The Best Antivirus with VPN Protection in 2024

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Cybercrime now costs the world $8 trillion a year, so it’s ever more important to have multi-layered digital protection in place, whether you’re a business owner or an individual internet user. Investing in the best antivirus with VPN features can make a huge difference to your digital security, as it will block malware, secure your connection, and protect your privacy online.

Many of the top products on the market now combine antivirus and VPN software to provide robust defenses against viruses, malware, unsafe websites, and third parties attempting to collect your private data.

To help you make an informed choice, I’ve thoroughly tested the top solutions following our comprehensive assessment methodology and identified a shortlist of the best antiviruses with VPNs.

The Best Antivirus-VPN Software Tested by Our Experts

TotalAV – Best Antivirus With VPN Overall

Free Scan Included
VISIT SITE

Norton – Best Antivirus with VPN for Device Security

30-Day Free Trial
VISIT SITE

NordVPN Threat Protection – Fastest VPN With an Antivirus Feature

7-Day Free Trial
VISIT SITE

Surfshark Antivirus – Best VPN and Antivirus for Online Privacy

7-Day Free VPN Trial
VISIT SITE

McAfee – Best Antivirus VPN Solution for Extra Security Features

30-Day Free Trial
VISIT SITE

Avast – Best Free Antivirus with VPN

Free-Forever Plan
VISIT SITE

Intego – Best Mac Antivirus with VPN

30-Day Free Trial
VISIT SITE

Trend Micro – Best Antivirus and VPN for ChromeOS

30-Day Free Trial
VISIT SITE

The Top 8 Antiviruses with VPN Ranked

  1. TotalAV – Best antivirus with VPN overall
  2. Norton – Best antivirus with VPN for device security
  3. NordVPN Threat Protection – Fastest VPN with an antivirus feature
  4. Surfshark Antivirus – Best VPN and antivirus for online privacy
  5. McAfee – Best antivirus VPN solution for extra security features
  6. Avast – Best free antivirus with VPN
  7. Intego – Best Mac antivirus with VPN
  8. Trend Micro – Best antivirus and VPN for ChromeOS

Best Antivirus Software with VPN Reviewed

In my reviews of the best antivirus products with VPN, I’ll cover their features, functionality, and pricing, assessing the options based on our comprehensive testing methodology. This will provide all the information you need to find the right product for your needs.

TotalAV – Best Antivirus With VPN Overall

TotalAV antivirus VPN logo

Starting Price $19/year
Free Version/Trial Free Scans
Key Features Comprehensive Antivirus Scans, Password Manager, Unlimited VPN
Testing Results Protection: 5.5/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6
VPN Server Network 50+ servers in 35+ countries
Why We Picked It

TotalAV is the best antivirus with VPN for PC users, thanks to its powerful combination of malware protection and reliable VPN service.

It consistently scores high marks in independent lab tests for its antivirus capabilities while also providing solid security and privacy for your online activities.

Features
  • Real-time protection – TotalAV’s antivirus offers real-time protection for PCs against a wide range of threats, including viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. Its daily updated virus definitions ensure complete protection against the latest threats.
  • Scans – The antivirus also includes multiple scan options, including quick scans, full system scans, and custom scans, allowing users to customize their security checks.
  • VPN server network – The integrated Safe Browsing VPN provides a solid foundation for online privacy, though it doesn’t have the largest server network compared to competitors like NordVPN. With over 50 server locations in more than 35+ countries, though, it offers sufficient options for most users to bypass geo-restrictions while remaining anonymous online.
  • VPN usability – The VPN feature’s one-click connect feature is especially useful and makes it easy to get started for PC users who are new to VPN technology.
  • Security tools – TotalAV also includes the WebShield extension, which blocks malicious websites and third-party trackers, and system optimization tools, including a disk cleaner and startup manager. There’s also a Silent Mode to minimize disruptions while gaming or streaming.
Pricing

TotalAV’s Antivirus Pro plan starts at $19/year. This includes core antivirus features and protects four devices. Upgrading adds a VPN, a password manager, and support for six to eight devices.

TotalAV also offers free scans, but the 30-day money-back guarantee allows you to try the full product.

TotalAV Antivirus Pro $19/year
TotalAV Internet Security $39/year
TotalAV Total Security $49/year
Who It's Best For

TotalAV is perfect for PC users who want a comprehensive security solution that combines a strong antivirus with a user-friendly VPN. It also offers excellent value for individuals and families looking to protect multiple devices.

Pros

  • Real-time threat detection
  • Unlimited VPN
  • Minimal impact on system performance
  • Affordable pricing
  • User-friendly interface

Cons

  • VPN has limited server locations
TotalAV
9.6
Review

 

Norton – Best Antivirus with VPN for Device Security

Norton antivirus logo

Starting Price $39.99/year
Free Version/Trial 30-day trial
Key Features Antivirus Scans, Virus Protection Promise, Capable VPN
Testing Results Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6
VPN Server Network 1,500+ servers in 29+ countries
Why We Picked It

Norton offers a comprehensive set of antivirus and VPN features, along with unlimited device coverage with higher plans, making it a great choice for keeping your devices secure.

Additionally, Norton’s Virus Protection Promise guarantees the removal of every virus on your device, or you’ll get your money back.

Features
  • Malware detection – Norton ensures your devices are fully protected and is able to consistently block 100% of zero-day threats and widespread malware, as confirmed by independent assessments from AV-Test.
  • Real-time protection and firewall – Norton’s real-time protection feature continuously scans for unusual activity and suspicious files and programs, while the Smart Firewall acts as a robust first line of defense.
  • VPN server network – Norton’s VPN uses AES-256 encryption to protect your privacy. With some 1,500 servers in 29+ countries, its network isn’t as extensive as those of some competitors – though it beats TotalAV for server count.
  • VPN drawbacks – While it enables access to geo-restricted content, the Norton VPN doesn’t have the best P2P support, and the kill switch and split tunneling features aren’t available on iOS.
  • Security tools – Additional features like a password manager, secure storage, webcam protection, a vulnerability scanner, and dark web monitoring – scanning the web for leaks of your personal information – provide comprehensive protection for you and your device.
Pricing

Norton’s second-tier Norton 360 Standard plan includes its VPN and costs $39.99/year. Higher-tier plans add advanced security and identity protection features, plus additional cloud storage.

Norton offers a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 30-day trial, allowing you to test the features across your devices.

Norton 360 Standard $39.99/year
Norton 360 Deluxe $49.99/year
Norton 360 with LifeLock Select $99.99/year
Norton 360 with LifeLock Advantage $191.88/year
Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus $299.88/year
Who It's Best For

Norton Antivirus is ideal for users who need comprehensive protection and value the benefits of an integrated VPN-antivirus solution. In addition, the Virus Protection Promise means you can have complete confidence in the security software.

For further analysis of Norton and comparisons with other leading products, see our Norton vs McAfee guide.

Pros

  • Consistently blocks 100% of malware threats
  • Comprehensive security features as standard
  • Excellent device optimization tools
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
  • Virus Protection Promise

Cons

  • System scans can be resource-intensive
  • VPN not included in the entry-level plan
Norton
9.3
Review

 

NordVPN Threat Protection – Fastest VPN With an Antivirus Feature

NordVPN logo

Starting Price $53.87/year
Free Version/Trial 7-day trial on Android
Key Features Web Security, Secure VPN, Global VPN Network
Testing Results Not Tested
VPN Server Network 6,300+ servers in 111+ countries
Why We Picked It

NordVPN Threat Protection combines one of the best VPN services with effective web protection capabilities.

Its extensive global server network ensures fast and secure connections, while the antivirus features provide solid defenses against online threats.

Features
  • Proprietary VPN protocol – NordVPN offers the proprietary NordLynx protocol, which is built on the WireGuard framework and delivers fast connections without compromising on security.
  • VPN server network – NordVPN’s RAM-only global server network includes over 6,300 servers in 111 countries, allowing users to access content from anywhere in the world while maintaining fast and stable connections. NordVPN also supports torrenting with a range of servers optimized for P2P file sharing.
  • Security features – NordVPN Threat Protection scans downloads for malware, ensuring threats are stopped before they can harm your device. It also blocks ads, trackers, and malicious websites, providing additional layers of protection against potential threats. The Ultimate plan also includes an impressive 1TB of encrypted storage.
  • Security drawbacks – NordVPN does lack some features, such as on-demand scans and a firewall. Android, iOS, and Linux users can also only use the limited Lite version of the tool.
  • Security tools – Other features include the NordPass password manager, which is a great addition that securely stores and organizes login credentials, and a data breach scanner, which monitors the dark web for signs of compromised personal information.
Pricing

NordVPN Threat Protection Pro is available with the second-tier Plus plan, starting at $3.99/month with a two-year subscription, which supports up to 10 simultaneous connections. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

24 months 12 months 1 month
NordVPN Plus $3.99/month $5.99/month $13.99/month
NordVPN Ultimate $5.99/month $7.99/month $15.99/month
Who It's Best For

The combination of a fast, global VPN network and effective web security protection makes NordVPN Threat Protection ideal for a wide range of online activities, including streaming, torrenting, and gaming. As a speedy, secure VPN, NordVPN can’t be beaten, and it’s at the top of the list of the best VPN-antivirus software products.

Pros

  • High-speed VPN with extensive global server network
  • Excellent VPN security features
  • Supports ten devices simultaneously
  • User-friendly interface
  • Top-notch privacy and security

Cons

  • Full security features only for Windows and macOS
  • Lacks some advanced antivirus features
NordVPN Threat Protection
9.0
Review

 

Surfshark Antivirus – Best VPN and Antivirus for Online Privacy

Surfshark VPN logo

Starting Price $36.32/year
Free Version/Trial 7-day VPN trial on iOS, Android, and macOS
Key Features Antivirus Scans, High-Speed VPN, Unlimited VPN Connections, Email Masking
Testing Results Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6
VPN Server Network 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries
Why We Picked It

Surfshark’s lightweight antivirus and industry-leading VPN work together seamlessly to safeguard your privacy online without slowing your device down.

Its strict no-logs policy, independently audited by Deloitte, ensures your online activities remain confidential.

Features
  • Antivirus scans – Surfshark offers a full antivirus product that can proactively detect and block malware and phishing attempts before they can compromise your device. The provider’s threat database is updated every three hours to ensure that even brand-new threats are stopped.
  • Security tools – Surfshark’s Webcam Protection feature stops untrusted apps from accessing your camera, while the CleanWeb tool blocks ads, trackers, and suspicious websites to limit your potential exposure to malicious content. There’s also an ad and pop-up blocker, a private search engine, and a data breach monitoring tool. However, as with NordVPN Threat Protection, Surfshark Antivirus doesn’t currently include its own firewall.
  • VPN security – Surfshark uses RAM-only servers and offers military-grade AES-256 encryption and secure protocols like WireGuard to ensure your online activity remains completely private.
  • VPN server network – Surfshark also offers extensive coverage with its global network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries, and its double VPN and obfuscation servers provide extra security and privacy, preventing your ISP from detecting that you’re using a VPN.
  • Email masking – The Alternative ID feature is also very useful and isn’t included with competitors like TotalAV. It creates a full fake online identity for you, including an email address and working phone number, so you can sign up for services without exposing your real personal details.
Pricing

Surfshark One, which includes the antivirus and VPN, starts at $2.69/month with a two-year subscription. The antivirus covers five devices, and the VPN offers unlimited connections.

Upgrading adds tools for erasing your details from databases and people-search sites. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee, but free trials are limited to macOS, iOS, and Android.

24 months + 3 12 months + 3 1 month
Surfshark One $2.69/month $3.19/month $15.95/month
Surfshark One+ $4.29/month $5.09/month $17.95/month
Who It's Best For

Surfshark’s VPN and antivirus combo and its excellent security features make it a great choice for protecting sensitive online activities like torrenting and banking. If you’re concerned about privacy, Surfshark is perfect, and it’s side-by-side with NordVPN as the best VPN with antivirus features.

You can refer to our comprehensive guide to the best Windows antivirus programs for more information.

Pros

  • Comprehensive online protection
  • VPN for unlimited devices
  • User-friendly interface
  • Affordable pricing
  • Real-time protection

Cons

  • Lacks some advanced antivirus features
  • No iOS antivirus app
Surfshark Antivirus
9.5
Review

 

McAfee – Best Antivirus VPN Solution for Extra Security Features

McAfee antivirus logo

Starting Price $39.99/year
Free Version/Trial 30-day trial
Key Features Excellent Security Tools, VPN, McAfee Protection Score, Firewall
Testing Results Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6
VPN Server Network 2,000+ servers in 50+ countries
Why We Picked It

McAfee’s entry-level plan includes a great antivirus VPN solution with a wide range of extra security features, covering antivirus protection and a built-in VPN, and you can upgrade for a password manager, identity monitoring, and lots more. The antivirus also gets perfect scores under independent testing.

Features
  • The McAfee Protection Score – McAfee Antivirus provides a Protection Score that offers a clear overview of your security status. It highlights vulnerabilities and urgent threats and offers step-by-step guidance on resolving issues.
  • Firewall – The customizable firewall is a first line of defense and filters incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent data interception and block malware.
  • Web protection – Scam Protection, meanwhile, is powered by AI and identifies and blocks malicious websites, fraudulent texts, and social media messages.
  • VPN server network – McAfee’s VPN has a network of 2,000+ servers across 48 countries, enabling secure and anonymous internet usage. It uses AES-256 encryption and includes a kill switch, providing comprehensive protection against IP leaks and tracking.
  • Security tools – Additional features include a social privacy manager, personal data cleanup, and online account cleanup tools to help users maintain privacy on social media and remove personal data from data broker websites. These tools set McAfee apart from many competitors and go above and beyond for identity protection.
Pricing

McAfee’s cheapest plan starts at $39.99/year and offers built-in antivirus protection, the VPN, and identity monitoring for one device.

Higher-tier plans expand coverage to unlimited devices, from just $49.99/year, and include features like personal data cleanup tools and identity theft protection. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 30-day free trial.

McAfee Essential (two-year plan) $39.99/year
McAfee Premium $49.99/year
McAfee Premium Family $64.99/year
McAfee Advanced $89.99/year
McAfee Advanced Family $119.99/year
McAfee Ultimate $199.99/year
McAfee Ultimate Family $219.99/year
Who It's Best For

McAfee Antivirus provides an affordable antivirus and VPN package with an excellent range of features. It’s also ideal for families and businesses that will get value from the ability to support unlimited devices with a single subscription.

Pros

  • Comprehensive security suite
  • VPN included with the cheapest plan
  • Robust web attack prevention and malware detection rates
  • Mid-tier plans cover unlimited devices

Cons

  • No cloud storage
  • Relatively basic VPN
McAfee
8.5
Review

 

Avast – Best Free Antivirus with VPN

Avast antivirus logo

Starting Price $35.88/year
Free Version/Trial Free plan, 30-day antivirus trial, 60-day VPN trial
Key Features Free Plan, Antivirus Scans, System Optimization, VPN
Testing Results Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6
VPN Server Network 700 servers in 36+ countries
Why We Picked It

Avast offers one of the best free antivirus solutions with a reliable VPN service. It’s an outstanding free package that also includes phishing protection and data breach monitoring.

Features
  • Free plan – Avast’s free antivirus plan is packed with features that rival many paid alternatives, and its real-time threat detection can quickly identify and neutralize malware.
  • Free security features – The free plan also includes a Wi-Fi inspector that scans your network for vulnerabilities and a privacy manager to control what details apps and social media platforms can access.
  • Paid security features – Upgrading gets you an advanced firewall, webcam protection, and broader system optimization tools, among many other features.
  • VPN server network – Avast SecureLine, the integrated VPN, enhances your privacy by encrypting internet traffic. With access to 700 servers across 36 countries, it allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and maintain your online anonymity. However, compared to dedicated VPN services like Surfshark, its capabilities for streaming and P2P connections are relatively limited, and your data is capped to 5GB/week with the free plan.
Pricing

The cheapest Avast plan is Avast One Silver Device Protection, for $35.88/year, but you get a lot more with the Avast Premium Security package for $49.99/year for one device or ten devices for $69.99/year.

There’s also a 30-day trial for the antivirus, a 60-day trial for the VPN, and the free plan on offer.

Avast Free Antivirus Free
Avast One Silver Individual (for security, privacy, or performance) $35.88/year per module
Avast One Silver Family (for security, privacy, or performance) – 30 devices $59.88/year per module
Avast Premium Security – 1 device $49.99/year
Avast Premium Security – 10 devices $69.99/year
Avast Ultimate Security – 1 device $49.99/year
Avast Ultimate Security – 10 devices $69.99/year
Avast One Gold Individual $83.88/year
Avast One Gold Family – 30 devices $131.88/year

For additional comparison of free products, see our complete Avast vs AVG guide.

Who It's Best For

Avast is ideal if you’re looking for a budget antivirus and VPN solution at a price that can’t be beaten. This makes it a great fit for students, freelancers, and small households.

It’s also considered to be one of the best Android antivirus products with a free plan.

Pros

  • Excellent free antivirus package
  • Perfect independent testing scores
  • Minimal system impact
  • 60-day free VPN trial

Cons

  • Free VPN limited to 5GB/week
  • Confusing pricing
Avast
8.6
Review

 

Intego – Best Mac Antivirus with VPN

Intego antivirus logo

Starting Price $75/year
Free Version/Trial 30-day trial
Key Features Mac Antivirus Scans, Mac Firewall, VPN
Testing Results Protection: 5.5/6, Performance: 5/6, Usability: 6/6
VPN Server Network 35,000+ servers in 83 countries
Why We Picked It

Intego’s antivirus and VPN package is optimized for macOS, delivering smooth performance and protection against cyber threats. Its features are specifically designed to address the security challenges of Mac users, making it ideal for Apple fans.

Features
  • Antivirus and firewall – Intego’s VirusBarrier tool provides real-time scanning and scheduled scans to identify and quarantine malware. The advanced NetBarrier firewall monitors inbound and outbound network traffic, meanwhile, to prevent data breaches. Unlike most competitors, Intego’s firewall offers targeted and effective protection for macOS.
  • VPN server network – Intego’s VPN is a standout feature. It has an impressive network of 35,000+ servers in 83 countries, putting it among the largest VPN server networks available. All its servers allow torrenting (P2P), and they’re also optimized for streaming.
  • VPN security – The Privacy Protection VPN uses AES-256 encryption to secure your connection and includes key features like a kill switch and split tunneling. Intego does have a somewhat vague privacy policy, though.
  • System optimization – Intego also offers a range of tools to enhance your Mac’s performance. The Mac Washing Machine feature helps optimize your system by removing junk files, duplicates, and rarely-used applications, freeing up valuable storage space.
Pricing

Intego’s Mac Premium Bundle X9 + VPN plan starts at $75/year with a two-year subscription and offers a full suite of antivirus protection and VPN services. You can also add cover for additional devices.

Intego provides a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 30-day trial, though it doesn’t offer a free version.

Who It's Best For

Intego’s offering is an ideal solution for Mac users who want a security solution specifically designed for their operating system.

Combining antivirus, VPN, and system optimization tools, it’s a comprehensive package, and it’s rated as one of the best antiviruses for Mac available today.

Pros

  • Mac-optimized security package
  • Large server network
  • Includes system cleanup tools and parental controls
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Relatively expensive
  • No mobile apps
  • Only for Mac and Windows devices
Intego
8.6
Review

 

Trend Micro – Best Antivirus and VPN for ChromeOS

Trend Micro antivirus logo

Starting Price $54.95/year
Free Version/Trial 30-day trial
Key Features Antivirus Scans, VPN, Password Manager
Testing Results Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6
VPN Server Network 17+ countries
Why We Picked It

Trend Micro is one of the best antivirus and VPN security solutions for Chromebook users, with its support for ChromeOS devices.

Unlike some competitors that only offer Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS apps, Trend Micro provides a dedicated app in the Chrome Web Store.

Features
  • Antivirus and firewall – The Trend Micro antivirus provides comprehensive protection for ChromeOS users and uses AI to detect and block malware, ransomware, and phishing attempts in real-time. The antivirus has a similar interface across its ChromeOS, Windows, and Mac versions.
  • VPN server network – Trend Micro includes the built-in VPN Proxy One Pro service. It has a relatively limited network of servers, though, with servers available in some 17 countries. This may restrict access to geo-blocked content and impact connection speeds for users in certain regions.
  • VPN security features – The VPN also lacks some advanced features like a kill switch, unlike competitors such as Surfshark, making it less reliable when it comes to security.
  • Security features – Trend Micro offers various web protection features that integrate with Chrome and block malicious websites and attachments. In addition, its Pay Guard feature provides a secure browser for online banking and shopping.
Pricing

The Trend Micro Premium Security Suite costs $54.95/year and covers ten devices, including Chromebooks. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It's Best For

Trend Micro is the perfect solution for Chromebook users and families protecting multiple devices.

It comes with a wide range of security tools, though it’s not necessarily the cheapest option or the most powerful VPN provider.

Pros

  • Excellent malware detection scores
  • Dedicated ChromeOS app
  • Secure browser for online finance
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Lacks a VPN kill switch
  • Browser extension could be improved
  • Unclear number of servers
Trend Micro
9.1
Review

 

Best VPN and Antivirus Bundles Compared

Now, let’s look at the different antivirus and VPN packages side-by-side.

Provider Starting Price Testing Results VPN Servers / Countries Max Devices Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee
TotalAV $19/year Protection: 5.5/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6 50+, 35+ 8 Free Scans 30 days
Norton $39.99/year Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6 1,500+, 29+ Unlimited 30-day trial 60 days
NordVPN Threat Protection $53.87/year Not Tested 6,300+, 111+ 10 7-day trial on Android 30 days
Surfshark Antivirus $36.32/year Protection: 6/6, Performance: 5.5/6, Usability: 6/6 3,200+, 100+ 5 7-day VPN trial on iOS, Android, macOS 30 days
McAfee $39.99/year Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6 2,000+, 50+ Unlimited 30-day trial 30 days
Avast $35.88/year Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6 700, 36+ 30 Free plan, 30-day antivirus trial, 60-day VPN trial 30 days
Intego $75/year Protection: 5.5/6, Performance: 5/6, Usability: 6/6 35,000+, 83 5 30-day trial 30 days
Trend Micro $54.95/year Protection: 6/6, Performance: 6/6, Usability: 6/6 17 countries 10 30-day trial 30 days
Methodology

How We Review And Test Antivirus Software

15 Antiviruses Tested

20 Datapoints Measured

300+ Hours Testing

500+ User Reviews Read

We base our recommendations on first-hand experience and in-depth testing. All the Antivirus products we suggest, have been tested based on the following criteria:

  • Core Security Features: We make sure that the antivirus software is fully equipped with features like real-time protection, scanning, a firewall, web protection, and more.
  • Malware Detection Rates: We test malware detection rates ourselves by running both in-depth and quick scans on our devices. Additionally, we check independent lab tests.
  • Compatibility: We check which devices and operating systems the antivirus software is compatible with. Often, different-looking dashboards and slightly different packages of features may be available.
  • Performance Impact: A reliable and functional antivirus should not slow down your device significantly. So, we examine our device performance with and without the antivirus running.
  • Customer Experience: Alongside our own experience, we are curious to know what real users have to say regarding the services. So, we’ve scoured the web for feedback on each of our tested antiviruses.
  • Value for Money: We always consider value for money and how much each product is offering for the set price point.

Antivirus vs VPN – What’s the Difference and Do You Need Both?

Antivirus and VPN tools are often seen as unrelated cyber security products, but the two work well together and can ensure well-rounded online security. But what do they actually do, and what is the difference between a VPN and an antivirus?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) masks a user’s online identity, obscures their IP address, and offers protection from third-party tracking when browsing online. An antivirus, on the other hand, stops viruses and other malicious software from infiltrating your device and damaging the operating system.

Both solutions offer some protection when using the Internet. A VPN routes your internet traffic through encrypted tunnels, while an antivirus protects your computer from malware that might steal your files or damage your device.

By using a VPN and antivirus in combination, users can secure their connection while guarding against malicious activity. Because of this, you should ideally have both a VPN and antivirus tools to provide comprehensive internet security.

Should You Get a VPN-Antivirus Bundle?

Many antivirus security suites offer some VPN features, and many VPNs include anti-malware tools. Both sets of providers often also offer password managers, ad blocking, and identity protection tools. For complete online security, this can seem ideal.

However, while Surfshark and NordVPN are two of the best VPNs available, they don’t provide quite as comprehensive security features as the top security providers − and leading antivirus firms like TotalAV, Norton, McAfee, and Avast don’t match the service of premium Virtual Private Networks.

Given this, it’s worth weighing up your priorities − do you want a good overall level of device security and to occasionally use a VPN, or are lightning-fast, encrypted connections the most important thing for you?

If you want rock-solid security and a substantial global server network, you may want to buy two solutions to ensure you have the very best products in each category. For further analysis, check out our guides to the best VPNs and the best antivirus software.

Features to Consider When Picking the Best Antivirus With VPN

With over 450,000 new cases of malware and potentially unwanted applications released every day, having a reliable security system in place is increasingly important. When selecting an antivirus package, whether you’re looking at TotalAV or Bitdefender Antivirus, take these factors into account for internet security with a VPN:

BudgetFeaturesPerformance ImpactServer Count/LocationsNumber of Devices

VPN + Antivirus Cost – Many VPN and antivirus software packages offer a range of plans. Consider what best fits your budget while still offering the protection you need to ensure you get a good deal.

And remember: don’t settle for a budget product if it won’t do the job.

Features – You should consider what AV and VPN features are included with each package. This will help you determine the best antivirus-VPN combo for your individual needs.

Are there parental controls available, for example? If you want the best antivirus with VPN and password manager functionality, on the other hand, then TotalAV, Norton, and NordVPN are all excellent picks.

Most leading antiviruses will include a firewall, but check out our antivirus vs firewall guide on the precise differences between the two.

Performance Impact – When using a VPN alongside antivirus software, it’s worth taking into account its impact on performance. Antivirus software secures your device but will add to the processing load, however slightly.

The best antivirus software with a VPN will strike the right balance between security and speed and have minimal system impact.

Server Count/Locations – The size of the VPN server network and its distribution around the world is an important factor when comparing VPNs.

Being able to select specific locations and having nearby servers will ensure that you can get fast connections and access the services you need.

Number of Devices – When choosing an antivirus, consider the number of devices you plan to cover with the VPN. Being able to add more devices is better, of course, and will mean you can protect your whole digital ecosystem or add your family’s devices to your subscription.

How to Use an Antivirus with a VPN

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started with TotalAV and use its VPN functionality.

  1. Sign Up for TotalAV

    Visit TotalAV and sign up for a subscription. You’ll need to select the product option and then “Antivirus Pro.” Next, click on “Protect Your PC Now.” You’ll then be directed to “Buy Now” and to a payment page.

    <strong>Sign Up for TotalAV</strong>
  2. Install TotalAV

    You can now get on with the download process and install TotalAV on your system. Click on the downloaded file to continue the installation.

    <strong>Install TotalAV</strong>
  3. Run TotalAV

    Next, you need to click on the icon that appears on your desktop to open the program − and you’re ready to go.

    <strong>Run TotalAV</strong>
  4. Turn on the VPN

    With TotalAV up and running, click on the fingerprint icon on the left, select VPN, choose the country you’d like to connect to and click “Connect” − and you’re online, with TotalAV anonymizing your connection.

    <strong>Turn on the VPN</strong>
  5. Run a Virus Scan

    You might also want to run a virus scan. For this, go to “Malware Protection” and then “Malware Scan“. You can then select the kind of scan you want to run on your system.

    <strong>Run a Virus Scan</strong>

 

Can I Use a Free Antivirus with a VPN?

Avast and McAfee are the best free antivirus products on my list of the top antivirus services with VPN – but only Avast offers antivirus and VPN protection on a free plan.

Free options generally offer limited VPN features and usually only one or two server locations. VPN connections may also be slower and have higher latency than those on paid plans.

These plans rarely offer additional security features that premium antivirus programs with VPN services do, such as online banking protection, parental controls, integrated firewalls, and ransomware protection.

Most of these free plans also offer very little monthly bandwidth, and they only provide support through their help pages and forums, with technical support being a restricted paid feature.

For robust protection against malware and computer viruses and a scalable VPN solution – along with all the extra features you get with a premium antivirus plan – it’s best to opt for a paid subscription rather than focus on a free version.

Conclusion – What’s the Best Antivirus with VPN Features?

If you’re looking for the best, most cost-effective solution to improve your online security, you should strongly consider using a VPN and antivirus combo product. This will shield you from online threats, like viruses and malware, and hide your activities from your ISP, third-party advertisers, and malicious individuals.

While you can look for antivirus and VPN services separately, a bundled product like TotalAV will offer far better value for money. TotalAV includes a password manager and ransomware protection, and its starting offer makes it one of the cheapest products on the market.

TotalAV
9.6
Review

FAQs

Which antivirus has built-in VPN?

Can an antivirus and a VPN work together?

Does VPN protect you from viruses?

Are standalone VPNs better than ones sold with antiviruses?

What is the best antivirus with VPN for Android?

NordVPN vs McAfee – which is best?

Does NordVPN have antivirus?

Which antivirus comes with unlimited VPN?

What’s the best antivirus with a VPN for Mac?

Jerry Makenzie
Technology Journalist
Jerry Makenzie
Technology Journalist

Jerry is a technology writer with over four years of experience, complemented by a CompTIA Security+ certification and a Bachelor's degree in English Language & Literature. His expertise covers cybersecurity, cloud computing, emerging tech trends, and digital transformation. Jerry's background as a Technology Writer at U Green has sharpened his ability to effectively communicate technical information, ensuring that even the most complex subjects are presented with clarity. Jerry's passion for technology stems from his curiosity about how things work. He loves deconstructing new products, apps, and services to understand their inner workings and impact on users' lives. When he's not…

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