- Top 5 antivirus and VPN bundles
- Why do you need an antivirus software with a VPN?
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Best antivirus with VPN included: detailed list
- Top 1. Surfshark One – overall best antivirus and VPN bundle
- Top 2. Norton 360 – user-friendly antivirus with unlimited VPN
- Top 3. Bitdefender – best antivirus with ransomware protection and VPN
- Top 4. TotalAV – cheapest antivirus + VPN bundle
- Top 5. Nord Threat Protection – effective real-time protection with included VPN
- Side-by-side comparison of the best antivirus and VPN bundles
- Is there a free antivirus with VPN included?
- How to use an antivirus with a VPN bundle
- What is the difference between VPN and antivirus
- VPN and antivirus: do you need both in 2026?
- FAQ
It delivers powerful malware defense, fast and unlimited VPN access, and real-time threat protection in one convenient app. Surfshark One is the top antivirus with a VPN bundle, offering unbeatable value, speed, and security for complete peace of mind wherever you go.
In 2026, cyberattacks and data breaches are increasing at an alarming rate, making online security and privacy more crucial than ever. As digital threats evolve, having both strong antivirus protection and a reliable VPN is no longer an option – it’s an essential. Antivirus software bundled with a VPN offers an all-in-one solution against malware, hackers, and unwanted eyes.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key benefits of using an antivirus with a built-in VPN and review the top leading providers, including Surfshark One, Norton, Bitdefender, TotalAV, and Nord Threat Protection. Stay for the read, but if you’re short on time, our in-depth tests show that Surfshark One is the best antivirus with a VPN that keeps your data secure without slowing you down.
Top 5 antivirus and VPN bundles
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1.Surfshark One: affordable top-performing antivirus plus VPN
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2.Norton 360: intuitive antivirus software with VPN with no data cap
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3.Bitdefender: premium antivirus plus VPN with strong protection
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4.TotalAV: affordable and simple antivirus with VPN solution
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5.Nord Threat Protection: advanced antivirus and VPN bundle for secure browsing
Why do you need an antivirus software with a VPN?
The internet connects people, businesses, and information like never before, but it also opens more and more doors to cyber threats. From phishing scams to data breaches, online risks continue to grow every year. Since most devices do not come pre-protected, users must take the initiative to install the right security tools themselves.
Antivirus software defends against malware, ransomware, and other forms of malicious code that can compromise files or slow down your system. However, it does not hide online activity or secure internet traffic while browsing or streaming.
On the other hand, a VPN service (Virtual Private Network) encrypts all online traffic and masks your IP address to keep your identity private. It also helps access geo-restricted content, maintain anonymity, and bypass internet censorship. However, it doesn’t prevent viruses or infected downloads.
Using an antivirus and VPN together delivers complete protection for both your device and data. This all-in-one solution ensures security, privacy, convenience, and affordability, with improved compatibility and easier updates. Since different products vary in how they balance these features, choosing a provider with a money-back guarantee lets you test the service risk-free before committing.
Best antivirus with VPN included: detailed list
Online threats are growing fast, and they are getting more sophisticated every year, which is why relying on basic protection is no longer enough. In this section, I share the all‑in‑one security suites I have actually tested, each tailored to different needs, from privacy-focused users to families on a budget. Here I break down every pick’s features, benefits, and pricing so you can clearly see their strengths and weaknesses and decide which bundle fits you best.
I evaluated each antivirus and VPN package based on several key factors to ensure you get strong, reliable protection. My testing focused on security features, performance, speed, ease of use, and how well the software works across different devices. Here’s what I prioritized:
- Advanced security features like strong encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection to keep your data safe even if the connection drops.
- Independent tests from respected labs like AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives to confirm malware detection effectiveness.
- Speed and overall performance to avoid slowing down your internet or device during use.
- User-friendliness and compatibility across multiple platforms make the software accessible whether you’re on Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.
- Price, to make sure the solution offers good value for the features it provides.
This comprehensive approach helps me confidently recommend only those antivirus and VPN bundles that meet high standards for protection, usability, and affordability in 2026.
Top 1. Surfshark One – overall best antivirus and VPN bundle
- Rating: 8.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- VPN data cap: Unlimited
- Current deal: 88% off + 3 extra months
I recommend Surfshark One as the top antivirus and VPN combo because it delivers comprehensive protection and excellent performance at competitive pricing. During my tests, I found its antivirus offers real-time threat detection with near-perfect results in independent lab tests, achieving an almost 100% detection rate against advanced malware according to AV-TEST. The antivirus features include scheduled scans, cloud-based analysis for suspicious files, and webcam protection, which adds an extra privacy layer.
Surfshark’s VPN stands out for its robust security with military-grade AES-256 encryption, making it one of the most secure services on the market. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy, and multiple advanced options like a kill switch and MultiHop (Double VPN) for extra anonymity. I ran speed tests on various servers worldwide and was impressed by the consistently fast connections and reliable access to geo-restricted content, like streaming Netflix and beyond. Privacy features like DNS leak protection and customizable split tunneling (Bypasser) further enhance security and usability.
I liked how Surfshark One’s interface is sleek and intuitive, even for beginners, making it easy to toggle antivirus and VPN settings. The package covers unlimited devices under one account, and while it doesn’t include a password manager or parental controls, it offers excellent value for users seeking all-around online protection. Price-wise, Surfshark One costs only $ 2.08/month on long-term plans, with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 7-day free trial.
All in all, Surfshark One bundle balances strong defense, usability, and affordability, making it my top pick for 2026. This combination works way better than many standalone options for users who want an integrated antivirus and VPN solution without sacrificing speed or features.
Why I recommend Surfshark One:
- Excellent value for money
- Advanced antivirus and VPN features
- Sleek and intuitive apps
Surfshark One weaknesses:
- Doesn’t have a firewall
Top 2. Norton 360 – user-friendly antivirus with unlimited VPN
- Rating: 9.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- VPN data cap: Unlimited
- Current deal: Up to 60% off
Norton 360 is a top user-friendly antivirus with VPN, combining powerful malware protection with an intuitive interface and the advantage of a truly unlimited VPN service. During my investigation, I found Norton’s antivirus detected threats with excellent accuracy, scoring highly in independent labs such as AV-TEST, and providing real-time protection against viruses, ransomware, and phishing. The antivirus includes features like AI-powered scam protection, dark web monitoring, and 50GB cloud backup, offering a broad security suite.
Norton’s VPN impressed me with strong AES-256 and ChaCha20 encryption and advanced features like a kill switch and split tunneling, ensuring privacy without sacrificing speed.
I ran multiple speed tests during my sessions, and while it’s noticeably slower than Surfshark, the VPN consistently maintained smooth streaming and access to geo-blocked content. Notably, Norton VPN passed a rigorous 2025 independent audit confirming its strict no-logs policy, which is critical for privacy.
From my experience, Norton 360 is easy to use and suitable for all skill levels, with comprehensive protection for up to 10 devices. What stood out is the VPN’s automatic connection on unsecured networks, adding seamless protection.
Regarding cost, Norton 360 Deluxe bundles in VPN access at the starting price of $2.08/month, with a generous 60-day money-back guarantee included. Higher-tier plans add features like parental controls and more cloud storage. Overall, I found Norton 360 ideal for users prioritizing simple, effective protection with unlimited VPN use, especially when protecting multiple devices.
Why I recommend Norton 360:
- Unlimited VPN data on multiple devices
- Strong antivirus and VPN security set
- Easy-to-use app interface
Norton 360 weaknesses:
- Limited features on cheaper plans
Top 3. Bitdefender – best antivirus with ransomware protection and VPN
- Rating: 8.9⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- VPN data cap: 200Mb on standard plans
- Current deal: Up to 50% off
I stand by Bitdefender as a top-three choice for robust ransomware protection combined with VPN security. During my investigation, I found Bitdefender Total Security offers comprehensive antivirus coverage with advanced features tailored to protect against evolving threats, especially ransomware, which is critical in today’s threat landscape. Independent tests show Bitdefender achieves near-perfect malware detection rates and excels at blocking phishing scams and zero-day attacks.
The antivirus features include real-time protection with behavioral detection, multi-layer ransomware protection, and clever Safe Files to safeguard sensitive data from unauthorized modifications. I appreciate the integrated firewall, network threat prevention, and AI-driven Scam Protection tool that adds extra layers of defense. The intuitive dashboard also includes vulnerability assessment and webcam/microphone protection to prevent unauthorized access.
Bitdefender’s VPN offers AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and an automatic kill switch to secure your online activities. However, the VPN has some limitations, like a 200MB daily data cap on basic plans, which may affect heavy users.
Performance-wise, during my tests, the VPN maintained good speeds for browsing and streaming, but was less suitable for continuous high-bandwidth usage unless upgrading to unlimited plans.
Personally, I liked Bitdefender’s seamless combination of security and privacy features, but the limited VPN data on some plans is a notable drawback. Pricing varies – for example, Bitdefender’s mid-tier Total Security plan with a VPN starts at $44.99/year, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. This suite suits users wanting powerful ransomware defense alongside basic VPN protections, but heavier VPN users may want to upgrade to the Premium Security plan, now 50% off at $49.99/year.
Why I recommend Bitdefender:
- Solid performance with low system impact
- Top-rated and trusted antivirus
- AI protection and behavioral detection
Bitdefender weaknesses:
- Reliance on third-party VPN servers
Top 4. TotalAV – cheapest antivirus + VPN bundle
- Rating: 8.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- VPN data cap: Unlimited
- Current deal: 80% off
TotalAV is the most budget-friendly antivirus and VPN package that still offers solid protection and convenience. From my experience, this combo is a great option for users who want basic but reliable security without overspending. During my investigation, I found that TotalAV’s antivirus demonstrated consistent malware detection in line with industry standards, offering multiple scan options, including quick, full, and custom scans. Independent tests verify its effectiveness against viruses, ransomware, and phishing attacks. Key antivirus features include real-time threat detection, safe browsing with web shield, and system cleanup tools to optimize device performance.
Regarding VPN, TotalAV’s Safe Browsing VPN offers AES-256 encryption, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch, helping protect your online privacy on public Wi-Fi and beyond. During my tests, I observed that the VPN maintained stable connections and allowed access to geo-blocked content, though its smaller server network limits options compared to top-tier VPNs. Speeds were good for general browsing and streaming; however, those who demand fast performance may want faster alternatives.
Personally, I liked how the antivirus and VPN integrate smoothly in one app, making security management simple. TotalAV’s Premium plan, which includes the VPN, is currently only $19/year or $ 19.00/month, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. While renewal prices rise after the first year, this bundle offers excellent value for price-conscious users who want essential antivirus and VPN features in one affordable package.
Why I recommend TotalAV:
- Effective real-time malware detection and hourly updates
- Unlimited VPN data and streaming support
- User-friendly, simple interface
TotalAV weaknesses:
- Limited VPN servers and occasional buffering issues
Top 5. Nord Threat Protection – effective real-time protection with included VPN
- Rating: 8.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- VPN data cap: Unlimited
- Current deal: Up to 80% off
Nord Threat Protection features thorough real-time security bundled with a powerful VPN. During my investigation, I found that Nord’s all-in-one solution offers advanced malware blocking alongside privacy-enhancing VPN features, perfect for those who want integrated protection. Independent tests show NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro delivers effective malware and phishing site blocking, with a 92% phishing detection rate and strong ad and tracker blocking.
Nord’s antivirus features include real-time scanning of downloads, blocking malicious domains, and ad/tracker safeguards. This suite protects against Trojans, ransomware, and spyware, with cloud-based threat detection that enhances accuracy and responsiveness. Unlike traditional antivirus software, it can run even when VPN is off, ensuring continuous security.
As for the VPN, I ran speed tests and had consistently fast connections powered by its in-house NordLynx protocol across a broad global server network covering 127+ countries. The VPN offers AES-256 encryption, a kill switch, split tunneling, and a progressive NordWhisper protocol to evade VPN blocks. During my tests, I successfully unblocked geo-restricted content like Netflix, HBO Max, and Hulu while keeping my IP address secure with no leaks detected.
Personally, I appreciated how easily NordVPN’s Threat Protection integrates with its VPN for seamless privacy and security. The bundle suits users wanting proactive, combined defense for browsing and downloads – plans including Threat Protection start at just $1.99/month. Supported by a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s an excellent choice for those who value effective real-time antivirus and a robust VPN in one powerful package.
Why I recommend Nord Threat Protection:
- Effective real-time protection from malware, phishing, and trackers
- Strong security kit with advanced VPN features
- Works independently of the VPN connection
Nord Threat Protection weaknesses:
- Lacks full traditional features like real-time scanning
Side-by-side comparison of the best antivirus and VPN bundles
| Antivirus provider | Rating | VPN included? | Malware protection | Speed | Performance | Servers | Price | Free trial | Money-back guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Surfshark One | 8.3 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Yes (Unlimited) | 99%+ (AV-Comparatives) | Very fast | Lightweight | in countries | $ 2.08/month | ✅ 7 days | ✅ 30 days |
| 2. Norton 360 | 9.1 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Yes (Unlimited) | 100% (AV-Test) | Good | Minimal slowdown | 2000+ globally | Starting $2.08/month | ✅ 7 days | ✅ 60 days |
| 3. Bitdefender | 8.9 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Yes (200 Mb cap or unlimited with Premium) | 99.8% (AV-Comparatives) | Good | Lightweight | 1,300+ in 42+ countries | Starting $29.99/year | ✅ 7 days | ✅ 30 days |
| 4. TotalAV | 8.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Yes (Unlimited) | 100% real-time (independent tests) | Good | Lightweight | 90+ in 50+ countries | $ 19.00/month or $19/year | ✅ 7 days | ✅ 30 days |
| 5. Nord Threat Protection | 8.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ Yes (Unlimited) | 92% (AV-Test labs) | Very fast | Low impact | 6,000+ in 127+ countries | Starting $1.99/month | ✅ 3 days on Android | ✅ 30 days |
Is there a free antivirus with VPN included?
Some antivirus programs include a VPN even in their free versions, but these come with significant limitations. For example, Bitdefender’s free antivirus offers strong malware protection, but its free VPN allows only about 200 MB of data per day. This may be enough for short browsing, but not for heavier use like streaming or torrenting. These caps make free antivirus with VPN combos less practical for regular, full-time protection.
Instead of relying on limited free antivirus with a VPN, I recommend opting for paid bundles like Surfshark One, which offers a 7-day free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee. From my tests, Surfshark provides robust antivirus defense and a full-featured VPN with unlimited data, fast speeds, and the ability to unblock geo-restricted content smoothly. Paid packages like this ensure you get seamless, reliable security and privacy without data caps or ads, far outperforming most free options. This makes free antivirus plus VPN bundles a wiser choice for daily online protection and peace of mind.
How to use an antivirus with a VPN bundle
Setting up an antivirus with a VPN bundle is straightforward – just follow the provider’s installation and configuration steps. My tests showed that Surfshark One is the best antivirus with an included VPN. Here’s how to set it up and use it on your device:
- Subscribe to an antivirus and VPN bundle from a provider like Surfshark One. Choose the plan that fits your needs and complete the registration and payment.
- Download and install the app on your device. The app is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and installation is quick with user-friendly prompts.
- Log in with your account credentials. This activates your subscription and syncs all your protection features.
- Enable the antivirus features to activate real-time protection against malware, phishing, and other threats. You can customize scan schedules or run manual scans.
5. Enable the VPN and connect to a preferred server. The VPN encrypts your internet traffic, keeps your IP hidden, and allows secure browsing or access to geo-restricted content.
6. Secure your internet with both antivirus and VPN running simultaneously, ensuring your device and data stay protected without slowing down performance.
What is the difference between VPN and antivirus
A VPN protects your online privacy by encrypting your internet connection and masking your IP address, while antivirus software protects your device from malware by detecting and removing malicious files. A VPN secures your data in transit, especially on public Wi-Fi, whereas antivirus software scans your device for viruses, ransomware, and spyware. For comprehensive security, it’s best to use both as they address different threats.
| Feature | VPN | Antivirus |
| Primary goal | Protect online privacy and anonymity | Detect and remove malware |
| How it works | Encrypts internet traffic, hides IP address | Scans files and the system for malicious software |
| What it protects against | Data interception, tracking, and IP exposure | Viruses, ransomware, spyware, phishing links |
| What it doesn’t do | Detect or remove malware | Encrypt traffic or anonymize internet connection |
For comprehensive cybersecurity, I strongly recommend using both a trustworthy VPN and antivirus software – this provides complementary layers of protection. Many security companies now offer all-in-one security suites bundling these services. The top options I’d recommend today are Surfshark One, Norton 360, Bitdefender, TotalAV, and Nord Threat Protection, all offering the best combined antivirus and VPN protection in 2026.
VPN and antivirus: do you need both in 2026?
Malware threats constantly evolve and can severely harm your device, so reliable antivirus protection is essential. A VPN adds an extra layer of security by encrypting your internet data and hiding your IP address, protecting your online privacy from hackers and trackers. That’s why pairing antivirus software with a VPN is the best for complete online security.
Here’s why using both together matters:
- Antivirus blocks malware that tries to infect your device.
- VPN keeps your browsing activity private and secure.
- VPN encrypts your connection to prevent eavesdropping on unfamiliar websites.
- Antivirus scans webpages and downloads for threats.
- On public Wi-Fi, a VPN protects your data in transit.
- Antivirus safeguards your device from network-based malware.
Using both tools provides layered, comprehensive protection, so many providers offer all-in-one bundles, simplifying setup and management. That said, I would recommend Surfshark One any day of the week. Tried and tested, it’s the best bundle out there, combining strong malware defense with fast, reliable VPNs to keep you safe and private online.
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FAQ
Yes, you need an antivirus if you use a VPN because VPNs encrypt your browsing to hide activity from prying eyes, but they don’t scan for malware in downloads or apps. Antivirus adds that layer by blocking viruses and ransomware in real time. Use both for complete defense against threats.
While choosing a VPN with antivirus support, focus on high AV-Test or AV-Comparatives scores for malware detection. Also, consider VPN perks like unlimited data, AES-256 encryption, and multi-device coverage. Test with free trials to find your fit.
The best antivirus and VPN for Mac is Surfshark One. It’s closely followed by Bitdefender, which achieves 99.8% malware protection from AV-Comparatives, and features seamless Apple Silicon performance. Norton 360 is a strong runner-up with extra tools.
Surfshark One is the best antivirus with VPN for Android, especially if you’re looking for unlimited device support and ultra-fast speeds. TotalAV also stands out for Android with 100% real-time detection, unlimited VPN on global servers, ad blocking, and low battery drain.
Yes, top bundles like Surfshark One or Norton 360 integrate both in one app for smooth, conflict-free operation. VPN secures connections while antivirus scans quietly in the background.
