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McAfee Total Protection Review (2026): The right choice?
By Tibor Moes / Updated: November 2025
McAfee Total Protection Review 2026
McAfee Total Protection is one of the best antivirus software. 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.
Alternatively, you could consider Norton 360 Deluxe. It offers the same excellent protection and security features McAfee Total Protection Premium, but costs less.
- 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 Total Protection includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 90%. McAfee is slightly more expensive than Norton. But, in some countries, you can protect an unlimited number of devices.
Thanks to the 60-day return policy, you can try it risk-free.
| Ranking | #6 of 28 |
| Anti-malware | ✅ |
| Anti-phishing | ✅ |
| Firewall | ✅ |
| Password Manager | ✅ |
| Unlimited VPN | ✅ |
| Operating systems | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| 🔥 Discount | Save 60% on McAfee 🔥 |
Full Review
McAfee is ranked #6 of the 28 best antivirus of 2026.
McAfee is a top-tier antivirus suite with an extensive range of security features. After testing it across various devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, we found its performance to be consistently reliable.
McAfee is user-friendly and stands out by offering protection for 5 to unlimited devices, a rare feature in antivirus software. Its comprehensive protection and extra features make it one of the most impressive security solutions available in 2026.
Anti-malware
McAfee’s antivirus engine employs both signature-based detection and heuristic analysis to identify threats. It cross-references files against its extensive malware database and evaluates suspicious behavior to catch emerging threats. In testing, the scanner achieved a flawless detection rate, successfully identifying viruses, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and rootkits.
Full system scans take about an hour, comparable to Bitdefender but slower than Norton. Quick scans complete in under two minutes, while custom scans vary depending on file selection. Performance impact is noticeable during full scans, as system responsiveness decreases, particularly during media playback or gaming.
Despite this, McAfee allows flexible scan scheduling, enabling users to automate scans during idle periods. This helps mitigate system slowdowns while maintaining strong real-time protection. Overall, McAfee delivers perfect detection accuracy and solid usability, making it one of the most dependable anti-malware tools available.
Anti-phishing
McAfee WebAdvisor provides powerful protection against phishing and malicious websites. It examines each page visited and compares it to a constantly updated phishing database to identify fraudulent sites. During testing, it blocked every phishing attempt and online exploit, outperforming the default protections offered by Chrome and Firefox.
The Secure Search feature enhances browser safety by labeling search results with color-coded risk ratings. Unsafe or suspicious websites are clearly flagged, while legitimate ones are identified as secure. This feature integrates seamlessly with Google searches and ensures that users can make informed decisions before clicking any link.
WebAdvisor also monitors social media links on major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Reddit. It effectively identifies compromised links and phishing attempts, although its claimed compatibility with X (formerly Twitter) did not work in tests. Overall, McAfee’s anti-phishing tools offer comprehensive web protection and reliable accuracy across browsers and social platforms.
Firewall
McAfee’s firewall provides solid network defense and operates automatically with minimal configuration required. It detects and blocks unauthorized access attempts, intrusion exploits, and risky applications seeking outbound connections. While it surpasses the built-in Windows and macOS firewalls in capability, its customization options are limited.
Unlike advanced firewalls offered by Norton or Bitdefender, McAfee’s solution relies on the Windows firewall for inbound traffic monitoring. Users can only manage blocked applications without control over port rules, advanced protocols, or detailed network diagnostics. This makes it a more simplified tool rather than a fully configurable firewall system.
On macOS, the firewall supports basic rule creation per Wi-Fi network but suffers from occasional instability and setup issues. Despite these limitations, McAfee’s firewall delivers dependable protection against everyday threats and is suitable for users seeking straightforward network security.
Password manager
McAfee’s True Key password manager secures credentials using 256-bit AES encryption and a zero-knowledge design. It supports all major platforms and browsers, providing cloud-synced access to passwords, credit card details, and secure notes across devices.
True Key includes essential tools such as automatic password generation, single-click autofill, and document storage. However, it lacks more sophisticated capabilities found in standalone managers like 1Password and Dashlane, such as password health auditing, sharing, and breach alerts.
Two-factor authentication is limited to biometric login and Windows Hello integration, without TOTP or hardware key support. Master password recovery via email adds convenience but also introduces a security concern, though users can disable this option. True Key remains an accessible and practical password manager for general use, despite its missing advanced safeguards.
VPN
McAfee Secure VPN, powered by TunnelBear, combines strong security with ease of use. It employs 256-bit AES encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch to prevent data exposure if the connection drops. The network spans 48 countries, offering broad coverage for secure browsing and streaming.
In speed tests, local connections were extremely fast, and distant servers maintained solid performance with minor slowdowns. The VPN allows access to major streaming services like Netflix and Paramount+, though it struggles with platforms such as Disney+ and Hulu.
Desktop versions lack split-tunneling and multiple protocol options, while the mobile apps include these advanced features. Despite some missing tools, McAfee’s VPN is a strong addition to its suite, delivering privacy, speed, and reliability for everyday use.
Other security features
McAfee provides several supplementary tools, enhancing its overall protection suite. Tracker Remover efficiently deletes browser cookies, cache, temporary files, and system junk, freeing storage space and improving performance. The File Shredder securely erases sensitive files by overwriting data, preventing recovery even with specialized tools.
McAfee Safe Family offers comprehensive parental controls, including web filtering, screen-time limits, app blocking, and precise device tracking. It also includes permission requests for children and highly accurate location monitoring within 10 meters, outperforming Apple’s and Google’s equivalents.
Identity Monitoring uses dark web scans and Experian’s network to detect compromised personal information across over 30 countries. It covers a wide range of data types—from SSNs and tax IDs to bank accounts—and includes features like Personal Data Cleanup and Online Account Cleanup. High-tier plans extend coverage to credit monitoring, lost wallet assistance, ransomware insurance, and up to $2 million in identity theft protection.
Additional tools include Social Privacy Manager, which automates privacy settings across major social networks, and an Anti-Tracker browser extension to prevent online profiling. A new deepfake detection feature is available on select AI-enabled Lenovo laptops. Together, these tools provide a well-rounded suite of protections that go beyond basic antivirus functionality.
Plans and pricing
In the table below are the core products with their features and prices.
The prices shown are from the USA. However, most brands have different prices (and currencies) in other regions. So visit the brand’s website to see the price in our country.
Plan description
McAfee offers five pricing plans, and each caters to different needs.
Total Protection Basic
At $29.99/year, this plan covers 1 device and offers a well-rounded set of features like antivirus, firewall, identity monitoring, and 24/7 support. The plan also includes a VPN if you opt for auto-renewal. We think it’s a good deal, especially compared to Norton 360 Standard, although it lacks parental controls.
Total Protection Essential
At $39.99/year, this plan covers up to 5 devices and offers the same features as Total Protection Basic.
Total Protection Premium
Priced at $49.99/year, this plan covers unlimited devices and includes all Plus features. It also offers manual Personal Data Cleanup. A family option adds parental controls. We found this to be the best value, offering a wide range of features at a competitive price.
Total Protection Advanced
For those prioritizing identity protection, this $89.99/year plan covers unlimited devices and adds $1 million in identity theft coverage, Lost Wallet Protection, and Security Freeze. It’s a pricier option but valuable if identity protection is a key concern.
Total Protection Ultimate
At $199.99/year, this is McAfee’s most comprehensive plan. It offers all the above features plus $25,000 in ransomware protection and extensive transaction monitoring for various accounts. It’s pricey, but for those needing ultimate protection, it could be worth it.
Refunds are available within 30 days of purchase, 60 days of renewal, or anytime if malware isn’t removed. Auto-renewal subscribers also get additional perks like VPN and ID theft protection. Overall, McAfee offers a range of plans suitable for various needs and budgets.
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: November 2025).
Price comparison
We’ve compared the prices of the top antivirus products for Windows. 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)
A few notes:
- Some brands are missing features, lowering their value for money.
- Prices are second-year prices in the USA, without first-year discounts.
- Prices are rounded up for readability (e.g., $99.99 becomes $100).
Brands have different prices outside the USA. See those on their website.
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 Update: November 2025.
Company Profile
McAfee is a global leader in online security with over 35 years of innovation, protecting 600+ million devices across 182 countries. With 1,800 employees and 108 million customers worldwide, McAfee’s mission is to make the digital world safer for everyone.
Advanced Digital Protection
Known for its award-winning antivirus software, McAfee provides comprehensive privacy and identity protection solutions that enable users to confidently navigate the online world, no matter their device or location. Backed by a network of 100 million threat sensors and 200+ researchers, the company detects 620 new threats every minute and blocks over 13,669 threats per minute.
A Legacy of Leadership
Founded in 1987 by John McAfee, the company has evolved through ownership changes, briefly becoming Intel Security in 2014 before returning to the McAfee name in 2016. In 2021, McAfee shifted focus exclusively to consumer security, selling its enterprise division and going private after a $14 billion buyout.
Accessible Solutions
McAfee’s products are available through online platforms, retail outlets, and partnerships with ISPs and device manufacturers. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to staying ahead of emerging threats, ensuring customer safety and peace of mind while advancing digital security globally.
How we test antivirus software
At SoftwareLab, we provide thorough and unbiased antivirus reviews to help you make informed cybersecurity decisions. Our comprehensive testing covers all critical aspects of antivirus performance. We assess each product in six key categories, weighted by importance:
For even more details, visit our blog posts on how 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
- 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
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.
