The 10 Best Antivirus with VPN (2023 Update)

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How we test the best antivirus with VPN of 2023:

In 2023, the best antivirus software with VPN goes beyond protecting Windows PCs from malware. Instead, it offers virus protection, identity theft protection, and privacy protection, across all major operating systems, in a user-friendly interface at a reasonable price.

On top of that, it defends against a plethora of cyber threats, including data breaches, phishing attempts, privacy invasions, ransomware, and more. We put top antivirus providers through rigorous 15 tests to find the one that truly offers the best value for your money.

> Test 1: Anti-malware protection test

Anti-malware protection is the core component of antivirus software.

Malware includes various online threats such as adware, keyloggers, ransomware, spyware, trojans, viruses, and worms. These threats can be known (encountered before by the antivirus software) or unknown (new).

Unknown threats are especially dangerous because they have not been encountered before. This means their malware signatures, also called virus definitions or digital fingerprints, have yet to be added to any database.

As classic real-time protection uses these malware signatures to detect known threats, this method is ineffective in detecting new malware. To tackle this problem, the best anti-malware software uses heuristic analysis, which is a fancy way of saying behavior monitoring.

This method enables the antivirus software to scan the behavior of apps for suspicious patterns, like rapid file replication or modifications to the operating software, and detect malware before its virus definition is added to the cybersecurity databases.

To find the best malware removal software, we run our own tests and analyze results from independent antivirus testing labs, like AV-Test, SE Labs, and AV-Comparatives.

> Test 2: False positives test

False positives occur when antivirus software mistakenly identifies legitimate software or safe websites as malware. It’s a common occurrence for all antivirus programs, but when it happens frequently, it can be frustrating. AV-Test conducts a large-scale analysis of false positives in its usability test, and we use those findings in our research.

> Test 3: System performance test

Antivirus software should protect your device while not consuming too many resources. We measure the CPU load during scans to determine how much performance is left for other tasks.

We also consider AV-Test’s performance section, which measures the slowdown caused by antivirus software on the loading of websites, and the downloading and installing of software, to gauge the impact on device performance.

> Test 4: Firewall test

A two-way firewall sits between your computer and a network, such as a local area network (LAN) or the internet, and filters incoming and outgoing data streams to keep malware and hackers out.

Firewalls can be software-based, hardware-based, or sold as a service. Software-based firewalls, as found within antivirus software, consume some of your PC’s CPU and RAM.

Still, they offer a high degree of protection against malware, can filter incoming and outgoing traffic, and provide precise control over the connectivity of each program on your computer.

We test whether the firewall successfully blocks all ports on our test PC using the ShieldsUP! test of the Gibson Research Corporation, and we test whether custom rules can be set for various network types, such as home, work, and public networks.

> Test 5: Password manager test

A password manager is a software tool that helps users store and organize their passwords and other sensitive information, such as credit card numbers and personal identification numbers (PINs). The stored data is protected using ultra-strong (AES-256) encryption.

On top of that, password managers can generate strong, unique user passwords, which are kept in the password manager’s vault. Users only need to remember their master password to access the vault. This can help them avoid reusing passwords and make it easier to create and remember strong passwords.

Finally, password managers can automatically fill in login information on websites and apps, saving time and reducing the risk of typos. Password managers can also alert users if their passwords have been compromised in a data breach and offer a way to change them easily.

Overall, a password manager is a convenient and secure way to manage your online credentials and protect against identity theft and cyber threats.

> Test 6: Virtual Private Network (VPN) test

We test the VPN in-depth on a wide range of aspects:

Logging policy:

A logging policy is a statement by VPN service providers about what data they collect and how long it is retained. For example, some providers track browsing history and location, which can be sold to data brokers and advertisers.

These policies can be challenging to understand and may put your privacy at risk. Therefore, we read and evaluate each VPN provider’s policy to ensure they are not collecting and storing data that would compromise user privacy.

Ownership:

Ownership refers to the company or companies that have legal control over a VPN service. This can include a primary company that owns the VPN service and a parent company above that. Ownership structure can create conflicts of interest, as the parent company may have different data retention laws and can access user data.

For instance, a few companies own a majority of the VPN services:

• Kape Technologies, based in the U.K., owns Zenmate, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and Private Internet Access (PIA).
• Gaditek, based in Pakistan, owns PureVPN, Ivacy VPN, and Unblock VPN.
• Ziff Davis, from the U.S., owns StrongVPN, IPVanish, Buffered VPN, Encrypt.me, and Perimeter 81, among others.
• Aura/Pango, another United States company, owns JustVPN, Hotspot Shield, and TouchVPN. They also provide VPN technology for various other VPN providers like Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Panda, and others.
• CyberSpace, a Dutch company, owns NordVPN, Surfshark, and Atlas VPN.

We investigate the owner of each VPN service, their country of registration, and data retention laws to ensure users’ privacy is respected. We also examine the company’s history to see if it has been involved in any scandals or controversies.

Independent audit:

An independent audit examines the VPN provider’s server infrastructure and privacy policies. It is carried out by an external, independent body, which ensures that the VPN service operates securely and responsibly and that its systems meet industry best practices.

A recent example is the audit by Deloitte of NordVPN’s privacy policy and server infrastructure in 2022. Other VPN providers, like ExpressVPN, also frequently undergo independent audits.

These audits can provide peace of mind that a VPN connection is trustworthy and reliable. We check if a VPN provider has undergone an independent audit and take particular interest in any flaws uncovered during the audit.

VPN Protocols:

• A VPN protocol is a set of instructions to establish a secure connection between two devices. Different protocols have their advantages and disadvantages:
• PPTP is fast but needs to be more secure.
• L2TP/IPsec is a balance between speed and security.
• SSTP is fast and secure but only available on Windows.
• OpenVPN is the most secure and open source but can be slow.
• WireGuard is a next-gen protocol that’s faster and easier to audit.

Some VPN providers have created their own protocols. For instance, NordVPN has created NordLynx, a version of WireGuard. And ExpressVPN has created LightWay, which connects very quickly.

Encryption standard:

An encryption standard is a set of instructions used to encode and decode digital data, ensuring the privacy of sensitive information. The most common encryption standards are Data Encryption Standard (DES) and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES).

AES is a more secure and efficient version of the Rijndael block cipher, using a block size of 128 bits and a key length of 128, 192, or 256 bits. Therefore, AES-128 or AES-256 in GCM or CBC versions are considered suitable options for VPN protocols that are both fast and secure.

During testing, we check the default encryption standard used by the VPN service and if alternatives are offered.

Other things we test for:

We test the advanced security features like a kill switch, split tunneling, ad-blockers, anti-trackers, malicious website blockers, dedicated IP addresses, double VPN, obfuscated servers, GPS location overrides, and RAM-only servers.

We test for various data leaks that could undo the VPN protection, such as IP leaks, DNS leaks, and WebRTC leaks. And we run download speeds while connected to the most used VPN protocols, OpenVPN and WireGuard.

We test whether the server infrastructure consists of actual physical servers or whether the VPN provider uses virtual servers (Servers located in a different country that still provide a local IP address).

We also check whether the VPN services use their own DNS servers to provide maximum DNS leak protection. And, although it goes without saying, we analyze whether the VPN offers unlimited bandwidth (unlimited VPN data).

Finally, we test whether the streaming service works with popular streaming services, such as Netflix, Amazon, Disney, Hulu, HBO, Apple, BBC, and more. And whether the VPN service allows you to download torrents on their VPN servers.

> Test 7: Parental control test

We test the effectiveness of parental control features such as screen time rules, website and app blocking, and location tracking by installing them on a test device and attempting to circumvent them. We also check if the parental control admin accurately and promptly reports our activity on the test device.

> Test 8: Anti-phishing protection test

We test antivirus browser extensions by attempting to visit dangerous URLs. We check whether the web protection feature blocks malicious sites before they can open to prevent them from stealing sensitive data

> Test 9: Ransomware protection test

We test the multi-layer ransomware protection features of security suites by attempting to deliver and execute ransomware on a test device. We check if the suite can prevent the attack at both the delivery and execution stages by detecting vulnerabilities and malicious encryption patterns.

> Test 10: Bonus features test

Antivirus software often includes additional features beyond basic virus protection. These can include things like spam filters, secure browsers, and secure online storage. While there are many different features that can be included, some of the more valuable cybersecurity tools to consider are those that provide extra security tools beyond just basic virus detection:

• Ad Blocker
• Anti-theft
• Dark web monitoring (identity protection)
• Email protection
• File encryption
• File shredder
• Gaming mode
• Microphone protection
• PC maintenance features
• Secure browser (hardened browser to protect your online banking)
• Secure cloud storage (cloud backup)
• Spam filter
• Startup optimizer
• Tune up tools
• Virtual keyboard
• Webcam protection

> Test 11: Operating system and multiple devices test

Antivirus software should protect a variety of devices across different operating systems. Some security suites only protect one device, while others protect up to 10. However, not all antivirus software support all operating systems; some focus on Windows, and not on Mac or Android.

We test all antivirus software on every operating system and give bonus points to those offering solid virus protection on each OS.

> Test 12: Ownership and reputation test

We evaluate the reputation of antivirus companies by researching press releases, news articles, and privacy policies. This includes looking into any past incidents of data collection and selling by the company.

A good example is the case of Avast, which was found to have tracked and sold the browsing habits of its users. We want to ensure that the companies we recommend have a good reputation for protecting customer data.

> Test 13: Interface test

For many users, cybersecurity is not a fun subject. Therefore, antivirus software must be quick and easy to install, and intuitive to use. We test the installation speed of every program, their ease of use on default settings, and the complexity of adjusting the advanced settings.

> Test 14: Customer support test

We evaluate the quality of the customer support offered by antivirus companies. We do this by checking the availability of 24/7 live chat, email, and phone support. And by reviewing their knowledge base, forums, and FAQs. We also test their support team’s speed and knowledge by contacting them with a complex question.

> Test 15: Value for money test

We recommend avoiding free antivirus software as they often collect your data and sell it to marketing firms. Instead, opt for paid versions that offer better protection and features than the free versions.

We compare prices and features across the best antiviruses with VPNs and recommend choosing one that offers top-tier anti-malware protection, an unlimited VPN, and a password manager.

How to choose the best antivirus with VPN?

When choosing the right antivirus with a VPN for you, there are three core questions to ask yourself:

• What operating software are you protecting?
• What security features will you need?
• Is it safe to use free antivirus programs? Spoiler Alert: No, it isn’t.

What operating software are you protecting?

Antivirus software typically works well on Windows, but fewer programs offer the same protection on macOS, Android, and iOS.

We recommend Norton as the best antivirus of 2023 for its high malware detection rates and complete security features, including an unlimited VPN and password manager for all operating systems.

Should you want more specific advice for a particular operating system, then we recommend our comparisons below:

• The best antivirus for Windows 11. 
• The best antivirus for Mac. 
• The best antivirus for Android Phones. 
• The best antivirus for iPhones and iPads. 
• The best VPN of 2023.

What security features will you need?

The features that everyone needs:

• Anti-malware protects you from viruses, worms, and more.
• Anti-phishing protects you from malicious links and sites.
• A two-way firewall blocks dangerous in- and outgoing connections.
• A password manager creates unique passwords for all your accounts.

The features that you might need:

• VPN. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a service that encrypts your internet connection and allows you to access the internet anonymously and securely by routing your connection through a server.
• Ransomware protection. Ransomware protection is a cybersecurity measure that prevents data on a device from being encrypted and held for ransom by malicious actors.
• Parental controls. Parental controls allow parents to monitor and set limits on their children’s internet usage, such as limiting screen time and blocking certain websites or apps.

Is it safe to use free antivirus programs?

Using free antivirus software may seem like a great way to protect your device without spending any money, but it can actually be incredibly unsafe. One of the main reasons is that free antivirus programs often lack the advanced features and capabilities that paid programs have.

They may only offer basic protection against malware, leaving your device vulnerable to more advanced threats such as ransomware and phishing attacks. Often they don’t even improve on the protection offered by Windows Defender (also known as Microsoft Defender).

Additionally, free antivirus programs may not be updated as frequently as paid programs, meaning that they may not be able to protect against the latest threats.

Another reason why free antivirus software is unsafe is that it can actually put your personal information at risk. Many free antivirus programs collect and sell user data to third-party companies, including sensitive information such as browsing history, location data, and search queries.

This not only puts your privacy at risk, but it can also leave you vulnerable to targeted advertising and phishing attempts. Overall, free antivirus software may seem like a good idea at first, but it’s important to consider the risks and choose a paid program for maximum protection.

What antivirus software have we tested for 2023?

We have tested a wide range of products from 20 different antivirus companies. Where it made sense, we tested the free antivirus program, the paid antivirus software, the paid premium version, and the VPN service.

The free programs usually offered decent malware removal and protection, but not much more. The paid versions were always much better than the free trial and free software.

• Avast Antivirus Free, Avast Premium Security & Avast One
• AVG Antivirus Free & AVG Ultimate
• Avira Free Security & Avira Prime
• Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition, Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, Bitdefender Internet Security, Bitdefender Total Security, Bitdefender Premium Security & Bitdefender Premium VPN
• BullGuard Antivirus & BullGuard Premium Protection
• Comodo Antivirus
• ESET Internet Security Premium Protection
• F-Secure Safe & F-Secure Total
• Intego Mac Internet Security X9 & Mac Premium Bundle X9
• Kaspersky Anti-Virus (Kaspersky Antivirus), Kaspersky Internet Security, Kaspersky Security Cloud, Kaspersky Total Security & Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection
• MacKeeper Antivirus
• Malwarebytes Free & Malwarebytes Premium
• McAfee Antivirus Plus & McAfee Total Protection Premium
• Microsoft Defender (Windows Defender)
• Panda Dome Essential & Panda Dome Premium
• Norton Antivirus Plus, Norton Norton 360 Premium & Norton Secure VPN
• Sophos Home Premium
• TotalAV Antivirus Pro & TotalAV Total Security
• Trend Micro Antivirus Security & Trend Micro Maximum Security
• Webroot Antivirus (Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus) & Webroot Internet Security

From all the software above, we believe that Norton, Bitdefender, and Panda are the best premium antivirus programs. Most other antivirus software offers solid protection for Windows devices but only basic protection on other operating systems.

Frequently asked questions

Languages and Sources

This page in other languages on SoftwareLab.org:

• Dansk
• Deutsch
• English
• Español
• Français
• Italiano
• Nederlands
• Norsk
• Polski
• Português
• Svenska

Sources and tools we’ve used to analyze the antivirus software:

• Apple 1
• Apple 2
• Aura
• AV-Comparatives
• AV-Test 1
• AV-Test 2
• AV-Test 3
• AV-Test 4
• Bitdefender 1
• Bitdefender 2
• Bitdefender 3
• Browserleaks
• F5
• Google
• Harvard
• Hotspot Shield
• GRC
• Kaspersky 1
• Kaspersky 2
• Kaspersky 3
• McAfee 1
• McAfee 2
• Microsoft 1
• Microsoft 2
• Mimecast
• Norton 1
• Norton 2
• Norton 3
• Norton 4
• Norton 5
• Norton 6
• Panda 1
• Panda 2
• Panda 3
• Panda 4
• Sophos
• SpeedTest
• Vice

VPN privacy policies and independent audits:

• CyberGhost – Privacy Policy
• CyberGhost – Transparency Report
• ExpressVPN – Privacy Policy
• ExpressVPN – PWC Audit
• ExpressVPN – Lightway Audit
• ExpressVPN – Browser Extension Audit
• IPVanish – Privacy Policy
• NordVPN – Privacy Policy
• NordVPN – Privacy Policy Audit
• Surfshark – Privacy Policy
• Surfshark – Infrastructure Audit

VPN testing tools:

• BrowserLeaks – Data Leak Test
• Fast – Speed Test
• Speed Test – Speed Test
• Exodus – Privacy Audit Android

Custom VPN protocols:

• ExpressVPN – Lightway protocol
• NordVPN – NordLynx Protocol

VPN mergers and acquisitions:

• NordVPN and Surfshark merger
• Kape technologies buys CyberGhost
• Kape Technologies buys ExpressVPN
• Kape technologies buys Private Internet Access