Can a VPN protects confidentiality and online security, but can it block viruses? Find out how a VPN and an antivirus complement each other for optimal protection.
In a world in which cybersecurity becomes a major issue, many people turn to solutions such as VPN (virtual private networks) to secure their online activities.
It is true that VPNs are powerful tools to protect data confidentiality and Internet connections security, but it remains essential to understand what they can and cannot do to better protect themselves. It is then that a frequent question often comes back: “Can a VPN protect me from malicious viruses and software?”
In order to answer this question, it would be necessary to understand the capacities as well as the advantages and the limits of a VPN while including the necessary precautions for optimal protection.
The best VPNs of the moment:
What is a virus and how does a device infect?
A computer virus is a malware type designed to infect a device by modifying its operation, steering wheel, or causing dysfunctions. Unlike popular belief, a virus can get into a device even if you use a VPN.
has. Different types of malware (malware)
There are several categories of malicious software, of which viruses are part:
- Virus: spreads by focusing on legitimate files. Its mode is simple, just run the infected file to spread.
- Trojans: These programs seem harmless, but allow hackers to take control of the device once installed.
- Spyware: He records personal information discreetly.
- Ransomware: blocks access to a device or files until a ransom is paid.
b. Virus propagation mode
Viruses and other malware can be downloaded via unsecured websites, attachments, in fraudulent emails, or software downloaded from unreliable sources. Even if a VPN secures your connection, it does not detect infected files that can infiltrate during these downloads.
Trick : For effective protection against viruses, use an antivirus and be careful with downloads of unconcetic sources.
What can a VPN do to protect against viruses?
VPNs are not designed to detect viruses, however, it provides indirect protection against certain cyberrencies.
Reinforced data encryption and security
The VPN acts as a confidentiality shield by encrypting data exchanged on the Internet, making them inaccessible to third parties. This protection is particularly useful against attacks of the “Man-in-the-Middle” type attacks, where cybercriminals intercept sensitive information, such as connection identifiers, in order to exploit it. This is how a VPN considerably reduces the risks of interception of your online information.
Secure access to suspect websites
Some VPN suppliers, such as NordVPN or Cyberghost, add an additional protective layer by integrating automatic alerts when visiting malware. If a user tries to access a suspicious page, the VPN issues a warning to prevent a potentially risky connection. However, this function does not replace an antivirus: it does not block infected files downloaded from apparently legitimate sources.
Good to know: Check if your VPN incorporates a protection functionality against malicious sites. This can reduce the risk of visiting unsecured pages, but will not detect all types of viruses.
Limits of VPN in terms of viruse protection
A VPN is a great bulwark to protect your privacy and secure your online connection, but if you think it can also play the antivirus detective, think again. Unlike specialized security software, a VPN has neither the flair nor the skills to flush out viruses and other malware that could be used in your files.
It figures your data and masks your IP address with brilliance, but trapped emails and dubious software pass under its radar. For really complete protection, it is better to add an antivirus to the team: while the VPN hides your track, the antivirus identifies the intruders.
Advice : For optimal protection, use an antivirus program in addition to VPN. Antivirus offers real -time monitoring against threats invisible to VPN.
Why combine VPN and antivirus for optimal safety?
Everyone can be happy to have access to a lot of useful information online, whether for work or personal life. However, it is essential to protect yourself on these two plans with security guarantees and the means necessary to protect yourself against attempts to attack online. The combination of a VPN and an antivirus is recommended, because these two tools offer optimal protection and safety together thanks to their additional functionalities.
The duo to ensure confidentiality and anonymity online
Combining a VPN and an antivirus has become essential to protect itself effectively against the many threats of the digital world. While the antivirus protects the device itself, detecting, blocking, and removing viruses, ransomware and other malware in real time that could compromise its operation, the VPN (virtual private network) acts as an additional barrier for online confidentiality.
By encrypting all the data sent and received and masking the user’s IP address, a VPN makes the interception of personal information almost impossible for pirates, even on public Wi-Fi networks which are considered one of the most privileged entry doors of cybercriminals.
This combination provides double layer safety: antivirus ensures the health of the system by neutralizing malware and monitoring potential threats, while the VPN takes care of ensuring the protection of the connection and this by anonymizing and blocking access to all online actions.
The good news is that you don’t have to try to implement each solution apart. Today, many suppliers also offer integrated solutions, combining antivirus and VPN in a single practical interface. With this type of offer, not only is security management simplified, but updates are automatically carried out for both tools, guaranteeing real -time protection in the face of emerging threats.
Trick : Some suppliers offer Groupe VPN + Antivirus grouped offers for those who wish to strengthen their safety without multiplying subscriptions. For example, Avast offers a suite including VPN and antivirus.
VPN services offering advanced protection against malicious sites
Some VPN suppliers have integrated advanced protection features against malicious sites, even if this does not replace an antivirus. Here are some examples of VPN that offer this type of protection:
has. Northern
NordVPN offers a cybersec option that blocks malicious websites and prevents intrusive advertisements. This decreases the risks of accessing an unsecured site.
b. Surfhark
In order to improve navigation, Surfshark offers the Cleanweb service which allows you to block advertisements and phishing attempts. However, this option does not detect infected files.
c. Cyberghost
Cyberghost also has a blocking function of malicious sites. In the event of an attempted access to a suspicious site, the service warns the user and can block access to the page.
Good to know: These protections integrated into VPNs increase navigation safety, but they are not as complete as an antivirus.
Practical tips to avoid online viruses and malware
Even armed with a VPN and an antivirus, some good practices are essential to ensure a solid defense against online viruses.
First, ban the doubtful sites and avoid downloading from unconcetic sources; These gray web zones remain the privileged ways of malware.
Then make sure that your software and your operating system are regularly updated, because each update COLMATE The safety flaws that the hackers use.
Also opt for robust and unique passwords for each account, and strengthen their safety with double authentication, essential for sensitive accounts. Finally, take the time to analyze any attachment or link before clicking, especially if the email comes from an unknown sender – the attacks by phishing and infected attachments are more common than you think.
Trick : Online caution is the best bulwark against viruses. Combine tools like VPN, an antivirus, and good practices to minimize risks.
A VPN is a precious tool for privacy, data encryption, and securing Internet connection. However, it does not replace an antivirus to block viruses or malware that could infect your device. Combining a VPN with a good antivirus is therefore essential for full online protection. By also adopting secure navigation practices, you can maximize your safety and navigate in peace.
And find the best VPNs for all uses on our VPN comparator space.