If you're buying a MacBook Neo, this $2.49 monthly add-on is a smart way to stay secure

The launch of Apple's MacBook Neo has caused quite a stir. Starting from only $599, it's perfect if you're a student looking for a new portable study companion. However, using a new device on campus or on coffee shop networks comes with some risks.

In the UK, 91% of universities were targeted by cyberattacks in 2025. In the US, the likes of Harvard and Princeton have been targeted by cybercriminals on the hunt for people's data, too.

While the MacBook Neo is a powerhouse for its price, your personal data remains vulnerable on unsecured networks. Luckily, a good VPN package can solve these risks for only a couple of dollars a month.

Surfshark's One plan is currently only $2.49 per month, paid upfront for $67.23. With this, you get two years of VPN and Antivirus protection, ad and tracker blocking, as well as identity concealing features such as data breach alerts and Alternative ID.

At the moment, you also get a 12-month Calm Premium subscription included too, so you can get a good night's sleep after a long day of studying (or avoiding studying!)

It's the fastest VPN we've tested, and while NordVPN remains our best VPN overall, Surfshark has features you won't see anywhere else. Plus, its apps are simple enough for beginners.

Sufshark One: $2.49 per month with 12 months of Calm Premium

Surfshark is the best cheap VPN out there. It's perfect if you're a student looking to secure yourself on a budget. Plus, with a 12-month Calm subscription and its incredible performance included, there are few deals offering better value right now. Included in a Surfshark One plan, you get:

🛌 12 months of Calm Premium
🤑 3 months extra VPN protection
📱 Unlimited VPN connections
🦠 Antivirus
👦 Email and personal detail aliasing (Alternative ID)
🌐 Secure search
👤 Data breach alerts
✉️ Email scam checking
🛑 Web content blocking

All Surfshark plans also come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, you won't receive your Calm subscription till day 31.

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The inclusion of antivirus software means Surfshark helps keep your MacBook safe during file downloads. Unlike many VPNs, the majority of Surfshark's features also work on Mac, and its Antivirus performs better than almost any other top VPN. Only NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro performed better, but it'll set you back more than a dollar month per more.

For the super budget-focused student, it's also worth looking at PrivadoVPN. A two-year plan will set you back only $30, cheaper than any other top provider. Its Sentry tool isn't as effective as Surfshark's Antivirus, but it's quick, easy to use, and available on any platform.