VPN services Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 17, 2026

Best antivirus software 2026: free and paid picks

Viruses and malware have become more sophisticated, with phishing emails, AI-generated scams, and deepfake videos posing significant threats. In 2025, Americans lost .9 billion to online scams, affecting even tech-savvy individuals. Built-in malware protections on devices have improved, but the need for additional antivirus software depends on individual usage and risk tolerance. Microsoft Defender, integrated into Windows 11, scored 18/18 on AV-Test and provides real-time protection against various threats. XProtect on Mac updates malware signatures but may miss newer threats, while iPhone users generally do not need antivirus software due to iOS's sandboxing. Android users face higher malware risks and should consider dedicated antivirus solutions. Paid antivirus solutions often include features like VPN services, password managers, identity theft monitoring, and multi-platform coverage, justifying their cost. Many antivirus providers offer steep discounts for the first year, followed by significant price increases upon renewal, so it's advisable to disable auto-renewal and seek new customer rates. Bitdefender Total Security is recommended for its malware detection and light system impact, while McAfee+ Premium offers unlimited device coverage for families. Norton 360 Deluxe provides a comprehensive feature bundle, and Microsoft Defender is the only recommended free antivirus, achieving a perfect score on AV-Test without intrusive ads or upsells.

Tech Optimizer

June 16, 2026

Subscription twist: Norton 360 Deluxe adds more than just antivirus

Norton 360 Deluxe is a mid-tier security subscription from Gen Digital that offers antivirus protection, a VPN, a password manager, dark web monitoring, and parental controls for up to five devices. It includes real-time threat protection, a firewall, ransomware shielding, and cloud backup of up to 50 GB for Windows users. The parental controls, known as Norton Family, allow monitoring of children's online activities. The Secure VPN encrypts internet traffic on public Wi-Fi and masks IP addresses. The package also features PC SafeCam for webcam security and a smart firewall. Norton 360 Deluxe is marketed with a promotional first-year rate, with higher renewal prices, and is available through digital subscriptions, app stores, and major retailers. The product is designed for households and individuals seeking comprehensive security solutions.

AppWizard

June 15, 2026

Samsung MAX VPN goes offline today, leaving Android users searching for alternatives

Samsung MAX VPN has officially reached its end of life as of June 15, 2026, leaving over 50 million users without its privacy and data-saving features. The app, which was designed to mask IP addresses and compress mobile data, will no longer function as intended unless uninstalled. Users are encouraged to seek third-party VPN alternatives for online security, as the app will remain on devices but will not provide any services. The Google Play Store offers numerous highly rated third-party VPN applications, including free options, and users should review logging policies and server locations to maintain privacy.

Tech Optimizer

June 11, 2026

Avast One: Security and privacy suite under the microscope

Avast One is the flagship consumer security suite from Avast (Gen Digital), combining antivirus, firewall, VPN, and privacy utilities into a single subscription for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It offers four primary areas: device security, online privacy, identity protection, and performance tools. Device security includes real-time antivirus, Web Shield, Mail Shield, and Ransomware Shield. The online privacy component features a full VPN service with bank-grade encryption and a no-logs policy. Identity protection includes data breach monitoring and, in some markets, credit monitoring. Performance tools assist with disk cleanup and system optimization. Avast One has three plan tiers: Avast One Essential (free), Avast One Individual (paid, supports multiple devices), and Avast One Family (paid, supports up to 30 devices). Pricing varies based on promotions, with Avast One Individual typically around per year and Avast One Family ranging from to 0 per year. The suite can be downloaded directly from Avast's website, with installers available for various platforms. Avast One includes automatic updates and is designed to operate lightly on modern hardware, with options to minimize system impact during scans. Customer support includes self-help documentation, community forums, and direct support for paying customers. Avast One aims to appeal to both non-technical users and power users, providing a user-friendly interface while allowing for advanced configurations. The product is positioned as a comprehensive solution for households looking to secure multiple devices with a single subscription.

Winsage

June 11, 2026

Microsoft patches a record 206 flaws—and one is already being exploited

Microsoft patched 206 vulnerabilities during June's Patch Tuesday, surpassing the previous record of 175 vulnerabilities patched in October 2025. Among the patched vulnerabilities, 118 are related to different versions of Windows, including Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server. One critical vulnerability, CVE-2026-41091, in Microsoft Defender is actively being exploited, prompting an update to the Malware Protection Engine. Microsoft also addressed ten vulnerabilities in the Security Feature Bypass category due to the expiration of old Secure Boot certificates. Of the 118 Windows vulnerabilities, 19 are classified as critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerabilities, including CVE-2026-47288 and CVE-2026-47291. In Microsoft Office, 54 vulnerabilities were patched, including 25 RCE vulnerabilities, with nine classified as critical. Microsoft patched eight vulnerabilities in Exchange Server, including CVE-2026-45583, which can be exploited in a man-in-the-middle scenario. Additionally, the update for Edge addressed 74 Chromium vulnerabilities, including a zero-day vulnerability (CVE-2026-11645).

Tech Optimizer

June 5, 2026

This VPN + Antivirus Bundle Just Dropped to $3/mo: Get Full Protection for Cents

VPNs focus on online privacy, while antivirus software protects devices from threats. NordVPN combines these services, offering a comprehensive solution at competitive prices. The Basic plan costs .99 per month, while the Plus plan is available for .59 per month with a 76% discount and includes three free months with a two-year commitment. The Plus plan features Threat Protection Pro, which blocks ads, trackers, and malicious URLs, and offers call protection for iOS and Android users. The Complete plan costs .99 per month and includes scam call protection, 1 GB of NordLocker, and dark web monitoring. The Prime plan, priced at .99 per month, includes Coveron for identity theft protection. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Tech Optimizer

June 4, 2026

How We Test Antivirus and Security Software

Most software applications clearly indicate their functionality, but the effectiveness of antivirus utilities is often less tangible. PCMag rigorously evaluates antivirus products through comprehensive tests that validate their claims, including real-world malware samples and various protective measures. Each antivirus tool is assessed based on its on-demand scanner and real-time monitor capabilities. PCMag compiles fresh malware samples annually, analyzing them to ensure they are suitable for testing. The testing process includes evaluating malware-blocking capabilities and web-level protection against known malware-hosting sites. Phishing site detection is also tested using recent URLs, and antispam testing has been simplified due to the effectiveness of email providers. Performance impact tests have been discontinued as modern security suites show improved efficiency. Firewall protection is evaluated through program control, exploit defenses, and overall resilience against malware. Parental control features are tested for effectiveness in content filtering and monitoring. Ransomware protection is assessed by releasing real-world samples in a controlled environment. PCMag monitors independent antivirus lab tests from various organizations, including AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, SE Labs, MRG-Effitas, and AVLab, to inform their reviews. An aggregate testing score is calculated to summarize lab results. Testing methodologies do not include VPN evaluations, which are covered separately.

Tech Optimizer

June 1, 2026

Avast Free Antivirus for Windows: Features, Limits, and US Use

Avast Free Antivirus for Windows is a free malware protection software designed for American home users, operating under Gen Digital, which also includes Norton. It provides essential security features such as real-time scanning, on-demand scans, and regular updates, but has limitations compared to paid versions, including the absence of features like VPN and advanced ransomware protection. The software is intended for home PC use and is available for download on Windows PCs. While it serves as a basic defense against common malware threats, it is not suitable for small businesses needing comprehensive security solutions. Users are advised to maintain safe browsing habits even with the antivirus installed.

Tech Optimizer

May 29, 2026

Beyond VPNs: NordVPN’s New All-in-One App Redefines Digital Security

NordVPN has launched an updated application that combines its VPN services with next-generation antivirus capabilities, creating a comprehensive digital security suite. The new offering emphasizes three main features: an advanced VPN for private connectivity, a next-generation antivirus for threat protection, and the Dark Web Monitor™ for data breach monitoring. The updated antivirus solution uses artificial intelligence and behavioral analysis to identify threats in real-time, including phishing and malware. In April 2026, NordVPN reported blocking 4.8 million threats, with over 3 million instances of malware blocked. The company’s Threat Protection Pro includes malware and phishing protection, ad and tracker blocking, vulnerability scanning, and dark web monitoring. Independent evaluations have shown high detection rates for blocking malicious URLs. The cybersecurity industry is seeing a trend towards bundling multiple security tools into single subscription packages, with NordVPN aiming to simplify digital protection for users. The company maintains a commitment to privacy, ensuring minimal data collection for threat assessments.

Tech Optimizer

May 29, 2026

NordVPN isn’t just a VPN anymore, but a full security suite – here’s what you get now

NordVPN is transforming its VPN application to integrate modern threat protection capabilities, focusing on three core pillars: connect, protect, and monitor. The company is consolidating its security features, including browser protection, anti-malware, dark web monitoring, and phishing protection, into a comprehensive security app. In April 2026, NordVPN's threat protection and antivirus service blocked 4.8 million threats, highlighting the need for an evolved approach to cybersecurity. The new app aims to provide proactive protection against various online threats, reducing the complexity of managing multiple security applications. NordVPN's subscriptions start at a few dollars per month, with different tiers offering varying levels of security features, including a Basic plan, Complete plan, and Prime tier for comprehensive cybersecurity.