VPN vs. Antivirus – Do You Need Both for Online Security?

Cybersecurity threats continue to worsen with each new year. Businesses and individuals must protect their computers and digital infrastructure from several trending threats, including hacks, viruses, malware, ransomware, and data breaches. That is why new security tools are regularly released and updated to combat these threats. 

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and antivirus software are the best tools. Most people are familiar with antivirus software tools because they have existed for decades. However, fewer people are familiar with VPNs and the kinds of protection they can offer when using the internet. Both tools have their pros and cons when it comes to security protection online. 

Should you use both? Is one better than the other? Well, the truth is that VPNs and antivirus software each offer unique benefits and protections. You could use both to maximize your online security, depending on your internet habits.

First, let us look closely into each one to understand their actions. 

What is a VPN?

A VPN is an exceptional service that encrypts your private network connection by extending it across one or more remote servers. In other words, all the data that you download is routed through another server before it comes to your computer. Your actual IP address is hidden from the websites you access because they will detect the IP address of the remote server instead of your own.

Most VPN service providers let you choose the geographical location of the remote server you want to use for your encrypted connection. This feature is handy when accessing websites that impose geo-restrictions on which countries can access their content. A VPN can bypass the geo-restriction by choosing a remote server from an acceptable geographical location. 

For example, if you are in the United States but wish to extend your connection through an encrypted server in Canada or Mexico, you can choose either of those countries. Then, when websites check your IP address, it will reflect the geographical location selected. Your actual IP address and geographical location will remain hidden the entire time. 

VPNs are beneficial for protection on public Wi-Fi networks because they protect against data tracking, surveillance, and hackers. Since VPNs utilize encryption protocols to transmit data securely, they can reduce the threat of third-party hackers gaining unauthorized access to your private information or online activities. 

VPNs provide you with total anonymity online. You don’t need to worry about government agencies, internet service providers, hackers, or advertisers tracking your data and monitoring your activities. So, if you care about maintaining your privacy online, especially when using an unsecured public Wi-Fi network, you must use a VPN for maximum security and confidentiality.

What is Antivirus Software?

Antivirus software is an online internet security tool that can protect your computer or mobile device from various digital threats when using the internet, including viruses, spyware, phishing attacks, malware, and ransomware. It is a cybersecurity tool designed to detect, remove, and prevent threats like these from affecting your systems. 

In the old days, viruses were the only real threat facing internet users. In 2025, online users face multiple digital threats from anonymous third parties wishing to damage other people’s property or steal their sensitive data. So, users need high-quality antivirus software to protect them against these threats.

Any reputable antivirus software tool that detects and removes the latest malware, phishing attempts, and ransomware is a good tool to have installed. It works by detecting unusual patterns in the website files and coding that could potentially cause damage to your computer. Once these threats are detected, the tool warns you about them and lets you destroy them before they cause harm.

Antivirus software continuously runs in the background to scan downloads, applications, and files for potential cyber threats. It will send you alerts whenever a threat is detected, so you don’t need to worry about finding it yourself. 

Please Note: Antivirus software does NOT hide your IP address or give you any privacy protection online. Websites and anonymous third parties can still track your data online if you don’t have a VPN activated. Keep that in mind. 

You can benefit from using VPN and antivirus tools on your computer. A VPN will hide your IP address, secure your data, and protect your privacy online, while antivirus software protects your computer from cyber threats like malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. 

You cannot enjoy the benefits of both without using both. A VPN won’t stop viruses or malware, just like antivirus software won’t protect your online identity or encrypt traffic. So, to stop viruses and malware, protect your online identity, and encrypt traffic, you must use VPN and antivirus tools together. 

The All-in-One Solutions: Surfshark One

How would you like to receive a VPN and antivirus tool in one convenient bundle package? If so, you should consider the Surfshark One bundle for your computer.

Surfshark One is a 5-in-1 internet security suite that includes:

• VPN Service – Encrypts your online traffic and data through secure, anonymous connections through a remote server.

• Antivirus Software – Detects and removes cybersecurity threats like viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.

• Alert – Detects data breaches of your personal information and alerts you when compromised.

• Search – Gives you access to a secure private search engine that removes all targeted advertisements and data tracking mechanisms.

• Alternative ID – Establish an anonymous identity for you online so your personal data is not collected.

Each tool provides a unique form of cyber protection online. The best part is that you are allowed to install the all-in-one Surfshark One app on unlimited devices, such as computers, smartphones, and tablets. 

Limited Time Offer 

There is even a new deal offering 85% off the regular purchase price plus three extra months. 

Conclusion

VPNs and antivirus software tools are necessary for online privacy and security protection. A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your data traffic, and antivirus software keeps your devices protected from viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. 

Surfshark One can simplify all these security needs by providing an all-in-one solution that includes VPN service and antivirus software protection. 

FAQs

Is It Legal to Use a VPN?

Yes, it is perfectly legal to use a VPN. 

Can I Use a Free VPN?

Some free VPN services are available but are often slower, with fewer geographical location options and many more security vulnerabilities. You are better off using a paid VPN like Surfshark because it is faster, more secure, and has more geographical location options.