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Once the excitement of unboxing your new computer subsides, its time to figure out how to protect it.

Dont worry, were here to help.

1. ExpressVPN - the best VPN all-round
1 year of unlimited cloud storage and 3 additional months of VPN coverage

By tightly encrypting your data, it can stave off bad actors attempting to gain access to your data.

It can even speed up your internet connection by helping you bypass bandwidth throttling from your internet service provider.

Luckily, Surfshark provides a budget-friendly VPN service that doesnt compromise on quality.

2. NordVPN - the best speedy VPN

Whats more, theyre one of the few VPN providers that can protect an unlimited number of devices simultaneously.

Its also important to consider how effectively distributed these servers are.

First, we register for our subscriptions anonymously to help replicate the kind of experience youd have at home.

3. Surfshark - the best budget VPN

To achieve this, we rigorously stress-test each VPN.

We also investigate the outcome of any third-party audits the company has undergone.

Using a VPN FAQs

1. Bitdefender - best antivirus all-round30-day trial of Bitdefender Total Security

Across most of the globe, VPNs are legal.

That said, there are a few geographical exceptions.

Is it safe to use a VPN?

2. Norton - best antivirus for identity protection
60-day money-back guarantee

Using a VPN is a valuable step in maintaining your safety while connected to the internet.

How difficult is it to set up a VPN?

As a result, setting up your VPN is exceedingly hassle-free.

3. Avast One - best antivirus for gamers
try out a basic version for free

The best antivirus in 2025

Antivirusescast a watchful eye over any potential cybersecurity threat you face.

Informed by a database of virus signatures known as definitions, antiviruses spring into action upon identifying a threat.

Once the threat is confirmed, your antivirus will work to stop it in its tracks.

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1.Bitdefender - best antivirus all-roundBitdefender delivers an excellent service that is positively jam-packed with features.

Its quality performance is especially impressive when you factor in its affordable price.

Wondering what you should be looking out for when making that choice?

2. Dashlane - the best high-security password manager
inclusion of a VPN

Use cases:Have a lot of devices?

Want to cover your familys devices too?

If so, youll need an antivirus that allows for a high number of simultaneous connections.

3. Bitwarden - the best free password manager
without the paywall

To verify this, we create a safe testing environment that simulates actual cyber threats.

Where available, we try out their live chat and raise support tickets via email.

Regardless of the channel of communication, were looking out for customer support that is prompt and helpful.

Using antivirus FAQs

Whats the best antivirus?

According to our testing,Bitdefenderoffers the best antivirus service.

Its also perfectly optimised for beginners from installation to set-up.

How does an antivirus protect my computer?

Can I use a free antivirus?

When you purchase a new computer, it may come bundled with a few months of an antivirus subscription.

Thankfully, several antivirus providers have stripped-back versions of their services available at no cost.

In short, a free antivirus may be sufficient, depending on your cybersecurity needs.

To help you decide, check out our article onwhether free antivirus is enough to protect you.

In combination, all of these tests help us to form our final verdict of the best password manager.

Using a password manager FAQs

Can I use a free password manager?

Youve likely come across free first-party password managers while using Chrome or Apples Keychain.

While these get the job done, they dont allow you to sync outside of their designated ecosystems.

Our suggestion would be to use a third-party password manager.

Thankfully, there are reputable password managers which have a free tier available.

Its also worth mentioning that some of our picks for the best VPN come with a password manager included.

How does a password manager work?

Are my passwords safe with a password manager?

This way, your password data is entirely thoroughly encrypted before it reaches your providers servers.

So, if these servers are breached, your data remains safe.

Do password managers work with apps?

Additionally, many also have a surfing app extension available for use on browsers like Safari or Google Chrome.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses.

For example: 1.

Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).

Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.

We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services.

Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.