Looking for more security than a VPN alone can offer? We’re here to give you a rundown of the best VPNs with antivirus protection built-in.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are a great way to protect yourself against online dangers like man-in-the-middle attacks or government surveillance. However, they can’t keep you safe from offline threats. For example, if you accidentally install a malicious program, you’re on your own. That is unless you have a high-quality antivirus app that can find the offending software and remove it. On the plus side, there are plenty of reputable VPNs with antivirus capabilities these days.
Our team has carefully tested numerous hybrid VPN/antivirus providers and created a list of the best options on the market. We’ve worked hard to make sure that we only recommend the fastest, most reliable services so you get exactly what you deserve: comprehensive digital protection at a reasonable price.
We’ll cover each of our top picks in more detail shortly. For now, here’s a quick overview
Best VPNs with antivirus functionality:
- CyberGhost VPN: Our first choice. Privacy-conscious VPN with virus-scanning and malware detection. Suitable for any day-to-day task, with minimal impact on performance. Includes a risk-free 14-day or 45-day money-back guarantee, depending on how long you sign up for.
- Surfshark: The best low-cost VPN with its own antivirus app. Makes it easy to secure all of your devices, web traffic, and personal information. 24/7 support just in case you need it.
- Norton Secure VPN: A solid VPN from one of the best-known antivirus companies. Comes bundled with cloud storage and guarantees you a refund if you get a virus that it can’t remove.
- NordVPN: Doesn’t have a standalone antivirus, but its Threat Protection feature can handle most online dangers. This functionality is included with all plans and doesn’t cost anything extra.
- Avast One: The free basic plan includes Avast’s SecureLine VPN (with limited bandwidth) and antivirus software. Upgrade to remove limits and access an even wider range of tools.
- Private Internet Access: Leading VPN provider that recently launched its own virus-protection app. Steady speeds, a proven no-logs policy, and around-the-clock support.
- Kaspersky Secure Connection: You can get this VPN and Kaspersky’s antivirus software with a Plus subscription. Smaller network but solid security and decent performance overall.
Consumers have never had more options when it comes to choosing a VPN. The problem is that every service is different, and to complicate things further, antivirus apps can have radically different malware-detection rates. That’s why we thoroughly examined a wide range of services before bringing only the very best to your attention. Here are a few of our must-have criteria:
- Includes both a VPN and some form of digital threat protection
- Offers a consistently high level of performance
- Uses industry-standard encryption and privacy tools
- Refuses to keep records of your online activities
- Makes it as easy as possible to contact customer support
- Fairly-priced subscriptions with either a free tier or a money-back guarantee
You can read more about the criteria we used later in this article.
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There are no hidden terms – just contact support within 45 days if you decide CyberGhost isn’t right for you and you’ll get a full refund. Start your CyberGhost trial here .
Best VPNs with virus-scanning in 2025
Let’s dive right in and examine our top VPNs a little more closely:
1. CyberGhost
CyberGhost VPN offers the best overall VPN and antivirus package. You can get both for around $80 by choosing the two-year subscription. We strongly recommend going this route too, since it costs $17.49 USD per month otherwise ($12.99 for the VPN and $4.50 for the antivirus). Just be aware that while you’ll be able to block ads and trackers on any platform, including Linux, the Security Suite app only supports Windows.
So what exactly are you getting? Well, CyberGhost is an extraordinarily fast VPN, averaging nearly 300 Mbps in our latest tests. It also leads the pack in terms of network scale, with more than 10,000 servers across 100+ countries, some of which are optimized for torrenting and streaming. This provider follows a no-logging policy and has been audited to prove it, but if you’re concerned, you can always take advantage of its privacy-first NoSpy servers.
The CyberGhost Security Suite offers real-time protection against malware, with the option to run scans whenever you like (or on a schedule). It’ll check your apps for vulnerabilities and update them automatically too, which helps take some pressure off. You can also close security loopholes in your system, for instance, by preventing apps from accessing your calendar, contacts, or microphone. It’s even possible to create custom privacy profiles for different web browsers!
Pros:
- Exceptionally versatile VPN
- Fine-grained control over your system security
- Inexpensive long-term plans
- Responsive and helpful support staff
Cons:
- Antivirus software only works on Windows
BEST ANTIVIRUS VPN: CyberGhost VPN is our favorite VPN/antivirus combo. Importantly, both are high-quality services in their own right, and there’s 24/7 support via live chat. Monthly plans come with a risk-free 14-day money-back guarantee, with longer subscriptions offering 45 days.
Read our full review of CyberGhost VPN.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is a fantastic low-cost alternative. Its standalone VPN blocks ads, trackers, and malware for you, but users who upgrade to Surfshark One also get a dedicated antivirus app and identity theft protection. Surfshark One plans cost $15.95 per month or as little as $2.89 monthly if you choose the two-year term. What’s particularly impressive is that the antivirus works on all major platforms, including Windows, Android, and macOS.
We’ve been big fans of this VPN for a long time. It offers access to servers in 100+ countries and delivers some of the highest speeds we’ve seen. Further, since there’s no connection limit, you’re free to protect every device you own. Thanks to a wealth of security features, a strict zero-logs policy, and some of the strongest anti-censorship tools around, this VPN is a great choice for anyone seeking online anonymity.
Surfshark Antivirus has a nice, user-friendly design. It lets you schedule scans or run them manually whenever you like. Additionally, you have the option to exclude certain folders or automatically quarantined files. The virus definition database is updated every three hours, which helps keep you safe from the latest Trojans and spyware. You’ll also get alerts whenever your webcam or accounts are accessed without your permission, which is a great little inclusion.
Pros:
- First-class VPN with a superb record on privacy
- High speeds and lots of servers to choose from
- Antivirus app and identity theft protection on all Surfshark One plans
- Perfect for novice users
Cons:
- Antivirus app can only be used on five devices at a time
BEST BUDGET VPN WITH ANTIVIRUS: Surfshark is an affordable way to secure your devices. What’s more, Surfshark One includes tools that can help prevent malware infection, identity theft, and online tracking. These all come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Surfshark.
3. Norton Secure VPN
Norton Secure VPN comes included as part of a Standard Norton 360 subscription. These currently cost $39.99 for the first year, though you can only protect up to three devices unless you choose a more expensive plan. The good news is that, as well as a VPN, this pays for a password manager, cloud storage space, dark web monitoring, and arguably the world’s best-known antivirus service.
Let’s start by taking a look at the VPN itself. It’s fast enough for any task, from gaming to torrenting, although it does struggle to access some larger streaming platforms. Norton Secure VPN doesn’t keep activity logs, though it does store device-level identifiers and connection records. In addition to uncrackable encryption, this service keeps you safe by blocking trackers, preventing DNS and IPv6 leaks, and alerting you if you try to use a suspicious network.
Norton Antivirus has been around for more than 30 years, and it’s easy to see why. It boasts impressive malware detection rates and a wealth of additional features. These include automatic driver updates and an integrated tool that alerts you to phishing attempts. Naturally, you can schedule scans or run them yourself whenever you like.
Pros:
- Supports iOS, macOS, Windows, and Android
- Easily identifies most forms of malware
- Includes every privacy tool you’ll ever need in one subscription
- One of the few VPNs to offer phone support
Cons:
- VPN logs more data than we’d like
COMPREHENSIVE SECURITY: Norton Secure VPN is reliable and easy to use, plus it comes bundled alongside Norton Antivirus. Users are given lots of tools to help protect their devices and accounts, and best of all, there’s a 60-day money-back guarantee.
4. NordVPN
NordVPN doesn’t have a traditional antivirus app, although it does offer built-in protection against malicious downloads, online trackers, and ads. These features are available on every platform (including macOS and Linux) and are included in the base subscription tier. If you’re on Windows, NordVPN even lets you know whether any of your other apps contain vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.
What’s so great about NordVPN? For starters, it has thousands of servers spread across 118+ countries and delivers some of the fastest, most reliable connections we’ve seen. Thanks to its vast array of security tools and stellar obfuscation, it’s a natural choice whether you’re looking to torrent anonymously or side-step digital censorship. On that note, NordVPN has been audited multiple times to prove that it doesn’t keep any logs of your activities. Customer support staff are available around the clock just in case you experience any problems.
Pros:
- Simplifies online privacy
- Excels at flying under the radar
- Customizable security features and a zero-logs policy
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a standalone antivirus app
DEFEND AGAINST MALWARE: NordVPN gives users all of the tools needed to browse the web safely and protect against malicious downloads or websites. It is fast, works with most region-locked services, and puts your privacy above all else. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
5. Avast One
Avast One has a free tier that gives users virus protection plus 5 GB of VPN bandwidth per week. However, upgrading to a paid plan removes the data limit, grants access to over 50 server locations, and unlocks crucial security tools such as the kill switch. Plans start at $4.19 per month, and the software is compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS.
Avast’s VPN service, SecureLine, has a lot to offer. It uses industry-standard encryption and works with several popular streaming services, including Netflix. Speeds are decent, but this provider still has a way to go before it can compete with the likes of CyberGhost VPN or Surfshark.
SecureLine refuses to keep any records of your online activities. It does, however, store connection logs and a note of how much bandwidth you have used. Additionally, in 2019, the company was found to have sold its antivirus customers’ data to third parties. This didn’t impact VPN users, but it is still something you should be aware of.
To its credit, the antivirus software does a great job of flagging malicious files and scans systems quite a bit quicker than some of its rivals. As part of your subscription, Avast throws in data breach alerts, webcam protection, password management, and an email Guardian tool that highlights suspicious emails so you can scrutinize them more closely.
Pros:
- Robust free offering
- Versatile VPN with a no-logs policy
- Fast and thorough scanning
Cons:
- Company previously sold antivirus customers’ data without consent
TRY BEFORE YOU BUY: Avast lets you use its VPN and antivirus software free of charge. Those who decide to upgrade can take advantage of a suite of privacy tools and use the VPN as much as they like. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
6. PrivateVPN
Private Internet Access recently introduced its own antivirus software to help protect your devices against all manner of digital threats. This is only available as an add-on to your VPN plan: it costs an extra $4.50 for monthly subscribers, but you can get three years of access for just $36.
The VPN has servers in more than 91 countries and delivered average speeds of around 145 Mbps in our most recent round of testing. It’s able to automatically block ads and trackers, has solid streaming capabilities, and includes a wide range of security tools. Private Internet Access has a no-logs policy and is one of the few providers to have proven this in court. This took place several years ago, however, so we’d like to see it undergo an independent audit all the same.
The antivirus app can schedule scans or run them at will, quarantining any dangerous files that it finds. Naturally, it’s constantly updating its virus definitions to ensure that you’re protected from newly emerging malware as well. That’s not all: Private Internet Access’ virus scanner examines your other apps for vulnerabilities and uninstalled updates to ensure that attackers have even fewer ways to breach your system.
Pros:
- Perfect for everyday usage
- Doesn’t compromise on privacy
- Automatic virus scanning and software updates
Cons:
- VPN supports all major platforms but antivirus is Windows-only
STRESS-FREE SECURITY: Private Internet Access makes it easy to stay safe online and has a verified zero-logs policy. Thanks to its new antivirus software, it can even help protect your Windows PC from malware that you’ve inadvertently installed. There’s no harm in trying it since it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of Private Internet Access.
7. Kaspersky Secure Connection
Kaspersky Secure Connection offers introductory pricing of $33.99 per year (for a five-device plan). Alternatively, for $71.99 per year, you can get this VPN and take advantage of real-time virus scanning and identity protection. Seems like a pretty good deal to us! Unfortunately, there’s no monthly subscription option and no additional discount for choosing a multi-year plan. The software does work on every major operating system except Linux, though.
This VPN is powered by the same technology as Hotspot Shield and accordingly can use that company’s proprietary Catapult Hydra protocol (though only on desktop). Kaspersky offers plenty of server locations and speeds that are fast enough for any everyday activity. More importantly, it keeps you safe using uncrackable encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection. There is a strict no-logs policy in place and several ways to get help should you need it.
In our opinion, Kaspersky Antivirus is one of the most reliable options out there. It does a great job of identifying malware and has barely any noticeable impact on your system’s performance. Further, it can automatically configure your browser’s privacy settings and scan your PC for potential vulnerabilities.
Pros:
- High-performance antivirus
- Very affordable single-device plans
- P2P-friendly VPN with decent streaming potential
Cons:
- Plagued by unfounded accusations of government collaboration
- Price is based on how many devices you need to protect
ALL YOU COULD WANT: Kaspersky Secure Connection is a great VPN that comes bundled alongside the company’s stellar antivirus offering. It’s cheap, easy to use, and secures everything from your operating system to your browser. Includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Testing methodology: How we chose the best antivirus VPNs
With dozens of different VPNs on the market, identifying the best was never going to be an easy task. To be as fair as possible, we conducted an in-depth examination of various leading providers, noting everything they had to offer in several key areas.
- Network size: The more server locations your VPN has, the larger the amount of content you can theoretically access. Additionally, a larger network generally means a lower average distance to the closest server, which helps minimize lag.
- Security credentials: A VPN’s job is to keep you safe. That’s why we only recommend services with industry-approved security features. These include 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and leak protection, as well as a no-logs policy. Any extra tools, such as tracker blocking or data obfuscation are highly appreciated.
- Antivirus effectiveness: We will never recommend a substandard antivirus app, regardless of whether it comes with a VPN or not. Our team looked at malware detection rates, impact on system performance, and advanced functionality to determine which VPN/antivirus combos were best for the average user.
- Versatility: Is the VPN suitable for streaming? How about torrenting? Can it reliably avoid detection? Ideally, it’d be capable of all these things and more. We also looked at the speed and reliability of the VPN’s servers to make sure they were fast enough for whatever you throw at them.
- Multi-platform support: In a perfect world, you could use your antivirus program on any device. In reality, though, most only work on desktop operating systems, and even then, Linux is very rarely supported. We also checked whether the VPN’s built-in privacy tools (tracker blocking, for instance) were available on every platform.
- Price: There are plenty of services that overcharge. One of our biggest goals was to find the best VPN and antivirus bundles, while making sure that they remained affordable. We also prioritized services with free trials or money-back guarantees.
Believe it or not, this is actually just one small part of our testing. If you’d like to learn more, we have a whole post that breaks down our VPN testing methodology.
Best VPNs with antivirus included – FAQS
Will an antivirus program slow down my computer?
Antivirus apps have a bit of a reputation for slowing down systems. However, they’ve come a long way in recent years, and so long as you have a moderately powerful PC, the difference in performance should be negligible. If you do notice significant slowdown, you might want to consider scheduling virus scans instead of having the app running constantly in the background.
Alternatively, consider adding more RAM – this should reduce the strain on your system and prevent performance issues like hanging, freezing, and long loading times. Finally, you could switch to an online-only protection tool; this won’t help if your device becomes infected with malware but will alert you if it detects that you’re trying to download malicious files.
Why should I choose a combined VPN and antivirus package?
For starters, simplicity. If one company provides you with both a VPN and an antivirus, you only have to keep track of one subscription. You may also qualify for discounted rates if you’re already paying for one of these services.
Using different companies for your VPN and antivirus means that two organizations (at least) have access to your payment information. Conversely, bundling these services limits this to one company. This lowers the odds of it being accessed by hackers or anyone without the proper authorization.
Do I need an antivirus if I’m using a Mac?
It’s a common misconception that macOS systems cannot get viruses. The truth is that malware exists on every platform, and as such, everybody could benefit from having a high-quality antivirus. The good news is that most major antivirus providers support macOS these days, with some even offering iOS and Android support.
Did you know
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Using a VPN will hide these details and protect your privacy. We recommend using NordVPN – #1 VPN in our tests. It offers outstanding privacy features and is currently available with three months extra free.