Building a complete online protection setup requires three core tools: an ad blocker for clean browsing, a VPN for connection privacy, and antivirus software for system security. In this guide, we compare three protection stacks at different price points to help you find the right combination for your needs and budget.
Budget Stack (Under $5/month)
For users on a tight budget, the best combination is uBlock Origin (free ad blocker), Proton VPN (free tier with no data limits), and Avast Free (free antivirus with solid detection rates). This stack costs nothing and provides legitimate protection across all three categories. The trade-offs are fewer features, limited VPN server locations, and occasional Avast promotional pop-ups, but the core protection is real. See our comparison of free vs paid ad blockers and the best free antivirus software for more budget options.
Mid-Range Stack ($8-12/month)
The sweet spot for most users combines AdGuard (premium ad blocker with DNS filtering), Surfshark (affordable VPN with unlimited devices and built-in CleanWeb ad blocking), and Bitdefender Total Security (top-rated antivirus with minimal system impact). This combination covers every threat vector while keeping costs reasonable, especially with annual billing. Surfshark’s CleanWeb feature adds a bonus layer of ad blocking at the VPN level. Need help deciding? Our guide on choosing the best ad blocker can help you pick the right one.
Premium Stack ($15-20/month)
For maximum protection, pair Total Adblock (comprehensive ad blocking with malware protection), NordVPN (fastest speeds with Threat Protection), and Norton 360 (perfect malware detection scores with identity theft protection and dark web monitoring). This premium stack provides redundant protection layers, identity monitoring, and the best performance in each category. Norton 360’s included VPN can serve as a backup to NordVPN.
How to Set Up Your Stack
Install your antivirus software first, as it provides the foundational system-level protection. Next, install your VPN application and configure it to connect automatically on untrusted networks. Finally, add your ad blocker as a browser extension. Ensure there are no conflicts between tools — in rare cases, an antivirus web shield may interfere with a VPN or ad blocker, but this is typically resolved by adding exceptions in the antivirus settings. For further reading, learn why a VPN is essential in 2026, whether antivirus replaces an ad blocker, and how to extend your protection to website security essentials.
