Antivirus and VPN: What difference and should they be used together?

To protect themselves and sail safely, two tools are recommended: antivirus to protect your data, and VPN to ensure anonymous and secure navigation. If many already use them, many confuse their usefulness. Some believe that a VPN protects against viruses, others than their antivirus is enough to secure all their online activities. So what are the real differences between these two solutions? And above all, should they be used together for optimal safety?

What is an antivirus?

An antivirus is designed to detect, block and remove malware. It acts like a barrier against viruses, Trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, and other dangerous software.

Concretely, it analyzes in real time the files you download, the attachments of your emails, or the sites you visit. He can also carry out regular analyzes of your hard drive to locate dormant threats.

When associated with a security suite, the antivirus can be completed with a VPN, a password manager, cleaning tools, etc.

What is a VPN?

THE VPN (Virtual Private Network) is not a tool against viruses. It is a service that creates a quantified tunnel between your device and internet. Thanks to it, your IP address is masked and your navigation data is encrypted, even on public Wi-Fi networks.

Clearly, if you connect from a coffee, an airport or a hotel, a VPN prevents anyone (including your internet access provider or a hacker on the same network) from seeing what you do or intercepting your data.

Why not replace the other?

It is a common error to believe that a VPN protects “everything”. In reality, VPN and Antivirus cover two completely different aspects of your digital security.

An antivirus protects your device from internal threats : virus, spy software, ransomware whileA VPN protects your connection against external risks : interceptions, surveillance, and geolocation.

Use only an antivirus leaves you exposed if you log on to public Wi-Fi. Using only a VPN does not protect you if you download a trapped file or if a ransomware infects your computer.

In what cases in which to use them together?

You need an antivirus in any case, and a VPN when you need to connect to the Internet… So that is to say almost every time you use a computer. But the use of these tools remains particularly essential when you telework in public places on open and unsecured WiFi networks. Of course, you can also use them at home to strengthen the security of your data and your device permanently.

Are there any all-in-one solutions?

As indicated above, some antivirus software publishers offer Complete safety suitesall-in-one solutions, including VPN and other interesting features to ensure the safety of your online confidentiality and the integrity of your devices.

This is particularly the case with Norton 360 Deluxe,, Avast One And AVG Ultimate.

Norton 360 Deluxe, all-in-one full protection

Norton 360 Deluxe is much more than a simple antivirus. This is a all-in-one cybersecurity solution Thought for users who want to protect their devices, personal data and their privacy online.
On the antivirus side, Norton offers a Advanced malware detectionransomware, spyware and other digital threats, with real -time protection that monitors your activities without slowing down your system. Its intelligent firewall analyzes network traffic to block suspicious connections, and the integrated password manager helps you secure your identifiers easily.

But what really distinguishes Norton 360 Deluxe is his Unlimited VPN included in the subscription. It automatically figures your connection, ideal for protecting your data on public Wi-Fi networks and preserving your anonymity online.

The software also incorporates a parental control, useful for families, and a Cloud backup tool To secure your important files against losses or attacks by ransomware.

Compatible with Windows, MacOS, Android and iOS, Norton 360 Deluxe covers up to 5 aircraft. An ideal solution for global digital security, easy to install and manage on a daily basis.

Avast One: Security, Performance and Confidentiality Combined

Avast One is a Modern safety continuation which combines viruse protection, optimization of performance and confidentiality tools In a refined and easy to handle interface. Designed for individuals and families, it offers real -time protection against malware, phishing and ransomware, while integrating a Unlimited VPN For private and secure navigation, even on public networks.

What makes him interesting is his global approach: in addition to security, Avast One has system maintenance functions To clean unnecessary files, improve start -up speed or even correct safety flaws in your software.

The “advanced protection” mode detects suspicious behavior And prevents unauthorized changes to your system, while the identity monitoring tool alerts you if your personal data is found on the Dark Web.

Available on Windows, Mac, Android and iOS, Avast One exists in free version with limited features, or in premium version for full coverage up to 5 devices. A good choice for those who want to group everything in a simple and fluid solution.

AVG Ultimate: A powerful suite for demanding users

With AVG Ultimate, you have access to All the safety, confidentiality and performance tools developed by AVGgathered in a single formula. This pack includes in particular AVG Internet Securitya award -winning antivirus that protects your devices from viruses, ransomware, spy software and phishing attempts, as well as AVG Secure VPNto encrypt your internet connection and protect your privacy.

But AVG Ultimate does not stop there. It also includes AVG TUNEUPa powerful system optimization tool. Thanks to it, you can accelerate your PC, free up disk space, deactivate gourmet resource programs and even automatically correct certain current bugs.

This solution is ideal for users who want not only to be protected, but also maintain their devices in perfect working order. It also offers automatic safety updates, a shield against network attacks, and anti-plating tools to prevent websites from following your browsing.

Compatible with Windows, MacOS, Android and iOS, AVG Ultimate covers up to 10 devices. A complete and robust suite, thought for users who are looking for efficiency, reliability and performance on all their devices.