⚡ Quick Verdict:
- Pricing: Malwarebytes starts at $44.99/yr. Virtual Shield starts at $9.58/mo.
- Best for: Malwarebytes for fast, low-cost privacy. Virtual Shield for all-in-one identity and device security.
- Key difference: Malwarebytes is a lean WireGuard VPN. Virtual Shield bundles a VPN with antivirus, data removal, and dark web monitoring.
- Our pick: Virtual Shield for most households, because one app covers more threats.
The better VPN didn’t win this comparison.
Malwarebytes VPN is faster, cheaper, and has far more servers.
Yet Virtual Shield still came out ahead for most home users.
In a crazy world of data leaks, a VPN alone often isn’t enough.
Virtual Shield wraps a VPN service, antivirus protection, and identity protection into one app.
Here’s how the two compare, and which one fits you.
Overview
This Malwarebytes VPN vs Virtual Shield comparison covers pricing, privacy, speed, streaming, and support.
We reviewed documentation, pricing pages, and user reviews for both tools.
Our writers also spent hands-on time with each one.
Those observations appear in the “What Our Team Noticed” sections below.
By the end, you’ll know which service fits your devices and budget.
What is Malwarebytes VPN?
Malwarebytes Privacy VPN is a virtual private network from the antivirus company Malwarebytes.
The brand built its name as an anti malware solution for Windows devices.
The VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your online activities.
It runs on the WireGuard protocol with AES-256 encryption.
You get 470+ worldwide servers across 45+ countries.
Early versions ran on Mullvad’s network, so critics called it a basic Mullvad copy.
Malwarebytes now says AzireVPN, which it bought in 2024, powers the service.
So how does Malwarebytes Privacy VPN work for online privacy?
You pick a server, tap connect, and your traffic moves through an encrypted tunnel.
Here’s a quick video walkthrough of the app.
Malwarebytes VPN
A fast WireGuard VPN from a trusted antivirus brand. Get 470+ servers and a 60-day refund window. Our full Malwarebytes Privacy VPN review has the details.
Malwarebytes VPN Pricing
Malwarebytes sells its VPN inside security bundles. Here’s the 2026 lineup.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | $44.99/yr | Antivirus only, no VPN |
| Plus | $59.99/yr | Antivirus plus Privacy VPN |
| Total | $159.99/yr | Full security, VPN, and identity protection |
Pricing verified October 2026.
Free trial: Yes. Malwarebytes offers a 7-day free trial period for the VPN.
Money back guarantee: 60 days on paid plans.
📌 Note: Plus gives you all the same features as Standard, plus the VPN. The free version of Malwarebytes scans for malware but has no VPN. Payment works through PayPal or cards, but not crypto.
⚠️ Warning: VAT in some countries can add up to 20%. Malwarebytes runs no discounts on Privacy VPN. Price check: standalone VPN plans cost $39.99/yr for one device. Three devices cost $49.99/yr, and five cost $59.99/yr. Confirm at checkout.
Key Benefits of Malwarebytes VPN
Here’s what makes Malwarebytes VPN worth considering:
- Fast WireGuard Protocol: WireGuard beats older protocols on speed. AES-256 encryption locks every VPN connection.
- Strict No-Logs Policy: It doesn’t store DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. Its own DNS server doesn’t track traffic either.
- Kill Switch and MultiHop: The kill switch blocks traffic if the tunnel drops. MultiHop routes you through two countries.
- Connection Rules: This split tunneling tool lets certain apps or IP addresses skip the VPN. It’s handy for banking apps.
- Antivirus Bundle: Plus pairs a premium VPN with Malwarebytes antivirus software. Browser Guard and AdwCleaner come free.
- Simple Apps: The Windows app, Mac desktop app, and iOS app all support auto connect. Mac users need macOS Catalina or later.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer paid for Malwarebytes Privacy VPN and used it on everyday devices. Here’s what stood out from that hands-on time:
Malwarebytes VPN Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- WireGuard and AES-256 keep connections fast and secure
- 470+ servers across 45+ countries
- Kill switch, MultiHop, and split tunneling included
- 60-day money back guarantee
❌ Cons
- Fails with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer
- No Linux, router, or Fire TV Stick apps
- US-based, inside the 5 Eyes alliance
What is Virtual Shield?
VirtualShield is an online security suite built around a VPN.
It packs a VPN, antivirus, and identity theft protection into one subscription.
The VirtualShield VPN encrypts internet traffic with AES-256 and the ChaCha20-Poly1305 cipher.
OpenVPN is its main protocol.
Unlike other VPN providers, it issues a randomly generated connection ID per successful connection.
The suite also scans the dark web for your private data.
The trade-off is a tiny network of 20 servers in 12 countries.
Watch the review below for a closer look.
🏆 Winner: Virtual Shield
One app for VPN, antivirus, and identity alerts. Dark web monitoring watches your online identity around the clock. Live chat support runs 24/7.
Virtual Shield Pricing
VirtualShield bills monthly rates across three tiers. Here’s what each one costs.
| Plan | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $9.58/mo | A single user who wants core VPN protection |
| Plus | $13.75/mo | VPN plus antivirus and dark web alerts |
| Ultimate | $20.41/mo | Full identity protection |
Pricing verified October 2026.
Free trial: Yes, 7 days.
Money back guarantee: 30 days. VirtualShield does not offer refunds after that window.
📌 Note: The basic package caps your account’s simultaneous connections at three devices. A family plan covers up to 15. You can add Unrestricted Streaming ($9.99/mo) to an existing plan. Premium Phone Support costs $14.99/mo. Protection Plus runs $12.99/mo for monthly maintenance. Add-ons can cost a lot more money than the base plan.
⚠️ Warning: VirtualShield bills the full contract upfront. It accepts major credit cards and PayPal only, with no Bitcoin. Price check: some review sites list $10.99 monthly and $5.99/mo yearly. Others show $4.99/mo for 24 months and a $15.99 two-year family plan. Confirm at checkout.
Key Benefits of Virtual Shield
Here’s what makes Virtual Shield worth considering:
- All Around Security: One app covers VPN, antivirus, and identity protection. You manage one bill instead of three.
- Dark Web Monitoring: VirtualShield watches for leaked personal details. You get real-time alerts and help fixing the damage.
- Malware and Ad Blocking: Special servers block harmful sites, adware, and malware. The antivirus also scans offline files and apps.
- Streaming Access: You can reach Netflix content, Hulu, and Amazon Prime from other regions. BBC iPlayer results are weaker.
- Torrent Friendly: The service allows torrenting with mainstream P2P apps. A kill switch protects you if the tunnel drops.
- Responsive Support: 24/7 live chat backs every plan. Premium phone support gives tech support a direct line.
What Our Team Noticed
Our writer signed up for Virtual Shield and used its tools on personal devices. Here’s what stood out:
Virtual Shield Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- VPN, antivirus, and identity protection share one app
- Dark web monitoring sends real-time breach alerts
- Unlocks Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime
- 24/7 live chat with a 4.6 Trustpilot rating
- Family plan covers up to 15 devices
❌ Cons
- Only 20 servers in 12 countries
- No split tunneling or dedicated IP option
- Billing complaints and no refunds after 30 days
- Pricier than most VPN services
Feature Comparison
Here are the important features side by side. Each section shows how the two tools handle the same job.
| Feature | Malwarebytes VPN | Virtual Shield |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $44.99/yr | $9.58/mo |
| Free Plan | ❌ (free scanner, no VPN) | ❌ |
| VPN Protocol | WireGuard | OpenVPN |
| Servers | 470+ in 45+ countries | 20 in 12 countries |
| Kill Switch | ✅ | ✅ |
| Split Tunneling | ✅ | ❌ |
| Antivirus | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dark Web Monitoring | ✅ (Total plan) | ✅ |
| Streaming Unblocking | ❌ | ✅ |
| Third-Party Audit | ✅ (April 2026) | ❌ |
| Best For | Fast, low-cost privacy | All-in-one home security |
1. Encryption & VPN Protocols
Malwarebytes: It uses WireGuard, a modern protocol built for speed. AES-256 encryption locks down the tunnel. MultiHop adds an extra layer by routing traffic through two countries.
VirtualShield: Each VPN server relies on OpenVPN, with UDP recommended for speed. Traffic is protected by AES-256 and ChaCha20-Poly1305. Both are strong, but OpenVPN usually runs slower than WireGuard.
2. Server Network & Speed
Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes servers number 470+ across 45+ countries. That’s small next to most VPNs, but huge next to VirtualShield. Some speed tests show drops of 34% on nearby servers and 62% on distant ones.
VirtualShield: It runs just 20 servers across 12 countries, and some reviews count 11. It markets high speed servers, yet U.S. speeds can dip under 50 Mbps. With so few server locations, you’ll often share the same server with many users.
⚠️ Warning: Neither is the fastest VPN for gaming. Reviews mention high ping on Malwarebytes, so competitive players should look elsewhere.
3. Streaming & Torrenting
Malwarebytes: There are no dedicated streaming servers and no Smart DNS. Many reviews say it fails with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer. It also struggles to bypass censorship in China.
VirtualShield: It can unlock Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime from other regions. Heavy streamers may need the Unrestricted Streaming add-on. Torrenting is allowed, so you can download torrents with mainstream P2P apps.
4. Antivirus & Malware Protection
Malwarebytes: Antivirus is where Malwarebytes products started. Premium Security blocks malware, ransomware, and phishing in real time. The free version only scans on demand.
VirtualShield: Its antivirus protection also checks offline files and apps. Virus Defense watches for suspicious behavior in the background. A separate ransomware shield guards your files.
Real-time virus defense adds a second layer on top of scheduled scans.
Ransomware protection then watches for strange encryption attempts.
5. Identity Theft Protection
Malwarebytes: The Total plan adds identity theft protection. It watches your personal data and flags suspicious activity. Your online identity gets more cover than a VPN alone gives.
VirtualShield: Identity security sits at the core of its pitch. You get real-time alerts plus resolution help when information is compromised.
Personal identity monitoring runs alongside it in the same dashboard.
6. Dark Web Monitoring & Data Removal
Malwarebytes: It scans the dark web for leaked emails and passwords. Personal Data Remover asks data brokers to delete your info. The tool is easily accessible from your dashboard.
The data remover handles the cleanup side.
VirtualShield: It monitors the dark web and sends real-time breach alerts. Its Data Removal feature targets broker sites selling your details. Both tools run quietly in the background.
Data removal requests run from the same account.
7. Ad & Tracker Blocking
Malwarebytes: Browser Guard is a free extension for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. It blocks ads, trackers, and scam sites. AdwCleaner removes adware, so a stubborn pop up window finally goes away.
AdwCleaner is a free cleanup tool for Windows PCs.
VirtualShield: It blocks intrusive adware and harmful sites through special servers. Ad-blocking also works through browser extensions. Pages tend to load faster with less clutter.
8. Privacy Policy & Jurisdiction
Malwarebytes: So, is Malwarebytes Privacy VPN safe? For everyday browsing, yes. It promises not to track, store, or share network data. It may keep a public key for connecting. Older reviews slammed the lack of third party audits. X41 D-Sec audited it in April 2026 and found two critical flaws. Malwarebytes says fixes are done or in progress.
Some readers still find the privacy policy unclear.
VirtualShield: It keeps no activity logs, so browsing history and IP addresses aren’t saved. No independent audit backs that claim yet. Critics also flag thin details about its ownership and business address.
⚠️ Warning: Both companies are US-based, inside the 5 Eyes alliance. If government surveillance worries you, that’s an important factor.
9. Devices, Apps & Support
Malwarebytes: Malwarebytes protects your connection on the major platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. There’s no Linux, router, Fire TV Stick, or gaming consoles support. Support is solid, and a support ticket usually gets a quick reply.
VirtualShield: Its mobile apps and desktop apps cover the same four systems. The website promises unlimited devices, but Basic allows three at once. Many VPNs add split tunneling, but it’s missing here. The Mac app is basic, while 24/7 live chat holds a 4.6 Trustpilot rating.
10. Pricing & Cost
Let’s compare the pricing plans side by side.
| Plan | Malwarebytes VPN | Virtual Shield |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Standard: $44.99/yr (no VPN) | Basic: $9.58/mo |
| Middle | Plus: $59.99/yr | Plus: $13.75/mo |
| Top | Total: $159.99/yr | Ultimate: $20.41/mo |
| Free Option | Free scanner (no VPN) | ❌ |
| Money Back Guarantee | 60 days | 30 days |
Malwarebytes: Plus is the real entry point, since Standard has no VPN. It bills once a year, while VirtualShield bills monthly. Over twelve months, Malwarebytes costs far less.
VirtualShield: You pay more, and add-ons raise the bill fast. That money buys identity tools, streaming access, and support options. A longer contract lowers the monthly rate.
Different Scenarios
| If You Need… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tight budget | Malwarebytes VPN | Cheaper yearly plans |
| Netflix and Hulu access | Virtual Shield | Unlocks major streaming apps |
| Faster speeds | Malwarebytes VPN | WireGuard and more servers |
| Identity tools plus antivirus | Virtual Shield | Dark web alerts in one app |
| Protecting the whole family | Virtual Shield | Family plan covers 15 devices |
| Verified no-logs claims | Malwarebytes VPN | Independent audit in 2026 |
💰 Your Budget
Malwarebytes wins easily on cost, as the Pricing & Cost table shows. VirtualShield only makes sense if you’d otherwise pay for separate identity tools.
🔌 Your Devices
Both cover Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Check your operating system first, because neither supports routers, Linux, or consoles.
🎬 Your Streaming Habits
Need fast speeds for browsing but rarely stream? Malwarebytes fits. If streaming matters, VirtualShield is the safer bet.
🎓 Your Experience Level
Both apps are beginner-friendly, with one-tap connect buttons. Malwarebytes adds auto connect and auto launch, so protection starts on its own.
🆓 Free Trials and Demos
Both offer a 7-day trial, so run your own speed tests before it ends. Test the server locations you’ll actually use.
🛟 Support Options
VirtualShield earns extra points for 24/7 live chat and optional premium phone support. Trustpilot reviewers call agents like Amanda, Pearl, Tom, and Olivia super helpful. Plenty of satisfied customer reviews say the support team responds fast. Many felt like a valued customer.
🔐 Security and Privacy
Using a VPN won’t stop malware on its own. VirtualShield covers both jobs in one app, while Malwarebytes covers them in one bundle.
Switching Guide
Already using one of these tools? Here’s what to expect if you switch.
🔄 Switching from Malwarebytes VPN to Virtual Shield?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Dark web monitoring and identity alerts in every tier
- Streaming access to Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime
- 24/7 live chat and a 15-device family plan
❌ What you’ll lose:
- WireGuard speed and 470+ servers
- Split tunneling through Connection Rules
- The longer 60-day refund window
📋 How to switch:
- Turn off auto-renew inside your Malwarebytes account.
- Sign up for VirtualShield and save your account ID.
- Install the app, sign in, and stay VPN connected with the kill switch on.
🔄 Switching from Virtual Shield to Malwarebytes VPN?
✅ What you’ll gain:
- Faster WireGuard connections
- Far more server locations
- An independently audited no-logs policy
❌ What you’ll lose:
- Identity monitoring in lower tiers
- Reliable streaming unblocking
- The premium phone support option
📋 How to switch:
- Ask VirtualShield support to cancel, and keep the email. Some customers report charges even after they finally cancelled.
- Pick Malwarebytes Plus to get antivirus and the VPN together.
- Download the apps. If you hit issues downloading, open a support ticket.
What Our Review Didn’t Cover
This comparison focused on home users who want privacy and basic security. We didn’t test webcam privacy tools, business plans, or identity insurance claims. Results for China and other censored regions come from third-party reports. Prices and features are up to date as of October 2026 and may change.
Final Verdict
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 💰 Pricing | Malwarebytes VPN |
| ⚡ Speed & Servers | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🔒 Privacy & Audits | Malwarebytes VPN |
| 🛡️ Security Suite | Virtual Shield |
| 📺 Streaming | Virtual Shield |
| 📱 Device Coverage | Virtual Shield |
| 🛟 Customer Support | Virtual Shield |
| 🏆 Overall Winner | Virtual Shield |
🏆 WINNER: VIRTUAL SHIELD
Virtual Shield wins 4 out of 7 categories.
Best for: families, streamers, and anyone who wants one security app
Malwarebytes VPN and Virtual Shield solve different problems. Malwarebytes is a security brand first and a VPN company second. Its lean, fast VPN rides alongside strong antivirus software.
In our not so humble opinion, Malwarebytes is the better pure VPN. If privacy is your sole purpose, pick it for price, speed, and audits.
For most households, though, VirtualShield delivers more protection from one login. Just read the add-on and billing terms first, since complaints there dent the customer experience.
More of Malwarebytes VPN Compared
Here’s how Malwarebytes VPN stacks up against other VPN providers:
Malwarebytes wins on: Built-in antivirus bundle, free AdwCleaner cleanup, and a 60-day refund window
NordVPN wins on: A much larger server network, stronger streaming results, and more advanced privacy tools
Malwarebytes VPN vs ExpressVPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Lower yearly cost, antivirus in the same bundle, and a longer refund window
ExpressVPN wins on: Wider streaming access, a router app, and broader device support
Malwarebytes VPN vs Proton VPN
Malwarebytes wins on: Malware scanning, the free Browser Guard extension, and a simpler beginner setup
Proton VPN wins on: A free VPN plan, Swiss jurisdiction outside 5 Eyes, and open-source apps
More of Virtual Shield Compared
Here’s how Virtual Shield stacks up against other VPN providers:
Virtual Shield wins on: Optional phone support, a 15-device family plan, and simple dark web alerts
NordVPN wins on: Far more servers, split tunneling, and audited no-logs claims
Virtual Shield vs Surfshark
Virtual Shield wins on: Live agents praised on Trustpilot, data removal in the suite, and ransomware protection
Surfshark wins on: Unlimited devices, the WireGuard protocol, and a much bigger network
Virtual Shield vs Aura
Virtual Shield wins on: Torrent-friendly servers, ad-blocking servers, and streaming add-ons
Aura wins on: Deeper credit monitoring, identity theft insurance, and parental controls
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malwarebytes VPN any good?
It’s good for basic privacy, especially if you already use Malwarebytes antivirus. WireGuard keeps it fast. Streaming support and the server list are weak next to other VPNs.
Is VirtualShield legit?
Yes, it’s a real paid service with a 4.6 Trustpilot rating. Critics note limited transparency about ownership, and some customers report billing problems.
Does Malwarebytes VPN log data?
Malwarebytes says it does not log DNS requests, IP addresses, or bandwidth usage. An April 2026 audit by X41 D-Sec found no evidence of user activity logging.
Does Malwarebytes VPN work on Netflix?
Results are mixed. It has no dedicated streaming servers. Many reviews report failures with Hulu, Disney+, and BBC iPlayer.
How do I cancel VirtualShield?
Contact support by live chat or your account page and request cancellation. Save written confirmation, since some customers report charges after cancelling.
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