McAfee Total Protection Essential, while positioned as McAfee’s entry-level security suite, offers a robust array of features that may surprise users. It provides antivirus and browsing protection for up to five devices, whether they be desktop or mobile. Additionally, it includes a password manager and comprehensive data breach monitoring that covers email addresses, phone numbers, credit cards, and bank accounts. The mobile application even boasts a scam detector designed to identify and block malicious links in text messages. Unlike its competitors, such as Avast and Bitdefender, which offer limited VPN services in their starter packages, McAfee provides a full and unlimited VPN service.
For those seeking more extensive protection, the McAfee+ antivirus software suites expand the offering to cover unlimited devices, enhanced identity theft protection, and online tools to optimize social media privacy settings. They also assist in detecting and removing personal information held by data brokers or in outdated online accounts. For a deeper dive into this expanded offering, the McAfee+ Premium review is worth exploring.
Protection Performance
In a recent malware test, McAfee demonstrated a commendable 88% success rate when attempting to download files from 50 malicious sites. However, it fell slightly short compared to competitors like Avira (90%), Avast (94%), and Bitdefender, which achieved a perfect score of 100%. When tested against a custom ransomware simulator, McAfee initially performed well, neutralizing the threat before it could affect any files. Yet, a slight modification allowed the ransomware to bypass McAfee’s defenses, encrypting thousands of documents. Although this performance is respectable, it does indicate that other solutions, such as Norton and Bitdefender, have outperformed McAfee in similar scenarios.
Safe Connect VPN
McAfee Total Protection includes an unlimited version of its Safe Connect VPN, which operates on the popular TunnelBear infrastructure. This VPN is conveniently integrated into the Total Protection app, allowing users to easily toggle browsing protection on and off. However, during testing, the VPN occasionally struggled to connect, leaving users with no option but to reboot the app. With a selection of 48 countries, McAfee’s VPN provides decent coverage, although it lacks city-specific options and misses several commonly supported countries, such as Hong Kong and India. Connection speeds were also a concern, with some tests showing delays of over ten seconds, particularly when compared to faster competitors like ExpressVPN.
True Key Password Manager
True Key serves as McAfee’s password management solution, enabling users to create and securely store logins across devices. The setup process is straightforward, with the ability to import passwords from major browsers and other password managers. While it captures usernames and passwords automatically, it lacks advanced features such as secure password sharing or a comprehensive password health check. However, it does excel in multi-factor authentication support, allowing users to add an extra layer of security to their accounts.
Dark Web Monitoring
McAfee’s dark web monitoring feature stands out by allowing users to monitor up to ten email addresses, ten phone numbers, and various forms of identification, including credit cards and bank accounts. This extensive monitoring capability surpasses many competitors, although it does not cover real-world addresses or some other sensitive information. The web dashboard provides alerts for significant breaches, making it easier for users to take action if necessary.
Advanced Firewall
While McAfee Total Protection claims to include an advanced firewall, its functionality is somewhat limited. The suite primarily monitors outgoing connections and lacks the ability to protect against incoming threats, relying instead on the existing Windows Firewall. Users can manually allow or block connections, but the firewall does not offer extensive configuration options, leaving it less impactful than one might expect.
File Shredder and Tracker Remover
The File Shredder feature allows users to securely delete sensitive documents by overwriting them multiple times, enhancing security against potential recovery. While it generally performs well, there are instances where it fails to delete files without explanation. Similarly, the Tracker Remover aims to enhance privacy by deleting cookies and browser history, but its lack of configurability and slow performance can detract from its utility.
In summary, McAfee Total Protection Essential presents a compelling entry-level security suite with a strong antivirus engine and impressive dark web monitoring capabilities. However, its browsing protection and VPN performance may leave some users wanting more. For those prioritizing price, the introductory offer is attractive, but those seeking comprehensive features might consider upgrading to McAfee+ or exploring alternatives like Avast One Gold or Bitdefender Total Security for enhanced protection and functionality.
