password.

✓ Checkpoint: Check your inbox for a confirmation email from AVG.

Step 2: Download or Access the App

AVG VPN works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.

Download the app from avg.com or your device’s app store.

Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main VPN dashboard with a large on/off toggle.

Step 3: Complete Initial Setup

Grant AVG permission to set up a VPN connection when prompted.

On mobile, tap “Allow” when asked to add VPN configurations.

Enter your activation code or sign in with your AVG account.

✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.

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How to Use AVG VPN Online Privacy

Online Privacy lets you hide your browsing activity from ISPs, hackers, and snoopers.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Online Privacy in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open AVG Secure VPN

Launch the AVG Secure VPN app on your device.

You’ll see a red slider showing your VPN is currently off.

Step 2: Turn On the VPN

Click the large slider on the main screen.

The slider changes from red (OFF) to green (ON).

✓ Checkpoint: You should see “Your online privacy is protected” on screen.

Step 3: Verify Your Connection

Visit a site like whatismyip.com to confirm your IP has changed.

Your real IP address is now hidden from websites and trackers.

✅ Result: All your internet traffic is now encrypted and private.

💡 Pro Tip: Enable Auto-Connect in settings to activate the VPN on untrusted Wi-Fi networks automatically.

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How to Use AVG VPN Military-grade Encryption

Military-grade Encryption lets you secure every bit of data with AES-256 encryption.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Step 1: Open VPN Settings

Click the gear icon in the top-right corner of the app.

Navigate to the “VPN Protocol” section.

Step 2: Choose Your Protocol

Select from WireGuard, OpenVPN, or Mimic protocols.

WireGuard offers the fastest speeds with strong encryption.

OpenVPN provides maximum security for sensitive tasks.

✓ Checkpoint: Your selected protocol appears as active in the settings panel.

Step 3: Connect and Browse Securely

Return to the main screen and toggle the VPN on.

All traffic is now encrypted with bank-grade AES-256 encryption.

✅ Result: Your connection is protected by the same encryption used by banks and governments.

💡 Pro Tip: Use WireGuard for everyday browsing and switch to OpenVPN when accessing sensitive financial accounts.

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How to Use AVG VPN 50+ Server Locations

50+ Server Locations lets you connect to servers in over 50 countries worldwide.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch 50+ Server Locations in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Server List

Click the location name shown below the VPN toggle button.

A full list of available server locations appears.

Step 2: Pick Your Server

Browse or search for your desired country.

Click on the country name to select it.

AVG connects you to the fastest server in that country automatically.

✓ Checkpoint: The main screen shows your new selected location.

Step 3: Access Geo-restricted Content

Open your browser or streaming app after connecting.

You can now access content available in that server’s country.

✅ Result: You’re browsing as if you’re physically located in your chosen country.

💡 Pro Tip: Choose servers closest to your actual location for the fastest speeds when you just need privacy.

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How to Use AVG VPN Conceal Location and IP

Conceal Location and IP lets you mask your real IP address from websites and trackers.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Conceal Location and IP in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Check Your Current IP

Visit whatismyip.com before turning on AVG VPN.

Note your current IP address and visible location.

Step 2: Activate the VPN

Open AVG Secure VPN and click the toggle to connect.

Select a server location different from your actual country.

✓ Checkpoint: The app shows a green “Protected” status with your new virtual location.

Step 3: Confirm Your IP Is Hidden

Visit whatismyip.com again while connected.

Your IP address and location should now show the VPN server’s details.

✅ Result: Your real IP and location are completely hidden from every website you visit.

💡 Pro Tip: Enable the Kill Switch feature to block all internet traffic if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

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How to Use AVG VPN Multi-device Support

Multi-device Support lets you protect up to 10 devices at the same time.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Multi-device Support in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Install AVG Secure VPN on your primary device.

Step 2: Add More Devices

Download AVG Secure VPN on each additional device.

You can add Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

✓ Checkpoint: Each device shows “Connected” with a green toggle after signing in.

Step 3: Connect All Devices at Once

Turn on the VPN on every device you want to protect.

All 10 devices can run the VPN at the same time.

✅ Result: Every device in your household is protected with one subscription.

💡 Pro Tip: Install AVG VPN on your phone and laptop first — those two devices are most exposed on public Wi-Fi.

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How to Use AVG VPN AVG Secure Identity

AVG Secure Identity lets you monitor and protect your personal data from breaches.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch AVG Secure Identity in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the Identity Protection Tab

Navigate to the “Identity” section inside your AVG dashboard.

Click on “Secure Identity” or “Data Breach Monitoring.”

Step 2: Add Your Email Addresses

Enter the email addresses you want to monitor.

AVG scans known data breach databases for your information.

✓ Checkpoint: You see a summary of any breaches linked to your email.

Step 3: Review Alerts and Take Action

Check the alerts for any compromised accounts.

Change passwords on flagged accounts immediately.

✅ Result: You know exactly which accounts are at risk and can fix them fast.

💡 Pro Tip: Add both your personal and work email addresses for full breach coverage.

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How to Use AVG VPN AVG Secure VPN App

AVG Secure VPN App lets you connect with one click on any supported device.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch AVG Secure VPN App in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Launch the App

Open AVG Secure VPN from your desktop or home screen.

The main screen shows a simple on/off toggle.

Step 2: Select Your Preferred Location

Tap the server location shown under the toggle.

Choose “Fastest Location” for the best speed.

Or pick a specific country for geo-unblocking.

✓ Checkpoint: Your preferred location appears on the main screen.

Step 3: Toggle On and Browse

Click the toggle to connect instantly.

The app shows “Protected” when the connection is active.

✅ Result: You’re connected and protected in under 3 seconds.

💡 Pro Tip: Set AVG VPN to launch at startup so you’re always protected from the moment your device turns on.

Try AVG VPN for free

How to Use AVG VPN Antivirus

Antivirus lets you block malware, ransomware, and spyware in real time.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Antivirus in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open AVG Antivirus

Launch the AVG Antivirus app on your computer.

The main dashboard shows your current protection status.

Step 2: Run a Smart Scan

Click “Run Smart Scan” on the main screen.

AVG scans for viruses, malware, and browser threats.

The scan takes about 2 to 5 minutes to complete.

✓ Checkpoint: A scan results summary appears showing any detected threats.

Step 3: Remove Detected Threats

Click “Resolve All” to quarantine or delete threats.

AVG moves dangerous files to quarantine automatically.

✅ Result: Your device is clean and protected from known threats.

💡 Pro Tip: Schedule a Deep Scan weekly to catch threats that Smart Scan might miss.

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How to Use AVG VPN Virus Scan & Cleaner

Virus Scan & Cleaner lets you deep scan and remove hidden threats from your device.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

Watch Virus Scan & Cleaner in action:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Access Scan Options

Open AVG and click “Run other scans” at the bottom right.

You’ll see Deep Scan, Boot-Time Scan, File/Folder Scan, and USB/DVD Scan.

Step 2: Run a Deep Scan

Click “Deep Scan” to check every file on your system.

This scan takes longer but catches deeply embedded threats.

✓ Checkpoint: The progress bar shows scanning in real time with file count.

Step 3: Clean Up Results

Review detected threats in the scan summary.

Click “Resolve” to quarantine or permanently delete each item.

✅ Result: Your system is fully scanned and cleaned of all known threats.

💡 Pro Tip: Use Boot-Time Scan if you suspect a stubborn virus — it scans before Windows fully loads.

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AVG VPN Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing AVG VPN for over 12 months, here are my best tips.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Action	Shortcut
Toggle VPN On/Off	Click system tray icon → Connect
Change Server Location	Click location name → Select country
Open Settings	Click gear icon (top-right corner)
Run Quick Scan	Right-click tray icon → Run Smart Scan

Hidden Features Most People Miss

Auto-Connect on Untrusted Wi-Fi: Go to Settings → Auto-Connect and enable it to protect yourself on public networks without thinking about it.
Kill Switch: Found in Settings → Kill Switch. This blocks all internet traffic if the VPN drops, so your real IP never leaks.
Protocol Switching: AVG automatically switches between WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Mimic depending on your network for the best connection.

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AVG VPN Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Forgetting to Enable Kill Switch

❌ Wrong: Leaving Kill Switch off and browsing without realizing the VPN disconnected.

✅ Right: Turn on Kill Switch in Settings so your connection is blocked if the VPN drops.

Mistake #2: Always Choosing the Farthest Server

❌ Wrong: Connecting to a server across the globe when you just need basic privacy protection.

✅ Right: Pick the closest server for speed, and only use distant servers when you need specific geo-access.

Mistake #3: Not Checking If the VPN Is Still Active

❌ Wrong: Assuming the VPN stays connected 24/7 without ever verifying your IP address.

✅ Right: Check the system tray icon regularly and visit whatismyip.com to confirm your IP is masked.

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AVG VPN Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Network policies on your Wi-Fi or firewall may block VPN connections.

Fix: Try switching to a different VPN protocol in Settings. Switch from WireGuard to OpenVPN or Mimic. If on public Wi-Fi, try a mobile data connection instead.

Problem: Slow Internet Speeds While Connected

Cause: You may be connected to a distant or overloaded server.

Fix: Switch to a closer server location. Use WireGuard protocol for the fastest speeds. Close other apps using bandwidth.

Problem: Streaming Service Detects VPN

Cause: Some streaming services block known VPN IP addresses.

Fix: Disconnect and reconnect to get a new IP address. Try a different server in the same country. Clear your browser cookies before trying again.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact AVG VPN support.

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What is AVG VPN?

AVG VPN is a virtual private network tool that encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address.

Think of it like a private tunnel between your device and the internet that nobody can peek into.

Watch this quick overview:

AVG Secure VPN Review 2026 🔥 100% BRUTALLY HONEST REVIEW!

It includes these key features:

Online Privacy: Hides your browsing activity from ISPs, hackers, and trackers.
Military-grade Encryption: Secures traffic with AES-256 bank-grade encryption.
50+ Server Locations: Connect to 700+ servers across 50+ countries worldwide.
Conceal Location and IP: Masks your real IP address and physical location.
Multi-device Support: Protect up to 10 devices with one subscription.
AVG Secure Identity: Monitors your personal data for breaches.
AVG Secure VPN App: One-click connection on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Antivirus: Blocks malware, ransomware, and spyware in real time.
Virus Scan & Cleaner: Deep scans and removes hidden threats from your system.

For a full review, see our AVG VPN review.

Try AVG VPN for free

AVG VPN Pricing

Here’s what AVG VPN costs in 2026:

Plan	Price	Best For
AVG Antivirus Free	Free	Basic protection on a single device
AVG Internet Security	$4.99/month	Families needing firewall and web protection on 10 devices
AVG Ultimate	$4.99/month	Users wanting VPN, antivirus, tune-up, and anti-tracking in one bundle

Free trial: Yes — AVG Secure VPN offers a 60-day free trial for new users.

Money-back guarantee: Yes — 30-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans.

💰 Best Value: AVG Ultimate — it bundles VPN, antivirus, tune-up, and anti-tracking for the same price as Internet Security alone.

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AVG VPN vs Alternatives

How does AVG VPN compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Tool	Best For	Price	Rating
AVG VPN	Bundled antivirus + VPN	$4.99/mo	⭐ 4.0
NordVPN	Overall best VPN	$2.99/mo	⭐ 4.5
ExpressVPN	Fastest speeds	$2.44/mo	⭐ 4.6
PureVPN	Budget-friendly plans	$2.15/mo	⭐ 4.0
Surfshark VPN	Unlimited devices	$1.99/mo	⭐ 4.4
ProtonVPN	Privacy-first free tier	$0.00/mo	⭐ 4.5
CyberGhost	Streaming and torrenting	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.3
Private Internet Access	Open-source transparency	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.2

Quick picks:

Best overall: NordVPN — top speeds, strict no-logs policy, and 6,000+ servers worldwide.
Best budget: Surfshark VPN — just $1.99/month with unlimited device connections.
Best for beginners: AVG VPN — simple one-click interface with built-in antivirus.
Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with a true no-logs policy and a free tier.

🎯 AVG VPN Alternatives

Looking for AVG VPN alternatives? Here are the top options:

🚀 NordVPN: Industry leader with 6,000+ servers, double VPN encryption, and a strict no-logs policy verified by audits.
⚡ ExpressVPN: Fastest VPN tested with servers in 105 countries and a built-in speed test tool.
💰 PureVPN: Budget-friendly with 6,500+ servers and dedicated IP options starting at $2.15/month.
🌟 Surfshark VPN: Unlimited device connections on a single plan with CleanWeb ad-blocker included.
🔒 ProtonVPN: Swiss-based with a free tier, open-source apps, and Secure Core servers for extra privacy.
🧠 PrivadoVPN: Offers a free plan with 10 GB monthly data and zero-log policy based in Switzerland.
🔧 AdGuard VPN: Built-in ad blocker and tracker blocker with a VPN in one app for $2.40/month.
🏢 Virtual Shield: Simple VPN designed for non-technical users with US-based customer support.
⭐ StrongVPN: Reliable connection with WireGuard support and works well in restricted countries.
🔥 FastestVPN: Lifetime plan available for a one-time payment of $40 with decent speed performance.
💼 Aura VPN: Includes identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and antivirus alongside the VPN.
🎨 CyberGhost: Best for streaming with dedicated servers for Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Disney+.
🎯 McAfee VPN: Bundled with McAfee antivirus for users who want all-in-one device protection.
📊 Private Internet Access: Open-source VPN with 35,000+ servers and advanced port forwarding options.
👶 Mysterium VPN: Decentralized VPN that routes traffic through a peer-to-peer network for extra anonymity.
🔒 SafeShell VPN: Budget VPN with weekly plans starting at $5.99 for short-term travelers.
⚡ Oyster VPN: Affordable lifetime access option at $59.99 with servers in 40+ countries.

For the full list, see our AVG VPN alternatives guide.

⚔️ AVG VPN Compared

Here’s how AVG VPN stacks up against each competitor:

AVG VPN vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins with faster speeds, more servers, and a strict no-logs policy. AVG bundles antivirus but has weaker privacy.
AVG VPN vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN offers better speeds and broader server coverage. AVG costs less when bundled with antivirus.
AVG VPN vs PureVPN: PureVPN is cheaper with more server locations. AVG includes antivirus features that PureVPN lacks.
AVG VPN vs Surfshark VPN: Surfshark offers unlimited devices and costs less. AVG provides built-in virus protection.
AVG VPN vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has a true no-logs policy and free tier. AVG is easier to use but keeps connection logs.
AVG VPN vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN offers a free 10 GB plan and Swiss privacy. AVG bundles more security tools.
AVG VPN vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard combines ad blocking with VPN at a lower price. AVG offers stronger antivirus features.
AVG VPN vs Virtual Shield: Virtual Shield is simpler but more expensive. AVG offers better value with bundled security.
AVG VPN vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN works better in restricted countries. AVG is easier to set up for beginners.
AVG VPN vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN’s lifetime plan is a better long-term deal. AVG offers more features beyond just VPN.
AVG VPN vs Aura VPN: Aura includes identity theft protection and credit monitoring. AVG focuses more on device security.
AVG VPN vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost is better for streaming with dedicated servers. AVG pairs VPN with antivirus protection.
AVG VPN vs McAfee VPN: Both bundle antivirus with VPN. McAfee offers more identity protection features at a higher price.
AVG VPN vs Private Internet Access: PIA has 35,000+ servers and open-source code. AVG is simpler with fewer technical options.
AVG VPN vs Mysterium VPN: Mysterium uses decentralized peer-to-peer routing. AVG uses traditional servers with antivirus bundled.
AVG VPN vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell offers cheap weekly plans for travelers. AVG provides better long-term value with more features.
AVG VPN vs Oyster VPN: Oyster offers lifetime access at a low one-time price. AVG gives you antivirus and VPN together.

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Start Using AVG VPN Now

You learned how to use every major AVG VPN feature:

✅ Online Privacy
✅ Military-grade Encryption
✅ 50+ Server Locations
✅ Conceal Location and IP
✅ Multi-device Support
✅ AVG Secure Identity
✅ AVG Secure VPN App
✅ 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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does AVG VPN work?

AVG VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. When you connect, your traffic routes through one of AVG’s 700+ servers in 50+ countries. This hides your real IP address and encrypts all data so ISPs, hackers, and websites can’t track your activity.

How do I activate AVG VPN?

Download AVG Secure VPN from avg.com or your device’s app store. Open the app and sign in with your AVG account or enter your activation code. Grant VPN permission when prompted, then click the toggle to connect. The 60-day free trial starts automatically for new users.

How do I know if AVG VPN is working?

Check the app — the toggle should be green and show “Your online privacy is protected.” You can also visit whatismyip.com to verify your IP address has changed. If your IP matches the VPN server location instead of your real one, the VPN is working.

Is AVG VPN worth having?

AVG VPN is worth it if you want a simple VPN bundled with antivirus protection. It uses AES-256 encryption, supports 10 devices, and works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. However, it stores connection logs — so if strict privacy is your top priority, consider ProtonVPN or NordVPN instead.

Is AVG VPN safe to use?

Yes, AVG VPN uses AES-256 encryption and supports WireGuard, OpenVPN, and Mimic protocols. It does not log the websites you visit or data transferred. However, it does store connection timestamps and bandwidth usage. AVG does not share or sell your data to third parties.

How do I use AVG VPN?

Install the app, sign in, and click the large toggle on the main screen. The slider changes from red to green when connected. Choose a server location by tapping the country name below the toggle. Your entire internet connection is now encrypted and your IP address is hidden.

Is AVG VPN private?

AVG VPN hides your browsing activity from ISPs and websites. It does not log the sites you visit or data you transfer. However, AVG stores connection logs including timestamps, session duration, and bandwidth. For stronger privacy, consider a VPN with a verified zero-logs policy like NordVPN or ProtonVPN.

Is VPN free with AVG?

AVG Secure VPN is not permanently free. It offers a 60-day free trial for new users. After the trial, pricing starts at $3.99/month on a 2-year plan. AVG Antivirus Free does not include VPN access — you need AVG Ultimate or a separate AVG Secure VPN subscription.

How does AVG Secure VPN work?

AVG Secure VPN encrypts your internet connection using AES-256 encryption. It routes your traffic through a secure server in your chosen country. This masks your IP address and makes your online activity invisible to your ISP, hackers, and snoopers on public Wi-Fi networks.

Does AVG VPN slow down internet speed?

All VPNs reduce speed slightly due to encryption overhead. AVG VPN performs well on Mac but may have latency issues on Windows. Using the WireGuard protocol and connecting to nearby servers helps minimize speed loss. For the fastest VPN speeds, ExpressVPN and NordVPN perform better in tests.

What are the options for AVG VPN?

You can get AVG Secure VPN as a standalone subscription starting at $3.99/month. Or get it bundled with AVG Ultimate ($4.99/month) which includes antivirus, tune-up, and anti-tracking. AVG Antivirus Free is available at no cost but does not include VPN access. All paid plans support up to 10 devices.