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The 7 Best Antivirus with a VPN (2025 Update)
Updated: January 2025
By: Tibor Moes is the founder of SoftwareLab. He has tested 28 antivirus brands and studied Cybersecurity at Stanford. Read how we test antivirus.
Norton Antivirus
Ranked #1 of 28 antivirus
- Malware Protection 100%
- Security Features 100%
- Malware protection: 100%. Norton stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
- Security features: 100%. Anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Speed impact: 100%. Norton did not slow down our test PC.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Avast Antivirus
Ranked #2 of 28 antivirus
- Malware Protection 100%
- Security Features 80%
Avast offers excellent protection, many bonus features, and a beautiful design. However, it lacks a password manager.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avast stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
- Security features: 80%. Avast includes a VPN, but not a password manager.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avast did not slow down our test PC.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
The best antivirus with a VPN
In 2025, we tested 39 antivirus programs from 28 brands, using 1,200 malware samples to evaluate protection. Our analysis also covered firewalls, password managers, anti-phishing tools, and other critical security features.
For VPN testing, we assessed privacy policies, data leaks, streaming compatibility, and download speeds in New York and Frankfurt. Here are the best antivirus programs with a VPN:
- 🥇 Norton Antivirus – The #1 in 2025
- Avast Antivirus
- Bitdefender Antivirus
- McAfee Antivirus
- Panda Antivirus
- Avira Antivirus
- TotalAV Antivirus
Scroll down for the reviews.
Norton Review
Norton is ranked #1 of 28 antivirus brands.
Norton is the best antivirus with a VPN. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and an excellent price.
Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get excellent anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.
- Malware protection: 100%. Norton detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Norton’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Norton includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 100%. Compared to similar products at Bitdefender and McAfee, Norton offers more value for money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Norton 360 Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025
Norton remains a top choice for antivirus protection, offering robust security across all major operating systems. Its suite includes tools for malware defense, online privacy, and more, providing a comprehensive internet security solution.
Anti-Malware Protection
Norton excels in malware defense, achieving 100% detection in independent tests by AV-Test over 10 cycles. In our own trials, it detected and blocked all 1,200 malware samples, including real-time phishing attempts.
At its core is SONAR, an advanced real-time protection system using heuristic analysis and machine learning. SONAR proactively identifies threats, including zero-day vulnerabilities, by analyzing suspicious behavior rather than relying solely on known malicious code.
Firewall Protection
Norton’s Smart Firewall surpasses standard firewalls by monitoring both incoming and outgoing traffic. It blocks malware attempting to transmit data externally and features port cloaking, hiding inactive network ports from hackers.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
Norton’s VPN is a standout, offering unlimited data for secure browsing, torrenting (P2P), and bypassing geo-restrictions. It uses AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocol for top-tier privacy and security. Key features include:
- Auto-connect: Ensures secure connections on public Wi-Fi.
- Kill switch: Prevents data leaks if the VPN disconnects.
- Ad tracker blocking: Reduces online tracking.
- Split tunneling: Allows specific apps to bypass the VPN.
Unlike many competitors, Norton includes unlimited data at no extra cost.
Password Manager
Norton simplifies password management with tools for generating, storing, and auto-filling passwords. Biometric login options, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, enhance convenience and security.
Pricing and Packages
Norton offers plans for different needs and budgets:
- Norton Antivirus Plus (€15/$20): Antivirus, firewall, password manager (1 PC/Mac).
- Norton 360 Standard (€30/$40): Adds VPN, dark web monitoring (1-3 devices).
- Norton 360 Deluxe (€35/$50): Adds parental controls, privacy monitoring (up to 5 devices).
- Norton 360 Advanced (€40, Europe only): Adds identity theft protection (10 devices).
- Norton 360 Select + LifeLock ($99, USA only): Includes LifeLock and covers 10 devices.
Note: Norton 360 Advanced is marketed as Norton 360 Premium in some regions, offering the same features minus identity theft protection.
Bonus Features
Norton includes additional tools to enhance security:
- Web Protection: Blocks malicious sites and phishing attempts.
- Cloud Backup: Secures important files in the cloud.
- Parental Controls: Monitors children’s internet usage.
- Privacy Monitor: Alerts if your data is found with data brokers.
- Webcam Protection: Prevents unauthorized camera access.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Notifies you if your data appears on the dark web.
- LifeLock Identity Theft Protection (USA only): Detects and restores identity theft issues.
Is Norton the Best Antivirus with a VPN?
Norton ranks as the top all-in-one security suite, offering excellent malware detection alongside powerful privacy tools like its unlimited VPN. It integrates device protection, identity theft prevention, and online privacy in a single package.
With a 60-day money-back guarantee, Norton provides a risk-free way to experience its comprehensive security features.
Avast Review
Ranked #2 out of 28 Antivirus
Avast is ranked #2 of 28 antivirus brands.
Avast is one of the best antivirus with a VPN. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and one of the best designs we’ve seen.
Buy it if you want excellent protection and superb design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a VPN. However, Avast does not include a password manager.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avast detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avast’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 80%. Avast one includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, and more. But no password manager.
- Price: 100%. Considering Avast’s excellent security features and design, its price is more than fair.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Avast One: A Leading Antivirus for 2025
In recent tests, Avast Antivirus One emerged as a top-tier antivirus solution for 2025. It combines excellent malware detection with tools for system protection, privacy, and performance, rivaling competitors like Norton and Bitdefender. Supporting Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, Avast is a versatile choice for multi-device security.
Anti-Malware Protection
Avast achieved a perfect score in malware detection, identifying all 1,200 test samples during our evaluation. Full system scans averaged 54 minutes, comparable to other modern antivirus solutions.
Its real-time protection was exceptional, blocking encrypted malware downloads and preventing threats before infiltration. However, the free version aggressively promotes paid upgrades, which may frustrate some users.
Firewall
Avast’s firewall offers manual control over network traffic, balancing user-friendliness for novices with customization options for advanced users.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
The free version of Avast One Essential includes a VPN with 5GB of data per week, a generous offering compared to other free antivirus solutions. Paid plans include Avast’s unlimited VPN featuring fast speeds, AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN protocol, and a no-logs policy. It supports torrenting (P2P) and includes critical tools like a kill switch.
Bonus Features
Avast provides additional tools to enhance security and system performance, including:
- Browser Data Clearing: Removes browsing history and cookies to protect privacy.
- Software Updater: Identifies and updates outdated, vulnerable software.
- Password Protection: Offers basic safeguards against password theft.
- Ransomware Shield: Blocks unauthorized access to important files.
- Email Security: Defends against phishing and malicious attachments.
Premium features, such as tracking prevention, are not available in the free version.
Is Avast the Best Antivirus with a VPN?
Avast ranks among the best antivirus solutions, combining strong malware protection, privacy tools, and identity theft safeguards into a comprehensive security suite. However, its lack of a full-fledged password manager may deter some users, who might consider Norton as an alternative.
A 30-day money-back guarantee lets users explore Avast’s full capabilities risk-free.
TotalAV Review
Ranked #3 out of 28 Antivirus
TotalAV is ranked #3 of 28 antivirus brands.
TotalAV is one of the best antivirus with a VPN. It has near-perfect anti-malware test scores, an intuitive design, no impact on the speed of your PC, and lots of security features.
Buy it if you want an easy-to-use antivirus at a great price. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN, which will protect your privacy online. But no firewall.
- Malware protection: 99.8%. TotalAV detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. TotalAV’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 90%. TotalAV includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, VPN, and a password manager. But it doesn’t have a firewall.
- Price: 90%. TotalAV offers generous discounts in the first year, but high renewal prices in the second year.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
TotalAV Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025
TotalAV Antivirus stands out as an affordable and intuitive antivirus solution, combining robust anti-malware protection, a solid VPN, and various additional features. It’s an excellent choice for users seeking hassle-free, comprehensive security across multiple devices.
Anti-Malware Protection
TotalAV excelled in our malware detection tests, achieving a 99.8% success rate. Powered by Avira’s engine, it offers several scan types:
- Quick Scan: Targets critical system areas.
- System Scan: Thoroughly scans the entire system (approx. 1 hour).
- Smart Scan: Focuses on high-risk areas.
- Custom Scan: Lets users select specific files or folders.
Despite its thoroughness, the System Scan minimally impacted system performance, even during demanding tasks. TotalAV effectively neutralized ransomware, spyware, and other threats. Its real-time protection promptly blocked malicious downloads before they could harm the system.
VPN (Safe Browsing)
TotalVPN performed well, offering:
- 48 global server locations with good speeds, even for P2P sharing.
- Streaming support, unblocking geo-restricted content.
- Kill Switch: Disconnects the internet if the VPN connection drops.
- Auto-connect on public networks: Activates on unsecured Wi-Fi.
Though not as fast as dedicated VPNs, TotalAV’s VPN provides excellent privacy and convenience as part of the bundle.
Password Manager (Total Password)
Total Password ensures secure storage with 256-bit AES encryption, featuring:
- Auto-save and auto-fill for seamless login management.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
- A user-friendly vault for organizing passwords.
While lacking advanced options like hardware-based 2FA, it effectively secures login credentials and covers the essentials.
Bonus Features
TotalAV includes additional tools to enhance security and system performance:
- Identity Theft Protection: Monitors for identity threats via Aura.
- System Tune-up Suite: Features a Startup Manager, Junk Cleaner, and other utilities to optimize device performance.
These extras add significant value for users seeking an all-in-one solution.
Is TotalAV the Best Antivirus with a VPN?
TotalAV combines strong anti-malware performance, a capable VPN, and a reliable password manager into an easy-to-use package. While standalone VPNs and password managers may offer more advanced features, TotalAV’s affordability, usability, and broad functionality make it an attractive choice.
With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try TotalAV risk-free to determine if it meets your needs.
Bitdefender Review
Ranked #4 out of 28 Antivirus
Bitdefender is ranked #4 of 28 antivirus brands.
Bitdefender is an excellent antivirus program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and an excellent price.
Buy it if you want outstanding protection. But keep in mind that you will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a few bonus features. Not the password manager or unlimited VPN.
- Malware protection: 100%. Bitdefender detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Bitdefender’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 80%. Bitdefender has anti-malware, anti-phishing, and a firewall, but it misses a password manager and a VPN.
- Price: 100%. Although Bitdefender misses a few features, it has an excellent price, which gives it good value for money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Bitdefender Antivirus Review: 2025 Update
Bitdefender remains a top-tier antivirus in 2025, delivering exceptional malware protection, extensive security features, and robust ransomware defenses, all while maintaining a light system footprint for smooth performance.
Anti-Malware Protection
Bitdefender’s antivirus engine consistently achieves a 100% malware detection score, effectively neutralizing threats like ransomware and spyware.
Its Advanced Threat Defense employs real-time behavioral analysis to identify suspicious app activities, ensuring high detection rates with minimal false positives. In hands-on tests, it instantly blocked the latest malware strains, solidifying its reputation for real-time protection.
Firewall Protection
Bitdefender’s advanced firewall manages inbound and outbound traffic, preventing unauthorized data transfers even if malware infiltrates a device. It also blocks port scanning attempts, offering robust intrusion prevention.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
The free VPN (200 MB/day limit) suffices for basic tasks but isn’t ideal for streaming or large downloads. Powered by Aura’s technology, it uses AES-256 encryption and the HydraVPN protocol for secure connections.
Upgrading to Bitdefender Premium VPN or Premium Security provides unlimited data, support for torrenting, and features like auto-connect, kill switch, and split tunneling. While secure and fast, it lacks the speed and unblocking prowess of standalone VPNs.
Password Manager
Not included in standard packages, the password manager requires a separate purchase or the Premium Security plan. It provides secure storage, auto-fill, and auto-save capabilities with robust encryption but may seem less convenient than competitors offering integrated solutions.
Pricing & Packages
Bitdefender offers various plans:
- Bitdefender Antivirus Plus (€15/$15): Basic antivirus for 1-10 PCs.
- Bitdefender Internet Security (€19/$25): Adds a firewall and parental controls for 1-10 PCs.
- Bitdefender Total Security (€35/$40): Includes system optimization and multi-platform support for 5-10 devices.
- Bitdefender Premium Security (€55/$60): Adds unlimited VPN and the password manager for up to 10 devices.
A free edition is available but offers limited features, making the paid plans more suitable for robust protection.
Bonus Features
Bitdefender stands out with a wealth of additional tools:
- Online Threat Prevention: Blocks phishing and malicious sites.
- Vulnerability Scanner: Detects outdated software and weak passwords.
- Ransomware Remediation: Restores encrypted files.
- Safepay: A secure browser for financial transactions.
- Webcam/Microphone Protection: Prevents unauthorized access.
- Anti-Tracker: Removes tracking cookies via browser extensions.
- Parental Controls: Manages children’s digital activities.
- Anti-Theft: Locates or locks lost devices.
- One-Click Optimizer: Cleans and boosts system performance.
- File Shredder: Permanently deletes sensitive files.
Is Bitdefender the Best Antivirus with a VPN?
While some features like the password manager and unlimited VPN require premium upgrades, Bitdefender’s unmatched malware protection, firewall, and extensive features make it a top choice.
Although competitors like Norton may bundle more features in standard plans, Bitdefender excels in system performance and comprehensive security. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s a risk-free option for users seeking superior protection.
McAfee Review
Ranked #5 out of 28 Antivirus
McAfee is ranked #5 of 28 antivirus brands.
McAfee is an excellent antivirus program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, an intuitive design, and all the security features you need.
Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, a VPN, and, depending on where you live, identity theft protection.
- Malware protection: 100%. Mcafee detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. McAfee’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. McAfee includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 90%. McAfee is slightly more expensive than Norton, but allows you to protect an unlimited number of devices (in the US).
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
McAfee Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025
McAfee Antivirus remains a top antivirus option in 2025, offering comprehensive features and unlimited device protection. Its latest suite excels in malware protection, VPN capabilities, password management, and additional tools.
Anti-Malware Protection
McAfee’s anti-malware engine scored 100% in recent AV-Test evaluations, demonstrating strong protection against ransomware, spyware, and more. It employs:
- Signature-based detection: Matches files against known malware samples.
- Sandboxing: Executes suspicious files in an isolated environment.
- Heuristic analysis: Identifies new malware by analyzing file behavior.
- Repair capabilities: Cleans infected files to recover compromised data.
This multi-layered approach ensures effective real-time protection with minimal false positives.
Firewall Protection
McAfee’s firewall offers robust network security, blocking suspicious connections and hiding open ports from hackers. It performs on par with top competitors like Norton and Bitdefender.
VPN (Safe Connect)
McAfee’s unlimited VPN includes:
- AES-256 encryption and no activity logs.
- Servers in 45 countries, Netflix compatibility, and torrenting support.
However, advanced features like kill switches and split tunneling are unavailable on all platforms. Without auto-renewal, data is limited to 500 MB/day.
Password Manager (True Key)
True Key stands out for its ease of use and security, offering:
- Cross-platform compatibility.
- Password creation, storage, auto-fill, and auto-save.
- Biometric login options.
It competes with top-tier managers like Dashlane but lacks advanced features like hardware-based 2FA.
Pricing & Packages
McAfee’s plans cater to various needs:
- McAfee Basic (€30/$30): Antivirus, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager for 1 device.
- McAfee Essential (Plus in Europe) (€40/$40): Covers up to 5 devices.
- McAfee+ Premium (€45/$45): Adds personal data cleanup, unlimited devices.
- McAfee+ Advanced (€65/$80): Includes identity theft protection, unlimited devices.
- McAfee+ Ultimate ($190, USA only): Enhanced identity protection, unlimited devices.
In some regions, McAfee is marketed as McAfee Total Protection, offering similar features.
Bonus Features
McAfee enhances security and performance with:
- Secure Apps: Identifies vulnerable software.
- App Boost: Improves app performance.
- Browser Security: Protects against phishing.
- Web Boost: Blocks auto-playing videos.
- Tracker Remover: Deletes tracking cookies.
- ID Protection: Monitors the dark web.
- File Shredder: Securely deletes files.
- File Lock: Password-protects file vaults.
- Anti-Spam: Filters email spam.
- Safe Family: Parental controls.
Is McAfee the Best Antivirus with a VPN?
McAfee is a strong contender, combining perfect malware detection scores, a user-friendly password manager, and an unlimited VPN. While its VPN lacks some advanced features found in standalone services like NordVPN, it offers excellent value within a complete security suite.
McAfee’s 30-day money-back guarantee makes it a risk-free choice for users seeking robust, all-in-one protection.
Panda Review
Ranked #6 out of 28 Antivirus
Panda is ranked #6 of 28 antivirus brands.
Panda is an excellent antivirus program. It has near-perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and flexible pricing.
Buy it if you want great protection and customization options. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.
- Malware protection: 99%. Panda detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Panda’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Panda Dome includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 80%. Compared to similar products at Norton, Panda Dome is expensive. However, its flexible pricing is excellent.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Panda Dome Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025
Panda Dome Antivirus combines flexible pricing with a feature-rich security suite, making it a strong choice for users seeking customizable antivirus protection. It offers robust anti-malware capabilities, a password manager, and additional security features, positioning it as a competitive option, especially for Windows users.
Anti-Malware Protection
Panda’s antivirus engine scored 99.9% in real-world protection tests, ranking among the top performers based on results from AV-Comparatives and in-house testing. Although not evaluated by AV-Test, other independent labs confirm its effectiveness against ransomware, zero-day threats, and advanced attacks.
However, Panda’s higher-than-average false positives may be frustrating for some users. The engine uses big data, AI, and machine learning to detect both known and emerging threats.
Firewall Protection
The built-in firewall monitors both inbound and outbound network traffic, automatically assigning app permissions based on risk levels while allowing manual adjustments for greater control.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
Panda includes a free VPN with all plans, limited to 150 MB/day—suitable for basic tasks like browsing but insufficient for streaming or large downloads. Powered by Aura’s VPN technology, it offers secure, fast connections with AES-256 encryption and HydraVPN protocol.
However, it lacks features like a kill switch. Unlimited VPN access is available in the Premium plan (€60/$67), making it pricier than competitors with unlimited VPNs in lower-tier packages.
Password Manager
Panda’s password manager is user-friendly and compatible with Chrome, Firefox, Android, and iOS. It supports secure password generation, auto-fill, and two-factor authentication (2FA) with biometrics. Its consistent cross-platform design rivals top password managers.
Pricing & Packages
Panda Dome offers plans tailored to different needs:
- Essential (€17/$24): Antivirus and firewall.
- Advanced (€23/$28): Adds anti-phishing and parental controls.
- Complete (€35/$43): Includes a password manager and system optimization tools.
- Premium (€60/$67): Adds unlimited VPN and an update manager.
All plans can scale to protect unlimited devices, making them ideal for families or multi-device users.
Bonus Features
Panda Dome offers several tools to enhance security and performance:
- Safe Browsing: Blocks malicious websites and phishing attempts.
- Dark Web Scanner: Monitors for compromised email addresses.
- PC Cleanup: Removes unnecessary files to boost performance.
- Wi-Fi Protection: Enhances network security.
- Anti-Theft: Helps locate lost or stolen devices.
- File Encryptor & Shredder: Securely encrypts or deletes sensitive files.
- USB Protection: Scans USB drives for malware.
These extras make Panda Dome more than just a basic antivirus.
Is Panda the Best Antivirus with a VPN?
Panda Dome offers robust protection, flexible pricing, and a top-tier password manager.
However, it lags behind competitors like Norton, which includes unlimited VPN in more affordable plans and provides better cross-platform support. The 150 MB/day VPN limit in lower tiers is restrictive, and the Premium plan’s cost may deter budget-conscious users.
For Windows-focused users, Panda provides excellent protection with customizable plans. Its 30-day money-back guarantee ensures risk-free testing.
Avira Review
Ranked #7 out of 28 Antivirus
Avira is ranked #7 of 28 antivirus brands.
Avira is an excellent antivirus program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and a great design.
Buy it if you want excellent protection and intuitive design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN. On top of that, Avira finally includes an excellent firewall.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avira detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avira’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Avira includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 90%. Avira has a great price. But with Norton, you’ll get a few more features for the same amount of money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Avira Antivirus Review: Updated for 2025
Avira Antivirus continues to excel in 2025, delivering a strong mix of security and value through its free and paid plans. Powered by a cloud-based detection engine, it provides fast, comprehensive protection against diverse threats with minimal system impact.
Anti-Malware Protection
Avira’s malware protection scored a flawless 100% in tests, with its cloud-based scanner detecting threats swiftly without slowing systems. This approach shifts the processing load to Avira’s servers, enabling faster scans and reduced resource usage. The Smart Scan feature enhances security by also identifying privacy risks and system issues, catering to both beginners and advanced users.
Firewall Protection
Avira’s firewall offers advanced customization, allowing users to set app-specific rules and monitor data traffic. Its algorithmic rules effectively manage network security, though it lacks the automation of competitors like Norton. This makes it ideal for users seeking granular control over their firewall settings.
VPN (Phantom VPN)
Phantom VPN, included in both free and paid versions, provides secure connections with 256-bit AES encryption. However, speeds are reduced by 25–30%, limiting its effectiveness for streaming. The free plan caps data at 500MB per month, while unlimited access requires upgrading to the Prime plan. P2P file sharing is supported for basic anonymity.
Password Manager
Avira’s password manager stands out by offering unlimited storage, even in the free version—a rarity among antivirus suites. It features 256-bit AES encryption and 2FA for enhanced security. The browser extension, however, lacks a password generator, a small inconvenience for creating strong passwords on demand.
Bonus Features
Avira enhances its offering with device optimization tools that performed well in tests. Highlights include:
- Startup Optimizer: Speeds up boot times by managing startup apps.
- Driver Updater: Keeps drivers current for improved performance and security.
- Game Booster: Optimizes resources for smoother gaming.
- Battery Manager: Monitors power usage but could improve by pinpointing energy-draining apps.
Is Avira the Best Antivirus with a VPN?
Avira Antivirus Prime offers top-tier protection, optimization tools, and a user-friendly interface. While Phantom VPN provides solid privacy, it falls short for streaming and heavy usage unless upgraded. Users seeking advanced VPN features or better streaming capabilities might prefer alternatives like Norton 360 Deluxe.
With a 30-day money-back guarantee, Avira is a risk-free option to evaluate its suitability for your needs.
Specification comparison
We’ve compared the specifications of the best antivirus of 2025. To ensure a fair comparison, we selected the most affordable product from each brand that protects at least one PC with anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN.
- Norton 360 Standard
- Avast One Antivirus
- TotalAV Total Security
- Bitdefender Internet Security with the Premium VPN
- McAfee Plus
- Panda Dome Premium
- Avira Prime
Compare the details below.
Test score comparison
We conduct in-house anti-malware tests and review the results from AV-Test, a German lab renowned for its objective evaluations. Below is the average of the last 10 AV-Test results for Windows. Their scoring criteria are:
- Protection (1-6): Effectiveness in blocking malware.
- Performance (1-6): Impact on system speed.
- Usability (1-6): Frequency of errors like false alarms.
We calculate a final score using this formula:
Final Score = 60% Protection + 20% Performance + 20% Usability.
While these results influence our choice of the best antivirus for Windows 11, other factors like privacy and identity protection also play a key role. For a similar analysis for Android or macOS, visit our other comparisons:
Note: Brands not listed in the table either do not participate in AV-Test trials or are tested too infrequently, such as Surfshark Antivirus.
Source: AV-Test (Last updated: December 2024).
Price comparison
Price matters. So, we compared the second-year prices in the U.S. for each software, rounding up for simplicity (e.g., $99.99 becomes $100). Note that some brands lack key features, affecting their overall value.
To make it a fair comparison, we looked at what it would cost us, to protect a single Windows PC with the most essential features:
- Anti-malware
- Anti-phishing (web protection)
- Firewall
- Password manager
- Unlimited VPN (no data limit).
Prices vary outside the U.S., so check the brands’ websites for your local pricing.
User reviews
We’ve compared the user reviews of all antivirus brands. We’ve used the scores and review count of TrustPilot, a leading user review platform.
We consider scores above 4.0 very good. Lower scores indicate that the brand might have a poor product or customer service. McAfee’s scores, for instance, are worrying.
Source: TrustPilot (Last updated: December 2024).
Buying Guide
Common questions about antivirus software
How does antivirus software work?
Antivirus software uses several methods to detect malware:
- Signature-based detection: Compares files to a database of known malware signatures.
- Heuristic analysis: Analyzes the behavior of files to identify new or modified malware.
- Behavioral analysis: Monitors programs in real time for suspicious actions.
- Sandboxing: Isolates and runs files in a controlled environment to observe their behavior before allowing them to affect your system.
- Cloud-based detection: Offloads the scanning process to cloud servers for faster and more comprehensive analysis.
For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.
What other features does antivirus have?
Modern antivirus programs offer a range of essential security tools beyond malware protection:
- Anti-phishing: Blocks fake websites and phishing attempts designed to steal your personal information.
- Firewall: Monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic to protect against unauthorized access.
- Password Manager: Safely stores and manages your passwords, ensuring strong, unique credentials for each account.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection for secure and private online activity.
- Identity Theft Protection: Monitors your personal information and alerts you if it’s compromised or misused.
- Parental Controls: Helps parents manage their children’s online activities and block inappropriate content.
By combining these features, modern antivirus software offers comprehensive protection to keep your devices, data, and online identity safe.
What is a VPN and why do you need It?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and the internet. By routing your traffic through a VPN server, it hides your real IP address and safeguards your data from hackers, snoopers, or even your internet service provider (ISP).
How a VPN Works:
- Encrypts your data, making it unreadable to anyone trying to intercept it.
- Hides your IP address by substituting it with the VPN server’s IP, masking your location.
- Routes your traffic through the VPN server, preventing tracking of your online activities.
Why Use a VPN? VPNs enhance privacy and security, crucial in today’s digital world. Key benefits include:
- Online Privacy: Stops websites, advertisers, and ISPs from tracking your activity.
- Public Wi-Fi Security: Protects data on unsecured networks, like those in cafés or airports.
- Access Geo-Restricted Content: Bypasses location-based blocks to access restricted websites or streaming platforms.
- Censorship Avoidance: Enables users in restrictive areas to browse freely.
- Prevent Throttling: Stops ISPs from slowing your internet speed during high-bandwidth activities like streaming or torrenting.
Additional Features Offered by VPNs:
- No-Logs Policy: Ensures no records of your online activity are kept.
- Kill Switch: Disconnects you from the internet if the VPN connection drops, protecting your IP.
- Split Tunneling: Lets you choose which apps or sites use the VPN.
- Multi-Device Support: Secures multiple devices under one account.
- Ad and Malware Blocking: Blocks trackers, ads, or malicious websites.
By encrypting your traffic and hiding your identity, VPNs provide a reliable layer of security and privacy for online activities.
What cyber threats can antivirus and VPNs protect you from?
Antivirus software and VPNs are key tools for protecting against a variety of cyber threats.
Antivirus Protection:
Antivirus software defends against:
- Malware threats like adware, ransomware, spyware, trojans, viruses, worms, rootkits, and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs).
- Modern suites often include tools like firewalls, anti-phishing, password managers, VPNs, and identity theft protection to enhance overall security.
VPN Protection:
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) safeguards your privacy by encrypting your internet connection and masking your IP address. It protects against:
- Data interception on unsecured networks.
- Online tracking by websites, advertisers, and ISPs.
- Geo-restrictions and censorship.
- IP-based threats, including DDoS attacks.
- ISP throttling during activities like streaming or torrenting.
Together, antivirus software and VPNs provide comprehensive defense against malware, privacy breaches, and network-level cyber threats, complementing each other for robust online security.
What cyber threats can’t antivirus and VPNs protect you from?
While antivirus and VPN software provide essential protection, they can’t shield you from all cyber threats.
- Social engineering: Antivirus and VPNs cannot prevent scams that trick users into giving away sensitive information, such as phishing emails, fraudulent phone calls, or fake websites designed to manipulate you.
- Zero-day attacks: These are newly discovered vulnerabilities that haven’t yet been patched. While antivirus software can catch some, it’s not guaranteed to protect against every zero-day attack until updates are available.
For full protection, it’s crucial to combine these tools with safe online habits and awareness of common threats.
How do we test antivirus software?
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.
What antivirus software have we tested?
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 2025 – 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 2025 – For a dedicated privacy solution.
Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.
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Author: Tibor Moes
Founder & Chief Editor at SoftwareLab
Tibor has tested 28 antivirus programs and 25 VPN services, and holds a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate from Stanford University.
He uses Norton to protect his devices, NordVPN for his privacy, and Proton for his passwords and email.
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