How to Use Malwarebytes VPN for Secure Browsing in 2026

Quick Start

This guide covers every Malwarebytes feature:

• Commencer — Create account and basic setup
• How to Use Identity Theft Protection — Guard your identity from fraud
• How to Use Personal Data Saver — Keep sensitive info secure
• How to Use Digital Footprint Saver — Erase your online traces
• How to Use Privacy VPN — Browse privately with encryption
• How to Use Browser Guard — Block ads, scams, and trackers
• How to Use Personal Data Remover — Remove info from data brokers
• How to Use Premium Security — Real-time malware protection
• How to Use AdwCleaner — Remove adware and PUPs fast
• How to Use Dark Web Monitoring — Get alerts on data breaches

Time needed: 5 minutes per feature

Also in this guide: Pro Tips | Common Mistakes | Dépannage | Tarification | Alternatives

Why Trust This Guide

I’ve used Malwarebytes for over two years and tested every feature covered here. This tutorial comes from real hands-on experience — not marketing fluff or vendor screenshots.

Malwarebytes is one of the most trusted cybersecurity 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.

Malwarebytes Tutorial

This complete Malwarebytes tutorial walks you through every feature step by step, from initial setup to advanced tips that will make you a power user.

Getting Started with Malwarebytes

Before using any feature, complete this one-time setup.

It takes about 3 minutes.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Go to the Malwarebytes website.

Click “Start Free Trial” or choose a plan.

Enter your email and create a password.

✓ Checkpoint: Vérifiez votre boîte de réception for a confirmation email.

Step 2: Download the App

Malwarebytes works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Download the installer from the official website.

Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts.

Log in with your new account credentials.

Here’s what the dashboard looks like:

✓ Checkpoint: You should see the main Malwarebytes dashboard.

Step 3: Activate Your License

Enter the license key from your purchase email.

Click “Activate” to unlock all premium features.

Run your first full system scan to check for threats.

How to Use Malwarebytes Identity Theft Protection

Protection contre le vol d'identité lets you monitor and guard your personal info from fraud.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Identity Theft Protection works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Identity Theft Protection

Go to the Malwarebytes dashboard.

Click on “Identity Theft Protection” in the left menu.

Step 2: Add Your Personal Details

Enter your name, email addresses, and phone numbers.

Add your Social Sécurité number for full monitoring.

Malwarebytes encrypts all données you enter.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a “Monitoring Active” status.

Step 3: Set Up Alerts

Choose how you want to receive breach alerts.

Enable email and push notifications for instant warnings.

Review any existing alerts on your dashboard.

How to Use Malwarebytes Personal Data Saver

Personal Data Saver lets you keep sensitive information secure and encrypted.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Personal Data Saver works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Personal Data Saver

Navigate to the “Personal Data” section in your dashboard.

Click “Get Started” to begin the setup.

Step 2: Add Data You Want Protected

Enter your credit card numbers, bank accounts, or IDs.

Malwarebytes stores this data with strong encryption.

✓ Checkpoint: Each entry should show a green shield icon.

Step 3: Enable Real-Time Monitoring

Toggle on monitoring for each data category.

The system scans for unauthorized access automatically.

How to Use Malwarebytes Digital Footprint Saver

Digital Footprint Saver lets you track and reduce your online exposure.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Digital Footprint Saver works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Run a Footprint Scan

Open the Digital Footprint section from the dashboard.

Click “Scan” to find where your data appears online.

Step 2: Review Your Exposure Report

Malwarebytes shows every site that has your information.

Each entry is rated by risk level from low to critical.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of exposed data points.

Step 3: Take Action on High-Risk Items

Click “Remove” or “Request Deletion” on flagged entries.

Follow the guided steps to reduce your digital footprint.

How to Use Malwarebytes Privacy VPN

VPN de confidentialité lets you browse the internet securely with encrypted connections.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Privacy VPN works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open the VPN

Click “Privacy VPN” in the Malwarebytes dashboard.

You can also pin the VPN to your taskbar for quick access.

Step 2: Choose a Server Location

Click “Change” next to the server location.

Pick from 150+ servers across 60+ locations worldwide.

Select the server closest to you for the fastest speeds.

✓ Checkpoint: Your selected server should show as connected.

Step 3: Connect and Verify

Click the large connection button on the home screen.

Your IP address changes to the server’s location.

Verify your connection using a privacy search engine.

How to Use Malwarebytes Browser Guard

Protection du navigateur lets you block ads, scams, trackers, and malicious websites.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Browser Guard works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Install the Extension

Open Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari.

Search for “Malwarebytes Browser Guard” in the extension store.

Click “Add to Browser” and confirm the installation.

Step 2: Configure Protection Settings

Click the Browser Guard icon in your toolbar.

Toggle on Ad/Tracker Blocking, Malware Protection, and Scam Protection.

✓ Checkpoint: All three protection shields should show green.

Step 3: Browse Safely

Browser Guard works automatically in the background.

It blocks threats before they reach your browser.

Check the icon badge to see how many threats were blocked.

How to Use Malwarebytes Personal Data Remover

Personal Data Remover lets you delete your info from data broker websites.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Personal Data Remover works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Start a Data Broker Scan

Open the Personal Data Remover section in your dashboard.

Enter your name and location to begin scanning.

Step 2: Review Found Listings

Malwarebytes shows every data broker that has your info.

Each listing shows the broker name and data they hold.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of data brokers with your data.

Step 3: Request Removal

Click “Remove All” to send deletion requests automatically.

Malwarebytes handles the removal process for you.

Check back in a few weeks to confirm removals are complete.

How to Use Malwarebytes Premium Security

Premium Security lets you detect and remove malware, ransomware, and threats in real time.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Premium Security works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Run a Threat Scan

Open Malwarebytes and click the “Scan” button on the dashboard.

The scan checks your entire system for threats.

Step 2: Review and Quarantine Threats

Malwarebytes lists every threat found after the scan completes.

Click “Quarantine” to isolate all detected threats safely.

✓ Checkpoint: Threats should show “Quarantined” status in the list.

Step 3: Enable Real-Time Protection

Go to Settings and confirm Real-Time Protection is turned on.

This blocks malware, ransomware, and exploits automatically.

Malwarebytes runs silently in the background without slowing your PC.

How to Use Malwarebytes AdwCleaner

AdwCleaner lets you remove adware, PUPs, and browser hijackers fast.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how AdwCleaner works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Download AdwCleaner

Go to the Malwarebytes website and download AdwCleaner.

It’s a standalone tool — no installation required.

Double-click the file to launch it directly.

Step 2: Scan for Adware

Click “Scan Now” on the AdwCleaner main screen.

The scan finishes in under two minutes on most systems.

✓ Checkpoint: You should see a list of detected adware and PUPs.

Step 3: Clean and Remove

Review the detected items and click “Clean & Repair.”

AdwCleaner removes all selected threats and restarts your system.

How to Use Malwarebytes Dark Web Monitoring

Surveillance du Dark Web lets you get alerts when your data appears in breaches.

Here’s how to use it step by step.

See how Dark Web Monitoring works:

Now let’s break down each step.

Step 1: Open Dark Web Monitoring

Navigate to “Dark Web Monitoring” in your Malwarebytes dashboard.

Click “Set Up Monitoring” to get started.

Step 2: Add Your Information

Enter email addresses you want monitored for breaches.

Add usernames and phone numbers for broader coverage.

✓ Checkpoint: Each entry should show “Monitoring” status.

Step 3: Review Breach Alerts

Malwarebytes checks dark web databases for your data.

You’ll receive alerts if any matches are found.

Follow the recommended actions to secure affected accounts.

Malwarebytes Pro Tips and Shortcuts

After testing Malwarebytes for over two years, here are my best tips.

Raccourcis clavier

Action	Shortcut
Open Malwarebytes	Double-click system tray icon
Start Quick Scan	Right-click tray icon → Scan
Toggle VPN On/Off	Click VPN icon in taskbar
Open Settings	Click the Gear icon in the app

Hidden Features Most People Miss

• VPN Split Tunneling: Go to Network Settings → Connection Rules. Choose which apps bypass the VPN and which require it. This keeps banking apps on your regular connection while everything else stays encrypted.
• VPN MultiHop: Go to Network Settings → Connection Mode. Route your traffic through two servers in different countries. Use “Manual multihop” to pick both entry and exit servers yourself.
• Analyses programmées : Go to Settings → Scan Schedule. Set automatic scans for specific days and times so you never need to remember to run one manually.

Malwarebytes Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Skipping Real-Time Protection

Mistake #2: Connecting to Distant VPN Servers

Mistake #3: Ignoring Breach Alerts

Malwarebytes Troubleshooting

Problem: VPN Won’t Connect

Cause: Firewall or antivirus software is blocking the VPN connection.

Réparer: Disable other firewalls temporarily. Restart the Malwarebytes app. Try a different server location. If the issue persists, reinstall the VPN component.

Problem: Slow Internet Speeds with VPN On

Cause: You’re connected to a server far from your actual location.

Réparer: Switch to the closest server to your location. Disable MultiHop if enabled. Check your base internet speed without the VPN to rule out ISP issues.

Problem: Scan Gets Stuck or Freezes

Cause: Conflicting security software or corrupted system files.

Réparer: Close other antivirus programs before scanning. Restart your computer. Update Malwarebytes to the latest version. Run AdwCleaner first to clear conflicts.

📌 Note: If none of these fix your issue, contact Malwarebytes support.

What is Malwarebytes?

Malwarebytes is a cybersecurity tool that protects your devices from malware, ransomware, and online threats.

Think of it like a full security guard for your digital life.

Watch this quick overview:

It includes these key features:

• Identity Theft Protection: Monitors and guards your identity from fraud
• Personal Data Saver: Encrypts and secures your sensitive information
• Digital Footprint Saver: Tracks and reduces your online exposure
• Privacy VPN: Encrypts your connection with 256-bit AES and WireGuard protocol
• Browser Guard: Blocks ads, scams, trackers, and malicious websites
• Personal Data Remover: Deletes your info from data broker websites
• Premium Security: Real-time malware, ransomware, and exploit protection
• AdwCleaner: Removes adware and unwanted programs in minutes
• Surveillance du Dark Web : Alerts you when your data appears in breaches

For a full review, see our Malwarebytes review.

Malwarebytes Pricing

Here’s what Malwarebytes costs in 2026:

Plan	Prix	Idéal pour
Standard	$44.99/yr	Basic malware protection for one device
Plus	$59.99/yr	Malware protection plus Privacy VPN
Total	$159.99/yr	Full suite with identity theft protection and data remover

Essai gratuit : Yes — 14-day free trial for Premium bundles. AdwCleaner is free forever.

Garantie de remboursement : Yes — 60-day money-back guarantee on all paid plans.

💰 Best Value: Plus plan — you get both malware protection and the Privacy VPN for just $15 more per year than Standard.

Malwarebytes vs Alternatives

How does Malwarebytes compare? Here’s the competitive landscape:

Outil	Idéal pour	Prix	Rating
Malwarebytes	Cybersecurity + VPN bundle	$44.99/yr	⭐ 4.0
NordVPN	Overall VPN performance	$2.99/mo	⭐ 4.5
ExpressVPN	Speed and streaming	$2.44/mo	⭐ 4.6
PureVPN	Budget-friendly VPN	$2.15/mo	⭐ 4.0
Surfshark VPN	Unlimited devices	$2.30/mo	⭐ 4.5
Proton VPN	Privacy-first free VPN	Free/$2.99/mo	⭐ 4.5
CyberGhost	Streaming servers	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.3
Accès Internet privé	Options de personnalisation	$2.03/mo	⭐ 4.2

Quick picks:

• Best overall: NordVPN — Fast speeds, 6,000+ servers, and top-tier security features.
• Best budget: PureVPN — Full VPN features starting at just $2.15 per month.
• Best for beginners: Malwarebytes — Simple app with antivirus and VPN in one place.
• Best for streaming: ExpressVPN — Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer reliably.

🎯 Malwarebytes Alternatives

Looking for Malwarebytes alternatives? Here are the top options:

• 🚀 NordVPN : Industry leader with 6,000+ servers in 111 countries. Offers double VPN, Threat Protection, and dedicated IP options for advanced users.
• ⚡ ExpressVPN : Fastest VPN with proprietary Lightway protocol. Unblocks streaming services worldwide and works in restrictive countries like China.
• 💰 PureVPN : Affordable VPN starting at $2.15 per month. Offers port forwarding, dedicated IP, and 6,500+ servers across 78 countries.
• 🌟 Surfshark VPN: Unlimited device connections at a low price. Includes CleanWeb ad blocker, MultiHop, and Camouflage mode for extra privacy.
• 🔒 Proton VPN : Swiss-based with a solid free tier. Open-source apps, Secure Core servers, and a strict no-logs policy backed by Swiss privacy law.
• 🎨 PrivadoVPN: Free plan with 10GB monthly data. Simple interface with SOCKS5 proxy support and servers in 60+ countries for premium users.
• 🔧 VPN AdGuard: Built by the AdGuard team with a focus on ad blocking. Proprietary protocol, DNS filtering, and split tunneling for advanced control.
• 🏢 Bouclier virtuel: US-based VPN focused on simplicity. Offers identity theft protection, antivirus scanning, and a built-in firewall in one app.
• ⭐ StrongVPN: WireGuard support with zero-logging policy. Solid speeds, 950+ servers in 35 countries, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• 🔥 FastestVPN: Lifetime plan available for a one-time payment. WireGuard protocol, ad blocker, and 10 simultaneous connections per account.
• 👶 Aura VPN: Family-friendly VPN bundled with identity protection. Covers up to 10 devices and includes parental controls and credit monitoring.
• 🎯 CyberGhost : Streaming-focused with servers in 100+ countries. Offers dedicated streaming and torrenting servers with 45-day money-back guarantee.
• 💼 McAfee VPN : VPN bundled with antivirus and identity protection. Good for users who want a single security suite from a well-known brand.
• 📊 Accès Internet privé : Open-source VPN with unlimited device connections. Offers SOCKS5 proxy, port forwarding, and highly customizable settings.
• 🧠 Mysterium: Decentralized VPN powered by a global network of nodes. Pay-per-use model with no subscriptions and strong censorship resistance.
• 🛡️ SafeShell VPN: Designed for streaming and bypassing geo-restrictions. Offers ShellGuard encryption and supports multiple devices at once.
• 🌐 VPN Oyster : Affordable VPN with WireGuard protocol. Simple setup, no-logs policy, and servers across 50+ countries for secure browsing.

⚔️ Malwarebytes Compared

Here’s how Malwarebytes stacks up against each competitor:

• Malwarebytes vs NordVPN: NordVPN wins on speed, server count, and features. Malwarebytes wins if you want antivirus and VPN bundled together.
• Malwarebytes vs ExpressVPN: ExpressVPN is faster and works in China. Malwarebytes is cheaper and includes malware protection.
• Malwarebytes vs PureVPN: PureVPN costs less and has more servers. Malwarebytes adds identity theft monitoring and adware removal.
• Malwarebytes vs Surfshark VPN: Surfshark offers unlimited devices at a lower price. Malwarebytes charges more for multiple device coverage.
• Malwarebytes vs Proton VPN: Proton VPN has a free tier and open-source apps. Malwarebytes bundles antivirus with its VPN service.
• Malwarebytes vs PrivadoVPN: PrivadoVPN offers a free plan with 10GB data. Malwarebytes has no free VPN option but includes malware scanning.
• Malwarebytes vs AdGuard VPN: AdGuard VPN excels at ad blocking with DNS filtering. Malwarebytes offers broader security with identity protection.
• Malwarebytes vs Virtual Shield: Both bundle antivirus and VPN. Virtual Shield is US-focused while Malwarebytes has wider global server coverage.
• Malwarebytes vs StrongVPN: StrongVPN has WireGuard and more server locations. Malwarebytes adds dark web monitoring and data removal tools.
• Malwarebytes vs FastestVPN: FastestVPN offers a lifetime deal. Malwarebytes is annual-only but includes full cybersecurity suite features.
• Malwarebytes vs Aura VPN: Both offer identity protection bundles. Aura includes credit monitoring while Malwarebytes has stronger malware detection.
• Malwarebytes vs CyberGhost: CyberGhost has dedicated streaming servers in 100+ countries. Malwarebytes has fewer servers but adds malware protection.
• Malwarebytes vs McAfee VPN: Both offer antivirus plus VPN. Malwarebytes has a lighter footprint while McAfee includes a gestionnaire de mots de passe.
• Malwarebytes vs Private Internet Access: PIA offers unlimited connections and open-source code. Malwarebytes is simpler with better adware removal.
• Malwarebytes vs Mysterium: Mysterium is decentralized with pay-per-use pricing. Malwarebytes is traditional and easier to set up for beginners.
• Malwarebytes vs SafeShell VPN: SafeShell focuses on streaming and geo-unblocking. Malwarebytes provides broader protection with antivirus included.
• Malwarebytes vs Oyster VPN: Oyster VPN is cheaper with a simple setup. Malwarebytes offers a more complete security solution beyond just VPN.

Start Using Malwarebytes Now

You learned how to use every major Malwarebytes feature:

• ✅ Identity Theft Protection
• ✅ Personal Data Saver
• ✅ Digital Footprint Saver
• ✅ Privacy VPN
• ✅ Browser Guard
• ✅ Personal Data Remover
• ✅ Premium Security
• ✅ AdwCleaner
• ✅ Dark Web Monitoring

Next step: Pick one feature and try it now.

Most people start with Premium Security.

It takes less than 5 minutes.

Foire aux questions

Is Malwarebytes VPN any good?

Malwarebytes VPN is a solid choice for basic privacy and security. It uses WireGuard protocol with 256-bit AES encryption and has a no-logs policy. It works well for everyday browsing and passed DNS and WebRTC leak tests. However, dedicated VPN providers like NordVPN and ExpressVPN offer more servers and faster speeds.

How do I know Malwarebytes VPN is working?

Check the VPN icon in the Malwarebytes app — it should show “Connected” with a green status. Your IP address on the dashboard will change to the server’s location. You can also visit a site like whatismyipaddress.com to confirm your real IP is hidden. If your displayed IP matches the VPN server location, you’re protected.

How do I change my VPN location on Malwarebytes?

Open the Malwarebytes VPN and click “Change” next to your current server. You’ll see a list of 150+ servers in 60+ countries. Click on any location to connect. For the best speed, pick the server closest to your physical location. You can switch servers unlimited times at no extra cost.

How does VPN work with Malwarebytes?

Malwarebytes VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server. This hides your real IP address and prevents ISPs, hackers, and trackers from seeing your online activity. The VPN works alongside Malwarebytes’ antivirus protection to give you both device security and online privacy in one app.

Does Malwarebytes interfere with VPN?

No, Malwarebytes is designed to work alongside VPN services without conflicts. Its built-in Privacy VPN pairs directly with the antivirus. If you use a third-party VPN, Malwarebytes won’t interfere with your connection. However, running two VPNs at the same time can cause conflicts, so use only one VPN at a time.

How do I turn off Malwarebytes VPN?

Open the Malwarebytes app and go to the Privacy VPN section. Click the large connection button to disconnect. The status will change from “Connected” to “Disconnected.” You can also right-click the VPN icon in your system tray and select “Disconnect” for a quicker method.

Why not to use Malwarebytes?

Some users may prefer other options if they need more VPN servers, Linux or router support, or advanced streaming features. Malwarebytes VPN only supports Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Its kill switch and split tunneling are only available on desktop apps. If you need a VPN-only service with maximum features, a dedicated VPN provider may be a better fit.

Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?

Recent tests show Malwarebytes VPN can unblock Netflix in the US, Canada, UK, and Australie. There are no streaming-focused servers, so just pick a server in the country you want. Keep in mind that Netflix is always working to block VPNs, so results may vary. If one server doesn’t work, try another in the same country.

Is Malwarebytes Premium worth having?

Malwarebytes Premium is worth it if you want real-time malware protection. The free version only scans on demand, but Premium blocks threats before they reach your device. It detects malware on 40% of devices that already have another antivirus installed. Paired with the VPN in the Plus plan, it offers strong value for everyday users.