VPN service

Tech Optimizer
March 19, 2025
eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue through affiliate links. TotalAV is an antivirus solution with basic VPN functionality, while Surfshark specializes in VPN services. TotalAV: - Overall Rating: 2.8/5 - Pricing: 3.7/5 - Features: 2.7/5 - Usability: 3.7/5 - Security: 2/5 - Customer Support: 2.1/5 - Offers essential antivirus protection and basic VPN features, but lacks the capabilities of a dedicated VPN service. Surfshark: - Overall Rating: 4.5/5 - Pricing: 4.8/5 - Features: 4.3/5 - Usability: 5/5 - Security: 4.5/5 - Customer Support: 3.7/5 - Provides advanced features like multihop connections and IP address rotation, with positive customer feedback despite some support challenges. Pricing Comparison: - TotalAV: Premium plan for the first year; renews at a higher rate. - Surfshark: Starter plan at .49/month billed annually. Feature Comparison: - TotalAV includes a kill switch and split tunneling; lacks rotating IP addresses and multi-hop VPN. - Surfshark includes all features of TotalAV plus advanced capabilities. Usability: - TotalAV supports Windows, Mac, iOS, Android; lacks extensive user documentation. - Surfshark supports multiple operating systems and offers training resources. Security: - TotalAV's encryption and audit policies are unclear. - Surfshark uses AES-256 encryption and has undergone multiple independent audits. Customer Support: - TotalAV offers email support; lacks live chat and community forums. - Surfshark provides 24/7 live chat and email support, along with an official Reddit community. Alternatives: - NordVPN starts at .99/month and includes essential and advanced features. - ExpressVPN offers comprehensive features at .32/month. Evaluation Methodology: The comparison was based on pricing, features, usability, security, and customer support.
Tech Optimizer
February 9, 2025
The necessity for robust antivirus software has become imperative due to the rise of malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and zero-day exploits, which pose significant risks to personal data and system performance. Modern antivirus programs utilize artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time behavioral analysis to identify emerging threats. They offer features such as encrypted browsing, webcam and microphone protection, identity theft monitoring, and built-in VPN services. Key factors for selecting antivirus solutions include detection rates, system impact, and additional features like file encryption and dark web monitoring. The eleven best antivirus options for 2025 include: 1. Norton 360 Deluxe 2025 | 5 Devices: Fast scanning, built-in VPN, cloud backup; requires annual subscription, limited VPN locations, higher price. 2. McAfee Total Protection 3-Device 2025: Advanced AI threat detection, automatic VPN; setup requires credit card, complicated activation, higher renewal pricing. 3. McAfee Total Protection | 5-Device 2025: Smart AI protection, built-in VPN; VPN may slow internet, dated interface. 4. McAfee+ Premium Individual Unlimited Devices 2025: Smart AI technology, unlimited VPN; cluttered interface, some features need configuration. 5. Norton 360 Deluxe 2025 | 3 Devices: Excellent malware detection, built-in VPN; frequent promotional pop-ups, higher renewal price. 6. Malwarebytes Premium Security – 2 Device: Powerful scanning tools, real-time ransomware protection; higher price, limited iOS features. 7. McAfee AntiVirus 2025 – 1 Device: Fast malware scanning, intuitive interface; renewal issues, frequent marketing notifications. 8. Norton 360 Premium 2025 – 10 Devices: Comprehensive protection, includes VPN; tricky auto-renewal, higher price. 9. Webroot Internet Security Complete 2025 – 5 Device: Fast scans, minimal system load; higher renewal prices, special installer for Windows 7. 10. Bitdefender Total Security 2025 (5 Device): Outstanding malware protection, minimal system impact; VPN limited to 200MB daily, complex interface. 11. Malwarebytes Premium 2025 | 5 Device: Excellent malware detection, user-friendly; slow premium support, lacks advanced customization. Choosing the right antivirus software involves evaluating features such as real-time protection, privacy features, malware detection rates, system performance impact, update frequency, and customer support availability. Pricing structures vary, with tiers offering different levels of protection and features.
Tech Optimizer
February 6, 2025
The landscape of online security has changed significantly, requiring a multi-faceted approach to cybersecurity as of 2024. Antivirus software is still important but is now just one part of a broader security strategy. Incorporating a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential for robust protection against online threats. Norton VPN Plus is highlighted as a reputable VPN service, known for its trusted brand, user-friendly interface, comprehensive security features, and a global server network that allows users to access content while maintaining privacy. A VPN encrypts data between the user's device and the VPN server, enhancing privacy and security.
Tech Optimizer
February 5, 2025
Signs that a PC may have a virus include noticeable slowdown in performance, unfamiliar applications appearing, frequent crashes or erratic software behavior, and overheating. To remove a virus from a PC, users should: 1. Disconnect from the internet. 2. Enter safe mode. 3. Run a virus scan with antivirus software. 4. Delete or quarantine infected files. 5. Clear temporary files using the Disk Cleanup tool. 6. Reset browser settings to default. 7. Check and disable unfamiliar startup programs in Task Manager. 8. Update the operating system and software. 9. Backup data regularly. To avoid future viruses, users should practice safe browsing, enable a firewall, download from trusted sites, and use a secure VPN connection.
Tech Optimizer
December 1, 2024
Malwarebytes is offering a 50% discount on various subscription plans for its cybersecurity products until December 8th, 2024. The discounted prices for the 1-year subscriptions are as follows: - Malwarebytes Standard: .49 (originally .99) - Malwarebytes Plus: .99 (originally .99) - Malwarebytes Ultimate: .99 (originally .99) - Malwarebytes Family Device Security: .99 (originally .99) - Malwarebytes Family Ultimate Security: .49 (originally 4.99) - Malwarebytes Teams: .99 (originally .99) The Malwarebytes Premium version 5.2 includes features such as advanced antivirus, anti-malware, anti-spyware, phishing protection, ransomware defense, scam protection, and real-time threat protection. Malwarebytes has also introduced new services like Malwarebytes VPN, Identity Theft Protection, and Personal Data Remover. The VPN service offers anonymous browsing with a no-log policy, while the Identity Protection service includes credit monitoring and ID theft insurance. The Personal Data Remover helps users remove personal information from data broker databases.
Tech Optimizer
November 19, 2024
Many Mac users question the necessity of additional antivirus software, which depends on their usage patterns and operating environments. macOS has a strong security framework, including built-in antivirus Xprotect, which is sufficient for average users. However, high-risk users may require more advanced protection. Top free antivirus software options for Mac in 2024 include: - Bitdefender: Offers a free on-demand malware scanner, lightweight operation, and customizable scanning options. Free for one device; business plans start at .99/month. - Malwarebytes: Provides a free virus cleanup tool that works with other security software, excelling at detecting elusive malware. Free for one device; business plans start at .97/year. - Avira: Features scheduled virus scanning, a free VPN, a password manager, and a junk file cleaner. Free for one device; paid plans start at .99/month. - Total AV: Includes a Smart Scan feature and various utilities for system maintenance. Free for one device; pro plans start at .95/year. For most businesses, macOS's built-in Xprotect is adequate, but specific needs may warrant additional tools like Malwarebytes for cleanup or Bitdefender for high-risk activities. The analysis of these products involved hands-on testing and review of independent audit results and customer feedback.
Tech Optimizer
November 18, 2024
Surfshark is offering Black Friday deals with discounts of up to 87% on its cybersecurity products, including VPN, antivirus, and data removal services. The company has over 600 servers in the US, providing rapid connection speeds and easy access to US-based content. Surfshark's VPN features include auto-connect, kill switch, split tunneling, unlimited device support, and 24/7 customer support with a 30-day money-back guarantee. In 2023, Surfshark was recognized by Forbes as the "Best VPN for Unlimited Connections" for its unlimited device policy and advanced features. Surfshark also offers an antivirus solution that protects against various digital threats with real-time scanning and customizable security settings. Additionally, Surfshark's Incogni service helps users remove personal information from data brokers and people search sites through an automated five-step process.
Tech Optimizer
November 12, 2024
Antivirus software protects data and devices from threats like malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. Bitdefender is preferred over Malwarebytes due to its extensive features and competitive pricing. Specifications: - Bitdefender: - Free version: Yes - Free premium trial: 30 days - Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, Linux - Malware protection: Yes - Phishing protection: Yes - Scan types: Scheduled, real-time - Customer support: Live chat, email, phone, support pages - Price: Plans starting at [price] per year for one device or [price] per year for three devices - Malwarebytes: - Free version: Yes - Free premium trial: 14 days - Compatibility: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS - Malware protection: Yes - Phishing protection: Yes - Scan types: Scheduled, real-time - Customer support: AI and live chat, email, support pages - Price: Plans starting at [price] per year Bitdefender Advantages: - Comprehensive protection across devices and browsers. - Extensive threat protection including viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, rootkits, and adware. - Continuous, real-time scans on Windows. - Privacy firewall and anti-tracking features. - VPN service and data breach protection available. - Competitive pricing compared to Malwarebytes. Malwarebytes Advantages: - Focuses on robust malware protection. - Sufficient for users not needing additional features. - Can supplement existing security features. - Rapid and real-time scanning capabilities. - User-friendly interface with threat quarantining and ad blocking. Alternatives to Bitdefender and Malwarebytes are available in the antivirus market.
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