VPN threat protection vs. dedicated antivirus: Are VPNs really enough?

Recent developments in VPN services have expanded their capabilities beyond mere traffic encryption. Nowadays, leading providers like NordVPN and Surfshark now include real-time malware protection, malicious link checkers, and ad blockers in their packages. This has sparked a debate on whether these built-in security tools can replace standalone antivirus software or if they still require layering of dedicated antivirus protection beneath VPNs.

Modern VPNs, such as NordVPN and Surfshark, have evolved significantly. NordVPN earned certification as a reliable anti-phishing tool in 2024, while Surfshark's Surfshark One offers real-time virus and malware protection with scheduled scans. However, these VPN-based solutions typically lack certain features common in standalone antivirus software, such as full system scans and behavioral threat analysis.

In some cases, VPN antivirus tools are essentially licensed versions of the same underlying technology, which may not always be up-to-date due to integration delays. This can create potential gaps in protection compared to native users of standalone antivirus software. Microsoft Defender has come a long way, outperforming many third-party solutions in recent AV-Comparatives tests.

Its consistent performance and lower false positives make it a solid choice for many users. Apple’s built-in security also employs a multi-layered approach, including Gatekeeper, Notarization, and XProtect. While these defenses prevent a substantial share of opportunistic attacks, they may not fully address zero-day threats or advanced persistent threats.

For most users practicing sensible browsing habits, combining a VPN, free antivirus, and built-in OS-level security provides a robust protection foundation. However, for those handling sensitive data or using older hardware, investing in a premium antivirus suite may offer additional peace of mind.