VPN & Online Security

VPNs, password managers and antivirus tools all promise to keep you safer online, but they protect against different things. This hub explains the security brands we cover so you can match the tool to the problem you actually have.

7 brandsReviewed November 2026

How to choose

  • Decide what you need protection from first, such as public Wi-Fi, weak passwords or malware.
  • Read the privacy policy and look for independent security audits of the service.
  • Check where the company is based and what that means for how it handles data.
  • Make sure the apps work on every device and operating system you use.
  • Look at the renewal terms, not just the first billing period.

How to save

  • Use the money-back window, if offered, to test speed and apps before committing.
  • Check whether one subscription covers all your household's devices.
  • Set a reminder before auto-renewal so you can review whether you still need the plan.
  • Do not pay twice for features your operating system or browser already includes.

Security brands

Save brands for later, or tick two to compare them side by side.

7 brands · tick two brands to compare them

  • Bitdefender

    Antivirus and security suite

    Antivirus and internet security suites for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS

    VPN & Online SecurityWorldwide

  • Moonlock

    Mac security software

    Mac-focused malware protection from MacPaw, the makers of CleanMyMac

    VPN & Online SecurityWorldwide

  • NordPass

    Password manager

    A password manager from the team behind NordVPN, with free and paid plans

    VPN & Online SecurityWorldwide

  • NordVPN

    VPN subscription

    Subscription VPN service for encrypting your connection on multiple devices

    VPN & Online SecurityUnited States

  • Phonsee

    Phone monitoring app

    A phone monitoring app; use it only lawfully, such as on your child's device

    VPN & Online SecurityWorldwide

  • Scannero

    Phone locator service

    Online service for requesting a phone's location by phone number, with consent

    VPN & Online SecurityWorldwide

  • Surfshark

    VPN subscription

    Subscription VPN service that allows use on many devices at once

    VPN & Online SecurityWorldwide

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Comparisons

  • vs

    NordVPN vs Surfshark

    NordVPN and Surfshark are two of the best-known consumer VPNs, and both offer apps for all major platforms. They differ mainly in device allowances, bundled extras and how their apps feel to use.

Buying guides

  • Buying guide · 6 min read

    How to Choose a VPN

    A VPN encrypts the connection between your device and the VPN provider's server, which hides your traffic from your local network and changes the IP address websites see. It is a useful privacy tool, but it is not a magic shield, so it pays to know what you actually need before you subscribe.

Security FAQ

Does a VPN make me completely anonymous?

No. A VPN hides your traffic from your local network and internet provider, but websites can still identify you through logins, cookies and browser fingerprints.

What does a no-logs policy mean?

It means the provider says it does not keep records of your online activity. Independent audits give more confidence that the claim holds up.

Do I need antivirus if I already have a VPN?

They do different jobs. A VPN protects your connection, while antivirus looks for malicious software on your device.

Are free VPNs safe to use?

Some are fine for light use, but free services have to pay for themselves somehow. Read the privacy policy carefully and be wary of apps that rely on selling data or showing heavy ads.

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