In 2025, safeguarding your online presence is more critical than ever. With cyber threats on the rise, relying on just one layer of protection is no longer sufficient. That’s where the power of VPN with Antivirus comes in—combining secure online browsing with real-time malware defense in a single package.
An Antivirus VPN not only encrypts your internet traffic to shield it from hackers and trackers but also actively scans your device for threats like viruses, spyware, and ransomware. This hybrid solution is perfect for those who want comprehensive digital security without juggling multiple tools.
What’s The Difference Between VPN and Antivirus?
While a VPN protects your data in transit and ensures privacy during online activities, an Antivirus focuses on safeguarding your device from internal and external threats. They complement each other but address different aspects of cybersecurity.
VPN
- Primary Function: A VPN enhances online privacy and security by creating an encrypted connection between your device and the internet. This masks your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, preventing others from tracking your online activities or intercepting sensitive data.
- Use Case: Protecting your data on public Wi-Fi, bypassing geographic restrictions, or maintaining anonymity online.
- Focus: Privacy and anonymity.
Antivirus
- Primary Function: An Antivirus program protects your device from malware, such as viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other malicious threats. It scans, detects, and removes harmful software to prevent system damage and data theft.
- Use Case: Defending your device from malware attacks and ensuring the safety of files and software.
- Focus: System protection and threat removal.
Both options offer good protection on their own, but if you combine them together, you are very well protected all round. This is why many Antivirus programs also offer a VPN, which is not as comprehensive and good as the specialized VPN services. On the other hand, there are also an increasing number of VPN providers that have a built-in Antivirus function or offer it as an add-on.
VPN with Antivirus Features
Here is a brief (and possibly incomplete) overview of VPN services that offer an Antivirus feature.
The ultimate VPN and Antivirus combo is available as part of a subscription plan or as an optional add-on. Let’s start with the integrated Antivirus VPN:
Surfshark – Surfshark One
Surfshark offers a comprehensive security suite with its Surfshark One plan. This package includes not only a high-performing VPN but also a capable Antivirus that scans files and programs for threats when they’re downloaded, installed, or run. This proactive approach ensures malware is caught before it can harm your system.
Beyond Antivirus protection, Surfshark One provides additional features like ‘Alert’, which notifies users if their personal information is compromised in a data breach. Its ‘Search’ function delivers ad-free, tracker-free browsing, while its ‘Alternative ID’ tool helps users create disposable identities and emails for online use. Certified by AV-Test as a reliable Antivirus solution, Surfshark One offers a seamless blend of tools for privacy and protection.
This makes Surfshark ideal for users who want an affordable, all-in-one security solution that extends beyond basic VPN and Antivirus services.
NordVPN – Threat Protection Pro™
NordVPN has long been synonymous with privacy and security, and its Threat Protection Pro™ takes this further by incorporating anti-malware capabilities. Included in their Ultimate and Plus plans, Threat Protection Pro™ works on both Windows and macOS. Its primary role is to block malicious files before they are downloaded, protecting you from threats online.
Although it doesn’t perform local scans of your device – unlike traditional Antivirus programs – it offers reliable online protection. Threat Protection Pro™ has been independently certified by AV-Comparatives for its strong anti-phishing features, which helps safeguard users from deceptive websites and emails designed to steal personal information.
NordVPN’s integration of these features makes it a solid choice for users who value online privacy with an added layer of threat prevention. However, if full system scanning is a priority, pairing it with standalone Antivirus software may be necessary.
Now we come to the VPN with Antivirus add-on:
CyberGhost – Security Suite
CyberGhost Security Suite is an optional add-on that integrates Antivirus features powered by Intego into the CyberGhost VPN interface. Designed exclusively for Windows users (Windows 7 and above), this Antivirus tool provides 24/7 protection against a wide array of threats, including ransomware, spyware, and Trojans.
The suite is available at an additional cost, with pricing starting at 4,50€ for one month, or as low as 1,00€ per month with a two-year subscription. This makes CyberGhost Security Suite a budget-friendly option for those who need enhanced protection without leaving the VPN ecosystem.
While CyberGhost’s Antivirus is limited to Windows, its integration within the app ensures a smooth user experience, ideal for those who prefer unified tools.
Private Internet Access (PIA) – Antivirus Add-On
PIA’s antivirus also comes as an optional add-on module to its VPN service. The Antivirus scans your device in real-time for malware, ransomware, trojans, and more, ensuring 24/7 protection. It includes features like flexible scan settings (quick, full, or scheduled scans), quarantine management, and cloud-based virus definitions updated continuously for the latest threat protection. This privacy-focused Antivirus supports Windows 7 and above, complementing PIA’s no-logs VPN for a comprehensive cybersecurity solution.
PIA’s Antivirus is competitively priced, starting at 4,50€ for a single month and dropping to 1,00€ per month with a three-year plan.
Some VPN services have integrated features similar to an Antivirus program. For example, ExpressVPN offers malware detection and blocks advertising at DNS level, as well as websites known to be malicious, so that no damage can be caused by them. However, these features do not offer comprehensive Antivirus protection, which is why there is no certification from independent AV testers.
Why Choose a VPN with Antivirus?
The combined offering of a VPN and Antivirus streamlines digital security, providing a unified platform for protection against both online and offline threats. Options like NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™, Surfshark’s Surfshark One, and the add-ons from CyberGhost and PIA cater to diverse needs and budgets, ensuring there’s a solution for everyone. Whether you prioritize privacy, cost-effectiveness, or advanced features, these services provide a balanced approach to cybersecurity in 2025.
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