We know how overwhelming that decision can be. For that reason, we’ve put together this comprehensive TotalAV VPN review. In the end, you’ll have everything to hand to help you decide whether TotalVPN from Total Antivirus is the right fit for you.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

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• TotalVPN offers good security with AES-256 encryption and popular protocols.
  
• Limited server network with only 50 servers across 30 countries.
  
• Mixed performance in speed tests and streaming capabilities.
  
• User-friendly interface, but some users report connection issues.
  
• Affordable introductory price, but significant increase after the first year.
  
• Part of the TotalAV security suite, offering additional antivirus protection.
  

Criteria Breakdown

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Throughout this TotalAV VPN review, we’ve used a set of solid criteria to guide us. After all, there are certain elements that a VPN must have to be high quality. We’re talking about things like security, features, customer reviews, pricing, ease of use, and customer support. We’ve covered all that and more. Below you’ll find a brief rundown of our findings, but don’t worry! We’re going to delve into this in much more detail throughout this Total VPN review. 

TotalVPN: What You Need to Know

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Best Known For

TotalAV VPN is known for its cost-effectiveness (for the first year, at least) and high security features. When you’re looking for a VPN provider, security should be at the top of your priority list. However, you also need to make sure it fits your budget. In this case, you’ll find low-cost prices for the first year, but the renewal fees are a little steep. We’ll talk about those in a bit more detail later. 

While TotalVPN may be simple in its approach, it is a strong contender within the VPN world. While you’re browsing online, you can be sure that your privacy is protected. It is also part of the TotalAV Internet Security family, with a range of additional antivirus features. 

As for specifics, TotalVPN offers AES-256 encryption, which is industry-standard level. It also offers two other industry-standard protocols, namely OpenVPN and IKEv2. You can choose which one you want to use, but they’re both high quality. The ad blocker is also a very useful touch for a smooth browsing experience. 

Pros: Where TotalAV VPN Shines

Let’s continue our TotalAV VPN review by talking about the positives that come with choosing this provider. 

User-Friendly Interface

Whether you’ve used a VPN before or not, it’s important for the platform and app to be easy to use. You don’t want to spend your time trying to figure things out when you’ve got more important things to do! Thankfully, TotalAV VPN has a simple interface and you can find what you’re looking for very easily. 

Too often, technology can seem overwhelming, but that’s not a problem here. 

High Encryption and Security 

Earlier, we mentioned that this VPN has AES-256 encryption along with two industry-standard protocols to choose from. All of this means you can rest assured while you’re browsing, safe in the knowledge that you’re protected. There is also a kill switch included, however this is currently only for Windows and Mac users. If you’re using an iOS or Android device, you can’t access this feature. 

Streaming Capabilities

If you’re a Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon fan, you’re in luck. During our TotalAV VPN review, we discovered that this provider allows for relatively smooth streaming. That means you can travel and stream, or you can access libraries from other regions without issues. 

Antivirus Inclusion

TotalVPN is part of the TotalAV Internet Security suite, which means you’re getting virus protection too. The TotalAV Antivirus Pro package doesn’t include the VPN, so that’s something to bear in mind. However, you can purchase the TotalAV Internet Security or TotalAV Total Internet package and the VPN feature is included. 

These packages come with various features. This includes real-time antivirus protection, total adblock, and password protection if you choose the more expensive package. Overall, you’re looking at a safe and secure browsing experience, no matter where you are in the world.  

Cons: Room for Improvement

We know it’s important to keep our TotalVPN review balanced to help you make an informed decision. So, let’s explore where this provider could do a little better. 

Limited Server Network

Compared to other VPN providers out there, TotalVPN does fall a little short when it comes to their server network. On the one hand, 50 servers across 30 countries sounds impressive, but other providers have hundreds, sometimes thousands. Of course, this may not be a huge issue for you. However, if server choice is important, you may find this service lacking. 

Inconsistent Speeds

Speed can be an issue occasionally, especially during peak times. The fact that TotalVPN has fewer servers than many other providers is the root cause. Less servers means potential for overcrowding and when that happens, speed is affected. If you’re streaming at this time, you may notice buffering or issues connecting. 

Of course, this isn’t all the time, and it depends which server you connect to. However, it is something to be aware of when deciding whether this is the VPN for you. 

Lack of Advanced Features

One of the pluses of TotalAV VPN is that it’s simple to use. However, we can also turn that on its head because it doesn’t have a huge amount of advanced features. It does what it says on the tin: it protects you as you’re surfing the web. However, if you want to do more advanced things, such as split tunnelling and the like, you’ll miss out. 

Price Increase After First Year

Let’s jump into the main complaint for most people. TotalAV VPN, in fact the entire antivirus suite, is relatively cheap for the first year. In fact, the TotalAV Internet Security package including the VPN costs just $39 for a year. However, the issue comes when you want to renew, or you forget to turn off the auto-renew button. At that time, you’ll be charged $129 for the second year. That’s quite a jump! 

Criteria Evaluation

So far, our TotalVPN review has focused on the pros and cons. Now let’s jump into how this provider scores on our criteria. 

Security and Privacy: 3/5

The most important thing to consider when choosing a VPN is security and privacy features. Fortunately, TotalVPN does well here. It uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption and also supports OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols. That’s great as a starting point. 

The kill switch is only available for Windows and Mac users. If you’re using an iOS or Android device, you don’t benefit from this. That’s a slight issue for some and a reason why we’ve rated this provider 3/5. However, overall, TotalVPN does have high security standards to keep you safe online. 

Some users are concerned that this provider doesn’t have a clear VPN-specific privacy policy. As we’ve mentioned, it is part of a wider suite of antivirus features, and that could be something that concerns you. 

Server Network: 2/5

While 50 servers over 30 countries might sound like a lot, it’s lacking compared to other VPN providers. During peak hours, you may find that servers become overloaded, leading to slower speeds. You also lack choice if you want to connect to other regions. If this is something that you find problematic, you may prefer to explore other VPN providers.

Speed and Performance: 3/5

TotalVPN’s speed and performance are affected by its limited number of servers. That’s something we can’t get away from. Sometimes you’ll have a great experience with extremely fast speeds. Other times you might struggle. It all depends on which server you’re using and, often, the time of day. 

This inconsistency does let the service down, and is a problem if you’re gaming or streaming. 

Streaming and Torrenting: 3/5

Despite the occasional slow speed, TotalAV VPN is great for streaming. That means you can watch Netflix and other streaming platforms mostly with ease. The same goes for torrenting, which is supported on all servers. However, remember that speed will be affected depending on the busyness of servers. 

User-Friendliness: 4/5

We have high marks here because TotalVPN is very easy to use and the entire interface is intuitive. You’ll be able to navigate the app without any issues, even if you’re not the most technological of people. 

Price and Value: 3/5

If the renewal price weren’t so high, we would rate this provider much higher on price and value. For the first year, TotalVPN is a very cost-effective option, with many features, including antivirus protection. However, if you want to renew, you’ll have to pay considerably more. 

This renewal price jump is a big issue and something many users complain about. For that reason, TotalVPN loses points here. 

Customer Support: 3/5

TotalVPN’s customer support is relatively good. They offer email and live chat support, and it is available 24/7. However, some users have mentioned slow response times. Additionally, there is also a comprehensive FAQ section where you can find many answers to questions. 

Community Reviews and Expert Recommendations

As part of our TotalVPN review, we looked at customer reviews and what industry experts had to say. Both of these aspects are important when choosing a VPN provider.

Most users praise TotalVPN for basic use and also state that it’s very easy to set up and use. However, some do mention that other VPNs may provide a better experience for streaming and gaming. This is likely to be due to slower speeds during peak times.  

Included antivirus protection is also something users like as it provides a one-stop-shop for everything. Yet, the most common complaint is the huge price leap after the first year, alongside the limited server choice. 

Industry experts mention that TotalVPN is a good choice for beginners. However more experienced users may benefit from other providers with a greater choice of features. 

Pricing: Bang for Your Buck?

The next point to cover in our TotalVPN review is pricing. We’ve mentioned this in passing so far, but let’s really delve into the specifics. 

The VPN alone costs $19 for the first year. With that, you get basic antivirus and an adblocker. However, for a small amount more you could upgrade to the TotalAV Internet Security package. This contains the VPN and many other useful features. The package costs $39 for the first year. However, after 12 months, if you choose to renew, you pay $129. If you opt for the full package, the TotalAV Total Security, you’ll pay $49 for the first year. When it’s time to renew, you’ll pay $149. 

It’s important to weigh the pros and cons, especially if you’re on a budget. As long as you remember to turn off the auto-renewal function, you’re good to go. Then, you can choose whether you want to continue or whether you prefer to look elsewhere. 

Where to Find TotalVPN

If you decide you want to go ahead and try TotalVPN, head to their website. There you will find information on various features and pricing plans. 

Alternatives: Because Options are Good

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There is no one-size-fits-all answer here, and it may be that you don’t feel TotalAV VPN is for you. In that case, let’s look at some alternatives. 

Surfshark

The first alternative is Surfshark, a popular and highly regarded VPN that protects you during your online activities. With its robust range of features, this option allows you to access everything you need, no matter where you are in the world. For more information, check out our comprehensive Surfshark review. 

NordSecurity

You’ve no doubt heard of NordSecurity. It’s one of the most well-known and popular VPN services around. You’re looking at strong protection, a range of features, and great worldwide reach. For more, visit our NordVPN review. 

Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access is a highly-regarded choice, covering almost 91 countries. This VPN service offers a range of features, such as a kill switch, split tunnelling, and unlimited bandwidth. Learn more in our Private Internet Access VPN review. 

CyberGhost VPN

Last, but not least, we have CyberGhost VPN, another top choice. With an easy to use interface, a range of features, and competitive pricing, this is certainly a service to explore. Our CyberGhost VPN review will tell you more. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is TotalVPN safe to use?

Overall, TotalVPN is safe to use. With industry-standard encryption and protocols, you can rest assured that you’re secure online. However, they don’t give a clear VPN-specific privacy policy. That’s something that a few may find concerning, yet with many happy customers, it’s important to make your own decision. 

Can I use TotalVPN for streaming?

You can use TotalAV VPN for streaming and it does unblock most services. However, speeds can sometimes drop during peak hours, which could affect quality. So, while for the most part you’ll be able to stream happily, it isn’t a 100% guarantee. 

If streaming is something you’re passionate about, check out our guide to the best VPNs for streaming. 

How many devices can I connect with TotalVPN?

If you stick with just TotalVPN, you can connect to five devices simultaneously. However, if you upgrade to a TotalAV Internet Security or TotalAV Total Security, you can connect to six and eight respectively. This is particularly useful if you want to share a subscription with family members, making it a cost-effective choice. 

Does TotalVPN work in China?

TotalVPN does not specify if its VPN works in China. If that is something you need, you may be better choosing a more robust VPN with more servers. Remember, TotalVPN doesn’t have many advanced features, such as obfuscated servers. That means it’s not likely to work in areas with strict censorship, like China. 

Is there a free version of TotalVPN?

If you’re looking for TotalVPN free, you will be disappointed. The provider doesn’t have a free version, however they do offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. You’ll have to pay upfront, but you can use it like a free trial. Just remember to cancel and claim your refund before the time is up. 

If a free version is something you’re keen on, our guide to the best free VPN providers is for you. In most cases, paid VPNs offer more features than free options, but the latter still offers good security. The good news is that there are many low-cost options in our best cheap VPN guide. 

Final Thoughts: Is TotalAV VPN Right for You?

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Our TotalAV VPN review has ended and we’ve covered a lot of ground. By now, you should have an idea about whether this is the right VPN for you or not. 

Overall, TotalVPN has many advantages and a few disadvantages. It is a relatively basic option but if that’s all you need, it could be a good fit. However, the low number of servers could be an issue, especially if you need to stream during peak hours. 

As for pricing, the first year is very cost-effective. You have five simultaneous connections available which also means you can share a subscription. After the first year, you’re looking at a high renewal price, and that is something to be aware of. 

The VPN does offer basic antivirus protection, but for additional security, you may want to upgrade to TotalAV Internet Security. Within that, you get the VPN included as well as many other features. The price difference for the first year is also minimal and it offers some of the best antivirus software.  

In the end, only you can decide, but our TotalVPN review has given you all the information you need. 

Here at Privacy Australia, we aim to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of online privacy and security. We have many resources to help you, such as the best password manager or browser fingerprinting. 

After all, taking steps to ensure a safe and secure online experience is key.