The Best VPNs with Antivirus Included for 2024

Installing a VPN with built-in antivirus protection on your devices is one of the most comprehensive ways to stay safe online.

However, it’s surprisingly difficult to find a VPN that includes antivirus, so we decided to see how many do. We were surprised to learn only four trustworthy VPNs offer antivirus in their cybersecurity packages as standard. 

Here they are:

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We tested every VPN’s entire tech stack – not just the antivirus – to ensure it delivers airtight security, enhanced privacy, and fast connections. Here’s a quick summary of our criteria (keep reading for more in-depth breakdowns): 

• Military-grade, 256-bit AES encryption
• Strict “no-logs” policies and RAM-only servers
• Global server networks in at least 50 countries
• Lightweight VPN protocols and code
• Extensive device compatibility (Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android, and more)

Deep dive: The best VPNs with antivirus included for 2024

Now, let’s do an in-depth analysis of each VPN and its antivirus.

These are just quick reviews to demonstrate their results in our tests. Check out our complete VPN reviews for a deeper analysis of each one.

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Methodology: how we tested the best VPNs with antivirus included

At ProPrivacy, we take pride in our independent and transparent approach to evaluating VPNs. 

We rigorously test a multitude of VPNs to help you find the best VPNs with antivirus. We focus on key features vital for accessing content and enhancing your online experience.

• Server network: We recommended VPNs with thousands of servers across the globe that deliver lightning-fast connections anywhere – without compromising encryption or security. 
• Access to content: Our chosen VPNs are compatible with popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu so you can access global content with ease.
• Security: The best VPNs shield you behind layers of military-grade encryption, DNS/IPv6 leak protection, automatic kill-switches, and other advanced features.
• Privacy: Our favorite VPNs also offer extra tools like built-in antivirus, ad and tracking blocks, dark web monitoring, stealth modes, and IP address rotators to keep you hidden online. 
• Value: We only recommend VPNs with simple, affordable plans and generous money-back guarantees (at least 30 days). 
• Easy to use: Using a VPN shouldn’t be a chore. We don’t recommend VPNs with overly complex apps.
• Customer support: Look for VPNs that offer 24/7 live chat support with human agents, YouTube support channels, and active user forums if you need help. 

Read our complete VPN review process to see the full metrics and methods you can use when choosing any VPN.

How to set up a VPN with antivirus included 

Once you’ve chosen a VPN with built-in antivirus from our recommendations, setting it up is a breeze. While VPNs might seem complex, their user-friendly interfaces make the process straightforward. 

Here’s how to secure your digital world with just a few steps:

1. Download a VPN app; we recommend ExpressVPN.
2. Install the VPN.
3. Launch the app and configure settings.
4. Activate antivirus protection.
5. Connect to a VPN server.

That’s it!

If you still encounter issues, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, as temporary data might sometimes cause glitches. Also, double-check that your VPN app is connected to a server in your desired region. Reconnect if necessary and refresh the webpage. 

Can I use a free VPN with a built-in antivirus?

No trustworthy free VPNs offer built-in antivirus protection. But even if they did, we wouldn’t recommend using a free VPN to stay safe from viruses and other threats.

Because free VPNs don’t charge a subscription fee, they can’t invest in providing a premium experience. They also rely on shadier tactics to monetize users. The biggest risks to using a free VPN we’ve seen include: 

1. Free VPNs limit your server locations. They typically offer only two to three countries that quickly become overcrowded with other free users.
2. Free VPNs are frequently too slow for seamless online activities. They may struggle to deliver fast connections or intentionally throttle your speed, nudging you toward upgrading to a paid plan.
3. Free VPNs come bundled with intrusive and irritating ads that disrupt your online experience.
4. Free VPNs may compromise privacy by selling your information to data brokers and advertisers. Additionally, there’s uncertainty about malware and trackers on your device, potentially used to track your online activities.
5.  Free VPNs have been caught hosting malware and hackers on their networks, posing significant security threats.

Low-cost premium VPNs offer a much better online experience without the limitations and risks associated with free alternatives. Choosing these more reliable options can save you from headaches and frustrations.

VPN with antivirus included FAQs

[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Is it necessary to have both a VPN and antivirus in 2024?” answer=”

While both VPNs and antivirus software offer security benefits, they serve different purposes and are not strictly necessary to have both. However, using both can provide:

• Comprehensive protection: A VPN secures your internet connection, while an antivirus safeguards your device. Combining them provides a multi-layered defense against various online threats.
• Increased security: While a VPN encrypts data, it doesn’t guarantee complete protection from malware-infected websites or downloads. Antivirus software can offer an additional layer of security in such situations.
• Peace of mind: Having both tools can give you greater peace of mind, knowing your online activity and device are protected to a greater extent.

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[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Why use a VPN with antivirus instead of a separate antivirus software?” answer=”

Here are some potential advantages of using a VPN with built-in antivirus compared to separate antivirus software:

1. Convenience: Combining a VPN and antivirus into a single service simplifies your setup and management. You only need to manage one subscription and one interface for both functionalities.

2. Potential cost savings: In some cases, bundled VPN and antivirus packages can be more cost-effective than purchasing separate subscriptions for each service.

3. Streamlined interface: A single interface for both VPN and antivirus features can be easier to navigate and understand, especially for less tech-savvy users.

4. Potential for additional features: Some VPNs with built-in antivirus may offer additional features not available in standalone antivirus software, such as:

• Blocking malicious websites: The VPN can prevent you from accessing websites known to host malware or phishing attempts.
• Data breach monitoring: The VPN can alert you if your personal information is exposed in a data breach.

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[[post-object type=”accordion” question=”Can VPNs with antivirus detect and remove existing viruses on a device?” answer=”

Some VPNs with built-in antivirus can detect and remove existing viruses on a device. However, many don’t due to technical limitations that include:

• Focus of VPNs: VPNs primarily focus on encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address. They function as secure tunnels between your device and the internet, ensuring your online activity remains confidential, and your location is masked.
• Limited access: VPNs operate at the network level, meaning they don’t have direct access to your local storage where viruses typically reside. Therefore, they cannot scan your device for existing malware.
• Prevention vs. Detection: VPNs with built-in antivirus primarily focus on preventing you from accessing malicious websites and downloads that could introduce viruses. They offer a proactive rather than a reactive approach to detecting and removing existing threats.

Therefore, if you suspect your device might already be infected with a virus, you should use a dedicated antivirus software designed to scan your device thoroughly and remove any malicious software that might be present.

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Conclusion

VPNs with built-in antivirus offer a comprehensive online security and privacy solution. 

In a hurry, purchase Surfshark – it earned our best VPN with antivirus title based on our rigorous testing. Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it risk-free and experience maximum privacy and security.