IT Pro Verdict

Pros

+
Simple app; Good territory range

Cons

-
Limited options; Failed DNS leak test; Expensive

Avast's SecureLine is a comparatively simple VPN service, with clients for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS, but no browser or router-based configuration. There's a seven-day free trial, after which a one-year, one-computer licence costs 45 (inc VAT), or 15 on mobile platforms.

It's simple to install, and simple to connect either to your nearest server, or specify one of the 27 available locations where you'll appear to be located. The Americas and Europe dominate, with Asia-Pacific choices comprising Hong Kong, Melbourne, Singapore and Tokyo.

Avast primarily sells the service on security scenarios, such as the ability to secure wireless traffic for mobile workers, and also says that it doesn't log traffic although we believe that it does log IP addresses, timestamps and bandwidth. Its website mentions geoblocking benefits, but while our simple iPlayer test worked, Netflix US content didn't.

While Whoer.net reported only minor configuration issues, DNS tests showed that we were still querying our ISP's servers: while the traffic we were exchanging may have been secured, a hacker on the same network or our ISP could generate a record of the sites we were visiting.

With AES256 encryption, SecureLine should be adequate to protect sensitive traffic on public networks, and its range of locations ought to defeat some location blocks. It's rather expensive, however, given its lack of advanced features and protection.

After a brief career in corporate IT, Simon Handby combined his love of technology and writing when he made the move to Computer Shopper magazine. As a technology reviewer he's since tested everything from routers and switches, to smart air fryers and doorbells, and covered technology such as EVs, TVs, solar power and the singularity.

During more than 15 years as Shopper's long-time printer reviewer, Simon tried, tested and wrote up literally hundreds of home, small office and workgroup printers. He continues reviewing smart products and printers for a variety of publications, and has been an IT Pro contributor since 2010. Simon is almost never happier than when surrounded by printers and paper, applying his stopwatch and a seasoned eye to find the best performing, best value products for business users.