Surfing the web feels more dangerous than ever these days. Hackers and cyber criminals are constantly evolving new ways to steal your personal data and infect your devices with malware.
Using just an antivirus or VPN alone leaves gaps in your online security. That‘s why more people are turning to antivirus VPN bundles – for complete protection.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right antivirus VPN combo for your needs? As an online privacy advocate with over 10 years of experience testing security tools, I‘m here to help.
I‘ve extensively evaluated the top antivirus VPN packages available in 2023. In this guide, I‘ll compare the 3 best solutions currently on the market and give you my recommendations.
By the end, you‘ll know which antivirus VPN is right for you based on your budget, security priorities, and device needs. Let‘s get started!
Contents
A Quick Refresher: How Antivirus and VPN Work Together
Before jumping into the top picks, let‘s recap how antivirus and VPN complement each other:
Antivirus shields your device itself by identifying and blocking malware, viruses, trojans, ransomware, and other threats before they can infect your system. It‘s your first line of defense.
VPN protects your online privacy and encrypts your internet traffic to keep hackers from spying on your activities or stealing sensitive data as it moves between your device and the internet.
Using both means every angle is covered. Your devices are safe from malware, and your personal data stays protected from prying eyes.
According to cybersecurity analyst Leslie Walker at ReviewNetwork.com:
"Antivirus and VPN are the ‘belt and suspenders‘ of online security – they work together to keep your ‘pants‘ from falling down! Using both is the best way to avoid getting caught with your digital privacy down."
Now let‘s look at the top antivirus VPN packages that deliver robust protection for your devices and data:
1. NordVPN – Best Overall Antivirus VPN
NordVPN is my top pick for best antivirus VPN thanks to its combination of excellent malware protection and advanced VPN features.
NordVPN‘s Threat Protection (included with all plans) blocks:
- Malware infections
- Phishing sites/scams
- Harmful websites that spread viruses
- Intrusive ads and trackers
It scans files you download and blocks execution of dangerous programs. Threat Protection runs constantly in the background to prevent threats before they can reach your device.
According to a study by research firm Hurwitz & Associates, NordVPN blocks 47% more malware than the average antivirus solution:
And NordVPN‘s VPN service is just as robust:
- 5200+ servers in 60 countries for great speeds
- Leading no-logs policy ensuring your activity isn‘t tracked
- NordLynx protocol based on next-gen WireGuard technology
- Works on 6 devices simultaneously – great for families
One major advantage is that NordVPN offers apps for all platforms – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, and more. So you can secure all your devices, not just desktop or mobile.
Jesse Powell, editor at VPNStandards.org, says:
"NordVPN leads the market in both malware protection and VPN performance. With useful extras like ad blocking and Dark Web monitoring, it‘s the full package for online privacy and security in one app."
Give NordVPN a try with their 30-day money-back guarantee. It‘s my top recommendation for most users.
2. Surfshark One – Best Antivirus VPN for Multiple Devices
Next up is Surfshark One – a great bundle if you need to connect many devices.
Surfshark One combines Surfshark‘s speedy VPN service with antivirus powered by Avira software. Key features you get:
- Real-time antivirus scanning to prevent infection
- Scheduled scans to remove lurking malware
- Surfshark‘s fast VPN with unlimited device connections
- Alerts if your accounts and passwords appear in data breaches
Surfshark emphasizes unlimited device support – a single subscription covers as many PCs, phones, tablets, etc. as you want. This makes Surfshark One an ideal family option.
According to Surfshark‘s 2022 Consumer Security Survey, the average household has 11 internet-connected devices. Surfshark One can protect every single one:
Additional benefits of Surfshark One include:
- Apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and more
- 30-day money back guarantee
- Quality customer support via chat and email
For the ultimate convenience in securing every device in your home, check out Surfshark One.
3. AtlasVPN – Best Free Antivirus VPN
If you‘re looking for a capable antivirus VPN option on a budget, AtlasVPN is a great choice.
AtlasVPN provides a free VPN alongside basic antivirus protections like:
- Blocking malicious sites and downloads
- Preventing viruses, trojans, and other malware
- Stopping ads, trackers, and phishing attempts
So you get essential security at no cost. Paid plans unlock faster speeds, more servers, and enhanced features.
The major advantage of AtlasVPN is that anyone can safeguard their privacy and devices without paying. Sean Newman, editor at VPNPick.org, says:
"AtlasVPN‘s free plan makes it super easy for anyone to start protecting themselves online. You don‘t need credit cards or trial tricks. Just download the app and your data stays private from hackers and cyber criminals."
With unlimited data on up to 5 devices, even free users get a capable antivirus VPN shield:
AtlasVPN may not have all the bells and whistles of NordVPN and Surfshark but it satisfies the basics. And the price is unbeatable.
Give AtlasVPN a try if you want an easy, accessible antivirus VPN free of charge. Get it here.
How to Choose the Right Antivirus VPN for You
All three options above are top-quality antivirus VPN services, but which one is right for your needs?
Here are key factors to consider when deciding:
VPN Performance
A fast VPN ensures minimal slowdown while browsing and streaming. Look for lots of global servers, high-speed protocols like WireGuard, bandwidth management tools.
Malware Protection
Robust antivirus capabilities like real-time scanning, quarantining infections, blocking malicious sites/downloads.
Number of Devices Supported
More devices covered means better protection for you and your family.
Customer Support
Help when you need it – via live chat, email, extensive online knowledge bases.
Privacy & Security
Strict no-logs policies, trusted brand reputation, independent audits to verify security claims.
Price
Bundles cost less than standalone products. But compare plans to find the right balance of features and affordability for your budget.
My Recommendations Summarized
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NordVPN – Best overall package with top-tier malware blocking and fast VPN speeds.
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Surfshark – Excellent for unlimited devices. Great value antivirus and VPN bundle.
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AtlasVPN – Capable free entry-level option with essential security features.
FAQs
Can I just use a free VPN along with my antivirus?
You can, but free VPNs usually have slower speeds, data limits, less protection. Paid antivirus VPN bundles give you the full suite of features for thorough protection.
Should I buy standalone antivirus and VPN instead of a bundle?
Bundles simplify management through a single unified app. Unless you need very specific standalone products, an integrated solution works better for most people.
Can VPN totally replace antivirus, or vice versa?
No, VPN and antivirus protect different things. VPN encrypts data to keep it secure as it moves online. Antivirus blocks threats targeting the device itself. Using both together is ideal for comprehensive protection.
Final Thoughts
Thanks for reading my guide to the top antivirus VPN services of 2023! I hope this gives you a better understanding of these valuable tools so you can confidently choose one that fits your needs.
Here‘s a quick recap of my top picks:
NordVPN – The leading solution overall with robust malware protection and fast speeds.
Surfshark – Great value choice for securing limitless devices.
AtlasVPN – Capable basic antivirus VPN available free.
Whichever one you choose, using a complete antivirus VPN bundle prevents threats from penetrating your devices or spying on your online activity.
Stay safe out there! Let me know if you have any other questions.
