The 7 Best Antivirus with a VPN (2026 Update)

Norton 360 Antivirus Review

Norton delivers the most comprehensive antivirus protection across all major operating systems.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our hands-on testing, Norton achieved flawless protection against all types of malware. Its real-time defense engine, known as SONAR, consistently detects and blocks threats before they can cause harm.

To verify this, we analyzed Norton’s last ten test results from AV-Test, an independent security lab, and conducted our own testing. In both cases, Norton maintained a 100% detection rate, identifying all 1,200 malware samples and phishing attacks instantly.

SONAR relies on heuristic analysis and machine learning to identify suspicious activity rather than relying solely on known malware signatures. This enables it to detect emerging and previously unseen threats with remarkable accuracy.

Firewall Protection

Norton’s Smart Firewall monitors both incoming and outgoing network connections, detecting and blocking malicious behavior automatically.

Unlike Windows’ default firewall—which only monitors incoming traffic—Norton’s firewall also inspects outgoing data, preventing unauthorized programs from connecting to remote servers.

Additionally, it cloaks inactive network ports, making them invisible to hackers attempting to locate vulnerabilities through port scanning techniques.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Norton’s built-in VPN stands out as one of the best included with any antivirus suite. It offers unlimited data, excellent speeds, and robust security using AES-256 encryption and the OpenVPN protocol.

The VPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, supports torrenting (P2P), and includes advanced features such as auto-connect, a kill switch, ad tracker blocking, and split tunneling.

Unlike many competitors, such as Bitdefender, which impose a 200 MB daily limit unless you pay extra, Norton provides unrestricted VPN access at no additional cost.

Password Manager

Norton’s password manager performs exceptionally well. Password generation is simple, autofill works flawlessly, and access via biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition) adds an extra layer of convenience and security.

It provides all the essential features users need to manage credentials efficiently and safely across devices.

Pricing and Packages

Norton offers several tiers tailored to different needs and budgets:

• Norton Antivirus Plus – €20 (Europe) / $30 (USA). Includes antivirus protection, a firewall, and a password manager for 1 PC or Mac.
• Norton 360 Standard – €35 (Europe) / $40 (USA). Adds a VPN and dark web monitoring. Covers 1 device in Europe or 3 in the USA.
• Norton 360 Deluxe – €40 (Europe) / $50 (USA). Adds parental controls and a privacy monitor. Protects up to 5 devices.
• Norton 360 Advanced – €45 (Europe only). Includes identity theft protection and coverage for up to 10 devices.
• Norton 360 Select + LifeLock – $100 (USA only). Adds LifeLock identity theft protection and secures up to 10 devices.

In some regions, Norton 360 Advanced is branded as Norton 360 Premium, which includes all the same features except identity theft protection.

Additional Features

Norton’s suite goes beyond traditional antivirus with a robust collection of tools:

• Web Protection – Blocks dangerous sites using the Safe Web browser extension.
• Cloud Backup – Automatically stores essential files in secure online storage.
• Parental Controls – Monitors and limits children’s online activity.
• Privacy Monitor – Scans data broker databases for your personal information.
• Webcam Protection – Prevents unauthorized camera access.
• Dark Web Monitoring – Alerts you if personal data appears on the dark web.
• LifeLock Identity Theft Protection – Detects and assists in recovering stolen identities (U.S. only).

Verdict: Is Norton the Best Antivirus with a VPN?

Yes. Based on our extensive testing, Norton 360 is the best antivirus suite available in 2026.

Modern cybersecurity requires more than malware detection—it demands a unified solution for device protection, online privacy, and identity security. Norton excels in all three areas, delivering a comprehensive package that outperforms its rivals.

You can experience Norton risk-free with its 60-day money-back guarantee.

Avast Antivirus Review

After extensive testing of Avast One, we found it to be one of the most capable antivirus suites available today. Its malware detection performance matches that of leading competitors like Norton and Bitdefender, while offering a comprehensive toolset that enhances both security and system performance.

Avast’s paid plans include an unlimited VPN and advanced optimization utilities, making it a powerful, cross-platform solution for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS users. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking strong, all-around protection.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our testing, Avast successfully detected and blocked all 1,200 malware samples, including trojans, ransomware, and phishing threats. The full system scan completed in roughly 54 minutes, which is competitive for a suite of this size.

Its real-time protection performed impressively, intercepting even encrypted malware downloads before they could execute. However, the free version aggressively promotes upgrades, which may frustrate some users.

Firewall

Avast’s firewall provides solid control over network traffic, allowing users to monitor and manually block applications that attempt to connect online.

That said, it lacks the automation and ease of use found in firewalls from Norton and Bitdefender. We also noted the absence of Wi-Fi Inspector—a once-popular feature that scanned local networks for vulnerable devices—which is no longer included in the Windows version.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Avast’s built-in VPN is available as part of both its free and paid packages. The free version, included with Avast One Essential, provides 5 GB of data per week, which is generous compared to most competitors.

The paid VPN, while offering unlimited bandwidth and strong encryption, was somewhat slower in our tests and less capable at unblocking streaming platforms compared to top-tier VPNs like Bitdefender’s. Still, for casual browsing and everyday privacy, it’s a reliable option.

Bonus Features

Avast offers a broad suite of additional tools that enhance both security and usability, including:

• Browser Cleaner – Removes cached data and tracking cookies.
• Software Updater – Keeps outdated programs patched and secure.
• Ransomware Shield – Protects sensitive files from unauthorized modification.
• Password Protection – Guards saved credentials in browsers.
• Email Shield – Scans email attachments for malicious content.
• Tracking Prevention (premium only) – Blocks online trackers and advertisers.

These utilities make Avast one of the most feature-rich antivirus suites available, though some of the more advanced tools are locked behind the premium tiers.

Verdict: Is Avast the Best Antivirus with a VPN?

Avast remains a top-tier antivirus solution, delivering excellent malware detection and a comprehensive set of privacy and performance tools. While it doesn’t include a built-in password manager or parental controls, it still provides strong, multi-layered protection for all major platforms.

For users who prioritize password management or family safety tools, we recommend considering Norton 360 Deluxe as an alternative.

Avast offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, making it easy to test the software risk-free before committing.

TotalAV Antivirus Review

TotalAV delivers affordable, easy-to-use, and effective protection for users seeking reliable all-around security without complexity.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our testing, TotalAV demonstrated near-perfect malware detection performance. Powered by Avira’s award-winning engine, it provides multiple scan options, including Quick, System, Smart, and Custom scans.

Our full system scan took approximately one hour and caused minimal slowdown during everyday tasks. Across a range of tests—including ransomware, spyware, and phishing samples—TotalAV achieved a 99.8% detection rate. Its real-time protection was equally effective, instantly blocking malicious downloads before they could execute.

VPN (Safe Browsing)

TotalAV’s integrated Safe Browsing VPN is a standout among bundled security tools. It offers 48 server locations, maintains consistent connection speeds, and supports both P2P file sharing and popular streaming platforms.

The VPN includes essential features like a kill switch and auto-connect on unsecured networks, ensuring that your data remains protected at all times. While it doesn’t match the performance of premium standalone VPNs, it’s an impressive inclusion that adds genuine value to the suite.

Password Manager

TotalAV’s Total Password provides a secure and user-friendly solution for managing credentials. Protected by 256-bit AES encryption, it includes auto-save, auto-fill, and two-factor authentication for added safety.

The interface is intuitive, and storing or retrieving passwords is straightforward. Although it lacks advanced capabilities such as hardware-based 2FA, it covers the core functionality most users need, delivering both convenience and strong security.

Bonus Features

TotalAV complements its core protection with a range of useful extras:

• Identity Theft Protection by Aura – Monitors for unauthorized use of your personal information.
• System Tune-Up Tools – Includes a Startup Manager, Junk Cleaner, and other performance optimizers.
• Browser Cleaner – Clears cookies and cache to improve privacy and speed.
• WebShield – Blocks access to known phishing and malware sites.

Together, these tools enhance overall system health while maintaining security and privacy.

Verdict: Is TotalAV the Best Antivirus with a VPN?

TotalAV offers an excellent balance of performance, usability, and affordability. With its strong malware detection, capable VPN, and dependable password manager, it provides comprehensive protection for a fraction of the cost of some competitors.

While it lacks a few advanced extras, its simplicity and effectiveness make it one of the best-value antivirus suites of 2026.

You can try TotalAV risk-free, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Panda Dome Antivirus Review

Panda Dome stands out for its highly flexible pricing structure, offering scalable protection options for every type of user.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our testing, Panda achieved an impressive 99.9% detection rate in real-world protection scenarios. This score combines our own results with the average of all AV-Comparatives tests since 2020. While we typically reference AV-Test for independent verification, Panda does not currently participate in their evaluations.

One drawback is its higher rate of false positives compared to competitors—occasionally flagging legitimate software as malicious. Despite that, its accuracy in blocking real threats remains excellent.

Panda leverages a combination of big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to analyze every application on your system. This approach ensures comprehensive defense against both known malware and emerging zero-day threats, including ransomware and advanced persistent intrusions (APIs).

Firewall

Panda’s two-way firewall effectively monitors both incoming and outgoing connections over local networks and the internet. It automatically assigns permissions to applications based on their risk profile, while still allowing users to manually adjust the rules for each app. This balance of automation and control makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Panda includes a free VPN with all antivirus packages, but it’s limited to 150 MB per day—roughly enough for just a few minutes of HD streaming or light browsing.

Powered by Aura’s VPN technology, the service uses AES-256 encryption and the HydraVPN protocol, offering strong security and privacy with a no-logs policy and P2P support.

However, the VPN lacks advanced features such as a kill switch, which is disappointing given that the premium unlimited version costs around €50. While fast and secure, the value isn’t as strong compared to competitors that include unlimited VPNs at lower prices.

Password Manager

Panda’s password manager is a highlight of the suite. It securely stores and auto-fills credentials with excellent accuracy and supports both two-factor authentication and biometric logins.

The browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox mirror the mobile apps on Android and iOS, creating a consistent and seamless user experience across all major platforms.

Pricing and Packages

Panda Dome’s flexible plans let you tailor protection to your exact needs—and even extend coverage to an unlimited number of devices:

• Panda Dome Essential – €25 (Europe) / $35 (USA). Includes antivirus protection and a firewall.
• Panda Dome Advanced – €35 (Europe) / $42 (USA). Adds anti-phishing tools and parental controls.
• Panda Dome Complete – €45 (Europe) / $54 (USA). Adds a password manager and system optimization utilities.
• Panda Dome Premium – €50 (Europe) / $56 (USA). Includes an unlimited VPN and automatic software updates.

Additional Features

Panda complements its core security tools with an impressive suite of extras:

• Safe Browsing – Blocks access to malicious and phishing URLs.
• Dark Web Scanner – Detects if your email appears in dark web databases.
• PC Cleanup Tools – Remove junk files and optimize system performance.
• Wi-Fi Protection – Analyzes and secures your wireless network.
• Anti-Theft Tools – Helps locate lost or stolen devices.
• File Encryption – Protects sensitive data with password-based encryption.
• File Shredder – Permanently deletes files beyond recovery.
• USB Protection – Automatically scans external drives for malware.

Verdict: Is Panda the Best Antivirus with a VPN?

Panda Dome ranks among the top antivirus programs in our 2026 tests. We were particularly impressed by its password manager, customizable pricing, and broad feature set.

However, Norton remains our top pick overall, offering stronger protection for Macs and mobile devices and including an unlimited VPN at a lower cost.

That said, if you’re primarily protecting a Windows PC, Panda provides an excellent, feature-rich, and affordable security suite.

You can try Panda risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Bitdefender Antivirus Review

Bitdefender remains one of the strongest antivirus suites on the market, combining unbeatable malware protection, multi-layered ransomware defense, and a wide array of security tools — all while keeping system performance fast and responsive.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our testing, Bitdefender achieved a flawless 100% malware detection score, identifying and removing every sample we used. Its Advanced Threat Defense module provides real-time protection that goes beyond traditional signature-based detection.

Instead of relying solely on virus databases, Bitdefender monitors application behavior in real time, looking for suspicious activity such as code injection or unauthorized file access. When it detects abnormal behavior, it blocks the process immediately.

This behavioral analysis approach not only provides exceptional protection against both known and emerging threats but also keeps false positives to a minimum. During our testing, Bitdefender consistently detected and neutralized the newest malware strains instantly.

Firewall

Bitdefender’s firewall delivers full two-way protection, monitoring both inbound and outbound connections across local networks and the internet. It automatically detects and blocks port scanning attempts, a common technique used by hackers to identify vulnerable entry points.

The firewall operates seamlessly in the background but allows advanced users to customize rules for individual applications if desired.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Bitdefender includes a free VPN, limited to 200 MB per day, which equates to about five minutes of HD streaming or roughly 100 website visits.

The VPN uses Aura’s technology combined with Bitdefender’s own app design, resulting in a fast, secure, and private service that employs AES-256 encryption and the HydraVPN protocol. It supports torrenting (P2P) and includes valuable extras like auto-connect, a kill switch, split tunneling, and startup launch options.

For unlimited data, users must upgrade to Bitdefender Premium VPN or the Premium Security suite, which bundles the VPN with other advanced tools.

Password Manager

Bitdefender’s password manager is not included in its standard antivirus plans. It’s sold separately or as part of the Premium Security suite. The standalone product securely manages login credentials, generates complex passwords, and synchronizes data across multiple devices.

While it’s highly capable, the separate pricing makes Bitdefender’s overall cost higher compared to competitors like Norton, which include a password manager for free.

Pricing and Packages

Bitdefender offers several plans for different needs and budgets:

• Bitdefender Antivirus Plus – €15 (Europe) / $15 (USA). Includes antivirus and anti-phishing protection for 1 PC.
• Bitdefender Total Security – €50 (Europe) / $60 (USA). Adds system optimization tools and support for macOS, Android, and iOS. Protects up to 5 devices.
• Bitdefender Premium Security – €70 (Europe) / $80 (USA). Includes an unlimited VPN and password manager. Protects up to 5 devices.
• Bitdefender Ultimate Security – €80 (Europe) / $90 (USA). Adds identity theft protection for up to 5 devices.

There’s also the Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition, a lightweight and capable option that provides basic protection. However, it’s quite limited and doesn’t outperform Microsoft Defender, so we recommend choosing one of the paid plans for complete security.

Additional Features

Bitdefender’s suite is packed with advanced security and privacy tools, including:

• Online Threat Prevention – Blocks phishing and malicious websites.
• Vulnerability Scan – Checks for outdated software, OS patches, and weak passwords.
• Ransomware Remediation – Automatically restores encrypted files.
• Anti-Spam – Filters junk mail in Outlook and Thunderbird.
• SafePay Browser – Creates a secure environment for online banking.
• Webcam and Microphone Protection – Prevents unauthorized access.
• Anti-Tracker Extension – Removes tracking cookies for better privacy.
• Parental Advisor – Monitors and manages children’s online activity.
• Anti-Theft Tools – Locate or remotely wipe lost devices.
• One-Click Optimizer – Cleans junk files and browser clutter.
• File Shredder – Permanently deletes sensitive data.

Verdict: Is Bitdefender the Best Antivirus with a VPN?

Bitdefender ranks among the top antivirus programs of 2026, delivering world-class malware protection, powerful firewalls, and a deep lineup of bonus tools. Its anti-malware engine and real-time defense are second to none.

However, the need to pay extra for the password manager and unlimited VPN makes the premium packages relatively expensive.

In comparison, Norton offers similar or better features — including a VPN and password manager — within a single plan.

That said, for users who value cutting-edge security technology and exceptional reliability, Bitdefender remains a top-tier choice. You can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

McAfee Antivirus Review

McAfee stands out for its ability to protect an unlimited number of devices under a single subscription — a rare offering in the antivirus industry. With exceptional malware protection, strong privacy tools, and polished design, it continues to be one of the most complete security suites available.

Anti-Malware Protection

McAfee consistently ranks among the top performers in independent security evaluations. Since April 2020, it has earned a perfect 100% protection score in every AV-Test lab assessment. Our own hands-on testing confirmed these results: McAfee reliably detected and removed all offline and online threats, including ransomware, spyware, and phishing attacks.

This level of performance is driven by McAfee’s Scan Engine, which combines several detection techniques:

• Signature Matching – Compares files against a vast database of known malware.
• Sandbox Analysis – Runs suspicious code in a secure environment to observe behavior safely.
• Heuristic Detection – Identifies new and evolving threats based on behavior patterns.
• Code Repair – Removes malicious code from infected files when possible.

Together, these methods deliver real-time protection against both known and zero-day threats while keeping false positives to a minimum.

Firewall

McAfee’s two-way firewall provides robust protection for network traffic. It filters both incoming and outgoing connections, helping prevent malicious programs from communicating with remote servers.

Additionally, it hides open network ports, making them invisible to hackers attempting to identify vulnerabilities through port scanning. The firewall operates quietly in the background, offering both security and convenience.

VPN (Safe Connect)

McAfee’s Safe Connect VPN is included free with all plans and offers unlimited data when auto-renew is enabled. It’s fast, private, and secure, using AES-256 encryption and a strict no-logs policy. With servers in 45 countries, it supports torrenting and can access Netflix on many servers.

However, the VPN’s features vary slightly by platform — tools like the kill switch and split tunneling aren’t available on every operating system. If you disable auto-renew, the VPN’s usage drops to 500 MB per day. Despite this limitation, McAfee’s VPN remains one of the strongest built-in VPNs offered by an antivirus suite.

Password Manager (True Key)

McAfee’s True Key is a high-quality password manager available across all major platforms. It makes password creation and storage effortless, autofills credentials accurately, and supports biometric authentication (fingerprint and facial recognition).

True Key’s performance and ease of use rival leading standalone options like Dashlane. It’s seamlessly integrated within the McAfee ecosystem, providing both convenience and advanced security.

Pricing and Packages

McAfee offers several plans designed for different needs, all of which include antivirus, firewall, VPN, and password manager capabilities:

• McAfee Basic – €30 (Europe) / $30 (USA)
  Includes antivirus, anti-phishing, firewall, password manager, and VPN for 1 device.
• McAfee+ Premium – €45 (Europe) / $50 (USA)
  Adds personal data cleanup and covers unlimited devices.
• McAfee+ Advanced – €65 (Europe) / $90 (USA)
  Adds identity theft protection for unlimited devices.
• McAfee+ Ultimate – €105 (Europe) / $200 (USA)
  Expands identity theft protection with additional monitoring and recovery tools.

In some regions, McAfee still sells Total Protection, which is functionally equivalent to McAfee Basic or Essential, depending on the market.

Additional Features

McAfee’s suite includes a wide range of helpful tools that go beyond malware protection:

• Secure Apps – Scans for outdated or vulnerable software.
• App Boost – Improves performance for frequently used applications.
• Browser Security – Blocks phishing and malicious websites.
• Web Boost – Prevents videos from auto-playing in browsers.
• Tracker Remover – Deletes cookies and other tracking data.
• ID Protection – Monitors the dark web for exposed personal data.
• File Shredder – Permanently deletes sensitive files.
• File Lock – Encrypts files inside password-protected vaults.
• Anti-Spam – Filters unwanted emails in Outlook and Thunderbird.
• Safe Family – A comprehensive parental control suite for monitoring and protecting children online.

Verdict: Is McAfee the Best Antivirus with a VPN?

McAfee remains one of the best antivirus solutions of 2026. Its malware detection is flawless, its password manager ranks among the best, and its unlimited VPN offers excellent value. The user interface is intuitive and visually appealing, making it accessible for all experience levels.

Higher-tier plans add exceptional privacy and identity protection tools, particularly valuable for users in the United States, while allowing protection for an unlimited number of devices — a rare and powerful feature.

You can experience McAfee risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Avira Antivirus Review

Avira continues to impress as one of the most balanced antivirus solutions, combining powerful protection, excellent performance, and outstanding value. In our testing, it achieved a 100% malware detection rate, proving it can match the very best in the industry. The free plan stands out as one of the most generous available, while the premium options add valuable extras without breaking the bank.

Anti-Malware Protection

We put Avira’s cloud-based malware scanner through extensive testing and were thoroughly impressed. It identified every malware sample in our collection instantly, all while maintaining system responsiveness.

The Smart Scan feature takes things further, scanning not just for malware but also for privacy vulnerabilities, tracking cookies, and system performance issues. This makes it an excellent all-in-one tool for both casual and experienced users looking to keep their devices clean, fast, and secure.

Firewall

Avira’s firewall is among the most configurable we’ve tested. It employs algorithmic traffic analysis to monitor data exchanges and detect suspicious behavior automatically.

Users can also create custom rules per application, giving fine-grained control over what can access the internet. Additionally, its intrusion prevention system helps block unauthorized data transfers, adding another layer of defense against hackers.

VPN (Phantom VPN)

Avira’s Phantom VPN performed well for everyday browsing, maintaining fast and stable connections with only a 25–30% speed drop in our tests. It uses AES-256 encryption, supports P2P file sharing, and keeps no activity logs.

However, it struggled to bypass geo-blocks on major streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu, which limits its appeal for users who want full streaming access. For privacy and security purposes, though, it’s a solid and reliable VPN.

Password Manager

Avira’s password manager is one of the best free tools in its category. It offers unlimited password storage, AES-256 encryption, and two-factor authentication, ensuring credentials remain fully secure.

We appreciated its simplicity and reliability, though the browser extension lacks an integrated password generator, which would make it even more convenient. Despite this, it remains a robust option for managing credentials across devices.

Bonus Features

Avira enhances its antivirus offering with a suite of useful utilities designed to optimize system performance:

• Device Optimizer – Cleared over 1 GB of unnecessary files during testing.
• Startup Optimizer – Accelerates boot times by managing background programs.
• Driver Updater – Keeps hardware drivers current and stable.
• Game Booster – Reduces background processes for smoother gaming.
• Battery Manager – Extends device battery life, though it could benefit from better power analytics.

These tools help keep your system running efficiently while maintaining strong protection.

Verdict: Is Avira the Best Antivirus with a VPN?

Avira Antivirus Prime delivers exceptional malware protection, an intuitive interface, and excellent value for both free and paid users. Its mix of cloud-based security, performance optimization, and privacy tools make it a top contender for 2026.

While Norton 360 Deluxe offers more advanced extras like parental controls, Avira remains the best choice for users seeking lightweight, affordable, and powerful protection.

You can try Avira risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Modern antivirus software uses multiple detection methods to identify and block threats before they can harm your device:

• Signature-based detection: Identifies malware by comparing files to a database of known threat signatures.
• Heuristic analysis: Detects modified or new malware by analyzing suspicious code structures.
• Behavioral detection: Monitors real-time activity to flag abnormal or malicious behavior.
• Real-time protection: Continuously scans and blocks threats before they can infect your system.
• Machine learning and AI: Uses advanced algorithms to recognize and adapt to new, unknown threats automatically.

For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.

Modern antivirus suites go beyond malware detection, offering comprehensive digital protection tools:

• Anti-phishing protection: Blocks fake websites and emails that attempt to steal personal data.
• Firewall: Controls and filters network traffic to prevent unauthorized access.
• Password manager: Stores and encrypts passwords securely for easier and safer logins.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection to protect your privacy and online activity.
• Identity theft protection: Monitors personal data to alert you of possible breaches or misuse.
• Parental controls: Restricts access to inappropriate content and manages children’s online time.

Together, these features provide robust defense against diverse cybersecurity threats, keeping you secure in a connected world.

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates an encrypted, secure connection between your device and the internet. It hides your real IP address by routing your traffic through a VPN server, protecting your data from hackers, snoopers, and even your ISP.

How a VPN works:

• Encrypts your data so it can’t be read if intercepted
• Masks your IP address with the VPN server’s IP
• Routes your traffic through the server to prevent tracking

Why use a VPN:

• Privacy: Stops websites, advertisers, and ISPs from tracking you
• Public Wi-Fi protection: Secures your data on unsafe networks
• Access blocked content: Bypasses geo-restrictions and censorship
• Prevent throttling: Stops ISPs from slowing high-bandwidth activities

Common VPN features:

• No-logs policy: Doesn’t store your browsing data
• Kill switch: Cuts internet if the VPN drops to prevent exposure
• Split tunneling: Choose which apps use the VPN
• Multi-device support: Protect several devices with one account
• Ad/malware blocking: Filters ads, trackers, and malicious sites

In short: A VPN encrypts your traffic and hides your identity, giving you stronger security, privacy, and freedom online.

Together, antivirus and VPNs provide layered protection against:

• Malware: Viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.
• Phishing attacks: Malicious websites or links designed to steal sensitive information.
• Man-in-the-middle attacks: VPN encryption prevents data interception on unsecured networks.
• Adware and PUPs: Blocks unwanted software and intrusive ads.
• Data tracking and surveillance: VPNs hide your browsing habits from ISPs, advertisers, and hackers.

Stay safe out there.

• Social engineering: Manipulative tactics that trick users into revealing personal information or credentials.
• Zero-day attacks: Exploits of newly discovered vulnerabilities before patches or antivirus updates are available.

Stay safe out there.

Anti-Malware Protection (30%)

We evaluate how well the antivirus detects and removes various malware types like viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

• In-House Testing: Using 1,200 diverse malware samples, we conduct real-time attack simulations to assess detection and neutralization of known and emerging threats through signature-based and heuristic analysis.
• Independent Lab Results: We incorporate findings from respected institutes like AV-Test, SE Labs, and AV-Comparatives to validate our results.

Security and Privacy Features (30%)

We assess additional tools that enhance cybersecurity:

• Web Protection: Testing the software’s ability to block phishing sites and web-based threats by accessing known malicious websites.
• Firewall: Evaluating effectiveness using intrusion simulations and the ShieldsUP! test to secure network ports and monitor traffic.
• Password Manager: Assessing capabilities to generate, store, and auto-fill complex passwords, plus features like two-factor authentication and biometric login.
• VPN: Evaluating security protocols, encryption, speed, server locations, data limits, and support for streaming and peer-to-peer sharing while hiding IP addresses.
• Parental Controls: Testing screen time management, content filtering, location tracking, and resistance to bypass attempts to protect children.
• Identity Theft Protection: Assessing monitoring of personal info and responsiveness to potential identity theft alerts.
• Secure Cloud Storage: Evaluating capacity, security, usability, and features like file encryption and secure sharing.
• Anti-Ransomware: Simulating attacks to test detection and blocking of unauthorized encryption via behavioral detection and exploit prevention.
• Dark Web Monitoring: Checking effectiveness in scanning the dark web for personal info and providing timely alerts.

System Performance Impact (10%)

We measure how the antivirus affects device performance during everyday tasks:

• Resource Usage: Monitoring CPU and memory during scans and real-time protection.
• Performance Tests: Evaluating impact on launching apps, downloading files, browsing websites, and copying data, aligned with AV-Test criteria.

False Positives (10%)

Accuracy is crucial to avoid interruptions:

• False Positive Detection: Assessing how often legitimate applications or files are incorrectly flagged.
• Usability Tests: Referencing AV-Test evaluations to gauge false positive frequency for effectiveness and user-friendliness.

Price and Value (10%)

We analyze overall value by comparing features to cost:

• Cost Analysis: Considering subscription prices, device coverage, and multi-year plans.
• Feature Evaluation: Assessing if included features justify the price compared to competitors.

Ownership and Reputation (10%)

Trust is essential in cybersecurity providers:

• Company Background: Researching history, industry track record, mergers, or acquisitions.
• Privacy Policies: Examining data handling, privacy commitment, and compliance with regulations.
• Ethical Conduct: Investigating past unethical behavior, data breaches, or controversies.

Sources and tools

Below are the sources and tools we’ve used to test the antivirus software:

• Apple Platform Security
• AV-Comparatives Consumer
• AV-Test Android
• AV-Test macOS
• AV-Test Windows
• GRC Firewall Test
• Microsoft Defender
• SpeedTest VPN
• Trustpilot Security Software

Read more about how we test antivirus software.

We have tested 39 antivirus software from 28 brands. These range from free antivirus programs, to entry-level paid antivirus programs, mid-range paid antivirus software, and full-featured internet security suites.

These are the programs we recommend:

• Norton Antivirus Plus
• Norton 360 Standard
• Norton 360 Deluxe
• Norton 360 Advanced
• Norton 360 for Gamers
• Norton Antivirus for Mac
• Avast Antivirus One
• TotalAV Antivirus
• Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
• Bitdefender Internet Security
• Bitdefender Total Security
• Bitdefender Premium Security
• McAfee Antivirus LiveSafe
• McAfee Total Protection
• Panda Dome Antivirus
• Avira Antivirus Prime
• Surfshark Antivirus
• Intego Antivirus
• Kaspersky Antivirus Standard
• Kaspersky Antivirus Plus
• Kaspersky Antivirus Premium
• AVG Antivirus

We believe that Norton Antivirus Plus is the best entry-level antivirus software and Norton 360 Deluxe the best antivirus all around.

If you have a specific operating system that you would like to protect, we probably have a dedicated antivirus comparison for it:

• The best antivirus of 2026 – For all OS.
• The best antivirus for Windows 11 – For Microsoft’s latest desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for macOS – For Apple’s desktop OS.
• The best antivirus for Android – For Google’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus for iPhone – For Apple’s mobile OS.
• The best antivirus with a VPN – For both security and privacy.
• The best antivirus with a Firewall – For a focus on network security.
• The best VPN of 2026 – For a dedicated privacy solution.

Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.

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