Bitdefender Total Security v25 introduced a new release schedule and an improved user interface

Everyone needs some form of protection against online threats, and although Windows has strengthened its security over the years, it only offers basic protection. For those looking for additional layers of protection, for example, a more configurable firewall or proactive protection against ransomware, a paid security product is essential.

Separating the wheat from the chaff can be difficult in a crowded market, but the powerful Bitdefender Total Security 25.0 is a product that continues to score highly in independent tests.

Version 25.0 (equivalent to 2021) is rolling out to all computers in the world. Highlights include a redesigned user interface, an improved ransomware repair tool, and a redesigned VPN app and service. Bitdefender is also moving to a service model, which means that important changes will be made throughout the year that will not be added to more important annual updates.

The Bitdefender 25.0 user interface is not only getting a facelift, it is also easier to navigate. The logical paths follow the main sections: Dashboard, Protection, Privacy and Utilities.

The dashboard now focuses on providing shortcuts to key scans, Safepay's sandbox browser feature, and VPN tool. There is also user customizable free space to add a shortcut of your choice.

Bitdefender Total Security's radically redesigned VPN tool changes the underlying protection: AnchorShield Free is replaced by the Hydra Catapult VPN protocol. There's also a new internet kill switch, support for US Netflix, and apps on all major platforms. The version that comes with your Total Security subscription has some limitations: you can't choose where to log in from, and each device is limited to 200MB of bandwidth per day.

If you dig into the new dashboard view, you'll find that redundant features including File Vault, Startup Optimizer, and Disk Cleanup have been removed and removed. Also missing is Safe Files, a ransomware-fighting tool that allows users to set up protected folders. Any application or process trying to access these folders was automatically blocked until the user set a specific exclusion from access.

In fact, the functionality has been incorporated into Ransomware Remediation, which works more proactively at the system level to block ransomware attacks. Users can manually configure trusted applications through Protection> Ransomware Fixes> Exceptions if necessary.

Other functions that are still available in Bitdefender 25.0 are the password manager, the anti-tracker for the most popular web browsers, the one-click optimizer and the data destruction program.

Today, many households have multiple devices connected to the internet, and Bitdefender Total Security works on all major platforms: Windows and Mac on desktop and Android and iOS on mobile devices. Securing all of these features can be a balancing act with traditional licenses limiting you to three or five devices.

Fortunately, Bitdefender offers a generous family pack of 15 devices that can be freely distributed among your family or home to ensure everyone is protected, no matter what device they are on.