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Surfshark is one of the few VPNs to offer a real antivirus solution – here's the difference
At this point, we're not just trying to streamline the amount of streaming services we're subscribed to, it also comes down to our security software.
It's unsurprising, then, that many of the best VPN providers are moving into a one-stop-shop solution for its users, combining their standard VPN tools with an antivirus offering.
Surfshark One: VPN and antivirus combined
Surfshark One is an all-singing, all-dancing security suite that brings together Surfshark's excellent VPN tool with its very own antivirus product.
As Paulius Siurkus, Product Manager at Surfshark, described it to us, Surfshark One is "a comprehensive, privacy-first cybersecurity solution that fits into a single seamless application alongside other online security tools. It is designed for fast, long-term performance."
The threat landscape across the internet comprises many vectors, and relying on just a VPN does not provide complete device-level protection. For this reason, the antivirus is crucial.
Paulius Siurkus, Product Manager at Surfshark
Only able to benefit from its antivirus if you subscribe to the Surfshark One plan, Surfshark antivirus is the whole package.
It works much like a traditional antivirus in that it actually scans your device, with the option to carry out quick and full scans. You can schedule scans as well as being about to customize exactly what it scans, with the option to exclude files you know pose no risk.
Should scans find anything, those infected files will be quarantined and automatically deleted after 60 days.
Surfshark's antivirus software also has a snazzy feature called Cloud Protect, which is constantly working to defend against new malware, with its database updated every three hours. It also comes with 24/7 malware protection, monitoring for anything dangerous while you browse and preventing you from downloading anything harmful.
Not only do you get both Surfshark's feature-packed VPN and fully-fledged antivirus product, though. The Surfshark One bundle also comes with Alternative ID, Surfshark Alert, and Surfshark Search.
- Alternative ID: Alternative ID gives you a proxy email and other details requested by many websites in order to protect you, avoid data leaks, and keep your inbox from being full of spam.
- Surfshark Alert: Keep your finger on the pulse when it comes to your data. Surfshark Alert will track and notify you should any sensitive information – including email addresses, IDs, card details, or other personal information – is leaked online.
- Surfshark Search: Clean up your digital footprint completely with Surfshark Search. Enjoy ad-free browsing and leave no muddy footprints behind.
As mentioned, these online security tools work alongside Surfshark's reliable, speedy and affordable VPN. That means you get access to over 4,500+ servers with features like its Double VPN, CleanWeb, and Camouflage Mode, as well as powerful streaming unblocking capabilities on an unlimited number of devices.
In our Surfshark One review, we awarded the bundle 4/5 stars and said: "Surfshark One provides excellent security, privacy, and some great extras at a fraction of the cost of many other products, even the standalone ones. Its VPN is safe and unlocks whatever you need, the antivirus has tons of features, while breach monitoring and private search round up the robust offering, albeit lacking some elements its competition might have."
How does Surfshark One differ to other VPN packages?
Surfshark isn't the only one trying to diversify its cybersecurity software to be more comprehensive. However, it is certainly one of the most comprehensive, not only seeking to protect against threats, but also offering the after care should your device be compromised with its file scanning functionality.
[Surfshark Antivirus] is designed for fast, long-term performance, with features such as webcam protection, fully customizable security, and protection against spyware and malware.
Paulius Siurkus
In comparison, ExpressVPN announced new tiered pricing in an endeavor to meet the escalation in online threats with its Advanced and Pro plans offering security features beyond its VPN offering. This includes things like its password manager, Keys, Identity Monitoring and Data Removal services, and an increased number of device connections.
All excellent tools to have in your arsenal, you can find a lot of these within the Surfshark One bundle, as well as the added reassurance its antivirus can give you.
NordVPN has a similar tiered plan structure (Basic, Plus, Ultimate), with the more you pay the you more features you unlock. This includes its own password manager, Pro versions of its Threat Protection (which it deems a "lightweight antivirus"), Dark Monitor, and its new spam call protection.
How to get Surfshark One
Signing up for Surfshark One is super simple.
- Head to the Surfshark website
- Click on 'Get Surfshark VPN'
- Choose between its 24-month, 12-month, or 1 month plans
- Choose between Surfshark Starter, Surfshark One, or Surfshark One+
The difference between Surfshark Starter (which just includes its VPN) and Surfshark One is minimal when you look at it monthly. You'll be paying as little as $0.50 a month more for Surfshark One, with plans starting from $2.49 a month (billed for the entire period upfront).
Surfshark One+ includes everything you get in the Surfshark One package, as well as Incongi, which removes your data from the web, and identity theft coverage.
To help you decide what package to go for, we have a dedicated guide on which Surfshark VPN plan you should choose.
Which other VPN providers include antivirus?
While we expect more and more of the big players to offer comprehensive web security solutions, the list of those already offering the best of both worlds is very scant:
- Surfshark
- Private Internet Access
- CyberGhost
