Google Chrome is one of the most popular web browsers in the world, but using it effectively means more than just downloading the browser. To stay safe online, protect your privacy, manage your credentials, and keep your data backed up, you’ll want to pair Chrome with the right tools.
This guide covers four essential categories of software that work well alongside Chrome: VPNs for privacy, password managers for security, antivirus software for protection, and backup tools to keep your files safe.
VPNs for Chrome
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, providing privacy and security when browsing with Chrome. VPNs are particularly useful when using public Wi-Fi networks, accessing geo-restricted content, or simply keeping your browsing activity private from your ISP.
Most VPN providers offer Chrome extensions that make it easy to connect directly from your browser, though for full device protection, you’ll want to use their desktop applications.
VPN Comparison
| VPN Provider | Starting Price | Free Option | Chrome Extension | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | $3.39/mo (2-year plan) | No | Yes | Overall protection & speed |
| ExpressVPN | $6.67/mo (1-year plan) | No | Yes | Ease of use & reliability |
| Surfshark | $2.29/mo (2-year plan) | No | Yes | Budget-friendly, unlimited devices |
| ProtonVPN | $4.99/mo (2-year plan) | Yes | Yes | Privacy-focused, free tier available |
What to Consider
ProtonVPN stands out as the only option with a genuinely usable free tier. The free plan includes unlimited data (though limited to servers in 3 countries and slower speeds). This makes it an excellent choice if you want to try a VPN before committing to a paid subscription.
NordVPN and Surfshark offer the best value for long-term subscriptions, with Surfshark being notably cheaper and allowing unlimited simultaneous device connections.
ExpressVPN is generally considered the most user-friendly and consistently fast, though it comes at a premium price.
Password Managers for Chrome
Chrome has a built-in password manager, but dedicated password managers offer more features, better security, and work across all your browsers and devices. A good password manager generates strong, unique passwords for every site and fills them in automatically.
All major password managers integrate seamlessly with Chrome through browser extensions, making the login experience effortless.
Password Manager Comparison
| Password Manager | Starting Price | Free Option | Chrome Extension | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1Password | $2.99/mo | No (14-day trial) | Yes | Families & teams, polished experience |
| Bitwarden | $10/year (premium) | Yes | Yes | Free users, open-source advocates |
| Dashlane | $4.99/mo | Limited (25 passwords) | Yes | Built-in VPN, dark web monitoring |
| LastPass | $3/mo | Limited (one device type) | Yes | Basic password management |
What to Consider
Bitwarden is the clear winner for anyone on a budget. Its free tier is remarkably generous, offering unlimited passwords across unlimited devices. The $10/year premium tier adds features like advanced 2FA options and encrypted file storage. Being open-source, Bitwarden’s security can be independently verified.
1Password is widely regarded as having the best user experience and is particularly strong for families (up to 5 members for $4.99/mo) or teams. It lacks a free tier but offers a 14-day trial.
Dashlane bundles additional features like a VPN and dark web monitoring, which may appeal to users who want an all-in-one solution.
LastPass has faced several security incidents in recent years, which has affected its reputation. While it remains functional, many security-conscious users have migrated to alternatives.
Antivirus Software for Chrome Users
While Chrome includes built-in protection against malicious downloads and phishing sites, a dedicated antivirus solution provides an additional layer of defense. Modern antivirus software protects against malware, ransomware, and other threats that might slip through browser defenses.
Windows users already have Windows Defender built in, which provides solid baseline protection at no cost.
Antivirus Comparison
| Antivirus | Starting Price | Free Option | Chrome Extension | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malwarebytes | $44.99/year | Yes (scan only) | Yes (Browser Guard) | Malware removal, second opinion scanner |
| Norton 360 | $49.99/year | No (7-day trial) | Yes (Safe Web) | Comprehensive protection suite |
| Bitdefender | $29.99/year | Yes (Windows only) | Yes (TrafficLight) | Excellent detection rates, low system impact |
| Windows Defender | Free (built into Windows) | Yes | No | Windows users who want no-cost protection |
What to Consider
Windows Defender (now called Microsoft Defender) has improved significantly and consistently scores well in independent testing. For most Windows users practicing safe browsing habits, it provides sufficient protection at no additional cost.
Malwarebytes is excellent as a supplementary scanner. Its free version can detect and remove malware that other antivirus programs might miss. The Browser Guard extension for Chrome blocks ads, trackers, and malicious sites.
Bitdefender consistently ranks at the top of independent antivirus tests and has minimal impact on system performance. Its free version for Windows provides basic but effective protection.
Norton 360 offers a comprehensive suite including VPN, password manager, and cloud backup, making it suitable for users who prefer an all-in-one solution.
Backup Tools
Regular backups protect your important files from hardware failure, ransomware, accidental deletion, and other disasters. Cloud backup services automatically and continuously back up your files, ensuring you can recover your data from anywhere.
Backup Service Comparison
| Backup Service | Starting Price | Free Option | Storage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backblaze | $99/year | No (15-day trial) | Unlimited | Simple, unlimited computer backup |
| iDrive | $79.50/year | Yes (10GB) | 5TB (first year deal) | Multiple devices, business use |
| Google Drive | $19.99/year (100GB) | Yes (15GB) | 15GB free, up to 2TB paid | Chrome users, Google ecosystem |
What to Consider
Backblaze is the simplest solution for backing up a single computer. You install it, and it automatically backs up everything (except system files) with unlimited storage. It’s a “set it and forget it” solution that just works.
iDrive offers more flexibility, allowing you to back up multiple computers and mobile devices to a single account. It also includes features like disk image backup and iDrive Express (physical drive shipping for large restores).
Google Drive integrates naturally with Chrome and the Google ecosystem. With 15GB free, it’s useful for backing up your most important documents. The desktop app can sync specific folders from your computer. For Chrome users already signed into a Google account, it’s the most convenient option for basic file backup.
Summary
Choosing the right tools to complement Chrome depends on your needs and budget. Here are our recommendations:
- Best free combination: ProtonVPN (free tier) + Bitwarden (free) + Windows Defender + Google Drive (15GB free)
- Best value paid combination: Surfshark + Bitwarden Premium + Bitdefender + Backblaze
- Premium all-in-one approach: NordVPN + 1Password + Norton 360 (includes backup)
Whatever tools you choose, the most important thing is to actually use them. A free password manager you use is infinitely better than a premium one gathering dust, and any backup is better than no backup at all.