Alex Mitchell
Husain Parvez
Antivirus software and VPNs are two essential parts of the cybersecurity equation. Fortunately, most well-known VPNs with antivirus offer VPN support on their security suites. VPNs are widely known for protecting your data from online hackers, ISPs, and other third parties. Besides with VPNs you can enjoy other benefits such as the ability to bypass geo-restrictions on international streaming services and restricted content. It is important to select providers that offer reliable antivirus with a free VPN rather than choosing a random service, as it can affect your data privacy, device safety, and network protection.
Hence, I tested various antivirus and VPN services for over 90 hours. My review dives into their performance, security, privacy, and other areas. You can now go through this article and find the best service that is suitable for your needs. Read more…
BEST Antivirus with VPN
1) TotalAV
Best Overall
TotalAV is among the top choices for antivirus software, including a VPN. I found out that this antivirus software offers a powerful VPN at a reasonable price. It provided me with complete protection against threats like viruses, malware, spyware, and adware. I was impressed with TotalAV’s Safe Browsing VPN, which provides unlimited data and access to 70+ servers across 30+ countries. It helped me unblock popular streaming services such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer without issues. I particularly liked that it supports up to six devices at once, offering great flexibility for my needs.
TotalAV offers all the essential features of an antivirus app. These include anti-phishing protection, DNS leak protection, and an online security suite against identity theft. It also offers built-in firewall protection against hackers using an external network connection.
Features:
- Continuous Scanning: I benefited from its real-time protection, which continuously scans my machine for threats and is enabled by default. This makes sure I am immediately alerted about any malicious attacks and issues.
- Ransomware Protection: The Ransomware protection safeguards your devices against malicious ransomware attacks and data encryption threats.
- WebShield Security: The WebShield plugin helped me avoid harmful websites by preventing me from browsing them unknowingly.
- Online Identity Protection: It has safe browsing features that protect your online identity, making sure you have privacy while browsing the internet.
- System Cleanup: The system tune-up feature helped me remove unnecessary files, improving my device’s overall performance and efficiency.
- VPN Security: The on-the-go VPN kept me secure from unsafe open Wi-Fi networks, protecting my data.
- Password Management: The password manager securely stores your passwords, which allows you to easily access them when needed.
- Kill Switch: According to my research, TotalAV has a kill switch to safeguard your data if a VPN connection is lost.
- No Log Policy: TotalAV’s no log policy stops the platform from collecting user information, such as the websites you browse and the data you download.
Pros
Cons
Protection Against Viruses:
TotalAV performs very well in independent tests for malware eradication. This VPN protection software stops nearly all of the assaults that are four weeks old and approximately 97% of zero-day attacks.
As per my research, the antivirus scanner has high virus detection rates. It includes on-demand and real-time detection, anti-phishing, and system optimization functions. Avira technology powers a significant portion of the antivirus software.
Pricing:
TotalAV with a VPN is available for $99/year for four devices through the Antivirus Pro plan. The platform offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
I could also upgrade to Internet Security or Total Security plans, which renew at $129 and $149/year, respectively. The Internet Security plan accommodates five devices, while the Total Security plan accommodates six.
Bottom Line:
TotalAV offers a robust and comprehensive protection suite using powerful antivirus technology. I was impressed with it as it provides a strong defense against malware, phishing schemes, viruses, trojans, and ransomware.
Lifetime Free Basic Plan
2) NordVPN
Best VPN with FREE Antivirus
NordVPN, based in Panama, is among the top VPNs on the market. I tested this VPN and discovered that it works on many devices, including streaming sticks, smart TVs, desktops, and smartphones. Throughout my assessment, I noted that all devices’ setup and use are consistent and easy. It has a camouflage mode, which is helpful in countries with stringent regulations since it conceals that you’re using a VPN.
NordVPN offers unlimited bandwidth, allowing me to enjoy smooth streaming and torrenting. I was impressed by its ability to access top streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max. With support for up to ten simultaneous device connections and features like a kill switch and split tunneling, it provided me with top-notch security and flexibility for my online activities. Although some regions may have occasional speed dips, this shouldn’t substantially impact your device’s functioning. I recommend connecting to servers that are close to your location if you want the fastest speeds.
Features:
- Global Server Access: I could access 6400+ RAM-powered servers across 111 nations, ensuring secure and private internet access globally. Nord VPN’s RAM-powered servers cleared my data with every reboot, making sure there was no retention.
- Threat Protection: You can rely on NordVPN’s threat protection to shield your devices from online dangers like malware and phishing attempts. I found out that NordLynx protocol allows NordVPN to perform at lightning-fast speeds. It is an improvement over the well-known WireGuard protocol and offers an excellent balance of speed and security.
- No Log Policy: It has robust encryption and an independently validated no-logs policy for ultimate anonymity. Advanced capabilities from NordVPN also include multi-hop servers. These servers routed my online connection through two VPN servers in other nations.
- Meshnet Network: This provider’s Meshnet allowed me to create an encrypted private network, enhancing security for connected devices.
- Data Encryption: Its industry-leading encryption and secure tunneling methods help you protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.
- Dark Web Monitoring: NordVPN’s dark web monitoring provided me with an instant alerts feature. This offers real-time notifications if your accounts get compromised on the dark web.
- Dedicated IP Address: Its dedicated IP address helps maintain your online reputation by providing consistent and reliable identity verification.
Pros
Cons
Protection Against Viruses:
NordVPN introduced Threat Protection to promote safe browsing, an antivirus tool that finds and disables malware-infected files, websites, and spyware.
Additionally, it improves CyberSec’s functionality by enabling it to prevent trackers and avoid unwanted adverts. The dark web surveillance tool from NordVPN works in tandem with this capability. According to my observation, even when the VPN is not connected, Threat Protection protects you when activated.
Pricing:
NordVPN offers Complete, Plus, and Standard plans at $14.99, $13.99, and $12.99 monthly. The plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Bottom Line:
Like all other VPN services, NordVPN also conceals your IP address while encrypting the tunnel that carries your data. Your ISP, the government, and other third parties can no longer monitor your internet behavior when you use this VPN. Additionally, I was able to access my preferred streaming libraries, unblock geo-restricted content, and more.
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
3) Surfshark One
Best Antivirus with VPN for Blocking Trackers
Surfshark One is a cybersecurity bundle that is available to users as an all-in-one protection option. This security platform encompasses four protection tools under one subscription. It offers unlimited data and bandwidth, which I found ideal for uninterrupted streaming and torrenting. Its vast network of over 3,200 servers in 100 countries allowed me to access geo-restricted content seamlessly. Additionally, I appreciated that it includes antivirus protection for up to five devices, making it a solid option for both security and online freedom.
Surfshark One provides a global data leak detection system, a VPN service, antivirus software, and a private search engine. According to my review, using all four tools together offers a more secure online experience.
Features:
- Comprehensive Protection: I trust Surfshark VPN to protect all my online activities from hackers, identity thieves, and snoopers. It also has personal data security reports and webcam protection.
- Ad-Free Search: The ad-free Surfshark Search helps you avoid data collection by protecting you from invasive search engines. I also received a cookie pop-up blocker, which ensures uninterrupted browsing.
- Data Leak Alerts: I appreciate Surfshark’s alert for scanning websites and notifying me instantly if my data gets leaked.
- Incognito Mode: The Incognito feature helps prevent your personal data from roaming freely around the Internet.
- Kill Switch: It has a dependable kill switch that disconnects you from the Internet even if your VPN connection breaks abruptly.
- Split Tunneling: Surfshark allows split tunneling to distinguish apps routed through your local network. I noticed that it can also distinguish app routes through your VPN connection.
- No-Log Policy: According to my research, Surfshark values client privacy and does not log or monitor user activities on its system.
Pros
Cons
Protection Against Viruses:
Various scanning options are available for the Antivirus. These include rapid, complete, scheduled, and drag-and-drop item scans. Surfshark’s Antivirus can schedule scans to periodically check for threats. Its real-time protection alerts you if you download a hazardous file.
You can scan your entire device or just a few selected folders. I found out that its real-time protection is also now accessible on Windows, macOS, and the Android app and keeps your device secure at all times.
Pricing:
If you buy the plan for one month, it will cost you $15.45. It’s a significant amount for a single month, and purchasing a lengthier subscription is much more advantageous because it would cost $2.99 per month for a year.
You can also pay $2.19 monthly for 24 months and receive three free months. As per my research, the plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark also provides multiple payment options, including Paypal, credit cards, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
Bottom Line:
It is a reliable tool for eradicating dangers from your Windows or Android devices. The Antivirus is included in the 2021-released Surfshark One bundle. Surfshark One users may, however, benefit from some upgrades, such as a firewall or a password manager.
30-Days Money-Back Guarantee
4) Norton
Best Internet Security Antivirus with VPN Protection
Norton has a long track record of excellent malware detection and strong security. I explored its firewall and discovered that it offers a vulnerability assessment feature. This feature helped me identify all possible attack methods that a cybercriminal might use.
Norton provides unlimited data and boasts over 2,000 servers across 30+ countries. I liked its reliable kill switch feature, which cuts my internet if the VPN disconnects. The split tunneling option lets me decide which apps to use the VPN with. Although Norton is great for unblocking popular sites like US Netflix, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, it does not support torrenting and may not unlock all streaming services.
Features:
- Real-Time Threat Protection: I rely on real-time threat protection to defend my devices against malware, spyware, ransomware, and viruses. Norton’s security suite outperforms several other antivirus applications in terms of malware detection, false positive detection, and impact on computer speed.
- Cloud Backup: The convenient cloud backup frees up space on your device while providing safe and secure remote cloud storage. I could save my crucial documents securely and remotely with Norton’s Cloud Backup.
- System Scans: Its numerous system scans are available to help protect against malware attacks, including comprehensive virus scans.
- VPN Anonymity: Norton’s VPN security features obscure my IP address and encrypt my online activity, ensuring anonymity.
- Two-Way Firewall: I noticed that the silent two-way firewall keeps track of all network traffic through your PC, enhancing security.
- Password Manager: The password manager in Norton 360 VPN helps keep my passwords secure and organized, ensuring easy access.
- SafeCam Protection: SafeCam protection prevents illegal access to my PC’s webcam, ensuring your privacy remains intact.
- No Log Policy: Norton doesn’t have a no-log policy and records user IP addresses, according to my research, which can jeopardize your privacy.
Pros
Cons
Protection Against Viruses:
Norton uses the two-way firewall to provide intrusion protection. The two-way Norton Smart Firewall keeps track of all delivered and received network traffic while you are online.
It keeps track of internet activity and protects your computer from intrusion attempts. I also received a warning that my device would no longer receive protection if I disabled the firewall, which was a positive alert in my opinion. Norton scores a perfect 6.0/6.0 on the AV-Test.
Pricing:
It offers a 1-device AntiVirus Plus, a 3-device Standard, and a 5-device Deluxe plan. They cost $10.71, $14.28, and $30.96 for the first year.
Bottom Line:
Norton VPN has many extra capabilities and delivers outstanding protection against even the most sophisticated virus threats. The platform provides several security tools, including online protection, cloud storage, a password manager, and parental controls.
14-Days Free Trial
5) Bitdefender
Best Cloud-based Scanner with VPN
Bitdefender is a well-regarded antivirus service provider for this security platform, and I noticed it offers several antivirus software options. As per my research, I found it compatible with all major operating systems like Windows, iOS, and Android.
With Bitdefender, I received a daily VPN data cap of 200MB on the free plan and unlimited data on the upgraded plan. The service boasts 1,300 servers in more than 45 countries, and the kill switch feature effectively protects my data if the VPN connection fails. It also supports split tunneling through the Catapult Hydra protocol, allowing me to customize my VPN usage. Bitdefender can also unblock Netflix US but may have limited access to other streaming sites.
Features:
- Flexible Virus Scans: I appreciate the flexible virus scans that offer quick, in-depth investigations of potential risks. It works to maintain online and digital security while protecting against cyber-attacks.
- Proactive Real-Time Protection: I rely on its real-time protection to stop attacks before they reach my system, ensuring my device’s safety. Its entire suite of innovative security tools has protection features that serve private consumers and global enterprises.
- Anti-Tracker Plugin: The Anti-tracker web plugin prevents dangerous scripts from collecting your data while you browse the internet.
- Data Harvesting Prevention: According to my research, the Bitdefender online security tool effectively prevents unauthorized data harvesting during my internet activities.
- Password Manager: The password manager securely stored all my passwords, providing easy access and enhanced online security.
- Torrenting: Bitdefender allowed me to torrent on all servers, and I found it quite compatible with the best torrent clients.
- No Log Policy: The platform has a strict no-log policy that keeps your online activities safe.
Pros
Cons
Protection Against Viruses:
Bitdefender boasts one of the best virus scanners. Given its foundation in malware directories, This tool helps you to identify known and unidentified malware threats. Additionally, it provides a robust set of capabilities, such as real-time security, advanced threat defense, web attack avoidance, anti-phishing, and anti-fraud.
The cloud-based virus scanner combines machine learning with conventional signature-based scanning to detect malware with a 100% accuracy rate. I noticed little impact on the device system because the scans occur in the cloud.
Bitdefender’s Advanced Threat Defense function provides real-time security. The program continuously scans for risks using this security function. When Bitdefender identifies a threat, it is automatically either deleted or quarantined. Therefore, real-time protection can detect malware before you open any harmful files and prevent cyberattacks ahead of time.
Pricing:
Bitdefender offers six pricing options at desirable prices with various OS coverage. They are Free, Small Office, Antivirus Plus, Total Security, Internet Security, and Family Pack. Internet Security and Total Security are the most widely used packages.
Bitdefender offers ultimate security and ultimate security plus at $8.99 and $11.99 per month. The plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Bottom Line:
The anti-malware program is effective and ranks first among antivirus programs. More often than any other antivirus product, it took home the AV-Comparatives Product of the Year title four times.
Bitdefender utilizes a malware database to find potential threats, whether you’re using the free or commercial edition. I received the same high malware cleanup regardless of my chosen edition. There are, however, other subscription advantages to consider.
30-Days Free Trial
Why do I need an antivirus with a VPN?
Here are a few other reasons why an antivirus with a VPN is beneficial:
- Enhance device performance: The best antivirus software with a VPN can enhance your device by stopping any processes that interfere with its performance.
- Protection from phishing: As your antivirus works to protect against malware attacks, a VPN with threat protection constantly scans the web and prevents you from visiting harmful websites.
- View geo-restricted content: It helps you read, watch, or listen to content that is usually unavailable due to your location.
- Conceal your online activity: This feature allows you to remain anonymous and untrackable online.
What are the Disadvantages of using an antivirus with a VPN?
An antivirus program will give precedence to its antiviral protection over all other features. Therefore, a VPN with an antivirus application will have more restrictions than a dedicated VPN service.
Here are some drawbacks of antivirus with VPN that I found in my research:
- Fewer Servers: In contrast to standalone VPNs, those found in antivirus suites have fewer servers spread across a wider geographic area. They won’t let you manually select the server you want to connect. Hence, frequently offered servers could be better for unblocking streaming content or supporting torrenting.
- Restricted Security Capabilities: There’s a reasonable probability that you will only be able to utilize some of a VPN’s security capabilities if you decide to use an antivirus and VPN together. A kill switch or the ability to change tunneling protocols might not exist.
Verdict
When it comes to safeguarding my online presence, I know that choosing the right antivirus with a built-in VPN is crucial. I have tested various options, and some of the most impressive choices stand out for their comprehensive security features and seamless integration of antivirus and VPN functionalities. If you are deciding on a reliable solution for both privacy and protection, check my verdict below.
- TotalAV offers a robust and customizable antivirus solution with a secure VPN, ensuring a comprehensive defense against various online threats.
- NordVPN, with its remarkable encryption and impressive server coverage, delivers a powerful and user-friendly VPN combined with excellent antivirus protection.
- Surfshark One is a reliable choice for those seeking a cost-effective, top-notch security suite with a reliable VPN and advanced features like incognito mode.