Best antivirus and VPN bundles for 2026

As cybercriminals think of new ways to target users, you need more than just one tool to provide you with complete protection. For example, an antivirus can stop malware from infecting your device, but it won’t protect your privacy on public Wi-Fi or prevent websites from tracking your activity. A VPN secures your internet connection and hides your online activity, but it can’t detect or remove malware.

That’s why antivirus and VPN bundles are a smart choice – they combine device security and online privacy. It also often costs less than buying both services separately.

Together with the Cybernews research team, I tested the most popular antivirus and VPN bundles in-house and evaluated their security, features, privacy protection, performance, and value. I found Surfshark One is the best and most affordable antivirus and VPN bundle, with plans starting at $37.66/year.

Best antivirus with VPN combos for 2026

1. Surfshark One – best antivirus and VPN bundle for 2026
2. Norton Antivirus – all-in-one security bundle for multiple devices
3. Bitdefender – premium antivirus with a VPN included
4. NordVPN next-gen antivirus – comprehensive VPN and antivirus security suite
5. McAfee Total Protection – all-in-one antivirus with identity protection tools

How I selected these antivirus and VPN bundles

In order to pick the best bundles, I followed our VPN testing and antivirus testing methodologies. I installed all products in the same test environment, enabled all available protections, and evaluated how effectively each bundle balanced security, privacy, performance, and overall value. The most important criterion was each product’s effectiveness, which you can see in the spreadsheet below or at the link here.

Why choose an antivirus and VPN combo?

A VPN and antivirus software do different jobs, but they work well together. A VPN focuses on your internet connection: it encrypts your traffic, which makes it harder for others on the same network, such as public Wi‑Fi, to see what you’re doing online. Antivirus, meanwhile, protects the device itself by scanning for, blocking, and removing malicious software that could put your files, accounts, or system at risk.

That’s why one can’t fully replace the other. You might be connected to a VPN at a café or airport, for example, but still click a phishing link or download an infected attachment. On the flip side, antivirus software may catch and remove malware, but it can’t encrypt your browsing traffic or mask your IP address.

Using both a VPN and antivirus adds another layer to your everyday online security. The VPN helps protect data while it’s moving between your device and the internet, while an antivirus helps defend the device at the other end. It’s a sensible combination for anyone who uses public Wi‑Fi, downloads files, streams, shops, or switches between several devices.

Best antivirus with VPN bundles in 2026

To help you choose the best antivirus and VPN bundle, I evaluated 10 packages and picked only 5 that offer the best features, pricing, and overall performance. In our in-house tests, I focused on providers that deliver high-quality protection, as well as maintain performance and reliability in both antivirus and VPN services.

1. Surfshark One – overall best antivirus with VPN solution in 2026

VPN data cap:	Unlimited
Max devices:	Unlimited for VPN, 5 for antivirus
Apps:	Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, Linux
Current deal:	Get Surfshark Antivirus - 85% OFF + 3 months FREE

Visit Surfshark Antivirus

Surfshark One bundles a VPN, antivirus, and a handful of privacy tools into one subscription. In our testing, the VPN was clearly the more polished part of the package. It delivered fast speeds, showed no DNS, IP, or WebRTC leaks, and worked reliably with streaming services. The antivirus was still very useful, particularly for full-system scans, while its performance varied more depending on the type of scan tested.

Looking at independent lab test results, Surfshark Antivirus achieved a perfect 6/6 protection score in AV-TEST’s May–June 2026 evaluation for Windows 11, detecting 100% of prevalent malware and 100% of zero-day threats. It also earned 6/6 for usability, with no false warnings or blockages, while its 4.5/6 performance score indicates some slowdown, particularly when installing applications.

What you will get with Surfshark One

	Surfshark One	Surfshark One+
Device count	Up to 5 (antivirus), unlimited (VPN only)	Up to 5 (antivirus), unlimited (VPN only)
Real-time scanning	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Block ads and trackers	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Data breach alerts	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Data removal	❌ No	✅ Yes
Spyware and malware protection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Renewal price	$284.25/year	$327.75/year

My tests of Surfshark Antivirus

Surfshark Antivirus detected 84.67% of malware samples in our full-scan tests, but its real-time protection caught 41%. Its ransomware detection rate reached 80%. Web protection was less convincing: it blocked 30% of phishing URLs and 20% of malware-hosting URLs from our test set. It also does not include a firewall, which may be a drawback if you’re used to more fully featured antivirus suites.

Surfshark VPN tests

Surfshark VPN delivered more consistent results. It retained 93.32% of our original download speed and 64.16% of upload speed, while we found no DNS, IP, or WebRTC leaks during testing. Its kill switch also performed as intended, cutting off internet traffic when the VPN connection dropped. No surprise Surfshark is considered one of the best VPNs on the market.

Overall, Surfshark One makes sense if you want a strong VPN and basic antivirus protection in one place, especially if the VPN is your main priority. However, its antivirus performance is more uneven than that of some dedicated security suites, so it is worth looking closely at the test results below if malware protection is your biggest concern. You can find out more about the provider in our Surfshark Antivirus review.

2. Norton 360 – reliable combination of antivirus and VPN

VPN data cap:	Unlimited
Max devices:	10 for VPN and antivirus
Apps:	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Current deal:	Get up to 60% OFF Norton Antivirus

Visit Norton

Norton 360 takes a more traditional, antivirus-led approach. Rather than building the package around a VPN, it puts malware protection front and center, then adds a VPN, phishing protection, password manager, cloud backup, and other security tools around it. In our testing, Norton’s antivirus offered more dependable real-time protection than Surfshark’s, while its VPN was stable but noticeably slower.

Independent labs regularly test Norton, and it consistently shows great results. Norton 360 earned perfect 6/6 scores for protection, performance, and usability in AV-TEST’s latest May–June 2026 testing, detecting100% of zero-day threats and 100% of widespread malware. Norton achieved a 99.3% protection rate and the highest award level in AV-Comparatives’ February–May 2026 Real-World Protection Test. It also blocked 99.97% of malware samples in the March 2026 test and performed efficiently in April’s Performance Test.

What you will get with Norton 360

	Norton 360 Standard	Norton 360 Deluxe	Norton 360 Premium
Device count	Up to 3	Up to 5	Up to 10
Antivirus, malware, ransomware, and hacking protection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
AI Scam Protection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Password manager	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Deepfake protection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Dark web monitoring	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Renewal price	$94.99/year	$124.99/year	$149.99/year

My tests of Norton 360

In our in-house tests, Norton detected 84.67% of malware samples in full-system scans and blocked 60.67% of active threats through real-time protection. Its quick scans were less effective, identifying 59.33% of the ransomware and hidden malware samples we used. Full scans delivered better detection results, though they also had a greater impact on system performance. Web protection was one of Norton’s better-performing areas. It blocked 6 out of 10 phishing URLs and all 10 malware-hosting URLs in our tests.

Norton VPN tests

The VPN didn’t show any DNS, IP, or WebRTC leaks in our tests, and the kill switch worked as expected by cutting internet traffic if the VPN connection dropped. It retained 79.78% of our original download speed and 78% of upload speed. Those figures put it behind Surfshark and NordVPN in our comparison, but it was still reliable enough for streaming: I accessed Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and YouTube TV without issues during testing.

Overall, Norton 360 is a better fit if antivirus protection is your main concern and you want a VPN plus extra security tools included in the same subscription. Its weaker quick-scan results and slightly more complicated interface are worth keeping in mind, but it remains a well-rounded option for users who want a more traditional security suite. Check our Norton 360 review for more insights.

3. Bitdefender – premium antivirus with an integrated VPN

VPN data cap:	200MB daily, unlimited on premium plans
Max devices:	10 for VPN and 5 for antivirus
Apps:	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS
Current deal:	Get Bitdefender for up to 78% OFF

Visit Bitdefender

Bitdefender takes a security-first approach, pairing one of the stronger antivirus engines in our testing with a VPN and a solid selection of privacy features. Alongside malware and phishing protection, you get extras such as a firewall as well as webcam and microphone safeguards, which make the suite feel more complete than a basic antivirus-and-VPN bundle.

Regarding independent testing, Bitdefender received perfect 6/6 scores for protection, performance, and usability in AV-TEST’s May–June 2026 evaluation. In AV-Comparatives’ latest tests, it blocked 99.5% of threats in the February–May 2026 Real-World Protection Test and 99.94% of malware in the March 2026 Malware Protection Test, with only four false alarms. It also performed well in April’s Performance Test, earning a “Fast” performance classification.

What you will get with Bitdefender

	Antivirus Plus	Total Security	Premium Security
Device count	1 device	Up to 3	Up to 5
Protection against malware, spyware, and adware	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Multi-layer ransomware protection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Privacy firewall	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Parental controls	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Protection for multiple operating systems	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Renewal price	$49.99/year	$89.99/year	$129.99/year

My tests of Bitdefender

In our tests, Bitdefender delivered consistently strong protection results. It detected 89.33% of malware samples during a full scan, blocked 80% through real-time protection, and caught 90% of ransomware samples. Its web protection was particularly impressive: it blocked every malware URL in our test set and 80% of phishing links. That puts it ahead of many competitors when it comes to stopping threats before they reach your device.

The trade-off is that full scans took longer than they did with Norton or Surfshark, and they can be more demanding on your system. Still, the stronger detection results make that wait easier to justify.

Bitdefender VPN tests

Its VPN handled the privacy basics well in our testing, with no DNS or IP leaks detected across multiple servers. Streaming was reliable too: we accessed all the services we tested, including Netflix and BBC iPlayer. However, its speeds were fairly average: Bitdefender VPN retained 79.44% of our original download speed and just 30.53% of upload speed, making it noticeably less capable than Surfshark for more demanding tasks.

Overall, Bitdefender is a strong pick if antivirus protection is your main priority and you want a VPN included as an extra. Just keep the plan limits in mind: the entry-level plan offers only 200MB of VPN data per day, while unlimited traffic is reserved for the more expensive subscription. For more, look at our Bitdefender review.

4. NordVPN next-gen antivirus – unified VPN and threat-protection suite

VPN data cap:	Unlimited
Max devices:	10 for VPN and for antivirus
Apps:	Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
Current deal:	Get 75% OFF NordVPN + 3 months free

Visit NordVPN next-gen antivirus

NordVPN is primarily a VPN service, but its higher-tier plans also include next-gen antivirus protection, formerly known as Threat Protection Pro. Rather than working like a traditional antivirus suite, it focuses on stopping web-based threats, such as malicious sites, phishing pages, trackers, and harmful downloads, before they can cause trouble. You also get useful extras, including NordPass password management and data-breach monitoring. Such an approach makes NordVPN’s protection a little different from Norton, Surfshark, or Bitdefender.

NordVPN Next-Gen Antivirus blocked 96% of 275 phishing websites in AV-Comparatives’ May 2026 Anti-Phishing Test. It caused no false alarms on 200 legitimate banking websites, earning AV-Comparatives’ Approved certification for anti-phishing protection. In AV-Comparatives’ August 2026 Anti-Phishing Comparative Test, NordVPN Next-Gen Antivirus blocked 94% of 250 phishing URLs and produced no false alarms among 250 legitimate websites. This placed it just behind the leading products, while matching Norton Secure Browser’s 94% block rate.

What you will get with NordVPN next-gen antivirus

	Basic	Complete
Device count	Up to 10	Up to 10
Blocks malicious domains	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Anti-malware protection	❌ No	✅ Yes
Advanced browsing protection	❌ No	✅ Yes
Ad and tracker blocker	❌ No	✅ Yes
Data breach scanner	❌ No	✅ Yes
Renewal price	$139.08/year	$219.48/year

My tests of NordVPN next-gen antivirus

NordVPN does not offer quick scans, full-device scans, or the same level of malware removal you would get from a dedicated antivirus. In our tests, it detected 0% of the 150 malware samples used in the real-time protection test, but it blocked 90% of malicious URLs before we could access them. In other words, it is better at preventing you from reaching dangerous content online than finding malware already stored on your device.

Its web protection performed better than Surfshark’s, which blocked 20% of malware URLs in our tests, though Bitdefender still came out ahead with a 100% block rate.

NordVPN tests

The VPN itself was one of the more consistent options in our comparison. NordVPN retained 86.14% of the original download speed in our tests, putting it ahead of Norton and Bitdefender, although still behind Surfshark’s 93.32% result. We also found no DNS, IP, or WebRTC leaks, and the kill switch worked as expected when the connection was interrupted. Streaming was similarly reliable, with NordVPN accessing every service we tested.

Overall, NordVPN is a strong choice if you want a fast, privacy-focused VPN with an extra layer of browser and download-based protection. Just do not treat its next-gen antivirus as a complete replacement for traditional antivirus software, especially if you want regular device scans and more comprehensive malware detection. Read more in our comprehensive review of NordVPN next-gen antivirus.

5. McAfee Total Protection – all-in-one security suite with built-in identity protection tools

VPN data cap:	Unlimited
Max devices:	6 for VPN and unlimited for antivirus
Apps:	Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Current deal:	Get McAfee, save up to 67%

Visit McAfee Antivirus

McAfee Total Protection combines antivirus protection, a VPN, and identity security tools in one app. Its features include identity monitoring and dark web tracking, which can alert you if your personal information appears in a known data breach. In our testing, McAfee performed well in full-system scans and delivered perfect ransomware protection, but its real-time defense struggled to stop active malware.

Looking at independent testing, McAfee achieved perfect 6/6 scores for protection, performance, and usability in AV-TEST’s May–June 2026 evaluation, detecting 100% of widespread malware and all zero-day threats in June. In AV-Comparatives’ tests, McAfee blocked 98.5% of threats in the February–May Real-World Protection Test and 99.97% of malware in the March Malware Protection Test. It also ranked first in the April Performance Test with an impact score of 3.3, although its 14 false alarms in the malware test resulted in a lower award level.

What you will get with McAfee Total Protection

	Essential	Advanced
Device count	5 devices for antivirus and VPN	Unlimited devices for antivirus and VPN
Real-time scanning	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Scam detector	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Web protection	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Parental controls	❌ No	❌ No
Identity monitoring and alerts	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Renewal price	$119.99/year	$199.99/year

My tests of McAfee Total Protection

McAfee detected 90.67% of malware samples during a full scan and caught 100% of the ransomware samples in our tests. Its biggest weakness was real-time protection, which blocked 0% of active malware samples during execution. This leaves McAfee relying more heavily on scheduled or manual scans than on stopping threats as they appear.

McAfee VPN tests

The McAfee VPN itself retained only 39.75% of our original speed. That was enough for stable everyday browsing, but the drop was noticeable during heavier tasks such as large downloads or high-quality streaming. I also couldn’t access Netflix Japan, BBC iPlayer UK, or Amazon Prime US during our tests, which puts McAfee behind more capable VPN providers for streaming. Thankfully, we detected no DNS, IP, or WebRTC leaks.

Overall, McAfee Total Protection is a reasonable choice if you want antivirus, identity monitoring, and a VPN under one subscription. However, its 0% real-time malware detection, slower VPN speeds, and inconsistent streaming access make it a weaker option if VPN performance is your main priority. Find out more in our McAfee review.

Antivirus and VPN – what’s the difference?

Antivirus and VPN services both safeguard your device from online threats, but they concentrate on distinct areas of protection. Here are the main differences between a VPN and antivirus software:

• Antivirus software secures your device from malware and malicious code through real-time protection and by scanning your device for suspicious activity. Many robust antivirus suites also include performance optimization features that help your device run smoothly. However, while antivirus programs are excellent at detecting and neutralizing malicious code, they do little to protect your anonymity or prevent online tracking of your personal data or browsing habits.
• A VPN encrypts your traffic and hides your IP address, keeping your information safe and private. It ensures that your ISP (internet service provider) and the government don’t know what you're doing online – something an antivirus can't do. A VPN also secures your connection to public Wi-Fi. By hiding your IP address, a VPN helps you bypass network restrictions set up by your school or workplace and even access geo-restricted streaming platforms.

Both antivirus software and VPNs are essential cybersecurity tools designed to protect your device and privacy. Because they serve different functions, having antivirus software with a VPN is the best way to ensure complete security and protection of your devices and information. With the Surfshark Antivirus bundle, you’ll get a convenient all-in-one cybersecurity package consisting of a VPN, antivirus, and extra privacy tools.

Why do you need an antivirus with a VPN in 2026??

An antivirus protects your devices by blocking and removing malware, so it’s essential if you regularly download files online, deal with sensitive data, or want protection against phishing attacks. An antivirus is also useful for gamers when downloading game updates, mods, and other third-party content.

Meanwhile, a VPN protects your privacy by encrypting your internet connection and hiding your IP address. This is useful for remote employees, travelers, and anyone who uses public Wi-Fi networks. It can also help access different streaming libraries online services, and even find better prices.

Together, an antivirus and a VPN provide more protection than either tool alone, which helps keep your devices, online activity, and personal data safe.

Is there a free antivirus with an included VPN?

Although most antivirus providers that offer a VPN include it in their more expensive packages, some programs come with a free VPN. However, VPNs included in free antivirus plans tend to be very limited. They usually have fewer servers, data caps that allow for limited usage, and fewer security features. While the free-plan VPNs might do a good job of protecting your online presence and providing the necessary security, paid plans usually mean more freedom.

Luckily, some antivirus providers offer free trials or money-back guarantees. This gives you the opportunity to try out the service before purchasing it and decide if the additional benefits are worth the money.

Video review: best antivirus with VPN

No time to read the whole article? Watch our video review of the best antivirus with a VPN. Get the essential info in just under 10 minutes.

Final verdict on the best antivirus and VPN bundles

If you want all-in-one online protection, a VPN and antivirus bundle is the strongest choice. An antivirus can handle threats like malware and ransomware, while the VPN will keep your browsing private and secure.

However, the quality varies quite a bit between providers, so I thoroughly tested several options. Based on features and results, Surfshark One bundle of antivirus and VPN is the best option, as it provides reliable full-scan malware protection with a VPN that delivers strong privacy and leak-free connections. Bitdefender and Norton both also offer stronger overall malware detection and more advanced antivirus capabilities.

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