Fortunately, several antivirus packages bundle the two together and make it convenient to secure your devices. In this article, we list the best antiviruses with VPNs included. After comprehensive tests, the following antivirus suites emerged as the five best performers: Get Norton360 Of course, purchasing and managing two or three different tools can prove to be a challenge for users. Luckily, leading cybersecurity brands have created bundled product suites that make it easy to stay safe online. These bundles usually consist of various tools built into one convenient package. An antivirus program protects your computer against any incoming threats, whereas a VPN protects your online presence, encrypting your data so that ISPs or other malicious actors cannot access it. A VPN also offers other benefits, such as allowing you to change your IP and access region-locked content from different parts of the world! But, instead of paying for both separately, you can get an antivirus program with in-built VPN security too. Here are five of the best antiviruses with in-built VPNs that you can get in 2023.
The Best Antivirus Software with In-Built VPN for 2023
We used the following parameters when evaluating and testing each of the VPNs (they are discussed in detail later in the article): We’ve summarised the key features under each category below: With that out of the way, let’s get straight into the rankings!
1. Norton 360 – The best overall antivirus and VPN package
Notable features
Top-notch protection against malware Good speeds across a decent network Unlimited VPN data at an affordable price Very useful additional features
Protection against viruses
Norton has been a household name in the antivirus business for a long time now. It has an excellent reputation for countering and protecting against harmful threats online. Indeed, it achieved a perfect score in the latest AV Tests. Its strong showing is a testament to Norton’s real-time protection, which combines heuristics and machine learning to detect threats. Additionally, Norton 360 also comes with a smart firewall, password manager, cloud backup, dark web monitoring, and parental controls. A combination of Norton’s virus detection with these features makes it a robust security solution for your devices.
Overall VPN performance
Norton’s Secure VPN service is a great complement to its strong antivirus program. The fact that Norton offers unlimited bandwidth in almost all of its plans is a big plus. Users who opt for Norton’s 360 Deluxe subscription can use Secure VPN on up to 5 devices without any limits on data. In addition to the unlimited bandwidth, Norton’s VPN service also offers pretty fast speeds across a network of more than 30 servers. As a result, the VPN can be used to unblock a decent amount of content from across the world. We were able to unblock Netflix and other streaming websites quite easily while using Secure VPN. However, there are a couple of downsides to Secure VPN. The first is a lack of a kill switch. A kill switch automatically disconnects your device in case your VPN connection breaks, so your data and privacy remain intact. The second is that it does not support P2P downloads. This could be a key factor for users who torrent very often.
Price
Norton’s antivirus suite really shines when it comes to pricing. We recommend the Norton 360 Deluxe plan for most users as it offers unlimited VPN data on up to 5 devices with 50GB of secure cloud storage. All of this is available at the unbelievable price of $39.99 for the first year, which is very competitive given the value you get. Do note that prices are displayed for the first year. From the second year onwards, you’ll have to pay the regular price ($104.99 for the Deluxe plan) to avail all of Norton’s services.
Usability
Norton’s website and applications are intuitive and easy to use. The website provides information in an easily readable manner and helps you choose the right product for your needs. The applications, which are available on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, are a breeze to install. The interface for each is well laid out and separated the different features into independent tiles. Even users without much technical experience will be able to use its advanced security features. Given the company’s strong reputation in the world of computer security, this is the ideal pick for those who want a complete package.
2. Bitdefender Total Security – The best antivirus with VPN for streaming content
Notable features
1300 servers in 42+ countries Ultra-fast connection based on Catapult Hydra protocol Solid protection against malware and viruses
Protection against viruses
Bitdefender is another antivirus program that offers nearly unbreachable protection against all possible threats. Like Norton 360, it scored a perfect 6.0/6.0 on the AV-Test. The antiviruses’ ability to detect and eliminate viruses without user prevention is particularly useful. It also offers ransomware remediation and online threat prevention, which are crucial given that most digital threats emanate online. Vulnerability mapping also helps identify any possible areas of weakness in your devices. The one-click optimizer included with the antivirus program should help reduce the impact on your device’s performance.
Overall VPN performance
Bitdefender’s one of the few antivirus providers whose independent VPN service scored highly on our tests. In fact, its independent VPN score of 7.5 matches up to some of the more established VPN providers that we’ve reviewed. The standout feature of Bitdefender’s VPN is its speed. Bitdefender piggybacks off Aura’s Hotspot Shield’s infrastructure and technology, using its secretive Catapult Hydra protocol. This protocol was developed by AnchorFree and is used by several other companies that package a VPN as part of their services, including McAfee. It also supports OpenVPN, though there’s no WireGuard support yet. P2P downloads also work well on Bitdefender VPN. Standard VPN features, such as a kill switch, are also included. However, a negative is that only the most expensive plan has an unlimited data limit. The others offer only about 200MB per day, per device, which is nowhere near enough.
Price
If pricing wasn’t an important factor in our rankings, Bitdefender may well have been the best antivirus with a VPN included. But sadly, price is where Bitdefender really loses out, especially considering its 200 MB limit per day for each device. There is no option without a bandwidth cap, sadly. The yearly subscription costs $39.98. If price isn’t an object, this is a great antivirus and VPN combo that offers rock-solid protection.
Usability
Bitdefender is actually the go-to antivirus software for my mobile devices. I’ve had it installed on my phone and tablet for a while and it’s been super easy to use. The interface is very well designed and allows users to manage different options as per their wishes. The Bitdefender Central app even allows you to run remote scans on all your other devices. This is a nifty feature of the suite that helps ensure security on all your devices. These apps work on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. This means that a single Bitdefender subscription should be enough for all your different devices.
3. McAfee Total Protection – The best antivirus plus VPN combo for cost savings
Notable features
Offers the ability to install VPN and antivirus software on unlimited devices An impressive suite of features and functionalities Very affordable pricing
Protection against viruses
Few other names are as synonymous with antivirus protection as McAfee. It’s been around since 1987 and has established a stellar reputation as a robust security tool. It comes as no surprise that McAfee has consistently achieved a close to perfect mark on AV-Test. Not only does the McAfee antivirus provide real-time threat protection and virus scanning, but it also provides anti-spam protection, enhanced parental controls, and a password manager. This provides holistic protection against all kinds of threats and attack vectors. A particularly interesting feature is McAfee’s identity theft protection. It helps protect your personally identifiable information from fraud, which is a worryingly frequent occurrence on the internet.
Overall VPN performance
With McAfee’s avowed focus on digital security, one would expect that its VPN is top-notch. However, this is unfortunately not the case. McAfee’s Secure VPN is average at best. It does offer great speeds and a fair network of servers. McAfee’s VPN actually has servers in more than 23 nations, which makes it a great option for streaming and unblocking content. It also offers unlimited data as part of McAfee’s Total Protection package. That’s basically where the positives end though. McAfee’s VPN has a vague no-logs policy and doesn’t have a kill switch. Furthermore, it’s based in the US, which is not a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.
Price
The pricing of different packages is definitely one of McAfee’s strong suits. You can get a full security suite for five devices with unlimited VPN data for $39.99 (for the first year). The Ultimate plan, which is priced at $69.99, allows users to install the McAfee security suite on any number of devices they prefer.
Usability
We found McAfee’s website to be well designed. Users should be able to easily browse the different plans and features and select the one that works for them. Installing the app on different devices is equally easy. By the way, McAfee has apps for iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows. The app itself has a very modern user interface. Each page is pretty self-explanatory, which makes it easy for users of all levels of sophistication to use the app.
4. Avira Prime – The best antivirus with VPN included for multiple connections
Notable features
Offers VPN protection as part of free plan Connect unlimited devices to the VPN Lightweight antivirus with stellar protection
Protection against viruses
Avira has long been the favorite free antivirus for Windows users. It packages robust protection against trojans, worms, spyware, and other kinds of viruses into a lightweight application that doesn’t impact computer performance as much as others. Its protective suite is further bolstered by valuable add-ons. These include a software updating tool that keeps your operating system and drivers up to date to avoid vulnerabilities. Also offered as part of the Prime package are a password manager, vulnerability scanner, and a clean-up tool.
Overall VPN performance
Avira distinguishes itself from some of the other entries on this list as it offers its Avira Phantom VPN protection as part of its free plan. That said, the free VPN protection is limited to 500MB/month. Most users probably use up more data in an hour, let alone one month. If you prefer VPN protection without a bandwidth limit, you can opt for the Prime package, which allows you to install the antivirus and VPN combo on as many devices as you want. In terms of performance, Avira’s Phantom VPN fares pretty well. It uses the OpenVPN encryption protocol which offers a fine balance of speed and security. Furthermore, it has a built-in kill switch, so you can rest assured that your privacy remains protected. Above all, the VPN offers fairly decent speeds across its network of 35+ servers.
Price
As we mentioned earlier, Avira’s antivirus suite is one of the only ones on the market that offers VPN protection as part of its free plan. However, the free plan is severely limited when it comes to overall security and privacy protection. Instead, users should consider Avira Prime, which bundles all its security solutions, for reliable comprehensive security across their devices. It’s worth the money you’ll end up spending.
Usability
Much like its antivirus, Avira’s website is very minimalist. It’s easy on the eye and a pleasure to browse through. Information on different products and packages is readily available as well. The antivirus app works on all leading operating systems, such as Windows and macOS. It also offers apps for mobile devices running Android and iOS. Each app boasts a clean interface which makes it easy to protect yourself digitally. Though the ads on the free version can be slightly annoying.
5. Kaspersky Security Cloud – The best antivirus with in-built VPN for comprehensive protection
Notable features
Best in class security and malware protection Lightning-fast scans Great suite of additional features
Protection against viruses
It should come as no surprise that Kaspersky achieved the highest score protection against viruses. The antivirus scanner has long been regarded as the best when it comes to detecting and eliminating threats. A thorough scan of the device takes less than 15 minutes, which is ridiculously fast. This makes it difficult for any unwanted elements on your device to go unnoticed. Subfunctions, such as its payment protection and private browsing, help you stay safe online, which is crucial in the information age. If you’re really concerned about your device’s security, there are few better options than Kaspersky.
Overall VPN performance
After seeing the stellar virus protection score, you may be wondering why Kaspersky isn’t higher on this list. Well, that’s simply because none of its antivirus and VPN suites includes unlimited data. Even with the highest plan, which is the Security Cloud, you’re limited to 500MB a day per device. That aside, Kaspersky’s VPN is reliable and provides consistent speeds. It uses 256-bit AES encryption, which is a market-leading standard, to protect your information. It also boasts a strong network, with more than 300 servers in 200+ countries. In the absence of the daily data limit, Kaspersky’s VPN would have been a pretty decent option for streaming and unblocking. Unfortunately, the data limit is just too low to look past.
Price
Kaspersky is certainly competitively priced. In fact, it’s currently available for nearly 70% less than its usual price. The Security Cloud plan would be our pick as it allows you to choose which features of Kaspersky’s suites you want to use. It also features the highest daily data limit, which is 500 MB. Even though this plan is the cheapest on our list, it doesn’t have the highest score. This is because you’d have to pick up a separate subscription for unlimited data on Kaspersky’s VPN, which makes it far more expensive than the other options. But if you’re someone who uses a VPN minimally and wants the best protection out there, Kaspersky’s easily the best choice.
Usability
Both Kaspersky’s software and website are easy to navigate despite their advanced features. Information about the different features is readily available at your fingertips. This helps users understand what each aspect of the program does and when they may need to use it. The installation process is also quick and easy, making the overall suite very user-friendly. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Kaspersky’s customer service. Even though it has live chat functionality, the responses are not always the most helpful. Overall, it felt like getting in touch with customer support took a significant amount of effort at our end, which is not ideal.
Top Antiviruses With In-Built VPNs That Didn’t Make Our List
While the five antiviruses mentioned above offer the best combination of malware protection and a VPN, there are a couple of others that are great as well but didn’t pass our stringent testing to gain an official recommendation. That’s not to say they aren’t pretty good. These are:
Avast Antivirus
Avast has been a well-known antivirus for a while now. Its SecureLineVPN is one that we’ve tested comprehensively, and it performed fairly well. Overall, Avast offers good protection and online security at a competitive price. However, we simply can’t recommend the product as Avast has a sketchy history when it comes to selling user data. It has been caught selling user data and that defeats the entire purpose of a VPN, which is user privacy.
TotalAV
Explaining Our Parameters
At VPNOverview, we like to be transparent in how we’ve arrived at our different rankings. As part of this, we try and break down the parameters we’ve used so that our readers know exactly what we took into consideration. As we’ve mentioned already, we used four parameters to rank the best antivirus software with in-built VPNs. Broadly, the following factors were considered:
Protection against viruses – we looked at how effectively antivirus software is able to detect any threats to your device. Importance was also given to the time it took the program to run different kinds of scans. We also considered additional features which added to the overall security package. Overall VPN performance – when determining VPN performance, we paid close attention to the network of servers and the average speeds we got. This was supplemented by the VPN service’s ability to unblock popular streaming sites like Netflix. The existence of privacy safeguards, such as a kill switch and no logs policy, was also accounted for. Price – this one’s pretty self-explanatory. We looked at which antivirus suite plan provides unlimited bandwidth as that’s an important feature of a good VPN. Usability – usability was determined by combining the antivirus software and the website’s ease of use with customer service. Most apps listed above are very easy to use but not all boast of great customer service. Attention was also paid to the operating systems on which antivirus can run.
Why Do I Need an Antivirus Program and a VPN?
Having read this far, you may be wondering why you can’t choose either an antivirus or a VPN and just use that. Well, that’s because both serve very different purposes. An antivirus offers real-time protection against all kinds of threats and ensures that no malicious elements can infect your device. It runs scans, deletes harmful items, and blocks harmful content from the internet. Hence, antivirus software is geared towards maintaining the security and integrity of your device’s file system. A VPN, on the other hand, protects your privacy and information when using the internet. We are increasingly subject to snooping and surveillance from governments and tech companies when online. A VPN encrypts your internet activity and routes it through a different server so that no one can trace it back to you. With the increasing frequency and magnitude of cyberattacks, hacks, and scams, it becomes important to use both tools simultaneously to protect your security and privacy. Luckily, there are many companies that offer one combined package. Do watch out, though. Some packages might not include both, even though the company does offer both. With System Mechanic and Intego’s VPN, for example, you’ll have to get two separate subscriptions to get antivirus as well as a VPN.
Wrapping Up
To quickly recap, using antivirus software along with a VPN service is crucial to ensuring one’s digital security. Norton 360 offers the best combination of an antivirus scanner and VPN service all things considered. If you’re willing to splurge a little, then you could consider Bitdefender’s antivirus package. For price-conscious users, McAfee’s Total Protection is a good pick. Learn more about online security by reading the following articles:
How to Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi: Our In-Depth Guide 8 Simple Steps to Guarantee You Stay Safe Online The Best Antivirus Software: Our Top 5
An antivirus prevents malware and viruses from entering and infecting your device while a VPN encrypts your internet activity and keeps it private from prying eyes online. Check out our list of the five best antiviruses with VPNs included for alternatives to Norton 360.
