Advertising / affiliate disclosure: We may receive a commission for purchases through the marked affiliate link. This buying guide is not our own product test.
Checked: 23 September 2026. This buying guide covers the Austrian offer. It is an editorial assessment of manufacturer documentation, not our own laboratory test. Features depend on the operating system and subscription variant.
A quick way to choose
Essential is the starting point for device protection, anti-phishing and safer banking. Premium is worth considering when you need LiveGuard, protection for selected folders, data encryption and a VPN. Ultimate adds features including identity protection, ransomware remediation and router VPN. Choose the functions you will actually use, not simply the highest tier.
Differences to check before buying
- Essential: Core protection for supported devices. The Windows feature list includes a firewall and network attack protection. This does not mean that every Windows feature is available on a Mac or phone.
- Premium: Adds LiveGuard, Folder Guard and Secure Data to the Windows offering. The Austrian product page lists VPN for up to three devices. Treat the VPN allowance separately from the number of protected devices purchased.
- Ultimate: Adds identity protection and ransomware remediation. The Austrian offer lists VPN for up to ten devices and VPN for compatible routers. A VPN replaces neither antivirus protection nor backups.
List your devices and needs first
Write down each device's operating system and version, and the number of installations needed at the same time. Then check the feature list for that specific platform. On iPhone and iPad, ESET offers selected additional functions, not a full antivirus scanner comparable to Windows. Windows ARM has a separate feature list; do not assume Secure Data is included on that platform.
For example, someone who already has a suitable VPN and does not need additional encryption should assess the Premium surcharge against an actual benefit. A family wanting VPN access on several devices needs to check the VPN limit itself. More antivirus device slots do not automatically mean an identical VPN allowance.
Compare prices fairly
Compare the same country, device count and subscription duration. Distinguish a new purchase from renewal and temporary discounts. Before paying, check the final price including taxes, automatic renewal and the later renewal price. This guide deliberately does not quote an unverified current euro price or repeat an expired summer promotion. The specific Austrian shop offer is what matters.
What no package replaces
A higher tier does not guarantee protection against every attack. Updates, multifactor authentication and verified separate backups remain necessary. Do not confuse ransomware remediation with a complete backup. We do not present performance or detection claims as results of our own testing.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Ultimate just for several devices? No. Device count and protection tier are separate purchasing decisions. Consider the additional functions and available subscription configuration.
Does Premium still lack a VPN? Not according to the Austrian page checked on 23 September 2026: it includes VPN for up to three devices. Older comparisons may be outdated here.
Which tier do we recommend? Essential for clearly defined basic needs; Premium when its extras offer a concrete benefit; Ultimate only when you need its additions. Use a suitable trial to check usability and compatibility before buying.
Check the Austrian ESET offer (affiliate link)