Surfshark One+ is a bundled subscription that combines a VPN, ad blocker, and antivirus software into one service
Surfshark One+ packages three separate tools under a single subscription: a virtual private network (VPN) that masks your internet activity and location, an ad blocker that removes ads from websites and apps, and antivirus software that scans your device for malware. The 1-year subscription plan locks in a set price for twelve months of access to all three tools across multiple devices.
The VPN component encrypts your internet traffic so that websites and your internet service provider cannot see which sites you visit. The ad blocker works on your browser and some apps to remove display ads, pop-ups, and tracking scripts. The antivirus runs in the background to detect and remove threats like viruses, trojans, and ransomware. You can use the subscription on multiple devices — the exact number depends on your plan tier, but typically ranges from five to ten simultaneous connections.
When you purchase a 1-year subscription, you pay upfront for twelve months of service. Your access renews automatically after the year ends unless you cancel before the renewal date. Surfshark offers the subscription through its website and through third-party retailers; the price and renewal terms may vary depending on where you purchase.
Key Takeaways
- Surfshark One+ combines a VPN, ad blocker, and antivirus into one subscription that works on multiple devices at the same time.
- The 1-year plan requires payment upfront and renews automatically after twelve months unless you cancel in advance.
- The VPN encrypts your internet traffic; the ad blocker removes ads from websites and apps; the antivirus scans for malware.
- You can use the subscription on five to ten devices simultaneously, depending on which tier you choose.
- Surfshark One+ is a commercial service, not a government program, and you purchase it directly from the company or authorized retailers.
How the VPN component works
The VPN routes your internet connection through Surfshark's servers before reaching the websites you visit. This means the website sees the IP address of Surfshark's server instead of your own IP address, which normally reveals your approximate location and internet service provider. Your internet service provider sees that you are connected to a VPN but cannot see which websites you visit or what data you send.
Surfshark operates servers in multiple countries. When you connect to the VPN, you can choose which country's server to route through, which changes the location that websites see. This is useful if you want to access content restricted to certain regions, though you should check the terms of service for any website you visit — some services prohibit VPN use.
The VPN runs continuously once you turn it on, protecting all internet traffic from your device. You can pause it temporarily if a website or app does not work properly with the VPN active. The subscription includes unlimited data, so there is no cap on how much you can use.
What the ad blocker and antivirus do
The ad blocker component, called CleanWeb, removes ads, pop-ups, and tracking pixels from websites and some mobile apps. It works by filtering out requests to known ad networks before they load on your screen. This speeds up page loading and reduces the number of companies that can track your browsing activity. CleanWeb also blocks malicious websites that are known to distribute malware or phishing attacks.
The antivirus component scans your device for malware, viruses, trojans, ransomware, and other threats. It runs scheduled scans in the background and can also scan files on demand. If it detects a threat, it quarantines the file and alerts you. The antivirus does not replace the built-in security tools on your device — Windows Defender, macOS security, or Android's Play Protect — but adds an extra layer of detection.
Neither the ad blocker nor the antivirus requires separate configuration. Both start working automatically once you install the Surfshark One+ app. You can adjust settings like which websites to exclude from ad blocking or how often to run antivirus scans, but the defaults work for most users.
Devices you can use and simultaneous connections
Surfshark One+ works on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. You can install the app on as many devices as you own, but the number of devices that can be connected to the VPN at the same time depends on your subscription tier. Most 1-year plans allow five to ten simultaneous connections; check Surfshark's current pricing page to confirm the limit for the specific plan you are considering.
A simultaneous connection means a device that is actively using the VPN at that moment. If you have five simultaneous connections allowed and you connect your phone, laptop, and tablet, you have used three of them. You can disconnect one device and connect another without losing your subscription. If you reach your limit and try to connect another device, the VPN will either refuse the connection or disconnect the oldest active connection, depending on Surfshark's current settings.
The ad blocker and antivirus also work on multiple devices under the same subscription, though they may have separate connection limits. Check the app settings on each device to confirm all three components are active.
How payment and renewal work
When you purchase a 1-year subscription, you pay the full annual price upfront. Surfshark charges your payment method (credit card, PayPal, cryptocurrency, or other options depending on availability) when ready. You receive a confirmation email with your account details and a link to read the app.
Your subscription runs for exactly twelve months from the date you purchase. Near the end of the year, Surfshark sends you a reminder email that your renewal is coming. If you do nothing, your payment method is charged automatically on the renewal date and your service continues for another year. If you want to cancel, you must do so before the renewal date. Most subscription services allow you to cancel through your account settings on their website; you do not need to contact customer support.
Surfshark's refund policy varies by region and payment method. Some purchases are covered by a money-back may provide within a certain number of days; others are not. Check the terms at the point of purchase or contact Surfshark's support team to understand the refund terms for your specific order.
Where to purchase and price variations
You can purchase Surfshark One+ directly from Surfshark's website or through authorized retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or other app stores. The price differs depending on where you buy and whether a promotion is running. Surfshark frequently offers discounts on longer subscription periods — for example, a 2-year plan may cost less per month than a 1-year plan. Prices also vary by region and currency.
If you purchase through a retailer, the terms of service and refund policy may differ from Surfshark's direct website. Read the retailer's return policy before completing your purchase. Some retailers allow returns within a certain window; others do not.
Surfshark occasionally runs promotional pricing for new customers. These deals typically appear on the main website and are advertised via email. Existing customers renewing their subscription usually do not receive the same promotional rate unless they cancel and sign up again as a new customer.
Common questions about using Surfshark One+
Many users wonder whether using a VPN is legal. VPNs themselves are legal in most countries, though some nations restrict or ban them. Using a VPN does not make illegal activity legal — if you use a VPN to access content that is illegal in your country, you are still breaking the law. Surfshark's terms of service prohibit using the service for illegal purposes.
Another common question is whether the VPN slows down your internet. Encrypting and routing traffic through another server does add some latency and can reduce speed slightly. The amount varies depending on which server you connect to, your original internet speed, and network congestion. Most users report the slowdown is minor and unnoticeable for everyday browsing, though it may be more noticeable for activities like online gaming or video streaming.
Users also ask whether Surfshark keeps logs of their activity. Surfshark publishes a privacy policy stating that it does not log your browsing activity, IP address, or connection timestamps. However, you are trusting Surfshark's word on this — you cannot independently verify what data the company stores. If privacy is your primary concern, read Surfshark's privacy policy and terms of service carefully before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Surfshark One+ on my work computer?
Yes, you can install it on any device you own. However, check your employer's policies first — some workplaces prohibit VPN use on company networks or devices. If you use a VPN on a work device connected to your company's network, your employer's IT department may detect it and restrict your access.
What happens if I cancel before the year is up?
If you cancel mid-subscription, your access ends on the cancellation date. Whether you receive a refund depends on Surfshark's refund policy and how long you have had the subscription. Most subscriptions do not offer prorated refunds for partial years, but check your confirmation email or contact support to confirm the policy for your purchase.
Does Surfshark One+ work in countries that restrict VPNs?
Surfshark may not work reliably in countries that actively block VPN services, such as China, Russia, or Iran. Surfshark publishes information about which countries restrict VPN use on its website. If you travel to or live in a restricted country, research current conditions before purchasing.
Can I share my subscription with family members?
You can install the app on multiple devices and share login credentials, but Surfshark's terms of service typically restrict sharing to people in your household. Sharing with people outside your home may violate the terms. The simultaneous connection limit also means only a certain number of devices can be connected at once, even if multiple people share the account.
How do I cancel my subscription?
Log into your Surfshark account on the website, navigate to your subscription or account settings, and look for a cancel or manage subscription option. Most services allow you to cancel when ready through this menu. If you cannot find the option, contact Surfshark's support team through their website or email.