What is NordVPN's Threat Protection?
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Kristina Jarusevičiūtė
Writer
VPNs are known to be a must for improving your cybersecurity posture, but they were never an all-in-one security solution. However, VPN companies are now starting to create security product bundles or implement malware removal features. That’s exactly how NordVPN Threat Protection came to life.
This antivirus feature blocks malicious content, letting you browse worry-free. Be it malicious ads, trackers, infected download files, or harmful sites – NordVPN Threat Protection will remove it all.
Continue reading to find out everything about what NordVPN Threat Protection is, what it does, and how it works.
NordVPN Threat Protection pros and cons
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What is NordVPN Threat Protection?
Threat Protection is the antivirus feature by NordVPN that protects your device from harmful sites, programs, trackers, and ads. While it isn’t a full-on antivirus, it offers similar core features. For instance, it scans your downloaded executable files. Plus, the feature keeps you secure even when you’re not connected to the VPN.
How does NordVPN Threat Protection work?
NordVPN Threat Protection works by monitoring everything in real time. Here’s exactly what it does:
- Prevents malware. NordVPN helps you avoid threats in a few different ways. For starters, it prevents you from visiting malicious sites with a warning message. Additionally, it scans your downloaded files. If they’re infected, they’ll be removed before any damage can be done.
- Blocks trackers. When you browse the Internet, there are third-party trackers everywhere waiting to gather data about you. NordVPN Threat Protection uses a URL trimming feature to block trackers and prevent targeted advertising.
- Avoid intrusive ads. Having a screen filled with ads can be annoying, and even worse – they can contain malware. The Threat Protection feature puts an end to intrusive and malicious ads altogether, letting you have a better browsing experience.
How much does NordVPN Threat Protection cost?
You can get Threat Protection with the NordVPN security bundles. There are three subscription options for you to choose from – Standard, Plus, and Complete. All plans come with a free NordVPN 7-day trial on Android devices. You can use the trial on other devices after signup. A 30-day money-back guarantee is also available.
To know which plan is best for you, here’s a comparison of 2-year NordVPN Threat Protection subscription plans:
| Complete | Plus | Standard | |
| Malware protection | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Tracker and ad blocker | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| VPN with 6 simultaneous connections | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Cross-platform password manager | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Data breach scanner | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| $5.99/month | $4.49/month | $3.29/month |
If all you need is NordVPN Threat Protection with a VPN, the Standard plan is what you should opt for. However, the Plus plan comes with a password manager and data breach scanner, ensuring even stronger data protection.
The best option to go for is the Complete plan. It gives you 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage for less than $2 per month more. Even if you end up losing or damaging your device, you’ll still be able to access your most important files.
You can pay for NordVPN Threat Protection using a credit card, AmazonPay, ACH Transfer, Sofort, prepaid cards, iTunes, Google Pay, and PayPal. For users who value complete anonymity, there’s an option to also pay with cryptocurrencies.
It’s also worth noting that the longer you subscribe for, the cheaper the monthly prices are. So it’s best to opt for the 2-year NordVPN Threat Protection subscription term, no matter which plan you pick.
Threat Protection vs Threat Protection Lite
NordVPN has two versions of the Threat Protection feature – Threat Protection and Threat Protection Lite.
For starters, the Threat Protection feature stops you from accessing malicious URLs, and blocks ads and trackers. You don’t have to be connected to the VPN in order for it to work. Plus, it scans the executable files you download and removes any type of malware from your device. The feature is currently available on Windows and macOS apps of NordVPN.
Meanwhile, Threat Protection Lite is similar to what was formerly known as the CyberSec feature of NordVPN. It works on DNS level – filtering your online traffic. This means the DNS server blocks the IP address of websites that are known for intrusive ads and malicious content hosting. However, it won’t scan the files you download or stop trackers.
Also, unlike with the full-on Threat Protection feature, you have to be connected to the VPN to use the Lite version. It’s also worth noting that Lite is available on Android, iOS, Linux, and NordVPN browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
How to enable NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature?
Enabling NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature depends on whether you’re using a desktop or a mobile device.
For Windows and Mac users, follow this step-by-step guide:
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Launch the NordVPN application. On the left side of the screen, click on the shield icon – that’s the Threat Protection feature.
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Enable the Threat Protection feature using the toggle button.
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You’ll be met with a confirmation message. While it’s optional, it’s recommended to enable the deep file scanning option. Click on “Turn on Threat Protection.”
That’s all for desktop users. On mobile phone devices, the process is just as simple but slightly different.
Here’s a guide on how to set up Threat Protection on Android and iOS:
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Open the NordVPN app and click on your account and find the “Settings” section.
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Under the Tools section, enable Threat Protection using the toggle button.
Why should I use NordVPN's Threat Protection?
You should use NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature for security and privacy reasons. Even the most experienced users can end up accidentally infecting their devices with malware. The Threat Protection feature protects you from possible consequences, such as stolen data, passwords, or even money.
Moving on, NordVPN’s Threat Protection also helps guarantee privacy. It blocks trackers, preventing third parties from gathering information about you for targeted advertising reasons. In fact, with this feature enabled, you won’t even have to see intrusive or malicious ads anymore.
Last but not least, the Threat Protection feature comes free for NordVPN users. So you get an extra security layer at no additional cost – all you need to do is enable it.
Is NordVPN Threat Protection any good?
Although most devices ensure some level of protection, NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature goes a step further. Not only does it secure your device from malware, it can also ensure protection of your personal data. This helps improve your overall browsing experience.
While it’s not the same as an antivirus, it has features similar to it. For instance, it runs deep scans on files that you download in order to prevent malware. Not to mention that it prevents you from accessing malicious websites.
However, it’s worth noting that, unlike an antivirus, it only scans executable files. This means your images, PDFs, and Word documents are not checked during download. Also, NordVPN’s Threat Protection limits files for scanning to 20MB.
That said, it does also block malicious and annoying ads, letting you enjoy a smoother browsing experience. And targeted ads won’t be an issue either, as NordVPN’s Threat Protection feature lets you surf the net without leaving a trace.
Overall, the Threat Protection feature is a solid addition to the VPN package. This way, you know that both your data and your device are protected.
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FAQ
Do I need Threat Protection and a VPN?
Yes, using Threat Protection together with a VPN is a great way to ensure online security, especially since it comes at no additional cost. A VPN, such as NordVPN, encrypts your data and hides your IP address, guaranteeing privacy online. Meanwhile, the Threat Protection feature keeps you safe from malicious threats and trackers.
Does NordVPN have an antivirus?
Technically, NordVPN doesn’t have an antivirus, but it does offer the Threat Protection feature. It keeps your devices safe from malicious files, websites, and intrusive ads.
Does NordVPN stop hackers and block ads?
Since NordVPN encrypts your traffic and hides your IP address, it can prevent hackers from snooping around. However, NordVPN will protect you from opening malicious sites and downloading malicious content only if Threat Protection is enabled. This feature works in real time, preventing you from seeing intrusive ads and infecting your device.
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