Choosing Between TotalAV VPN and Surfshark: Which VPN to Opt For?

TotalAV provides a VPN kill switch (a feature commonly offered by prime VPN services like Surfshark), but they refer to it as a “circuit breaker” for some unknown reason, which I found slightly peculiar. TotalAV relies on conventional security protocols (IKEv2 and OpenVPN) but does not explicitly state a no-logs policy similar to Surfshark, which left me feeling disappointed. Moreover, TotalAV lacks features like split tunneling and a dedicated IP address option, features that Surfshark does provide.

Given that TotalAV’s VPN supports fewer countries, servers, and devices compared to Surfshark, the latter emerges as the clear victor in this aspect. Should you be in search of a VPN that justifies the expense (rather than antivirus software), my strong recommendation veers toward Surfshark as opposed to TotalAV.

Antivirus protection

Champion: TotalAV

When it comes to antivirus software, the scenario flips as TotalAV places a greater emphasis on it in contrast to the VPN. TotalAV originally focused on providing antivirus protection and only introduced a VPN later on, whereas Surfshark adopted antivirus features post the surge in popularity of their VPN service. Nonetheless, Surfshark has been gradually rolling out new antivirus functionalities to align itself more closely with dedicated antivirus software, such as webcam safeguarding.

TotalAV delivers essential antivirus features, encompassing zero-day cloud scanning, safeguarding against phishing scams and ransomware, ad blockers, PC cleaning utilities, browser management and cleaning tools, and protection for iOS and Android gadgets. It fetches fairly positive ratings from independent testing bodies like AV-test and AV-Comparatives, although not flawless evaluations.

Surfshark includes an ad blocker and cookie pop-up blocker across all its plans, but to access round-the-clock antivirus protection (updated at three-hour intervals with new threats), you would need to opt for at least the Surfshark One package. This package encompasses antivirus, anti-spyware, and malware protection. Similarly to TotalAV, Surfshark’s antivirus functionality has received commendable scores from independent testing organizations but not top marks.

Distinct from the VPN aspect, Surfshark’s antivirus coverage is compatible with a maximum of five devices concurrently, as opposed to 6-8 devices for TotalAV. Surfshark’s antivirus protection extends to Windows, macOS, or Android devices but not iOS devices, whereas TotalAV offers protection to iOS devices. Furthermore, Surfshark lacks a device cleaning feature, a perk that many PC enthusiasts find valuable.

If you’re comparing solely between the antivirus choices of TotalAV and Surfshark, my preference would slightly lean towards TotalAV due to its higher limits on devices, protection for iOS devices, and disk cleaning feature. However, for those seeking comprehensive antivirus protection, I’d recommend opting for a different provider offering more extensive features and better testing results.

In my view, both TotalAV and Surfshark present streamlined antivirus solutions that might meet the needs of some users. Nonetheless, I suggest that organizations prioritize safeguarding their sensitive data by utilizing additional security measures like firewalls and detection based on behavior. Explore our recommendations for the top malware elimination software for further insights.

Usability

Champion: Surfshark

The interface of Surfshark’s VPN is elegantly crafted and user-friendly. The central panel indicates the status of the connected server and lists the available servers for selection. I could filter servers based on features like Static IP or MultiHop, and I could mark preferred servers to pin them at the top. Accessing advanced features such as the kill switch was as simple as navigating to the settings and toggling the options.

Comparatively, TotalAV’s interface, while more intricate, still lags behind Surfshark due to the former’s VPN being more restricted and TotalAV’s inclusion of numerous features beyond the VPN tool. The menu names vary depending on the TotalAV version in use, making navigation a bit more challenging. The VPN option should be easily accessible under the “Internet Security” or “Privacy” segment, located below the “Antivirus” or “Malware” section.

Upon reaching the VPN section within TotalAV, the central panel displays the server connection status. Instant connection can be established by clicking on the “Fastest” button, or users can locate specific servers by choosing “Select a Location” and searching through the popup window. Additionally, favorite servers can be starred for quick access.

All in all, I found Surfshark’s interface to be slightly more user-friendly, and it also offers significantly more documentation compared to TotalAV. TotalAV’s knowledge base for VPN-related topics is quite limited—only five pages in total—making it less helpful for troubleshooting in case of issues with its limited features. Conversely, Surfshark offers over 200 articles for support related to its VPN product.

TotalAV VPN advantages and drawbacks

Advantages of TotalAV VPN

• Bundled with basic antivirus software.
• Intuitive user interface.
• Includes a password manager in the priciest plan.
• Antivirus protection accessible for Android and iOS devices.

Drawbacks of TotalAV VPN

• Fewer servers and locations compared to Surfshark.
• Supports only 6-8 devices based on the pricing tier.
• Cheapest plan does not include a VPN.
• Pricing details are public only for yearly subscriptions.

Surfshark advantages and drawbacks

Advantages of Surfshark

• Supported on unlimited devices across all plans.
• Among the most cost-effective VPN choices available.
• Greater variety of servers and locations compared to TotalAV.
• Streamlined antivirus software for users.

Drawbacks of Surfshark

• Antivirus protection not included in the most affordable plan.
• No”device sanitizer included.
• iOS devices do not have antivirus shield.

Reddit Battle: Surfshark vs TotalAV VPN

In a previous segment, the discussion highlighted challenges faced by certain users, like @DICE_PLS_ on Reddit, in obtaining refunds from TotalAV despite the money-back pledge. “After encountering a technical glitch I couldn’t rectify, I demanded a refund, but the agent abruptly terminated the chat without processing my refund request,” mentioned @DICE_PLS_. After numerous attempts, they managed to secure the refund and advised caution to other users when dealing with the platform. This is a key point to consider if you are undecided about using TotalAV VPN.

Regarding overall user sentiment, TotalAV VPN garners a mixed bag of reviews on Reddit for its software suite. Some Reddit users suggest utilizing the native Microsoft Defender for basic defense on Windows devices, while others advocate opting for more reputable solutions like ESET or Bitdefender for enhanced antivirus security.

Sentiments for Surfshark’s antivirus application were quite similar among users, but the VPN service itself received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Reddit users particularly praise Surfshark for its high-speed performance, cost-effectiveness, and policy allowing unlimited device connections. User @sasht expressed their satisfaction in a comment, stating, “It’s budget-friendly, I appreciate the option to connect numerous devices, and the added features are very convenient and user-friendly.”

TotalAV VPN or Surfshark for Business?

If you opt for TotalAV VPN:

• If you require antivirus security for iOS devices.
• Seeking a straightforward VPN sans extravagant features.
• If you require a disk cleanser and system enhancement utilities.
• If you prefer a bundled password manager.

If you choose Surfshark:

• For a top-notch VPN tool known for its rapid speeds.
• When additional VPN functionalities like split tunneling and dedicated IP addresses are needed.
• If you need a VPN supporting simultaneous connections on multiple devices.
• For a service boasting a transparent no-logs policy.

Research Approach

To evaluate Surfshark versus TotalAV VPN, I engaged in trial sign-ups, consulted official product guides, analyzed findings from independent testing bodies, and gathered user insights from Reddit. Key considerations included server count, supported countries, device compatibility, as well as features like kill switches and split tunneling. The assessment also factored in 24/7 antivirus defense, supplementary tools like ad blockers and password managers, alongside pricing, user interface, and overall user-friendliness.

About Author

AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

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