The 10 Best Antiviruses with VPN Software in 2023 Reviewed

The best antivirus with VPN software combines security and privacy features for complete online protection.

We’ve reviewed the top options and identified the best antivirus with VPN services. These tools offer great virus detection and removal as well as robust virtual private networks (VPNs), so you can browse the internet securely and without being tracked.

The Best Antiviruses with a VPN Ranked for 2023

For this list, we’ve selected the best internet security products with a VPN. We’ve chosen these based on their features, usability, customer feedback, and the value for money they offer. Here are our top picks:

  1. TotalAV — Our overall first choice for the best VPN with antivirus thanks to its Zero-Day Cloud Scanning feature, which provides superior protection, and its VPN kill switch, which keeps your IP address hidden.
  2. Surfshark — Excellent choice for cloud security with its Cloud Protect feature, Webcam Protection to keep hackers out, and Surfshark Alert to quickly detect suspicious activity.
  3. CyberGhost — This VPN has heavy downloaders covered with its Security Updater and AntiTrack features to keep your data secure. Its Secure Browser, meanwhile, gives you an extra layer of protection.
  4. Norton — Known for its powerful protection, Norton also offers Dark Web Monitoring to keep your data safe from hackers, Cloud Backup to store important files, and a Secure VPN to protect your IP address.
  5. Nord Antivirus — One of the fastest VPNs, this service is also equipped with advanced security features like Sandboxing, Web Shield to block malicious websites, and Zero-Day Protection to fight the latest threats.
  6. TrendMicro — This antivirus VPN is great for streaming and downloading thanks to its lack of bandwidth restrictions and speed limitations and its Web Threat Prevention feature, which blocks malicious links.
  7. Intego — An ideal choice for Mac users. The VirusBarrier detects hidden malware and blocks potentially unwanted applications, while the Mac Washing Machine keeps your system clean.
  8. Avast — The best free VPN with antivirus functionality, which boasts features such as CyberCapture to detect and stop unknown threats, Behavior Shield to protect your online activities, and Botnet Shield, which prevents malicious access.
  9. Avira — One of the best all-around antivirus software products, with unlimited VPN for ultimate privacy, a PC cleaner to keep your computer running smoothly, and a password manager to make sure all your passwords are safe.
  10. McAfee — For those needing complete protection, McAfee offers Advanced Monitoring to keep an eye out for suspicious activity, Protection Score to check the security of websites you visit, and Identity Monitoring, which alerts you if your personal information is exposed online.

The Best VPN and Antivirus Packages Compared

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

Antivirus Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
TotalAV $3.25/month, annual Protection: 5.5/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
6 Free Version 30 Days 50+ Servers
30+ Countries
Surfshark $3.35/month Protection: 4.5/6.0
Performance: 4.5/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
Unlimited 7 Days 30 Days 3200+ Servers
100+ Countries
CyberGhost $2.19/month (+ $1 for antivirus) Not Tested 7 24 hours for Desktop; 3-day trial for Android; 7-day trial for iOS 45 Days 9200+ Servers
90+ Countries
Norton $3.33/month first year Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
10 7 Days 45 Days Unspecified
Nord Antivirus $3.99/month Not Tested 6 30 Days 30 Days 5000+ Servers
50+ Countries
TrendMicro $4.99/month, annual Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
10 30 Days 30 Days Unspecified
Intego $7.50/month, annual Protection: 5.5/6.0
Performance: 5.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
5 14 Days 30 Days 3500+ Servers
80+ Countries
Avast $4.19/month Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
30 Free Version 30 Days 50+ Servers
Avira $4.99/month, annual Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
25 Free Version 30 Days 150+ Servers
43+ Countries
McAfee $3.75/month, annual Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
6 Free Version and 30-Day Trial 30 Days 2000+ Servers
56+ Countries

The Best Antivirus Software with a VPN Reviewed

We’ll now take a look at the 10 best antivirus software products with a VPN to help you choose the right product for your needs.

1. TotalAV — Best VPN Antivirus for Secure Internet Use

TotalAV — Top VPN Antivirus

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$3.25/month, annual Protection: 5.5/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6/0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
6 Free Version 30 Days 50+ Servers
30+ Countries

TotalAV is a widely embraced antivirus software program with free and paid options. It offers advanced defenses against viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other threats and is one of the best antivirus software products on the market. Its premium version gives users uninterrupted security and a VPN to guard their data.

The TotalAV Safe Browsing VPN provides an extra protective layer while using the internet. It’s fast, reliable, and always on guard and comes with a number of extremely useful tools.

This comprehensive package offers maximum protection against potential threats and malicious software while remaining easy and convenient to use.

The product includes Zero-Day Cloud Scanning, which identifies emerging online security threats for complete malware protection.

The VPN feature encrypts all incoming and outgoing data traffic, providing anonymity and protecting you on public WiFi networks while the product simultaneously defends you against cyber threats such as identity theft and phishing scams.

Kill switch functionality further ensures user activity remains anonymous by blocking outgoing connections if the VPN access is interrupted.

The Data Breach Scan digs through the dark recesses of the internet, checking public databases for your confidential information and alerting you if your details have been posted online.

All of this qualifies TotalAV as the best antivirus software with a VPN available today.

Pricing

TotalAV’s cheapest plan is Antivirus Pro, but you can upgrade to Internet Security for the VPN and Total Security for adblocking and a password manager.

3 pricing tiers of TotalAV Complete

Pros

  • Effective real-time protection
  • User-friendly interface
  • Additional features such as a VPN, data breach monitor, and password manager
  • Competitive pricing with a 30-day money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Expensive auto-renewal

2. Surfshark — Great Antivirus VPN Service for Cloud Security

SurfShark — Cloud Security Expert

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$3.35/month Protection: 4.5/6.0
Performance: 4.5/6/0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
Unlimited 7 Days 30 Days 3,200+ Servers
100+ Countries

Surfshark is popular in the VPN world, but it also offers an all-in-one security suite. Surfshark Antivirus secures online browsing, file sharing, and webcams, and it’s a leader in the field.

With VPN and antivirus capabilities, this product provides users with one of the best tools in the cybersecurity world.

Surfshark Antivirus can detect malicious software and block potentially dangerous activity. Through the firewall, users can monitor network activity for system vulnerabilities.

Cloud Protect is a standout feature, which allows users to scan for threats – regardless of where they log in – across Windows devices on mobiles and PCs. That’s why Surfshark is included on our list of the best antivirus programs for Windows 10.

The platform offers top-notch webcam protection with its real-time security feature, which blocks attempts to hijack the user’s webcam and prevents sensitive information from being leaked.

In addition, users can schedule scans according to their preferences with the help of Surfshark Alert, which regularly checks programs for potential vulnerabilities.

The package includes an ad blocker, a pop-up blocker, a private search engine, breach alerts, and data removal services, so you can remove your information from databases.

The VPN, meanwhile, offers a fast, secure service with a kill switch and great support, as well as a Double VPN feature that sends your connection through another location for extra protection.

Surfshark Antivirus also has P2P file-sharing support via a protocol that lets users share large files without restrictions regarding speed or size. Although this package offers secure transfer speeds, it sometimes encounters interference, even during regular transfers.

Nevertheless, it’s an excellent VPN service, and the cybersecurity features add up to a phenomenal package and the Cloud Protect feature marks it out from the crowd.

Pricing

For the VPN service, you’ll need to sign up to the Surfshark One or Surfshark One+ plans. 3 pricing tiers of Surfshark

Pros

  • Safe, secure, and private connections
  • Multi-hop connections
  • Great connection speeds
  • Competitive prices

Cons

  • Occasionally erratic P2P behavior

3. CyberGhost — Top Antivirus VPN Choice for Heavy Downloaders

CyberGhost — Heavy Downloader's Choice

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$2.19/month (+ $1 for antivirus) Not Tested 7 24 hours for Desktop;
3-day free trial for Android; 7-day free trial for iOS
45 Days 9,200+ Servers
90+ Countries

CyberGhost is another VPN giant with a wide following and is one of the best VPN service providers. Known for its rapid and reliable internet connections, it includes extensive features such as anti-tracking capabilities and unlimited bandwidth, which is ideal for heavy downloaders.

The VPN antivirus service stands out for its fast, secure connections guaranteeing anonymity with IP-masking technology. The company stores no logs whatsoever and has a network of 9,200 servers in more than 90 countries.

CyberGhost shields users from intrusive targeted ad-tracking services with its AntiTrack feature, which blocks sites from connecting to your network, stopping hackers, trackers, and advertisers from accessing your personal information.

The VPN is augmented by its Protection Suite, which combines an antivirus and a firewall module for Windows users to provide world-class protection against security threats and privacy breaches.

The integrated Protection Suite is only available on Windows, so Mac users will need to use an alternative from Intego. That said, it’ll keep Windows machines virus-free while enabling you to browse rapidly and securely − and the lack of bandwidth caps make it a great pick for heavy users.

Pricing

CyberGhost’s two-year plan is its best offer, with big savings, a two-month bonus, and a 45-day money-back guarantee. The CyberGhost Security Suite for Windows requires a small additional fee of $1 per month.

3 pricing tiers of CyberGhost

Pros

  • Unlimited bandwidth on VPN
  • Multiple VPN security protocols
  • Strong antivirus platform for Windows
  • Large server network to bypass geo-restrictions
  • Impressive money-back offer

Cons

  • Security Suite only available for Windows

4. Norton — Powerful Multi-Layered Protection from a Leading Provider

Norton — Powerful Multi-Layered Protection

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$3.33/month first year Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
10 7 Days 45 Days Unspecified

Norton’s antivirus software provides a comprehensive security solution with powerful multi-layered protection against viruses, malware, and online threats. It uses signature and heuristic detection to protect computers from malicious programs and intruders.

It also comes with a range of advanced features such as cloud backup options, a password manager, parental controls, dark web monitoring, and a secure VPN service that can help keep user data safe when using public hotspots.

Norton Threat Protection allows you to block malware downloads with real-time scanning before files reach your system. Its ability to detect malicious websites before they can steal your data makes it ideal for everyone who wants to keep their online activity secure from bad actors.

It also includes mesh net support for file sharing and a dark web monitor to identify activity associated with illegal activity or network infrastructure breaches.

Norton’s Cloud Backup feature provides extensive coverage when backing up data from multiple connections and devices to a single cloud location. This keeps your sensitive information safe if one device fails or is stolen and allows easy access via an intuitive interface.

On top of this, Norton also boasts comprehensive Identity Theft protection, which offers real-time tracking for credit cards, bank accounts, and other personal data.

Since most cyber threats target identity information before stealing money or engaging in further fraud, this feature is essential for keeping your online activity safe from malicious actors.

However, due to its relatively resource-intensive scanning process, Norton may cause some performance issues on computers with lower specs.

This doesn’t take away from its impressive features for safeguarding personal information online, though, and it’s among the best antiviruses out there, along with a serviceable VPN.

Pricing

You will need to subscribe to the Deluxe package for the VPN, which also provides Dark Web Monitoring, while the Select + LifeLock package adds identity theft protection features.

3 pricing tiers of Norton

Pros

  • Comprehensive protection
  • Secure VPN
  • 100% virus protection promise
  • User-friendly interface
  • Large server network to bypass geo-restrictions

Cons

  • Can impact system performance with resource-intensive scans

5. Nord Antivirus — High-Speed, Secure Internet Connections

Nord Antivirus — High-Speed Defender

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$3.99/month Not Tested 6 30 Days 30 Days 5,000+ Servers
50+ Countries

Nord Threat Protection, NordVPN’s cybersecurity tool, offers a powerful shield against the toughest online threats while enabling you to anonymously browse online.

A standout feature of the Nord Antivirus package is its sandboxing technology, which isolates new applications that could be harmful before allowing them full access to your device’s files and folders, help maintain system integrity.

Another great feature is the Zero-Day vulnerability protection, which protects your device from newly identified security threats.

NordVPN antivirus’s Web Shield technology, meanwhile, protects against malware, phishing attempts, and malicious websites by continuously monitoring data usage in real-time.

The firewall settings can even be customized to help control how programs interact with specific sites or networks for increased security. There’s also dark web monitoring tools and an ad blocker on offer.

The OpenVPN configuration might not be the most user-friendly, but with sufficient technical knowledge, it shouldn’t present a problem − and Nord also offers the lightning-fast NordLynx protocol.

All things considered, Nord Antivirus is an excellent tool for safeguarding your computer against all sorts of threats while also delivering super-fast connections and allowing secure file sharing with its mesh net support technology.

Pricing

If you want Nord Threat Protection, you need NordVPN’s Standard or Advanced plans.3 pricing tiers of Nord

Pros

  • Top-notch privacy and security, with 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)
  • Kill Switch feature to halt internet data transfer if the connection drops
  • Fast and stable speeds
  • Over 5,000 servers across 59 countries

Cons

  • Unfriendly OpenVPN configuration

6. TrendMicro — Stream and Download Safely and Privately

TrendMicro — Stream & Download Safely

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$4.99/month, annual Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
10 30 Days 30 Days Unspecified

TrendMicro’s antivirus and VPN services are well known for the high-quality protection they offer against online threats and emerging malware, including ransomware, phishing attacks, and malicious websites.

The company’s flagship product features advanced AI learning capabilities that will improve performance as time goes on. TrendMicro also offers its own VPN system, TrendMicro Proxy One Pro, available for desktop, mobile devices, and tablets.

TrendMicro has no bandwidth or speed limitations for its VPN, even when connecting multiple devices on one account – making it perfect for streaming video content without interruption or slowing down.

The service also provides leading encryption protocols to ensure secure connections while browsing on public WiFi or unsecured internet connections.

The TrendMicro antivirus service is also great at detecting malicious files and websites. The only con of using the product is that there’s no support for torrenting, limiting users’ access when downloading content in bulk. Despite that, it’s a great option for steamers, with room for ten simultaneous connections.

Pricing

TrendMicro bundles its VPN service with the Premium Security Suite, which is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chromebook.

TrendMicro’s Premium Security package

Pros

  • Efficiently detects and removes malware
  • Minimal impact on PC performance
  • Offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, unlimited VPN, and parental controls
  • User-friendly with effective anti-ransomware protection

Cons

  • Doesn’t support torrenting

7. Intego — Best Antivirus with VPN for Mac

Intego — Best internet security with VPN for Mac

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$7.50/month, annual Protection: 5.5/6.0
Performance: 5.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
5 14 Days 30 Days 3,500+ Servers
80+ Countries

Intego has the best features specifically designed for Mac users. From its proven virus detection solutions like VirusBarrier and NetBarrier to system cleaning tools such as the Mac Washing Machine, it’s one of the best antiviruses for Mac systems.

The service’s Privacy Protection VPN is an added bonus, rounding out the package as a comprehensive solution. Private Internet Access (PIA) powers Intego’s VPN offering, and it has advantages such as a huge server network, great support, and the ability to simultaneously connect multiple devices.

Intego’s popular VirusBarrier feature provides advanced protection against malware, spyware, and other threats. It has a strong malware detection rate of 96% on both Mac and Windows machines.

It also comes with a firewall for enhanced security and includes parental control tools to let you customize device usage according to your preferences without interrupting or intruding on others.

NetBarrier is a more comprehensive security solution that blocks malicious programs from your system at the network level. It won’t just block keyloggers and viruses but can also block spyware access attempts and connections to untrusted servers.

The Mac Washing Machine, meanwhile, is an excellent utility that helps you clean up empty space on your Mac’s hard drive and to optimize its performance by removing unnecessary or unwanted files, like cached files, without impacting critical files on your device.

Intego’s offering is an ideal solution for Mac users looking to safeguard their online activity.

Pricing

For the VPN, you’ll need to get the Mac Premium Bundle + VPN from Intego.

3 pricing tiers of Intego

Pros

  • Includes antivirus scanner, firewall, data backup, system cleanup tools, and parental controls
  • Highly ranked solution
  • Intego’s VPN is sleek, advanced, fast, and customizable
  • VPN supports torrenting and unblocks Netflix

Cons

  • Detection rates aren’t as high as some antivirus providers

8. Avast — Best Free Antivirus with VPN

Avast — Best Free Antivirus VPN

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$4.19/month Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
30 Free Version 30 Days 50+ Servers

Avast offers a comprehensive security solution and is considered one of the best Android antivirus products with a free version. The advanced, real-time antivirus features and reliable VPN services protect your devices from digital threats.

The service provides one of the best free plans, with basic features, while the Avast Premium Security package has several extra layers of defense.

Avast’s award-winning antivirus technology helps detect threats in real-time while protecting devices from viruses, ransomware, worms, rootkits, and other malware.

The Cyber Capture feature scans suspicious files in the cloud before they start running on users’ computers. The Behavior Shield scans application activities, while the Botnet Shield proactively detects malicious communication attempts, which hackers commonly use to access networks or devices without authorization.

The SecureLine VPN − Avast’s VPN − offers excellent download speeds and has servers located in many countries around the world.

However, there are some limitations when it comes to its servers and privacy tools compared to the best VPNs, and it doesn’t have third-party audits available. Nevertheless, it’s a great free solution with an affordable option to upgrade for more features.

Pricing

Avast’s full VPN is available with the Standard and Platinum plans, though the free Essential plan also includes a limited free VPN. The Individual plan, at $4.19, offers unlimited VPN access for five devices, while Platinum covers six users and 30 devices.

3 pricing tiers of Avast

Pros

  • One of the most popular and trusted antivirus options
  • Compatible with Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS devices
  • Offers a wide range of tools beyond basic antivirus protection
  • Best free antivirus with a VPN available

Cons

  • Some limitations on the free plan

9. Avira — All-Around Privacy Protection with Tons of Security Features

Avira — All-Around Privacy Protection

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$4.99/month, annual Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
25 Free Version 30 Days 150+ Servers
43+ Countries

Avira offers multiple layers of security with an antivirus and VPN combo to keep you safe online for free. Its protection includes antivirus scanning, a PUP (probably unwanted programs) shield, safe browsing, and ad blocker capabilities, in addition to its virtual private network service, Avira Phantom VPN.

The VPN software uses military-grade AES-256 public encryption and offers unlimited data, so you can stream without compromising your personal information.

Using Avira Phantom VPN, you can bypass censorship and firewalls and access location-restricted content. This feature also comes with a kill switch that prevents exposure in case the VPN connection drops.

Avira offers a PC Cleaner, which can help identify malicious files and delete or repair them automatically from your computer and prevent future malware or ransomware attacks.

It uses a sophisticated artificial intelligence engine to scan the operating system to detect virus or malware-related activities on devices. The tool also ensures safe browsing with signal firewall protection.

Avara also provides extra benefits if you sign up for MyAvira, doubling your monthly data volume free of charge each month from 500MB to 1GB.

While the free version offers most of the features of the standard package, upgrading also gets you the web protection feature.

This protects users from pop-up antivirus software and other malicious programs you may encounter. That said, the free version still provides substantial protection to keep safe online − and it’s a platform with a lot of features and options for users.

Pricing

The platform’s VPN services come with its Avira Prime package. You can choose between monthly and annual plans to suit your needs, with the first-year annual plan offering a significant discount on monthly charges.

Prices vary depending on the number of devices you want to connect and can accommodate up to 25 devices. Avira term pricing

Pros

  • Outstanding AV-Test results
  • Reliable protection from ransomware
  • Intuitive user interface for beginners
  • Free browser extensions
  • Up to 25 simultaneous connections

Cons

  • Free version lacks the web protection feature

10. McAfee — Comprehensive Security Suite with Great Budget Options

McAfee — Complete Security Suite

Starting Price Antivirus Testing Results Max Devices Supported Free Trial Money-Back Guarantee VPN Server Count and Locations
$3.75/month, annual Protection: 6.0/6.0
Performance: 6.0/6.0
Usability: 6.0/6.0
6 Free Version and 30-Day Free Trial 30 Days 2,000+ Servers
56+ Countries

McAfee is a first-rate solution and has earned perfect AV-Test scores − and the McAfee Total Protection and McAfee Secure VPN systems offer comprehensive digital security solutions for multiple devices.

This suite of advanced antivirus tools protects users with features like identity monitoring, password management, and web security. McAfee also offers a comprehensive VPN service that provides bank-grade encryption, guaranteed online anonymity, and automatic hops between secure networks whenever necessary.

These features are perfect for anyone who needs top-level privacy in areas with unsecured networks or government surveillance programs. The encrypted tunnel will protect users on gaming sites and social networks and provide peace of mind when using public WiFi connections.

The Advanced Monitoring System sets this product apart from competitors by actively protecting your computer against new and unknown threats.

Monitoring incoming and outgoing connections for malicious behavior ensures issues can be caught immediately. The interface is also great and is intuitive and easy to use.

McAfee Total Protection’s Identity Monitoring feature, meanwhile, is designed specifically to keep your personal information safe from fraudsters.

It scans the web looking for things like social media posts with your name or address information, public records searches related to your details, and even credit changes so that you’re always kept abreast of potential issues.

If something comes up, it will alert you immediately, allowing you to shut down any fraudulent activity. All in all, it’s a comprehensive and fairly affordable solution that will provide complete confidence in your online security.

Pricing

You’ll need to upgrade to the Ultimate plan for the VPN, which also comes with a tracker remover.McAfee+ Individual pricing plans

Pros

  • Easy to use for beginners, with a simple and intuitive design
  • Features include a two-way firewall, VPN, and password manager
  • Great mobile apps
  • Umbrella protection against a wide range of threats

Cons

  • Doesn’t have a cloud component

What is the Difference Between VPN and Antivirus?

Many people have questioned the importance of having both a VPN and an antivirus for internet security. So, VPN vs. antivirus − what’s the difference?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) masks a user’s online identity and offers encrypted protection from third-party views and tracking when browsing online. Meanwhile, an antivirus stops viruses and other malicious software from infiltrating one’s computer system.

Both solutions offer protection while using the internet. A VPN will protect your internet traffic by routing it through encrypted tunnels, while an antivirus protects your computer from malware that can steal your data.

Ideally, you should have both a VPN and antivirus software to provide comprehensive internet security for your device. By using a combination of a VPN and antivirus, users can secure their connection while guarding against malicious activity.

Key Features to Look For When Choosing a VPN Antivirus Package

With over 450,000 new cases of malware and potentially unwanted applications released every day, having a reliable security system in place is increasingly critical. When selecting your antivirus package of choice, take into account these factors for internet security with a VPN:

Budget

Many VPN and antivirus software packages come with different price points or subscription models. Consider what best fits your budget while still offering the level of protection you need. Whether it’s termed or per subscription, licenses, or monthly fees, ensure you’re getting a good deal.

Features 

You should also consider what AV and VPN features are included in each package. This will help determine which one suits your individual needs.

Does it provide excellent protection against malware? Are there parental controls available? Is the speed sufficient for streaming and gaming? These are all questions worth asking before making a decision.

Performance Impact 

When using a VPN alongside antivirus software, it’s important to take into account its impact on performance. Will system resources be significantly consumed by running both applications simultaneously? Do they interfere with existing programs being used?

The best antivirus software with a VPN will strike the right balance between security and speed to provide effective online protection. Make sure the antivirus package you choose doesn’t significantly impact system performance or usability.

Server Count/Locations 

Since we are also considering VPNs within this antivirus package, the number of available servers is an important factor. The more server options available, the better chance you have of finding one in a desirable location with faster speed and performance capabilities.

Check for any restrictions or limits on server selection to determine if your use case requirements can be met by the VPN service contained within the package.

Number of Devices

When choosing an antivirus, consider the number of devices you plan to cover with the VPN protection software. This is key since you may need more or fewer devices depending on your use case and the device limits set by the vendors.

How We Tested the Best VPN and Antivirus Software

At Techopedia, we understand that online security is critical, and that’s why we take the review process very seriously. We want to make sure our readers are provided with unbiased advice so they can choose the right products for their needs.

We’ve checked numerous reviews by users who’ve been using the product for some time, comparing them against competing products in this niche. We’ve made a point of looking at the pros and cons each tool has to offer and incorporated these into our reviews.

For our reviews, we looked into all of the key factors described above across:

  • Antivirus scanning tools, firewalls, and AV performance impact
  • VPN server network size and locations, optimized servers, security features, and connection speeds
  • Supplementary security tools such as password managers and data breach monitoring
  • Value for money, considering price, free plans, trials, guarantees, and the number of devices covered by plans

We use free versions of products, where applicable, to test the user interface and customer service quality. This helps us get a realistic idea of how useful and reliable specific products are in real-life scenarios.

How Good is the Best Free Antivirus with a VPN Service?

From our list of the top antivirus services with VPN, TotalAV, Avast, Avira, and McAfee offer some services for free. These are the best free options for basic virus protection, and only Avast offers antivirus and VPN protection on a free plan.

Free options offer protection and limited VPN features, usually for one or two virtual locations. VPN connections may also be slower and have higher latency than paid plans.

These plans rarely offer additional features like online banking protection, parental controls, integrated firewalls, and ransomware protection that premium antivirus programs with added VPN service do.

Moreover, most of these free plans only provide support through their help pages and forums. Professional technical support is generally a paid feature.

For better protection against malware and viruses and added connectivity for locations around the world, along with all the extra features you get with a premium antivirus plan, it’s best to opt for a paid subscription rather than a free version.

How to Use an Antivirus With a VPN – A Quick Guide

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

Step 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’re then directed to “Buy Now” and to a payment page.

TotalAV Purchase Page

Step 2 – Install TotalAV

Now, you can get on with the download process and installing TotalAV on your system. Click on the downloaded file to continue the installation.

TotalAV Download and Installation

Step 3 – Run TotalAV

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

TotalAV Dashboard

Step 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.

TotalAV VPN

Step 5 – Run a Virus Scan

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

TotalAV Dashboard

Best Antivirus and VPN Guides

You might also want to consider checking our other reviews of various antivirus solutions. We have guides on the best antivirus programs for servers, as well as our top picks for business and mobile users.

Conclusion – What is the Best Antivirus with a VPN in 2023? TotalAV

After thoroughly reviewing the antivirus market, we have identified TotalAV as the best antivirus with a VPN for 2023. This security solution offers advanced protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks and offers automated scans, system optimization, and a free-for-life VPN.

TotalAV also costs less than many of its rivals, making it likely the most cost-effective solution on the market.

Antivirus and VPN FAQs:

Can an antivirus and a VPN work together?

Does VPN protect you from viruses?

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

Are standalone VPNs better than ones sold with antiviruses?

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

NordVPN vs. McAfee – which is best?

Does NordVPN have antivirus?

References

Nick Saraev

A programmer by trade, Nick is a freelance writer and entrepreneur with a penchant for helping people achieve their business goals. He's been featured on Popular Mechanics & Apple News, and has founded several successful companies in e-commerce, marketing, and artificial intelligence. When he's not working on his latest project, you can find him hiking or painting.