- IPVanish launches Threat Protection Pro in beta for Windows devices
- The new tool looks 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. The feature is designed to take the provider beyond simple privacy tools, offering “always-on security” that actively scans for threats on your device.
While TechRadar 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 suites. Threat Protection Pro, powered by the enterprise-grade VIPRE antivirus engine, is designed to block malicious websites, stop harmful downloads before they run, and filter out intrusive ads and trackers.
The biggest improvement over the standard Threat Protection feature is its independence. According to the company’s announcement, the Pro version “works even when your VPN is not connected,” providing a persistent layer of defense that doesn’t depend on an encrypted tunnel being active.
Always-on protection
Standard VPN threat protection typically relies on DNS filtering, which blocks known bad domains at the network level while connected to a VPN server. Threat Protection Pro appears to go a step further by integrating scanning capabilities into the device.
“Threat Protection Pro extends IPVanish’s defense beyond VPN privacy, adding always-on security designed to help keep your device safer while you browse, download, and explore online,” the company said in a blog post. “It’s part of our ongoing mission to protect not just your connection, but your entire online experience.”
The engine behind the tool, VIPRE, has a strong pedigree in the cybersecurity space. In April 2025, VIPRE Advanced Security received top marks in independent laboratory tests conducted by AV-Comparatives. In those tests, the engine demonstrated a 98.7% detection rate against threats, putting it in the upper echelon of malware defense.
By integrating this level of scrutiny directly into the VPN client, IPVanish reinforces the industry’s shift toward “all-in-one” digital protection apps and follows a trend set by competitors like 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
The feature is currently available exclusively to Windows users subscribed to the IPVanish Advanced plan. Because the tool is in beta, it is not enabled by default, so users will need to manually register to try it out.
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 broader rollout.
This addition adds significant value to IPVanish’s offering, particularly for users who want a “set it and forget it” security solution that doesn’t require juggling multiple applications.
If you’re already an advanced subscriber, checking out the beta is a recommended step to bolster your PC’s defenses without paying for a separate antivirus subscription.
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