- IPVanish launches Threat Protection Pro in beta for Windows devices
- The new tool scans for malicious downloads, phishing sites and trackers
- It is reserved for advanced users and works even when the VPN is turned off
IPVanish has announced the launch of Threat Protection Pro, a new advanced security tool now available in beta for Windows users. Designed to move the provider beyond simple privacy tools, the feature offers “always-on security” that actively scans for threats on your device.
While TechRadar’s reviewers already rate IPVanish as one of the best VPN services on the market for its speed and interface, this update aims to compete directly with comprehensive security packages. Powered by the enterprise-class VIPRE antivirus engine, Threat Protection Pro is built to block malicious websites, stop malicious downloads before they execute, and filter out intrusive ads and trackers.
The main upgrade over the standard Threat Protection feature is its independence. According to the company’s announcement, the Pro version works even when your VPN isn’t connected, providing a persistent layer of defense that doesn’t rely on an encrypted tunnel being active.
Always active protection
Standard VPN threat protection usually relies on DNS filtering, which blocks known bad domains at the network level while connected to a VPN server. Threat Protection Pro seems to go a step further by integrating on-device scanning capabilities.
“Threat Protection Pro extends IPVanish defenses beyond VPN privacy, adding always-on security designed to help keep your device more secure while you browse, download and explore online,” the company stated in a blog post. “It’s part of our continued mission to protect not just your connection, but your entire online experience.”
The engine behind the tool, VIPRE, has a strong pedigree in the cyber security space. In April 2025, VIPRE Advanced Security received top marks in independent laboratory tests by AV-Comparatives. In these tests, the engine demonstrated a 98.7% detection rate against threats, placing it in the top tier of malware defense.
By integrating this level of control directly into the VPN client, IPVanish reinforces the industry shift towards “all-in-one” digital protection apps and follows a trend set by competitors such as NordVPN, which also offers a ‘Pro’ version of its own Threat Protection tool capable of scanning files for malware.
How to try Threat Protection Pro
Currently, the feature is only available to Windows users who subscribe to the IPVanish Advanced plan. Since the tool is in beta, it is not enabled by default, so users will have to manually sign up to test it.
IPVanish notes that because the feature is still in testing, they’re “keeping things high-level for now,” but the goal is to gather real-world feedback to fine-tune the detection capabilities before a wider rollout.
This addition adds significant value to the IPVanish offering, especially for users who want a “set and forget” security solution that doesn’t require juggling multiple apps.
If you’re already an advanced subscriber, checking out the beta version is a recommended step to strengthen your PC’s defenses without paying for a separate antivirus subscription.
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