Shellfire

AVG is best known for its antivirus suite, and on top of that it offers a VPN service called AVG Secure VPN. Instead of targeting power users, this VPN is clearly built for people who just want to click “connect” and get basic protection on public Wi-Fi or at home. In this comparison, we look at how AVG’s VPN holds up against NordVPN, a premium provider with a huge global network and a long list of security tools.

If you are already using AVG’s antivirus or are simply hunting for a straightforward and affordable VPN, it is worth knowing exactly what AVG Secure VPN can and cannot do. We will walk through its server network, speeds, privacy policy and day-to-day usability, then compare all of that to NordVPN. By the end, you should have a clear idea which service fits you better, whether you are just after simple protection or doing a more detailed VPN comparison in search of the best overall package.

Key Points

• AVG Secure VPN operates around 700+ servers in a little over 35 countries and uses AES-256 encryption with OpenVPN, WireGuard on newer apps and its proprietary Mimic protocol. It still keeps connection logs such as timestamps and some device data and it does not offer many advanced customization options.
• NordVPN runs over 8,000 RAM-only servers in more than 120 countries, supports several modern VPN protocols and includes advanced features like Double VPN, Threat Protection, Meshnet and the newer NordWhisper protocol for restrictive networks.
• For users who only need simple protection on up to ten devices, AVG can be enough. Anyone who cares strongly about privacy, reliable streaming, torrenting or performance in censorship-heavy regions will usually be better served by a more full-featured service such as NordVPN.

Quick Comparison: AVG Secure VPN vs NordVPN

Feature	AVG Secure VPN	NordVPN
Server count	700+ servers in around 37 countries	8,000+ servers in 120+ countries
Encryption & protocols	AES-256; OpenVPN, WireGuard (on newer apps) and Mimic protocols	AES-256 and ChaCha20; OpenVPN, NordLynx (WireGuard-based), NordWhisper
Simultaneous connections	10 devices	10 devices
Streaming & P2P	P2P and streaming servers exist but often fail to unblock major platforms consistently	Unblocks Netflix, BBC iPlayer and most other big services and supports P2P on many servers
Logging & jurisdiction	Collects connection timestamps and some technical data; based in the Czech Republic (part of the EU and under its data-sharing rules)	Independently audited no-logs policy; based in Panama with no mandatory data retention
Notable features	Very simple interface; kill switch and split tunneling on some apps; P2P and streaming servers	Double VPN, Onion over VPN, Threat Protection, Meshnet, NordWhisper, split tunneling and ad blocking

AVG Secure VPN gives you basic privacy with a modest server network and very straightforward apps. It allows up to ten simultaneous connections and uses strong, modern encryption, which is more than enough for typical café Wi-Fi or working from a hotel. Its main drawbacks are inconsistent streaming performance and the fact that it still keeps connection logs.

NordVPN goes much further. Its much larger global network, stronger privacy stance and advanced extras make it a better pick for heavy streaming, frequent torrenting, or people who simply do not want their connection data stored at all. It is closer to what many users imagine when they search for a “bestes VPN” or premium all-rounder.

Shellfire’s VPN and its Shellfire Box follow a slightly different philosophy, combining easy setup with solid performance and hardware-based protection. They can appeal to users who feel that AVG Secure VPN is too limited but who do not really need every advanced feature that NordVPN offers.

Infrastructure & Global Coverage

Provider	Servers & locations	Jurisdiction
AVG Secure VPN	700+ servers in roughly 37 countries	Czech Republic (relatively privacy-friendly but part of the EU, and AVG can share some data with its parent company)
NordVPN	8,000+ RAM-only servers in 120+ countries, including many specialty locations	Panama (no mandatory data retention, outside major surveillance alliances)

AVG’s server network is on the small side, with most locations in North America and Europe. Coverage in regions like Africa or the Middle East is limited, and users sometimes report congestion during busy evening hours. For everyday browsing this is often acceptable, but it does not offer much redundancy if a particular location is overloaded.

NordVPN, by contrast, provides more than 8,000 RAM-only servers spread across well over 120 countries, including dedicated P2P, obfuscated and Double VPN servers. This broad footprint makes it easier to find a nearby, uncongested server and improves reliability if you travel or regularly access foreign streaming libraries.

Speed & Performance

Provider	Average download/upload	Latency impact
AVG Secure VPN	Decent speeds on nearby servers; noticeable slowdowns on distant or congested ones	Latency can rise significantly during peak usage
NordVPN	Very fast speeds using NordLynx; stable results across most regions	Low latency suitable for competitive gaming

AVG Secure VPN performs reasonably well for casual browsing, video calls and basic streaming. Speeds tend to drop on distant servers, especially when using the Mimic protocol, which is built for bypassing network blocks rather than raw performance. If you regularly download large files or stream in 4K, these fluctuations can become noticeable.

NordVPN relies heavily on NordLynx, its WireGuard-based protocol, and that makes a big difference in day-to-day use. Pages load quickly, 4K streams stay stable and latency remains low even on long-distance connections. The consistency you get from NordLynx is one of the main reasons the service often tops “VPN Geschwindigkeit” comparisons in German markets.

Security & Privacy

Provider	Encryption & protocols	Logging policy	Extra security
AVG Secure VPN	AES-256; OpenVPN, WireGuard (rolled out gradually) or Mimic protocol	Stores connection timestamps and some technical identifiers	No kill switch on iOS; limited extra features; no multi-hop or obfuscation
NordVPN	AES-256 and ChaCha20; OpenVPN, NordLynx and NordWhisper for restrictive networks	Regularly audited no-logs policy; Panama jurisdiction	Kill switch, Double VPN, Onion over VPN, Threat Protection, obfuscation

AVG Secure VPN uses strong encryption and supports OpenVPN and WireGuard on many devices. Its Mimic protocol is designed for situations where networks try to block VPN traffic. The downside is its logging policy, since it stores connection timestamps and technical identifiers that privacy-conscious users may prefer to avoid. Advanced features such as split tunneling or multi-hop remain limited, depending on the platform.

NordVPN brings a more privacy-focused approach. Its no-logs policy has been independently audited, and it provides several privacy-enhancing features. Threat Protection can block trackers or malicious sites and Double VPN routes traffic through two encrypted servers. NordWhisper, meanwhile, helps in tightly restricted environments. For anyone who treats privacy as a priority rather than a bonus, the difference between the two services is quite noticeable.

Streaming Performance

Provider	Netflix	Other platforms	Stability
AVG Secure VPN	Unblocks Netflix US occasionally	Limited success with BBC iPlayer, Hulu and Disney+	Streams may buffer; mixed results
NordVPN	Unblocks most Netflix libraries	Works with BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+ and Amazon Prime	Stable HD and 4K streaming

AVG Secure VPN does include optimized streaming servers, but accessing global platforms still feels like trial and error. Sometimes you get through, and sometimes the platform refuses the connection or forces lower video quality. If you only stream occasionally or you do not mind trying different locations until one works, it may be enough.

NordVPN generally performs better with streaming. It regularly unblocks platforms like BBC iPlayer or Disney+, and it maintains a stable connection even when switching to faraway libraries. If you are building your shortlist for a reliable “VPN für Streaming”, NordVPN usually ends up near the top. You can also compare other streaming-friendly options in our ExpressVPN vs CyberGhost guide.

Platform Compatibility

Provider	Desktop	Mobile	Browser/Other
AVG Secure VPN	Windows, macOS	Android, iOS	No browser extensions; no routers; no Linux
NordVPN	Windows, macOS, Linux	Android, iOS, ChromeOS	Browser extensions; router support; smart TVs

The apps from AVG Secure VPN cover the major platforms but skip important ones such as Linux and routers. The lack of router support means smart TVs, consoles and IoT devices cannot be protected unless they run apps themselves. This may be fine if you use only laptops and phones, but larger households will feel the gap.

NordVPN supports a wider range of devices, including routers and smart TVs. If you want a single VPN subscription to cover everything at home, NordVPN makes that easier. For a comparison of other providers with flexible device support, have a look at our OpenVPN vs Proton VPN review.

Performance in Censorship-Heavy Countries

Provider	China	Russia	Iran	Turkey
AVG Secure VPN	Limited; lacks obfuscation	Unreliable	Unreliable	Unreliable
NordVPN	Works with obfuscated servers	Generally reliable	Works but may be slower	Reliable

Countries with demanding internet controls require VPNs that can disguise the type of traffic they produce. AVG Secure VPN does not provide stealth modes or obfuscated servers, which results in frequent blocks and unstable connections in places like China or Iran. It can work occasionally, but you should not count on it.

NordVPN handles these regions much more effectively thanks to its obfuscated servers and special protocols. Although speeds may dip under heavy censorship, it remains functional for most users. If you travel regularly or you need a “VPN gegen Zensur”, NordVPN or another specialist provider is usually necessary. Our VyprVPN vs Hotspot Shield comparison goes deeper into this topic.

User Experience & Apps

Provider	Interface	Ease of use	Stability
AVG Secure VPN	Simple list of servers with a one-click connect button	Very easy to use with minimal configuration	Mostly stable with random drops on busy servers
NordVPN	Interactive map plus server list	Beginner-friendly yet offers deep customization	Highly stable

The apps from AVG Secure VPN are intentionally straightforward. You get a single list of locations, a big connect button and a handful of basic options. For people who dislike digging through settings, this simplicity may feel refreshing. The downside is a lack of customization. Advanced users may miss the ability to tweak protocols, create split-tunneling rules or fine-tune auto-connect behavior.

NordVPN tries to cater to both beginners and advanced users. Its map interface makes country selection feel intuitive, while the settings menu gives you access to split tunneling, kill switch behavior, protocol changes, auto-connect triggers and more. Stability is generally excellent, especially on NordLynx. If you want a VPN that grows with your needs rather than staying bare-bones, NordVPN offers more breathing room.

If what you truly prefer is an extremely simple experience where everything works out of the box, the Shellfire Box can encrypt your whole home network without installing separate apps. It is a compelling option for users who find complex VPN settings overwhelming.

Customer Support

Provider	Support channels	Response time	Resources
AVG Secure VPN	Email support and a basic knowledge base	Hours to days	Short FAQs with limited depth
NordVPN	24/7 live chat and email	Usually seconds to minutes	Large library of guides and tutorials

Support from AVG Secure VPN is adequate for general questions, although the lack of live chat means you may wait for an answer. The knowledge base is fairly brief and sometimes feels like it only covers the basics. For simple troubleshooting, it works fine; for more complicated issues, you might find yourself searching third-party sources.

NordVPN offers 24/7 live chat, faster responses and a wealth of detailed resources. If you run into problems with router setups, protocol configuration or streaming issues, having round-the-clock support is genuinely helpful. It is also a good safety net for users who have not dealt with VPNs before.

Additional Features

Provider	Notable extras
AVG Secure VPN	Specialized P2P and streaming servers; bank-grade encryption
NordVPN	Threat Protection, Meshnet, Double VPN, Onion over VPN, split tunneling, ad blocker

AVG Secure VPN focuses on core functionality. Other than its specialized servers for P2P and streaming, there are few extras. Features like a kill switch, split tunneling or protocol selection may vary depending on the platform. If you just want encryption and a simple way to stay safe on public Wi-Fi, this may be all you need, but heavy users will likely feel restricted.

NordVPN includes many additional security tools that you can use daily. Threat Protection alone blocks malware sites and trackers, which can noticeably clean up your browsing experience. Meshnet enables secure device-to-device connections, a feature that remote workers or gamers often appreciate. If you want a VPN that does more than encrypt traffic, NordVPN has much more to offer.

Shellfire’s VPN and Shellfire Box give users a middle path with straightforward apps, open ports, flexible server selection and optional hardware protection. They can be a smart alternative if you want something between AVG’s simplicity and NordVPN’s complete feature set.

VPN Use Cases: Best Options for Streaming, Gaming, Torrenting & More

Use case	AVG Secure VPN	NordVPN
Streaming	⭐ ⭐	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Torrenting / P2P	⭐ ⭐ ⭐	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Gaming	⭐ ⭐ ⭐	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Remote work	⭐ ⭐ ⭐	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Budget-friendly	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐	⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Censorship-heavy countries	⭐	⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Best VPN for Streaming

AVG Secure VPN can unblock Netflix US on a good day but tends to struggle with services like BBC iPlayer or Disney+. These inconsistencies are not ideal if streaming is a core reason you want a VPN. If your streaming needs are light or you only occasionally hop into foreign catalogs, AVG will work but may test your patience.

NordVPN is the safer pick for dedicated streamers. It reliably unlocks Netflix libraries worldwide and handles BBC iPlayer, Hulu and Disney+ with fewer interruptions. If streaming is a weekly habit rather than an occasional treat, the difference becomes obvious. Our Aura VPN vs NordVPN comparison explores this topic from another angle.

Best VPN for Torrenting / P2P

AVG Secure VPN supports P2P on specific servers and maintains good encryption, but the lack of a kill switch on iOS and limited privacy controls may concern more serious torrent users. For small or occasional downloads, speeds are fine.

NordVPN offers P2P-optimized servers, a reliable kill switch, no-logs guarantees and strong performance across most regions. This makes it more suitable for large downloads or frequent torrent activity. Curious about other P2P-oriented providers? Check out our McAfee VPN vs NordVPN breakdown.

Best VPN for Gaming

AVG Secure VPN has acceptable latency on nearby servers and can work for casual gaming. However, its smaller server network means you may encounter congested locations at peak times, which can raise ping or cause packet loss.

NordVPN typically offers lower latency, especially using NordLynx. Gamers can pick from many more nearby servers and often use NordVPN for DDoS protection and accessing region-locked titles. To explore more gaming-focused alternatives, see ExpressVPN vs IPVanish.

Best VPN for Remote Work

AVG Secure VPN can handle basic encryption needs when working on public Wi-Fi, but it lacks advanced features such as split tunneling, Meshnet or optional dedicated IPs. For simple remote tasks, it does the job.

NordVPN is better suited for professional use thanks to split tunneling, Meshnet and optional dedicated IP addresses that can simplify access to corporate resources. Its audited no-logs policy also helps companies meet compliance requirements. For more remote-work comparisons, read our Surfshark vs PIA review.

Best VPN for Budget-Conscious Users

AVG Secure VPN is reasonably priced and often bundled with AVG’s security suite, which can make it attractive for users already within the ecosystem. The trade-off comes in weaker streaming performance and fewer advanced features.

NordVPN charges a bit more but frequently runs promotions, giving users access to its full feature set at competitive long-term rates. For many, the added performance and privacy justify the price difference. Shellfire also provides affordable plans and hardware-based solutions that sit comfortably between ultra-basic and premium VPNs.

Best VPN for Censorship-Heavy Countries

AVG Secure VPN lacks obfuscation or stealth protocols, which makes it ineffective in restricted regions. If you plan to travel to countries with strict online controls, AVG is not reliable enough.

NordVPN uses obfuscated servers and multi-hop configurations that work in most censorship-heavy environments. If bypassing restrictions is important to you, NordVPN is the safer option. For more context, refer to our IVPN vs NordVPN deep dive.

Conclusion

AVG Secure VPN is a straightforward VPN designed for people who want easy protection without digging through pages of settings. It offers solid encryption, a clean interface and acceptable speeds for casual use. Still, its small server network, limited streaming reliability and basic feature set can become frustrating if you are expecting more than simple privacy on public Wi-Fi.

NordVPN stands on the other side of the spectrum with a wide server network, consistently fast speeds and strong security options. It performs reliably with streaming platforms, supports torrenting with dedicated servers and stays functional even in censorship-heavy regions. For users who rely heavily on their VPN or simply want a well-rounded service, NordVPN generally justifies the higher price through better features and performance.

If you find yourself looking for something between the simplicity of AVG and the advanced capabilities of NordVPN, Shellfire offers a balanced alternative. The Shellfire VPN provides user-friendly apps with flexible server options, while the Shellfire Box adds convenient router-level protection for your entire home network. Both solutions can be an appealing middle ground for users who want reliable privacy without managing too many technical settings.