Quick Start
This guide covers every McAfee feature:
- Empezando — Create account and basic setup
- How to Use Personal Data Cleanup — Remove your info from data broker sites
- How to Use Advanced Antivirus — Scan and block threats in real time
- Cómo usar McAfee VPN — Encrypt your connection on any network
- How to Use Password Manager — Store and autofill logins securely
- How to Use Protection Score — Check your overall security rating
- How to Use Identity Monitoring — Get alerts when your data is exposed
- How to Use Identity Theft Coverage — Access up to $2M in theft protection
- How to Use Security Freeze — Lock your credit to block new accounts
- How to Use Scam Detector — Spot phishing texts and emails instantly
Time needed: 5 minutes per feature
Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Solución de problemas | Precios | Alternativas
Why Trust This Guide
I’ve used McAfee for over six months and tested every feature covered here. This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.
McAfee is one of the most trusted cybersecurity and VPN tools available today.
But most users only scratch the surface of what it can do.
This guide shows you how to use every major feature.
Step by step, with screenshots and pro tips.
McAfee VPN Tutorial
This complete McAfee tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.
McAfee
Protect your dispositivos, identity, and privacy with one app. McAfee gives you antivirus, a secure VPN, and identity theft coverage up to $2M. Plans start at $39.99/yr with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Getting Started with McAfee
Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.
It takes about 3 minutes.
Now let’s walk through each step.
Step 1: Create Your Account
Go to McAfee’s website at mcafee.com.
Click “Start Free Trial” or choose a paid plan.
Enter your email and create a strong password.
✓ Checkpoint: Comprueba tu bandeja de entrada for a confirmation email from McAfee.
Step 2: Download the McAfee App
On Windows or macOS, download McAfee from protection.mcafee.com.
On Android or iOS, search “McAfee Security” in your app store.
Run the installer and allow VPN configuration when prompted.
Here’s what the dashboard looks like:
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main McAfee dashboard with your Protection Score.
Step 3: Complete Initial Setup
Log in with your new McAfee account credentials.
Follow the onboarding wizard to run your first security scan.
Enable auto-updates so you always have the latest protection.
✅ Done: You’re ready to use any feature below.
How to Use McAfee Personal Data Cleanup
Personal Datos Cleanup lets you find and remove your info from data broker sites.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Personal Data Cleanup in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open Personal Data Cleanup
Launch the McAfee app and go to the Privacy tab.
Click “Personal Data Cleanup” to start a scan.
Step 2: Review Scan Results
McAfee scans data broker sites that may have your personal info.
Review the list of sites where your data appears.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of data brokers with your name or details.
Step 3: Request Data Removal
Click “Remove” next to each data broker listing.
McAfee sends removal requests on your behalf automatically.
Advanced plan users get full-service removal handled by McAfee.
✅ Result: Your personal data gets removed from broker sites over time.
💡 Consejo profesional: Run Personal Data Cleanup monthly since brokers re-add your data regularly.
How to Use McAfee Advanced Antivirus
Advanced Antivirus lets you scan and block malware, ransomware, and viruses in real time.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Advanced Antivirus in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open the Antivirus Scanner
Launch McAfee and click “Antivirus Scan” from the home screen.
Choose between Quick Scan, Full Scan, or Custom Scan.
Step 2: Run a Full Scan
Click “Full Scan” to check every file and folder on your device.
A full scan typically takes about 30 minutes to complete.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a progress bar and a list of scanned items.
Step 3: Review and Remove Threats
McAfee shows detected threats after the scan finishes.
Click “Clean” or “Quarantine” to remove any found malware.
Enable real-time protection so threats get blocked automatically.
✅ Result: Your device is now scanned and protected from known threats.
💡 Consejo profesional: Schedule weekly full scans so you never forget to check for threats.
Cómo usar McAfee VPN
VPN de McAfee lets you encrypt your internet connection and hide your IP address.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See McAfee VPN in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Open the Secure VPN Feature
Launch McAfee and find the “Secure VPN” tile on the dashboard.
Click “Turn on” to activate your VPN connection.
Step 2: Choose a Server Location
Select a server from McAfee’s list of 50+ virtual locations.
Pick the nearest server for fastest speeds or a specific country.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see “Connected” or “Secured” status in the app.
Step 3: Enable Auto-Connect and Kill Switch
Go to VPN Settings and enable “Auto-connect on untrusted Wi-Fi.”
Turn on “Safe Reconnect” — this is McAfee’s kill switch feature.
Safe Reconnect cuts your internet if the VPN connection drops.
✅ Result: Your internet traffic is now encrypted with AES-256 encryption.
💡 Consejo profesional: On Androide, enable split tunneling to route only sensitive apps through the VPN.
How to Use McAfee Password Manager
Administrador de contraseñas lets you store, generate, and autofill passwords across all your devices.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
Ver Administrador de contraseñas in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Set Up True Key
Open McAfee and navigate to the Password Manager section.
Download the True Key app or browser extension.
Step 2: Create Your Master Password
Set one strong master password that encrypts all your stored logins.
This is the only password you need to remember going forward.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see the True Key vault ready to store passwords.
Step 3: Import and Save Passwords
Import existing passwords from your browser or add them manually.
True Key auto-fills your login details on websites and apps.
Utilice la contraseña generador to create strong, unique passwords.
✅ Result: All your passwords are securely stored and auto-filled across devices.
💡 Consejo profesional: Enable multi-factor authentication in True Key for an extra layer of security.
How to Use McAfee Protection Score
Puntuación de protección lets you see how secure your online life is at a glance.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Protection Score in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Check Your Score
Open McAfee and look at the Protection Score on your dashboard.
Your score ranges from 0 to 1000 based on your security status.
Step 2: Review Recommendations
Click on the score to see specific actions that can improve it.
McAfee suggests steps like enabling VPN or updating passwords.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of actionable security improvements.
Step 3: Complete Each Action
Follow each suggestion to boost your Protection Score.
Enable features you haven’t activated yet like VPN or identity monitoring.
✅ Result: Your Protection Score increases as you complete each recommended action.
💡 Consejo profesional: Aim for a score above 800 to ensure strong overall protection.
How to Use McAfee Identity Monitoring
Identity Monitoring lets you get alerts when your personal data appears in breaches.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Identity Monitoring in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Enable Identity Monitoring
Open McAfee and navigate to the Identity section.
Click “Set Up Identity Monitoring” to get started.
Step 2: Add Your Personal Details
Enter your email addresses, phone numbers, and SSN to monitor.
McAfee scans the dark web and breach databases for your info.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see “Monitoring Active” next to each added detail.
Step 3: Review Alerts and Take Action
McAfee sends 24/7 alerts when your data shows up in breaches.
Follow the guided steps to change passwords or secure accounts.
✅ Result: You get real-time alerts whenever your personal data is compromised.
💡 Consejo profesional: Add all your email addresses — even old ones you rarely use.
How to Use McAfee Identity Theft Coverage & Restoration
Identity Theft Coverage lets you access up to $2M in seguro if your identity is stolen.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Identity Theft Coverage in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Verify Your Plan Includes Coverage
Open McAfee and check your subscription under Account settings.
The Advanced plan includes identity theft coverage up to $2M.
Step 2: Activate Identity Theft Protection
Go to Identity > Identity Theft Coverage in the McAfee app.
Complete the enrollment form with your personal details.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see “Coverage Active” in your identity dashboard.
Step 3: Contact Restoration Experts if Needed
If your identity is stolen, contact McAfee’s US-based restoration team.
They guide you through recovery, filing reports, and restoring credit.
✅ Result: You have financial backup and expert help if identity theft occurs.
💡 Consejo profesional: Keep your identity monitoring details updated to ensure coverage stays valid.
How to Use McAfee Security Freeze
Security Freeze lets you lock your credit file to prevent unauthorized new accounts.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Security Freeze in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Navigate to Security Freeze
Open McAfee and go to Identity > Security Freeze.
McAfee walks you through freezing credit at all three bureaus.
Step 2: Freeze Your Credit
Follow the guided steps to freeze credit at Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
McAfee simplifies the process so you don’t visit each bureau separately.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see confirmation that your credit is frozen at all three bureaus.
Step 3: Unfreeze When Needed
Temporarily unfreeze your credit when applying for loans or credit cards.
Re-freeze it once the application process is complete.
✅ Result: No one can open new credit accounts in your name without your permission.
💡 Consejo profesional: Keep your credit frozen by default and only unfreeze temporarily when needed.
How to Use McAfee Scam Detector
Scam Detector lets you identify phishing texts, emails, and deepfake videos using AI.
Here’s how to use it step by step.
See Scam Detector in action:
Now let’s break down each step.
Step 1: Enable Scam Detection
Open McAfee and find the Scam Detector feature on the dashboard.
Turn on text message and email scanning.
Step 2: Let McAfee Scan Messages
McAfee uses AI to analyze incoming texts and emails for scam patterns.
Suspicious messages get flagged with a warning before you interact.
✓ Checkpoint: You should see scam alerts appear on flagged messages.
Step 3: Block or Report Scams
Tap “Block” to stop the sender from contacting you again.
Use “Report” to help McAfee improve its scam detection for everyone.
✅ Result: Phishing texts and scam emails get caught before they can trick you.
💡 Consejo profesional: Never click links in messages flagged by McAfee — even if they look real.
McAfee Pro Tips and Shortcuts
After testing McAfee for over six months, here are my best tips.
Atajos de teclado
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Open McAfee Dashboard | Right-click system tray icon |
| Quick Scan | Click shield icon → Quick Scan |
| Toggle VPN On/Off | Click Secure VPN tile → Turn On |
| Check Protection Score | Open app → Score displayed on home |
Hidden Features Most People Miss
- Trusted Networks: Add your home Wi-Fi so the VPN skips it and only activates on public networks.
- Safe Reconnect: This is McAfee’s kill switch — enable it in VPN settings to block traffic if VPN drops.
- WebAdvisor Extension: Install the free browser extension to flag risky websites and downloads while browsing.
McAfee Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Leaving the VPN Off on Public Wi-Fi
❌ Wrong: Connecting to coffee shop or airport Wi-Fi without turning on the VPN first.
✅ Right: Enable auto-connect in VPN settings so McAfee activates on untrusted networks.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Renewal Pricing
❌ Wrong: Assuming your first-year price continues — renewal rates increase significantly.
✅ Right: Check renewal prices before your subscription ends and compare current deals.
Mistake #3: Not Setting Up Identity Monitoring
❌ Wrong: Only using antivirus and VPN while skipping identity monitoring setup.
✅ Right: Activate identity monitoring and add all your emails and phone numbers.
McAfee Troubleshooting
Problem: VPN Won’t Connect
Cause: Your internet connection may be unstable or the VPN app needs an update.
Arreglar: Check your internet first, then restart the McAfee app. If that fails, try a different server location.
Problem: VPN Connection Keeps Dropping
Cause: Server overload or Wi-Fi signal weakness on your end.
Arreglar: Switch to a different server, move closer to your router, or enable TCP Override in settings.
Problem: Slow Internet Speed While VPN is Active
Cause: You may be connected to a distant server or one with heavy traffic.
Arreglar: Connect to the nearest server or use the “Fastest Server” option for best speeds.
📌 Nota: If none of these fix your issue, contact McAfee support at mcafee.com/support.
What is McAfee?
McAfee is a cybersecurity and VPN tool that protects your devices, identity, and online privacy.
Think of it like a bodyguard for your entire digital life.
Watch this quick overview:
It includes these key features:
- Personal Data Cleanup: Finds and removes your personal info from data broker websites.
- Advanced Antivirus: Scans for and blocks malware, ransomware, and viruses in real time.
- VPN de McAfee: Encrypts your connection with AES-256 and hides your IP address.
- Password Manager: Stores and auto-fills passwords securely across all devices.
- Identity Monitoring: Alerts you 24/7 when your data appears in breaches or on the dark web.
- Scam Detector: Uses AI to flag phishing texts, scam emails, and deepfake videos.
For a full review, see our McAfee review.
McAfee Pricing
Here’s what McAfee costs in 2026:
| Plan | Precio | Mejor para |
|---|---|---|
| Básico | $39.99/yr | Individuals who need antivirus + VPN for up to 5 devices |
| Advanced Individual | $89.99/yr | Users who want identity theft coverage and full data cleanup |
| Advanced Family | $119.99/yr | Families who need protection for unlimited devices |
Prueba gratuita: Yes — McAfee offers a 30-day free trial of Total Protection.
Garantía de devolución de dinero: Yes — 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans.
💰 Best Value: Essential plan — you get antivirus, VPN, and password manager for under $40/year.
McAfee vs Alternatives
How does McAfee compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:
| Herramienta | Mejor para | Precio | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| McAfee | All-in-one security + VPN bundle | $39.99/yr | ⭐ 4.0 |
| NordVPN | Privacy-focused VPN with fastest speeds | $2.99/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| ExpressVPN | Streaming and global server coverage | $2.44/mo | ⭐ 4.6 |
| PureVPN | Budget VPN with strong encryption | $2.15/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Tiburón de surf | Unlimited devices at low cost | $1.99/mo | ⭐ 4.4 |
| ProtonVPN | Free tier with Swiss privacy laws | $0.00/mo | ⭐ 4.5 |
| CyberGhost | Streaming-focused servers | $2.03/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
| Acceso privado a Internet | Open-source VPN with no-logs policy | $2.03/mo | ⭐ 4.0 |
Quick picks:
- Best overall: NordVPN — fastest speeds, strongest privacy features, and proven no-logs policy.
- Best budget: Surfshark — unlimited devices starting at $1.99/month.
- Best for beginners: McAfee — all-in-one security bundle with a simple interface.
- Best for privacy: ProtonVPN — Swiss-based with a free tier and audited no-logs policy.
🎯 McAfee Alternatives
Looking for McAfee alternatives? Here are the top options:
- 🚀 NordVPN: Industry-leading speeds with 6,000+ servers in 111 countries and advanced threat protection built in.
- 💰 ExpressVPN: Premium VPN with servers in 105 countries, excellent for streaming and torrenting with top-tier encryption.
- 🎨 PureVPN: Affordable VPN with dedicated IP options, port forwarding, and strong split tunneling support.
- ⚡ Tiburón de surf: Unlimited device connections at the lowest price with CleanWeb ad blocker and MultiHop servers.
- 🔒 ProtonVPN: Swiss-based privacy champion with a free tier, Secure Core servers, and audited no-logs policy.
- 🧠 PrivadoVPN: Zero-log VPN based in Switzerland with a generous 10GB free monthly plan for casual users.
- 👶 AdGuard VPN: VPN with built-in ad blocking, custom DNS settings, and a lightweight browser extension option.
- 🏢 Escudo virtual: All-in-one security suite combining VPN, antivirus, identity monitoring, and data removal tools.
- 🔧 StrongVPN: Simple VPN with WireGuard protocol support and no data caps on any plan.
- 🌟 La VPN más rápida: Lifetime plan available for a one-time $40 payment with 10 simultaneous connections.
- ⭐ AuraVPN: Family-focused digital security with VPN, identity theft protection, and parental controls bundled together.
- 🎯 CyberGhost: Streaming-focused VPN with dedicated servers for Netflix, gaming, and torrenting at low cost.
- 💼 Acceso privado a Internet: Open-source VPN with a proven no-logs policy and unlimited simultaneous connections.
- 📊 Misterio: Decentralized VPN using residential IPs for extra anonymity and censorship resistance.
- 🔥 SafeShell VPN: Emerging VPN focused on bypassing geo-restrictions with fast, stable server connections.
- 💎 VPN de Oyster: Lightweight VPN with simple one-click connection and affordable monthly pricing.
For the full list, see our McAfee alternatives guide.
⚔️ McAfee Compared
Here’s how McAfee stacks up against each competitor:
- McAfee vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins for pure VPN features and speed. McAfee wins if you want antivirus bundled in.
- McAfee vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN has faster speeds and better streaming support. McAfee offers identity theft coverage.
- McAfee vs PureVPN: PureVPN offers dedicated IPs and port forwarding. McAfee provides stronger overall security tools.
- McAfee vs Surfshark: Surfshark allows unlimited devices at lower cost. McAfee adds antivirus and identity protection.
- McAfee vs ProtonVPN: ProtonVPN has a free tier and Swiss privacy. McAfee bundles more security features together.
- McAfee vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN offers a generous free plan. McAfee gives you full antivirus and identity monitoring.
- McAfee vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard excels at ad blocking. McAfee provides broader protection with identity and antivirus.
- McAfee vs Virtual Shield: Both offer security bundles. McAfee has stronger brand trust and wider device support.
- McAfee vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN is simpler with WireGuard support. McAfee offers more features beyond just VPN.
- McAfee vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN’s lifetime plan is cheaper long-term. McAfee has better security tools overall.
- McAfee vs AuraVPN: Aura focuses on family plans with parental controls. McAfee offers stronger antivirus and VPN.
- McAfee vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost is better for streaming. McAfee gives you identity theft coverage and antivirus.
- McAfee vs Private Internet Access: PIA has unlimited connections and open-source code. McAfee adds identity protection.
- McAfee vs Mysterium: Mysterium uses decentralized residential IPs. McAfee is easier to set up with broader features.
- McAfee vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on geo-unblocking. McAfee offers a complete security and privacy suite.
- McAfee vs Oyster VPN: Oyster VPN is lightweight and cheap. McAfee provides full identity and device protection.
Start Using McAfee Now
You learned how to use every major McAfee feature:
- ✅ Personal Data Cleanup
- ✅ Advanced Antivirus
- ✅ McAfee VPN
- ✅ Password Manager
- ✅ Protection Score
- ✅ Identity Monitoring
- ✅ Identity Theft Coverage & Restoration
- ✅ Security Freeze
- ✅ Scam Detector
Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.
Most people start with the Secure VPN.
It takes less than 5 minutes.
Preguntas frecuentes
How do I get my McAfee VPN to work?
Open the McAfee app and tap the “Secure VPN” tile on the dashboard. Click “Turn on” to connect. If it doesn’t connect, check your internet connection first, then restart the app. You can also try switching to a different server location in the VPN settings.
Is McAfee VPN a good idea?
McAfee VPN is a good idea if you want basic privacy protection bundled with antivirus and identity monitoring. It uses AES-256 encryption and covers up to 5 devices. However, if you need advanced VPN features like multi-hop or fast streaming, a dedicated VPN like NordVPN is a better choice.
Is VPN free on McAfee?
McAfee used to offer a free VPN with 500 MB of monthly data, but the free plan has been removed. You now need a paid McAfee subscription to access the VPN. The Essential plan starts at $39.99/year and includes VPN along with antivirus and other security features.
Does McAfee VPN hide my IP address?
Yes, McAfee VPN replaces your real IP address with a dynamic virtual one every time you connect. This makes it much harder for websites, advertisers, and hackers to track your online activity. Your IP changes with each new VPN session for added privacy.
Should I leave my McAfee VPN on all the time?
Yes, keeping your VPN on ensures your data stays encrypted at all times. This is especially important on public Wi-Fi networks. The only reason to turn it off is if you need to access local network devices or if your internet speed drops too much on certain servers.
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