Do I Really Need an Antivirus and VPN?
In a world where our lives are increasingly lived online, whether working remotely, shopping, streaming, or handling personal finances, cybersecurity is no longer optional. Two of the most common tools people turn to for protection are antivirus software and VPNs (virtual private networks). But do you really need both? Isn’t your operating system already doing enough?
Let’s unpack this question and explore why combining antivirus protection with a VPN is no longer just a recommendation, it’s becoming a necessity.
The Changing Face of Online Threats
It’s true that modern operating systems like Windows and macOS have improved their built-in security. Features like firewalls, malware detection, and sandboxed environments are now commonplace. But unfortunately, the cyberthreat landscape has evolved just as rapidly, if not faster.
Thanks to artificial intelligence, cybercriminals can now craft convincing phishing emails that look nearly identical to legitimate correspondence. AI is also used to develop polymorphic malware, which can modify itself to evade detection in real time. This makes even the most cautious users vulnerable to seemingly harmless clicks.
Meanwhile, ransomware attacks have taken a darker turn. Previously, attackers would encrypt your files and demand payment for the decryption key. Now, they’re stealing your data outright and threatening to leak it on the dark web unless a ransom is paid. Worse yet, ready-made ransomware kits are readily available for purchase on shady online marketplaces, lowering the barrier to entry for aspiring cybercriminals.
To make matters worse, the rise of remote and hybrid work environments has created more weak points for hackers to exploit. An unsecured home Wi-Fi network or a personal laptop that connects to your corporate system could become the gateway to a larger breach. Even innocent mistakes, say, a child clicking on a malicious ad or a senior family member opening a suspicious email, can result in catastrophic consequences for your personal data or workplace.
So, while modern devices may offer a decent starting point for security, they’re rarely equipped to handle the sophisticated and layered threats we now face daily.
How Antivirus Software Protects You
Antivirus (AV) software is your first line of defense against a range of malicious attacks. It monitors your files, apps, and system activity to detect and block viruses, trojans, ransomware, and other malware before they can cause real damage.
But here’s where many users go wrong: they rely solely on free or built-in antivirus software like Windows Defender. While these are better than nothing, they often lag behind dedicated, premium antivirus solutions in several key areas:
- Limited Threat Detection: Basic antivirus software struggles with advanced threats like zero-day exploits and fileless malware.
- No Cross-Device Management: Free tools rarely offer a centralized dashboard to monitor multiple devices.
- Slower Response Times: Some threats may only be identified after they’ve already infected your system.
- Lack of AI Integration: Modern AV tools use artificial intelligence to proactively detect unusual behavior, offering faster, more accurate responses.
Investing in a reputable antivirus program provides not just better malware detection, but also features like real-time scanning, email protection, anti-phishing tools, and automatic updates, all of which can save you from a costly breach. Considering the potential financial and emotional toll of a successful attack, AV software is incredibly cost-effective.
What a VPN Does That Antivirus Can’t
While antivirus software protects the device itself, a VPN secures your data while it’s in transit.
A VPN works by routing your internet traffic through an encrypted tunnel to a secure server, masking your IP address and making it nearly impossible for third parties, whether that’s your ISP, hackers, or a snooping government, to see what you’re doing online.
Here’s why a VPN is more relevant than ever:
- Public Wi-Fi Safety: Public networks are notoriously insecure. A VPN encrypts your connection, making it safe to check emails or access cloud services from a café or airport.
- Privacy Protection: VPNs obscure your browsing habits, offering more privacy from ad trackers and surveillance.
- Remote Work Security: Many businesses rely on VPNs to allow employees to safely access company resources from home or while traveling.
- Geo-Restricted Content: As a bonus, VPNs can also bypass location-based restrictions on websites and streaming services.
And the best part? VPNs are surprisingly affordable. For example, leading options like Nord VPN can be had for as little as £2.69 per month (as of June 2025). That’s a small price to pay compared to the consequences of a data breach or identity theft.
Why You Need Both
Antivirus and VPNs serve two distinct but complementary functions. One is not a substitute for the other.
- Antivirus software guards your device from incoming threats like malware, ransomware, and trojans.
- VPNs protect your internet connection and ensure that your data remains encrypted and private, even on unsecured networks.
Imagine this scenario: you’re working remotely from a coffee shop. You’re connected to public Wi-Fi (a major risk in itself), but using a VPN ensures that your traffic is encrypted. However, if you then download an infected file from a phishing email, your VPN won’t stop the malware from entering your system, that’s where your antivirus steps in.
Likewise, an antivirus won’t protect your data while it’s being transmitted across a vulnerable network. The combination of both ensures that you’re secure at all times, both online and offline.
When Should You Upgrade to Endpoint Protection?
While antivirus and VPNs are essential for individuals and small teams, larger businesses or those with higher risk profiles should consider investing in endpoint protection platforms (EPP). These systems offer more advanced features such as:
- Network-wide threat monitoring
- Behavior-based detection rather than just signature-based (which traditional AV relies on)
- Integration with VPN and other tools
- USB device control and other access restrictions
- Centralized dashboards for managing thousands of devices
Tools like Avast Business Security combine antivirus, VPN, and endpoint monitoring into one streamlined solution. It’s a smarter investment for organizations dealing with sensitive data or managing a distributed workforce.
Though perhaps excessive for the average user, EPP solutions are increasingly becoming the standard in business cybersecurity due to their comprehensive coverage and faster threat response.
But Are These Tools Enough?
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: No software solution can fully protect you if you’re not practicing good cyber hygiene.
Tools like VPNs and antivirus software are just that — tools. They’re most effective when paired with informed, cautious behaviour. In fact, the leading cause of successful cyberattacks is still human error.
For Individuals:
- Avoid shady websites and sketchy downloads.
- Don’t click on unknown links or open unexpected attachments.
- Always download software from trusted sources.
- Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
For Businesses:
- Regular cybersecurity training is a must.
- Teach staff how to identify phishing emails and suspicious login pages.
- Implement strong password policies and access controls.
- Back up critical data regularly and securely.
The bottom line is that no matter how advanced your antivirus or VPN is, it can’t save you from poor decisions. A phishing link, a compromised password, or a misplaced USB drive could still open the floodgates to a major breach.
Final Thoughts
So, do you need both an antivirus and a VPN? Absolutely. In today’s ever-evolving cyber landscape, relying on just one form of protection is no longer sufficient.
- Antivirus software protects your device from malware and other malicious software.
- VPNs protect your data in transit and ensure privacy even on insecure networks.
Used together, and paired with smart digital habits, they form a powerful defence system that can protect your data, your finances, and your peace of mind.
Whether you’re an individual looking to guard your personal information, or a business aiming to secure sensitive client data, the combination of these two tools is a small investment with potentially massive returns.
Remember: it’s not just about preventing an attack, it’s about being ready when one happens.