Antivirus software companies have been around since the internet. However, the rapidly changing technology has often demanded the impossible of them. Thus, many antivirus programs couldn’t keep up with the times. However, one facet of the issue lies with the changing topography of the internet itself. Long gone are the days when the sole menace to our browsing accolades was the infestation of a virus that could crash our hardware.
Today, the primary threat is not a “PC virus,” but an intrusion into our online lives. Data has become valuable, and many entities are in the business of mining it. Sure, an antivirus can help, but it is not at the forefront of the issue—VPNs are. Recognizing this fact, many antivirus operatives can’t wait to tap this potentially lucrative market. Avast is one such name. However, they are a new face in the game. Thus, the product seems to be lacking and filled with errors. Today, we will learn to fix one such error: the Avast SecureLine VPN cannot connect issue.
Avast SecureLine VPN: Background
Avast SecureLine VPN is the latest iteration from the world-renowned brand Avast, in an attempt to invade the VPN market saturated by a few key players. Although Avast specializes in antivirus software, it is still too soon for them to try and compete with providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or CyberGhost VPN. However, they may be testing the waters before deciding when and how to take the big lunge. SecureLine VPN seems to be a decent probe, to be frank.
Although new, SecureLine has potential. It tests rather well for the security and privacy departments, but a glaring lack of features and an exhausting price tag pulls the product down. The somewhat intrusive logging policy also fails to help the case. However, the Avast SecureLine VPN offers a free 7-days trial version to appease users. Furthermore, it employs the standard 256-bit AES encryption to guarantee data safety. But that’s it. It doesn’t have exclusive or advanced features to boast. The lack of features makes the service feel empty.
SecureLine has over 700 VPN servers in 34 different countries. Not a lot, but a good enough opening. The speed offered is pretty good too. All in all, it is the base of the basic VPNs out there. At its core, the VPN is capable enough. However, the packaging is severely lacking, which is a big no in today’s environment. Given the price, users can find man alternatives that provide a far better user experience.
Furthermore, the added occurrence of errors makes it harder for the provider. Although most VPNs indeed have a few common issues, Avast is an emerging name in the VPN game and desperately needs a win. Thus, while the product isn’t inadequate, the lack of oomph has undoubtedly dropped the ball. We only hope Avast will upgrade its versions to fix these issues.
What is the issue when Avast SecureLine VPN cannot connect?
Connection issues aren’t news for VPNs. Most services have experienced erroneous clients or a tedious connection. Although sometimes the fault may lie with the provider, the consensus is that the problem stems from either human error or a lack of operational awareness. VPN that cannot connect is one of the top common issues a user faces. However, it doesn’t negate the fact it can be somewhat cumbersome to fix this.
If you are lucky and the issue is a result of human error, you can get your VPN up and running in a few minutes. Otherwise, it will be a long and agonizing wait for a fix. Thankfully, Avast offers a detailed solution to this error, which we will demonstrate in this article.
Avast SecureLine runs on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Furthermore, this problem can exist on any of these platforms. However, the good news is the fact that since it is a general concern, the solution is also applicable to any aforementioned platform.
But be advised: while our article may include some troubleshooting methods to approach connection errors on the Avast SecureLine VPN, they are by no means foolproof. If you need additional help, visit the official Avast VPN website or the Avast Support page.
General reasons behind the VPN can’t connect issue
There can be a great many justifiable issues behind a faulty VPN, from technical software client problems to simple human error. Given below are a few prevalent reasons behind the VPN cannot connect issue:
- Improper Internet connection
- Using outdated or corrupted versions of Avast utility
- Interference of third-party programs
- Full or overloaded server when establishing a connection
- Not using the appropriate subscription model of VPN
- Simultaneously running different VPN services
- Outdated hardware
- Firewall preventing access
- Insufficient memory on the device
- Jailbroken or rooted device
Fix Avast SecureLine VPN cannot connect issue
According to the official guidelines, fixing the connection error on the Avast SecureLine VPN is simple. Provided below are the tried and tested approaches to this issue. However, we implore you to contact customer support if you need further guidance. These are general troubleshooting methods:
1. Check internet connection
The first thing you need to do is make sure your internet is working appropriately. For this, you will need to test out your internet and the Wi-Fi router. You can do so by disconnecting the internet and then connecting it again. Similarly, you can turn off your router for a minute before rebooting it. If necessary, you can switch out your router for a wired connection. Lastly, you can manually troubleshoot the internet connection via your PC. All you need to do is:
- Open the Run dialogue by pressing the Windows key + R on your keyboard.
- Enter the word “Control Panel” and click on OK.
- From the menu, locate and click on Troubleshooting.
- Bring your cursor to the option Internet Connections and right-click on it.
- Click Run as Administrator.
- Follow the options to troubleshoot your internet connection automatically.
2. Change VPN server
You can also try to change your VPN servers. Sometimes an overcrowded server can reject connection due to bandwidth limitation. To change your VPN servers, all you need to do is:
- First, run the Avast SecureLine VPN on your device.
- Then, on the main menu, find Change Locations.
- Click it, and from the list of available servers, select somewhere else.
3. Disconnect other VPN services and check subscription status
At this point, you should check the status of your subscription. If you have run out of time, by re-subscribing, you can continue the use of VPN services.
If you have multiple VPNs running on the same device, you can often encounter this error. Either make sure that you have successfully uninstalled the other VPNs (including leftover files) or block their services from running in the background. Two VPNs running at the same time will enter into conflict. Thus, make sure you employ a single VPN at a time.
4. Reboot system
Sometimes insufficient RAM/ROM memory or cache files can prevent apps from running on the device. The simplest out will be to restart them. It will refresh the memory and cache to make space for further use. Although it may sound implausible, sometimes the simplest of solutions work wonders.
5. Update, uninstall/reinstall client
A corrupted or outdated app will result in issues. Make sure to download your VPN clients from official sources. Never use third-party applications that claim to be “cracked” versions. If your VPN client is outdated, you can try to update it. Sometimes providers fix current issues in future patches. Updating can effectively be a solution. Or, you can uninstall the client and reinstall it if you think the earlier installation was erroneous.
6. Check Firewall
Maybe your firewall is blocking the VPN access due to some reason. Now, one solution is to disable the firewall. However, we strongly urge users not to do so. A firewall is an essential component of your comprehensive digital protection. Disabling a firewall will open you to potential threats. If you are sure your firewall is causing the VPN not to connect, you should contact Avast Customer Care.