Best antivirus for multiple devices in 2025: protect up to 15 devices

There's no such thing as a malware-resistant device. Without reliable protection, every Windows PC, Mac, or Android/iOS phone or tablet is vulnerable to malware, phishing, and other cyber threats.

Fortunately, a good multi-device antivirus can protect all your gadgets at home or work. For example, TotalAV, rated at 9.7 stars, protects up to 8 devices. Norton and Bitdefender go further, covering 10 and 15 devices, respectively. Just keep in mind that device coverage affects the price, so I recommend assessing your needs thoroughly before committing.

To help you decide, I tested 25 antivirus programs, evaluating coverage, protection, performance, extra features, and pricing. Keep reading to find the best antivirus for multiple devices and learn how it can boost your online security.

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5 best antivirus software for multiple devices

1. Norton Antivirus

   Protects up to 10 devices with comprehensive security features
   9.1
2. TotalAV

   Offers plans for 4, 6, or 8 devices, allowing flexibility based on your needs
   9.7
3. Bitdefender Antivirus

   Family Pack covers up to 15 devices per subscription, ideal for larger households
   9.4
4. Surfshark Antivirus

   Provides budget-friendly antivirus software that secures up to 5 devices
   8.8
5. NordVPN

   Includes antivirus protection with VPN for up to 10 devices
   9.8

How many devices you can protect with multi-user antivirus?

A multi-user antivirus plan can protect as many devices as you choose based on the software you choose and the subscription level you select. Most licenses cover between 5 and 10 devices, but some plans offer more. However, it's important to consider not just how many devices can be protected, but how well the antivirus performs across different platforms, its malware detection capabilities, as well as its overall impact on performance.

While antiviruses like Bitdefender (up to 15 devices, from $9.99/year) and Norton 360 (up tp 10 devices, from $29.99/year) offer solid multi-device protection, pricing varies significantly. Bitdefender provides excellent coverage for larger households or small businesses at a higher price. On the other hand, Norton strikes an ideal balance between security, performance, and cost.

Meanwhile, Surfshark and NordVPN focus more on VPN services, with antivirus features secondary. For example, Surfshark ($50.85/year for 5 devices) and NordVPN ($3.99/month for 10 devices) are more suitable for users concerned about privacy over comprehensive security. Moreover, TotalAV (8 devices, $19.00/year) offers a solid, budget-friendly option. Though its 8-device limit may not be sufficient for larger households, it provides decent protection for smaller setups, making it a reliable choice for those needing flexibility at an affordable price.

Overall, Norton is the best antivirus for multiple devices, supporting 1 to 10 devices. Its affordability, performance, flexibility, and comprehensive features set it apart from its competitors. This includes robust malware protection and additional tools like parental controls and password management.

Best multi-device antivirus: a detailed list

I tested 25 antivirus programs based on key factors like malware detection, system performance, cost, device coverage, and a friendly user interface. I focused on how well each software protected multiple devices, including Windows, macOS, and mobile. This thorough research allowed me to identify the top 5 antivirus software for you to choose from:

1. Norton antivirus - Best antivirus for multiple devices in 2025

Norton is the best antivirus for multiple devices in 2025, offering a perfect blend of strong security features, flexibility, and competitive pricing.

The pricing starts at $29.99/year for the Norton AntiVirus Plus plan, covering 1 device, while the Norton 360 Select Plus plan provides comprehensive protection for up to 10 devices for $79.99/year. Each plan includes a 7-day free trial and a 60-day money-back guarantee, ensuring a risk-free trial period without commitment. Additionally, I recommend checking our Norton coupon codes for an additional discount.

Norton features include Dark Web Monitoring, which alerts you if your personal information, like credit card numbers or social security details, is found on the dark web. The Privacy Monitor ensures that your sensitive data, such as email addresses, isn't exposed online. Moreover, parental controls allow families to block inappropriate content and manage screen time for children. Additionally, LifeLock Identity Theft Protection (included in premium plans) offers credit monitoring, social security number alerts, and up to $1 million in stolen funds reimbursement.

During my tests, Norton scanned 401k files on macOS in just 4 minutes, detecting 90% of malware while using only 2.4–5.1% of the CPU, which is impressively light for such powerful protection. On Windows 11, the full system scan took about 20 minutes, detecting 8 out of 10 malware samples, but it caused a significant CPU load, ranging from 70% to 96%, making the computer quite sluggish for other tasks. Despite this, Norton’s real-time protection blocked phishing sites and malware effectively. I also tested Norton's Secure VPN, which worked seamlessly for safe browsing and unblocking streaming content. Plus, the password manager stored and generated strong passwords effortlessly, adding an extra layer of security to my online accounts.

Norton AV suits families and small businesses that need protection across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Lastly, Norton's comprehensive protection, low system impact, and overall performance make it one of the best security solutions for multi-device users.

Get more info in our full Norton Antivirus review.

2. TotalAV - Top multi-device antivirus for phone, laptop, and tablet

TotalAV is excellent antivirus software for multiple devices, offering solid malware protection at a budget-friendly price and being one of the cheapest antivirus programs. It offers three flexible plans: Antivirus Pro for 5 devices at $19.00/year, Internet Security for 6 devices at $39.00/year, and Total Security for up to 8 devices at $49.00/year. All yearly plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee plus a 7-day free trial.

During my tests, TotalAV detected 80% of malware samples on macOS with a quick 5-minute scan covering 324k files, and the CPU usage remained light, ranging from 1.2% to 3.9%. On Windows 11, the System Scan took 15 minutes and found only 7 out of 10 malware samples, which was on par with the less thorough Smart Scan. The CPU load during this scan fluctuated between 8% and 50%, which was reasonable, though higher than some competitors like Norton. Despite these detection limitations, TotalAV did not cause any significant slowdowns, and overall performance remained solid.

TotalAV’s features include zero-day threat protection, useful tune-up tools, a disk cleaner, and a web shield browser extension in the basic plan. Beyond the basics, TotalAV includes Total VPN for secure browsing, Total Password for managing and storing passwords, identity theft protection to monitor your personal information, and an ad blocker to block intrusive or potentially harmful ads. With these features, you can better protect your data, manage your passwords, and block unwanted ads to maintain smooth and safe online browsing.

TotalAV is great for families seeking a cost-effective antivirus solution with strong coverage and privacy tools. Beyond its malware protection, TotalAV includes several useful extras, such as a disk cleaner to optimize device performance, tune-up tools to improve speed, and a web shield to block malicious websites. These extra tools enhance your overall security, improve device performance, and protect your privacy.

Learn all about this budget-friendly option in our full TotalAV review.

3. Bitdefender - Family antivirus for all devices at home

Bitdefender is the best antivirus software for families, thanks to its dedicated Family Pack that supports up to 15 devices. You can get it for $69.99/year or opt for cheaper plans such as Bitdefender Total Security (3 devices for $19.99/year). The most popular Internet Security plan also covers 3 devices and offers extra features for $42.49/year.

When I tested Bitdefender, it successfully detected 100% of malware on macOS during a 10-minute scan of 348k files, with CPU usage remaining impressively low at 0.1–1.9%. On Windows 11, the full system scan took about an hour, and while the CPU load fluctuated between 50% and 100%, the scan yielded 9 out of 10 malware detections, making it the best result from my recent tests. The software’s real-time protection also blocked phishing attempts and malicious websites, preventing threats from reaching my device.

Its extra features, including unlimited VPN, password manager, and advanced email protection, set Bitdefender apart. It also offers a comprehensive security suite for dark web monitoring, identity theft protection, and real-time data breach alerts. Additionally, Bitdefender includes robust scam prevention and crypto mining protection to guard against fraudulent schemes and unauthorized mining that can slow down your system or compromise your privacy.

Bitdefender is the best antivirus program for Windows, offering comprehensive protection for Macs, Windows computers, phones, and tablets. It’s ideal for families or individuals with multiple devices, thanks to its multi-platform support and the generous Family Plan covering up to 15 devices. Bitdefender suits those seeking an all-in-one solution that combines strong protection, privacy features, and performance efficiency.

Read more in our full Bitdefender Antivirus review.

4. Surfshark Antivirus - Affordable antivirus for 5 devices

Surfshark One is a multi-device antivirus alongside a leading VPN at an affordable price. Surfshark One covers up to 5 devices with a 2-year $50.85/year deal. If you need more advanced protection, the Surfshark One+ (2-year $107.73/year offer) plan adds features like data removal services from company databases and people search sites. Unlike many antivirus solutions, Surfshark’s pricing bundles its VPN with antivirus, providing users with an all-in-one online privacy and security solution.

When I tested Surfshark One, it detected 80% of malware on macOS during a 4-minute scan of 372k files, with CPU usage ranging from 10% to 38%, which is higher than other competitors. On Windows 11, the full system scan took around 10 minutes and identified 7 out of 10 malware samples stored deep on the C drive. However, it used 50-80% CPU resources, which was more demanding than expected. Despite this, Surfshark One was still effective at detecting threats, offering solid protection during scans.

Moreover, the antivirus includes malware protection, real-time data breach alerts, ad blocking, and webcam exploit protection. This application particularly impressed me with its identity protection tools, which protect your personal information from leaks and breaches in the background.

Surfshark One works across all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. During testing, I found it user-friendly and effective across multiple devices, making it an excellent option for families or individuals with various gadgets. While the Surfshark One plan is limited to 5 devices, its unlimited VPN connections make it ideal for users prioritizing privacy and security on multiple devices.

Surfshark One is best suited to individuals, families, or small businesses looking for a comprehensive security package. Its combination of antivirus protection, VPN service, and Incogni data removal tool makes it an excellent choice for those who want to protect multiple devices and safeguard their online and offline privacy.

You can read more about it in our Surfshark antivirus review.

5. NordVPN Thread Protection - best antivirus software with VPN for multiple devices

NordVPN Threat Protection is an excellent choice for antivirus software for multiple devices. The service offers a variety of plans; for example, the Basic plan ($3.09/month for 1 year) includes essential VPN functionality along with basic threat protection. Moreover, the Plus plan ($3.99/month for 1 year) enhances this with Threat Protection Pro, a password manager, and data breach scanning. For even more comprehensive coverage, the Complete plan ($4.99/month for 1 year) adds 1 TB of encrypted cloud storage, while the Prime plan ($6.99/month for 1 year) includes all the features of the Complete plan plus identity theft protection and ransomware coverage.

During my tests, NordVPN Threat Protection Pro blocked 9 out of 10 malicious/phishing URLs from urlhaus.abuse.ch and phishtank.org, achieving a 90% success rate in protecting against online threats. This feature, available for Windows and macOS users, works even when you're not connected to the VPN, preventing damage before it happens. Unlike standard Threat Protection (which requires a VPN connection and is available on multiple platforms), Threat Protection Pro focuses specifically on blocking malicious content and phishing sites, adding an extra layer of security while browsing.

Threat Protection Pro isn't a full-fledged antivirus replacement, nor does it scan for existing malware or offer a full system scan. It’s mainly useful for safe browsing and downloading, especially in high-risk scenarios like public Wi-Fi. In my experience, it worked flawlessly on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it versatile across platforms. If you are looking for additional security against identity theft, choose the Complete or Prime plans, which both feature encrypted cloud storage and theft protection.

NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro is best suited to families, frequent travelers, or anyone who prioritizes privacy and malware protection. This is a good option if your primary concerns are safe browsing, preventing phishing attacks, and securing downloads across 10 devices.

You can read more about NordVPN Threat Protection in our full NordVPN review.

How I tested and selected the best antivirus for multiple devices

I conducted extensive in-house testing using industry-standard tools and hands-on analysis to identify the best antivirus for multiple devices. I evaluated 25 antivirus programs for functional and usability needs across various devices using key performance criteria. I performed my antivirus tests on macOS using a virtual machine on a MacBook Air with an Apple M3 chip and macOS Sonoma 14.7.2. For Windows 11, I used a Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen2 with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and Windows 11 Pro installed on a VirtualBox VM.

Listed below are my top-ranking criteria based on my research:

1. Multi-device compatibility. I thoroughly tested how well each antivirus software performed during installation across various platforms such as Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS. It wasn’t just about getting the software up and running but also about ensuring that it worked smoothly once installed. For instance, Norton and TotalAV excelled in this area, offering flexible plans that cover anywhere from 4 to 10 devices.
2. Real-time protection. I tested how quickly each antivirus responded to live threats. Using tools like EICAR and dynamic malware samples, I monitored how fast the software detected and blocked attacks.
3. Malware scanning. I focused on detection accuracy and scan efficiency when running malware samples. I used 10 recent malware samples on both macOS and Windows 11 systems, ensuring consistent testing conditions by using freshly installed virtual machines.
4. Real-time protection. I tested how quickly each antivirus responded to live threats. Using tools like EICAR and dynamic malware samples, I monitored how fast the software detected and blocked attacks.
5. Performance impact. I evaluated how each antivirus affected system performance. By running performance benchmarks before and after installing the antivirus, I looked for noticeable slowdowns by checking the Resource Monitor in the Task Manager and using the PassMark Performance Test.
6. Additional features. I looked for antiviruses with additional features, including privacy-focused tools like VPNs, dark web monitoring, parental controls, and identity theft protection. Other great additions include performance optimizers, file shredders, password managers, etc.
7. Ease of use. A great antivirus should be easy to install, set up, and manage without expert knowledge. I paid close attention to how intuitive the user interface was, how simple it was to navigate key features like scanning options and settings, and how effectively the software ran automatic updates.
8. Price. The price criteria involved finding antivirus plans that started at affordable rates, delivering essential features like malware protection, VPNs, and additional tools such as password managers, parental control, and more. Plus, I focused on solutions that provided excellent protection without sacrificing quality.

After testing these criteria in-house and using them in real-life situations, I identified the top 5 multi-device antivirus software that offers the best value, security, and performance: Norton, TotalAV, Bitdefender, Surfshark Antivirus, and Nord Threat Protection.

Get the best antivirus for multiple devices

Does every device need antivirus protection?

Malware is getting more sophisticated, making it harder to flag and remove. Your system can get infected in countless ways, from social engineering and malicious downloads to using an unsecured Wi-Fi network or an infected external device. The worst-case scenario involves a competent criminal targeting you specifically.

The consequences of malware infections can range from minor inconvenience to life-altering damage. You could suffer financial loss, system disruption, identity theft, etc. Although macOS and iOS have better built-in security than Windows and Android, no system or device is immune. Therefore, every gadget with an operating system needs reliable antivirus protection. Here are some of the most common online threats a good multi-device antivirus can block and eliminate:

• Malware. An umbrella term that covers viruses, worms, ransomware, spyware, and more. Malware can steal your data, lock/exploit your system, damage files, and spy on you. It's usually delivered via malicious downloads or email attachments.
• Phishing. It's a type of fraud in which cybercriminals pretend to be trustworthy entities (such as Amazon's customer service team) to steal passwords, financial details, and bank account information from you. A phishing attack can be launched through any messaging platform (email, social media, text messages) or through a fake website.
• Data breaches. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities to access and leak/sell sensitive data, including financial records, medical histories, or personal identifiers. They usually target businesses but also poorly secured personal devices.

All of my top multi-device antivirus picks effectively deal with malware, block phishing sites, and alert you to data breaches, allowing you to change your passwords. They can also protect you on unsecured Wi-Fi networks, eliminate password attacks, prevent Man-in-the-Middle attacks with their VPNs, and much more.

How to add a Norton subscription to another computer?

Norton can protect up to 10 devices in your home or office, making it one of the best antivirus software for multiple computers. Once you install it on your primary device, you can 'spread' the protection to additional PCs, Macs, and mobile devices at no extra cost. If you're not sure how many installations you have left, here's how to check:

1. Sign in to your Norton account.
2. Go to ‘My Subscriptions’ and select your subscription plan.
3. Find the number of licenses available under your subscription.

If you have licenses available, here's how to add a Norton subscription to another computer:

1. Sign in to your Norton account.
2. Click ‘Download’ in your personal dashboard.
3. Go to ‘Get Started’ > ‘Send Download Link.’
4. Provide an email address you can access from the computer you wish to protect.
5. Open the email on the new device and click ‘Download Now.’
6. Click ‘Agree and Download.’
7. Save the file on your computer and double-click to start the installation.
8. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process.

Best multi-device antivirus

Is there a free antivirus for multiple computers?

Yes, there are free antivirus options, but they typically only support one device and have significant limitations regarding protection and features. For example, free versions often rely on basic signature-based detection, which means they can’t protect against newer or more sophisticated threats like ransomware. They also lack important privacy and security features, such as firewalls, VPNs, and dark web monitoring, which are essential for comprehensive protection. Besides, free antivirus tools tend to receive fewer updates, leaving temporary gaps in your security, and they often cause slower system performance.

On the other hand, for better protection across multiple devices, I recommend premium antivirus software like Norton or TotalAV. Any of the paid plans include multi-device support, full malware protection, real-time scanning, and a password manager. Additionally, many antiviruses offer extra features like VPNs, Dark Web monitoring, parental control, and identity theft protection. Lastly, both also provide free trials and money-back guarantees—Norton offers a 60-day guarantee, giving you plenty of time to test its full capabilities.

What is the best multi-device antivirus by Reddit?

When browsing Reddit, users frequently recommend Bitdefender as one of the solid choices for multi-device protection. Many users praise its robust malware detection, real-time protection, and minimal system impact. Bitdefender consistently ranks high for safeguarding multiple devices, from Windows PCs to Android and macOS.

Reddit discussions may not always specifically mention TotalAV or Norton for multi-device support, but both are still reliable antivirus options. Users often highlight their overall security performance and comprehensive protection features.

Trustpilot gives Norton a 4.4/5 rating for its user-friendliness, especially for less tech-savvy people. Many customers appreciate its ease of installation and the fact that it quietly runs in the background, protecting multiple devices, including phones, tablets, and computers, from viruses and hackers.

Furthermore, TotalAV, which ranks 4.6/5 on Trustpilot, offers effective malware protection across various devices, including desktop computers and mobile devices. With strong protection against various online risks, customers appreciate the way it keeps them informed of any threats.

Every customer has their own unique needs and preferences for antivirus protection. Some prioritize powerful malware detection and minimal system impact, so many choose Bitdefender for its comprehensive security and efficient performance. Others, like those who want an easy-to-use solution with reliable multi-device protection, turn to TotalAV and Norton. Both offer robust security features, including real-time protection and automatic background scanning, making them ideal for users without complex setups. Overall, these antiviruses remain popular because they provide a balanced mix of strong protection, ease of use, and the ability to safeguard multiple devices.

Final thoughts: Keep all your devices safe with multi-user antivirus

In today's digital world, securing all your devices from malware, phishing, and data breaches is more important than ever. The problem is that many people rely on basic, single-device antivirus solutions, leaving their phones, tablets, and other devices vulnerable to threats. This can lead to data loss, identity theft, and compromised online experiences.

After extensive testing, Norton and TotalAV stand out as top choices for multi-device protection. Norton's main advantages include unbeatable security, flexible plans with countless features, low system impact, coverage of up to 10 devices, and fair pricing. TotalAV, however, is suitable if you're after a budget-friendly multi-device antivirus that doesn't compromise on malware detection or device compatibility. Both offer comprehensive security features and investing in premium protection will keep your data secure and private.

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FAQ

Can I use the same antivirus on two computers?

Yes, if your antivirus plan supports multiple devices, you can use it on two or more computers. For example, Norton can secure up to 10 devices simultaneously, making it ideal for multiple computers.

Which antivirus is best for laptops and mobile phones?

Norton is the best multi-user antivirus for all devices, including laptops and mobile phones. It offers excellent malware protection, multi-device coverage, and plenty of extra features, such as anti-phishing, identity protection, and a VPN.

What’s the best affordable antivirus for protecting multiple devices?

TotalAV is the best affordable option for protecting multiple devices. It offers strong malware detection, easy-to-use apps, and coverage for up to up to 8 devices – all at a lower price than most competitors. It’s ideal if you're looking for a reliable antivirus for all devices on a budget.

What antivirus supports unlimited devices?

McAfee LiveSafe does offer unlimited device support, but I don’t recommend it due to performance issues and higher subscription costs. While McAfee provides solid protection, it can slow down your system significantly, making even basic tasks like browsing or launching programs frustratingly slow. Its strict security settings also interfere with essential tools, like development software, and many users report disruptions in their workflow. For a more reliable option, I recommend Norton, which supports up to 10 devices and offers high-quality protection without compromising system performance or user experience.