VPN security tools are not a full antivirus replacement, TechRadar says

VPN providers increasingly bundle malware detection, malicious-link checks and ad blocking with their services. But a TechRadar comparison by Mark Gill says these tools may not replace dedicated antivirus software.

The article says NordVPN became the first VPN to receive certification as a reliable anti-phishing tool in 2024. Its Threat Protection feature blocks websites, trackers and ads, and scans downloads. Surfshark One also offers real-time malware protection and scheduled scans. However, VPN security tools may lack features such as full system scans and behavioral threat analysis.

Some VPN antivirus products rely on technology from other security companies. TechRadar says Surfshark’s antivirus uses Avira’s anti-malware SDK, while CyberGhost Security Suite uses Intego’s frontend and, on Windows, Avira’s engine and definitions. The article says integration delays could leave VPN customers using older detection data. It also notes that some features are limited to Windows and Android.

In AV-Comparatives’ July-August 2026 real-world protection test, Microsoft Defender blocked 95.5% of live threats and recorded one false positive. The article says Defender has also earned Advanced+ awards in multiple testing rounds. In separate recent testing, Avast Free Antivirus was one of three products among 20 tested to achieve a 100% block rate.

TechRadar concludes that VPN tools, antivirus software and operating-system security cover different risks, and says no single layer catches every threat. The article’s assessment is that a layered setup can provide adequate protection for everyday use, while paid suites add features such as password management and cloud backup.