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• IPVanish launches Threat Protection Pro in beta for Windows devices
• The new tool scans for malicious downloads, phishing sites, and trackers
• It’s reserved for Advanced users and works even when the VPN is off

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IPVanish has announced the launch of Threat Protection Pro, a new advanced security tool available now in beta for Windows users. The feature is designed to move the provider beyond simple privacy tools, offering "always-on security" that actively scans for threats on your device.

While TechRadar’s reviewers already rateIPVanish 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. Powered by the enterprise-gradeVIPRE antivirus engine, Threat Protection Pro is built to block malicious websites, stop harmful downloads before they execute, and filter out intrusive ads and trackers.

The most significant 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-on protection

(Image credit: IPVanish)

Standard VPN threat protection usually relies on DNS filtering, blocking known bad domains at the network level while you are connected to a VPN server. Threat Protection Pro appears to go a step further by integrating on-device scanning capabilities.

"Threat Protection Pro expands IPVanish defense beyond VPN privacy, adding always-on security designed to help keep your device safer as 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 cybersecurity space. In April 2025, VIPRE Advanced Security received top marks in independent lab tests by AV-Comparatives. In those tests, the engine demonstrated a 98.7% detection rate against threats, placing it in the upper echelon of malware defense.

By integrating this level of scrutiny directly into the VPN client, IPVanish reinforces the industry shift towards "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

Currently, the feature is 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 opt in to test it.

IPVanish notes that because the feature is still in testing, they are "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 offering, particularly for users who want a "set and forget" security solution that doesn’t require juggling multiple apps.

If you are already an Advanced subscriber, checking out the beta is a recommended step to bolster your PC’s defenses without paying for a separateantivirus subscription.

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Rene Millman is a seasoned technology journalist whose work has appeared in The Guardian, the Financial Times, Computer Weekly, and IT Pro. With over two decades of experience as a reporter and editor, he specializes in making complex topics like cybersecurity, VPNs, and enterprise software accessible and engaging.

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