Resources
Explore NETGEAR Armor's rich feature set, FAQ's and more

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Complete Cyber Threat Security Coverage at Home and On-The-Go
NETGEAR Armor is built into your WiFi router to protect all devices on your home network, including all IoT devices. Included Bitdefender Security protects all your family's devices outside of your home.
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Bitdefender Security
Install Bitdefender Security on all your family's personal devices as part of your Armor subscription for on-the-go protection. Take this extra layer of cybersecurity and antivirus protection wherever you go for your Windows PC, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.
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Bitdefender VPN
Now included with Bitdefender Security, Bitdefender VPN gives you a more secure way to browse the web and encrypt your internet connection to keep your online activity private and worry-free. 200MB of encrypted data traffic included per day for free.
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Threats Blocked
Detects and blocks viruses, spyware, ransomware, malicious links, and other Internet scams before they even reach you.
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Unlimited Devices Covered
Complete antivirus & anti-malware protection for your Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.
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Smart Home Vulnerability Scans
Armor actively scans your WiFi network and connected devices, then notifies you if there are any detected vulnerabilities.
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Anti-Theft Protection
Bitdefender Security, as part of your Armor subscription, lets you track the location of your devices and remotely wipe any private information if your devices are lost or stolen. (includes Android and Windows Devices)
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Web Protection
Your internet browsing can expose you to potentially dangerous websites, but Armor powered by Bitdefender Security actively protects you. Web Protection, for your iOS devices, alerts you and instantly blocks webpages that possibly contain harmful malware, phishing, or other malicious content.
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Instant Alerts
Receive immediate notifications on your smartphone when threats are detected and blocked.
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Protection Level
NETGEAR Armor calculates the level of protection on your home WiFi network and gives you an overall Protection Level rating. Follow Armor's recommendations to improve your network security and increase your overall Protection Level.
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Recommendations
Review recommendations in your app to increase your Protection Level. Recommendations can include creating a guest WiFi password, enabling 2-factor authentication, or installing Bitdefender Security for on-the-go protection.
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Anomaly Detection*
Learns how devices behave using ML algorithms & cloud correlation. Anomalies in behavior are picked up and brought to attention.
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Brute Force Protection*
Intercepts successive failed login attempts, blocks subsequent requests from suspicious sources, and notifies the user. Relies on Bitdefender’s event correlation technology to prevent bots from compromising devices.
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Exploit Prevention / IDS*
Identifies and blocks exploits similar to an Intrusion Detection System: command injection attacks, local file inclusion attacks, directory traversal attacks, prevalent exploits available in metasploit. Our award-winning anti-malware engines allow us to add detection information for more exploits as they are discovered.
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DDoS Detection & Protection*
Prevents and protects against distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks on routers or cloud infrastructures. Analyses network traffic and looks at packet information related to DNS, TCP, SYN flood, or ICMP flood data. When it identifies data packets that indicate a coordinated attack, it blocks the connection at the device level.
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Sensitive Data Protection*
Blocks attempts to send credit card info, SSNs or username/password combinations over non-encrypted connections. Users can browse non-HTTPs sites but attempts to send sensitive data are redirected to a warning page.
Complete Protection for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android
Protect an unlimited number of smart devices from cyber threats with a single subscription. NETGEAR Armor provides multi-layered cybersecurity on your smartphones, computers, smart TVs, security cameras, and anything else connected in your home. If your personal devices are misplaced or stolen, NETGEAR Armor can locate them, lock them, and even wipe data remotely to make sure you don’t lose anything else. Available on Android devices and Windows laptops.
Features
Unbeatable multi-layered protection keeps your devices safe from all new and existing e-threats.
- Complete Real-Time Data Protection improved
Absolute power in the most efficient anti-malware solution available today. Bitdefender Total Security works against all e-threats, from viruses, worms and Trojans, to ransomware, zero-day exploits, rootkits and spyware. Your data and privacy are safe.
- Network Threat Prevention
Bitdefender Total Security stops attacks before they even begin. The new cyber threat intelligence technologies included can analyze and identify suspicious network-level activities, and block sophisticated exploits, malware- and botnet-related URLs, and brute force attacks.
- Advanced Threat Defense
Bitdefender Total Security uses a technique called behavioral detection to closely monitor active apps. The moment it detects anything suspicious, it takes instant action to prevent infections.
- Multi-Layer Ransomware Protection
Bitdefender’s multi-layered approach against ransomware includes a data-protection layer that safeguards your documents, pictures, videos and music against all kinds of ransomware attacks. It works with the Advanced Threat Defense module to protect your most important files from encryption by ransomware.
- Vulnerability Assessment improved
Scan for security holes and vulnerabilities with just one click. Bitdefender checks your PC for outdated and vulnerable software, missing Windows security patches and potentially unsafe system settings, then indicates the best fix.
- Web Attack Prevention
Our web-filtering technology ensures that you never land on a harmful website. Find out whether your search results are safe to access before you actually click on a link. Bitdefender Total Security also blocks all known infected links.
- Anti-Phishing
Online scams are on the rise, but our advanced anti-phishing protection easily keeps you out of danger. Bitdefender Total Security sniffs and blocks websites that masquerade as trustworthy in order to steal financial data such as passwords or credit card numbers.
- Anti-Fraud
Our advanced filtering system warns you whenever you visit websites that may try to scam you.
- Antispam
Filters irrelevant messages in your Inbox. It is available for local email clients (Microsoft Outlook, Thunderbird).
- Rescue Environment
Some sophisticated malware, like rootkits, need to be removed before Windows starts. When Bitdefender Total Security detects such threats, it reboots the computer in Rescue Environment for clean-up and restoration.
Performance
Security software reacts instantly to malware without compromising your system’s performance.
- Autopilot
Bitdefender Autopilot is designed to act as a Security Advisor and to give you deeper insights into your security posture. Its smart capabilities mean that it can recommend security actions in the context of your system needs and usage patterns.
- Bitdefender Photon™
This innovative, exclusive technology helps Bitdefender Total Security adapt to your system’s hardware and software configuration to save computing resources and improve speed and performance.
- Global Protective Network
Most heavy scanning takes place in the cloud, so there is virtually zero impact on your local resources. This means your system’s speed and performance remain unaffected. And your files are always completely private: Bitdefender does not scan the actual contents of your files, and never uploads or stores them in the cloud.
- Game, Movie & Work Profiles
Bitdefender Total Security detects when you play, work or watch a movie, so it knows not to bother you with unnecessary requests. Depending on what you are doing, Bitdefender temporarily halts pop-ups, adjusts visual settings, and pauses unimportant background activities so you can enjoy your device to the max.
- Speed Up Your Devices
Improve speed and performance for your devices with OneClick Optimizer.
- Battery Mode
This useful, intelligent feature saves battery life for laptops and tablets by temporarily tweaking system settings such as display, system cooling, system updates and Bluetooth connectivity.
Privacy
Complete protection takes care of your online privacy and personal information.
- Bitdefender VPN improved
With Bitdefender VPN, you can stop worrying about privacy on the web. It protects your online presence by encrypting all Internet traffic. Bitdefender Total Security includes up to 200 MB per day of encrypted traffic for your Windows, Android, macOS and iOS devices.
- Anti-tracker
The Anti-tracker extension blocks trackers that collect your data, and it allows you to view and manage this information on each website you visit. It keeps your browsing data private and enhances performance by loading webpages faster.
- Microphone Monitor
Regain control over your own devices with Microphone Monitor. Use it and you can see what apps have access to your device’s microphone and when.
- Webcam Protection
Protect your privacy and prevent webcam leaks. Webcam Protection notifies you when apps try to access your webcam, and lets you block unauthorized access.
- Safe Online Banking
Bank and shop from a unique, dedicated browser that secures your transactions to prevent fraud. Bitdefender Safepay can now also automatically fill out credit card details in billing fields.
- Parental Control
Parental Control offers digital help to parents and extra online safety to children. Filter out inappropriate content and limit screen time. Log in remotely to Bitdefender Central to monitor your kids’ online activities.
*Parental Control is also available on macOS, iOS and Android with a different feature set depending on each platform. - Privacy Firewall
With Bitdefender Total Security, you get a powerful layer of network protection, so your personal information stays safe from hackers and data snoops.
- Anti-Theft
Bitdefender Total Security packs effective anti-loss and anti-theft tools for your Windows laptop or tablet, remotely accessible from anywhere in the world via your Bitdefender Central account.
- WiFi Security Advisor
Assess the security of your WiFi network and router, no matter where you connect.
- Social Network Protection
Stay safe from malicious links and any online threats your friends unwittingly pass on to you via social networks.
- Password Manager
Secure your passwords, credit card information, and other sensitive data in a cyber-vault for easy access whenever you need them. Password Manager gives you the option to autofill online forms and can even recommend secure passwords.
- File Shredder
Use this tool when you wish to delete a file for good and leave no traces that it ever existed on your PC.
Features
Unbeatable multi-layered protection keeps your devices safe from all new and existing e-threats.
- Safe Files
With Bitdefender Safe Files, you can prevent unauthorized changes to your most important files. Simply add folders to the watch list, and Bitdefender guards the files stored in them against ransomware and other malware. Only applications you explicitly trust can access your Safe Files.
- Time Machine Protection
If you use Time Machine to back up your files, you’ll want this extra security layer to stay safe from sophisticated ransomware attacks. Ransomware, an extremely dangerous type of malware, acts by encrypting precious files such as pictures, videos and other documents, rendering them unusable. With this complex feature, Mac users can restore their files without having to pay ransom. Time Machine Protection gives you the edge against any malware that tries to encrypt or destroy your backups.
- Adware Blocker
Unsolicited ads popping up in your browser are unpleasant, and even Macs can pick up these intrusive adware infections that divert your focus and slow you down. Bitdefender Total Security detects and removes adware, malicious hijacker programs, unwanted toolbars and other annoying browser add-ons, so you can enjoy your Mac to the max.
- Cross-Platform Malware Detection
Your Mac may be safe from malicious content designed for Windows, but you’ll want to make sure you don’t pick it up and pass it on to PC users. Bitdefender Total Security detects and removes both malware targeting macOS and threats made for Windows, so you know the files you send to others are not compromised.
- Traffic Light (browser extension)
Bitdefender Total Security ensures protection for all your browsing, including your online shopping and banking, and can filter out inappropriate content. With automatic protection on, our artificial intelligence system scans all links before you even click on them, so you never unknowingly open harmful web pages.
- Anti-Phishing
Online scams are on the rise, but our advanced anti-phishing protection keeps you far from danger. Bitdefender Total Security sniffs and blocks websites that masquerade as trustworthy in order to steal financial data such as passwords or credit card numbers.
- Bitdefender Shield
Handles all your security needs so you don’t need to bother with the nitty-gritty. Once switched on, it combines a series of innovative proprietary technologies to automatically detect and remove any threat, with no negative impact on your Mac’s speed and performance. Turn it on and forget about it.
Performance
Security software reacts instantly to malware without compromising your system’s performance.
- Autopilot
Bitdefender Autopilot is designed to act as a Security Advisor and to give you deeper insights into your security posture. Its smart capabilities mean that it can recommend security actions in the context of your system needs and usage patterns.
- Ultra-Fast Scanning
Ironclad protection is great, but it’s even better when it comes with unrivaled speed and performance. Bitdefender Total Security combines accuracy and speed so you get ultra-fast scans and the best detection rate in the industry.
- 24/7 Cloud-Based Guard Duty
Through permanent updates, our Bitdefender security suite is always aware of zero-day attacks. We use amazingly powerful Cloud-based technologies to detect and eliminate e-threats, wherever they come from, to give you instant protection anywhere in the world. As the heavy lifting is done in the Cloud, there’s no drag on your Mac’s resources and your personal information remains safely stored on your computer.
Privacy
Complete protection takes care of your online privacy and personal information.
- Bitdefender VPN improved
With Bitdefender VPN, you can stop worrying about privacy on the web. It protects your online presence by encrypting all Internet traffic. Bitdefender Total Security includes up to 200 MB per day of encrypted traffic for your Windows, Android, macOS and iOS devices.
- Anti-tracker
The Anti-tracker extension blocks trackers that collect your data and allows you to view and manage this information on each website you visit. Keeps your browsing data private and enhances performance by loading webpages faster.
Features
Unbeatable multi-layered protection keeps your devices safe from all new and existing e-threats.
- On-Demand & On-Install Scan
Scan your Android phone or tablet any time to make sure all your apps are clean. Plus, the antivirus module automatically scans each app once you install it, and immediately lets you know whether it poses any danger.
- Web Protection
Browsing the Internet can take you to dangerous places, but Bitdefender Android security is always there to protect you. Our anti-phishing system scans webpages and warns you when you come across fraudulent pages. It filters all traffic, not only your intentional browsing, and offers real-time protection against all online dangers.
- WearON
WarON extends mobile security to your smart watch. And if you don’t know where your phone is, use WearON from your Android to activate a sound alert so you can easily find it. Receive an alert when you step too far away from your phone, so you never leave it behind.
- Anti-Theft
With Bitdefender Anti-Theft, you can remotely locate, lock, wipe or send a message to your device in case of loss or theft.
Performance
Security software reacts instantly to malware without compromising your system’s performance.
- Autopilot
Bitdefender Autopilot is designed to act as a Security Advisor and give you deeper insights into your security posture. Its smart capabilities mean that it can recommend security actions in the context of your system needs and usage patterns.
- Battery & Performance Saver
We designed Bitdefender Total Security to give you the most effective malware protection, combined with efficient power management. Since most heavy lifting takes place in the cloud, it doesn’t drain your device’s resources, and your battery life remains virtually unaffected.
- Fast & Light-Weight
Bitdefender Total Security is amazingly powerful against malware, yet easy on your phone’s resources, so you won’t see any negative impact on performance. On-demand scanning is lightning fast, and the app only adds a second to the reboot time.
Privacy
Complete protection takes care of your online privacy and personal information.
- Bitdefender VPN improved
With Bitdefender VPN, you can stop worrying about privacy on the web. It protects your online presence by encrypting all Internet traffic. Bitdefender Total Security includes up to 200 MB per day of encrypted traffic for your Windows, Android, macOS and iOS devices.
- App Lock
App Lock protects your most sensitive apps so no one can mess with your settings or private info. Bitdefender Total Security adds an extra layer of protection by giving you the possibility to lock apps with a PIN code. With Smart Unlock, you can set your phone to allow direct access to your protected apps when using a trusted WiFi network.
- Account Privacy
Check if your online accounts have been involved in any data breaches. With so many popular websites and apps issuing warnings about database leaks, it’s easy to lose track of your exposed accounts. Account Privacy notifies you when your sensitive data is at risk, and lets you take action depending on its status.
Features
Unbeatable multi-layered protection keeps your devices safe from all new and existing e-threats.
- Web Protection
Our anti-phishing system scans webpages and warns you when you come across fraudulent pages. Bitdefender Web Protection filters all traffic, not only your intentional browsing, and offers real-time protection against all online dangers.
Privacy
Complete protection takes care of your online privacy and personal information.
- Bitdefender VPN improved
With Bitdefender VPN, you can stop worrying about privacy on the web. It protects your online presence by encrypting all Internet traffic. Bitdefender Total Security includes up to 200 MB per day of encrypted traffic for your Windows, Android, macOS and iOS devices.
- Account Privacy
Check straight from your iPhone whether your online accounts have been involved in any data breaches. With so many popular websites and apps issuing warnings about database leaks, it’s easy to lose track of your exposed accounts. Account Privacy notifies you when your sensitive data is at risk, and lets you take action depending on its status.
When a cybercriminal manages to compromise an Internet-of-Things (IoT) device, they are able to get access to your private data. For example, a hacked baby monitor allows hackers to eavesdrop on you talking to your children; security cameras let them peek inside your home whenever they want; routers reveal web connections; printers can show them your documents.
NETGEAR Armor regularly scans all of your computers, phones, and IoT devices like WiFi cameras and smart thermostats for potential security risks. Armor identifies vulnerabilities such as weak passwords, default credentials, known firmware bugs, and open ports. Any time malicious threats are detected or blocked, you’ll receive instant notifications, allowing you to take any necessary action. Events that result in a notification include new devices connecting to your network, dangerous URLs being blocked, vulnerability reports being available, or an Armor firmware updates that took place. These notifications allow you to act in real-time, ensuring you and your family are safe at all times, all at your fingertips.
- Anomaly Detection
Learns how devices behave using machine learning algorithms & cloud correlation. Anomalies in behavior are picked up and brought to the user’s attention.
- DDoS Attack
A Distributed Denial of Service attack is an attempt to make an online service unavailable by overwhelming it with traffic from multiple sources.
- Brute Force Attack
In cryptography, a brute-force attack consists of an attacker submitting many passwords or passphrases with the hope of eventually guessing correctly. The attacker systematically checks all possible passwords and passphrases until the correct one is found.
- Exploit/Infected/Untrusted
Untrusted pages exhibit suspicious behavior or particularities we deem risky; therefore you should avoid accessing them to keep your data unharmed.
- Fraud
Fraudulent pages use deceptive techniques with the intent of obtaining unlawful gain. For example, a fake online shop can trick the victim into sending money in advance without delivering the order.
- Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
An intrusion detection system (IDS) is a device or software application that monitors a network or systems for malicious activity or policy violations.
- Machine Learning
Machine learning is the study of computer algorithms that improve automatically through experience and by the use of data. It is seen as a part of artificial intelligence.
- Malware
Short for "malicious software", this is the general term covering threats to your computer safety such as viruses, spyware, worms, trojans, or rootkits.
- Miner
This type of page is related to cryptocurrency mining and may attempt to use your device's resources for this purpose, thus impacting its performance and life span
- Password Stealer
A program that obtains and saves confidential data, such as user passwords (using keyloggers or other means). This program can publish the list of gained passwords, allowing third parties to use the data to the detriment of the affected user.
- Phishing
Phishing is a cybercrime in which a target is contacted by email, phone or text message by someone posing as a legitimate institution to lure individuals into providing sensitive data such as personally identifiable information, banking and credit card details, and passwords.
- PUA
This type of page contains or may serve PUA (Potentially Unwanted Apps). These apps exhibit behaviors that impact the privacy and security of the device they get installed on.
- Ransomware
Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system or computer files until a sum of money is paid. Most ransomware variants encrypt the files on the affected computer, making them inaccessible, and subject to a ransom payment demand.
- Sensitive Data
Credit Card Numbers, Social Security Numbers, Bank Accounts and Routing Numbers, Username / Password combinations are all sensitive data relating to identity and financial security.
- Spam
One of the defining characteristics of email spam is that it’s sent out in bulk, often to thousands or even millions of recipients all at once. Most spam is not particularly well-targeted. Instead of taking the time to figure out who might be interested in a particular product, spammers find it easier and cheaper to pitch their products to every email address they can get their hands on.
- Trojan
Strictly speaking, a Trojan is not a virus, although it is often thought of as such. Really, they are programs that enter computers appearing to be harmless programs, install themselves, and carry out actions that affect user confidentiality.
- URL Blocklist
Any outbound connection is checked against the Bitdefender cloud, where we keep our URL blocklist of unsafe or nonsecure websites. We currently have the best available database of malicious locations on the Internet. So no matter what page you land on, you know you’ll be safe from phishing and online fraud.
- Virus
Viruses are programs that can enter computers or IT systems in a number of ways, causing issues that range from simply annoying to highly- destructive and irreparable.
Bitdefender Security replaces your existing antivirus software on all your family's personal devices and is included at no cost with your Armor subscription. Bitdefender Security is easy to install and provides additional protection when at home or outside of your home network.

STEP 1
Connect your device to your router’s WiFi network. Then launch your Nighthawk or Orbi app. Tap Security.

STEP 2
Enter your NETGEAR account credentials, if prompted. Tap the menu icon. Then Select My Devices > All > INSTALL LOCAL PROTECTION.

STEP 3
Select Want to protect other devices? Tap the iOS or Android icon and tap Continue. Enter the email address where you want to receive a download link with further instructions. Open the Bitdefender email from your iOS device and tap GET IT ON App Store.
You must open the download link from the iOS or Android device that you want Bitdefender Security to be installed on.

STEP 4
Tap GET > Install. Bitdefender Security is now installed on your iOS device. Launch the app and follow the on-screen instructions.
Note: We recommend running a scan on your device after the installation is complete to ensure that your device is protected.
NETGEAR is committed to bringing Armor capability to a wide range of products. Here is a list of all capable products:
Five Ways to Protect Yourself from Cyber-Attacks
Smart devices have become a large part of our connected world, and they require the same level of protection as any other device on your network. Unfortunately, there are often very dire consequences of failing to protect oneself against the cyber threats such as viruses, malware, spyware, and ransomware that can plague our home network and some of these IoT smart devices.
Hackers are constantly on the prowl for new targets and have automated their methods to find and compromise vulnerable devices. In 2016, the average time for infecting an IoT system was six minutes from the moment of exposure; a year later, that average fell to two minutes. So it’s safe to assume that a connected device has to withstand a fair share of cyber-attacks.
Bitdefender research shows that there are roughly 13 smart devices or accessories in an average US home today, with predictions of about 20 or more by the end of this year. If that number seems high, think about how many laptops, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, smart entertainment devices, smart thermostats, security, and monitoring systems are in your home. Complete the picture by adding smart home appliances like coffee makers, televisions, toasters, refrigerators, and bathroom scales; and don’t forget about the various toys, and even jeans, you have that may also rely on WiFi!
Protecting your IoT gadgets starts from the moment you decide on a specific manufacturer. The consensus is to pick a vendor with a track record in upholding security and delivering timely updates for their products. The release date and support period are also an important factor. Below you can find a list of minimum precautions you can take to protect the devices on the local network.
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1Stronger Credentials
When installing the smart device, you should change the default login credentials with strong passwords. Typically, a unique passphrase is viewed as a good measure, and it should be different for each connected system, including your personal router, which acts as the internet gateway for your home network.
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2Disable Unused Features
During the configuration of the smart device, it is highly recommended to disable features you do not use and close the ports for services that allow remote access, such as FTP, SSH and especially telnet, if the device allows it. Doing this locks down the system and protects it at least from run-of-the-mill intrusion attempts. If the device does not support that, make sure that these service ports are not forwarded to the outside world in the router.
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3Additional Security Layer
Since the router is the front door to your network, it makes sense to add security to it and check what comes in. NETGEAR Armor powered by Bitdefender inspects the traffic to the devices in your home and blocks any threats aimed at them. It can also recognize the normal behavior of the systems it guards and takes action when it sees deviations.
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4Firmware Update
The to-do list for maintaining a good security standard for your connected gadgets should include maintenance, by updating them with the latest firmware version as soon as it becomes available. It is highly recommended to keep the auto firmware update turned on if the device offers this feature.
If you activate NETGEAR Armor on your router, through its Vulnerability Assessment feature you can quickly check reports on any security bugs affecting the nodes on the network, prompting you to check for an update or find a solution to lower the risk.
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5New Devices Check
It helps to be aware of when new devices join your network. If you have a record of what’s on the network, it is easier to recognize a rogue device. NETGEAR Armor automatically identifies all the connection points, and it can alert you when a new one becomes available.
The IoT segment has snowballed into our life and continues to increase its reach. Imposing a healthy security stance reduces the risk of intrusion and allows you to take advantage of the benefits of the “smart environment.” Be sure to also check out our previous blog post about Smart Home security for more info!
How Vulnerability Assessments Work
NETGEAR Armor looks for vulnerable devices and passwords then offers detailed security recommendations for your home network. Armor then correlates the information gathered from your connected devices with online vulnerability databases and gives you a thorough report so you can ensure maximum security for your network.
Many smart home devices are insecure and have critical flaws. To help you keep your network safe, Bitdefender searches for the following vulnerabilities:
- Identify Potential Cyberthreats
Armor's network vulnerability assessment identifies potential cyberthreats such as hackers getting access to admin rights on your devices, private files or photos. Armor prevents hackers from completely taking over or modifying your device's id.
- Flags Network Security Flaws
Armor scans and identifies network security flaws: backdoors, weak or default passwords, and unsecured or weak encrypted communication.
- Reports and Recommendations
When NETGEAR Armor finds vulnerabilities, you get a thorough report that includes tips on how to address your specific issues and secure your network.
- Advanced Detection and Learning
Bitdefender's infrastructure performs over 25 billion queries per day and uses reflective models and advanced machine learning algorithms to extract malware patterns, which ensures real-time, future protection against threats.
Score Analysis
What does the score and corresponding metrics mean?
Scores are calculated using many pieces of information. The majority of the score takes into consideration the following:
- Is NETGEAR Armor currently on? If your NETGEAR Armor service is on you don’t have to worry. This ensures that the router will block the traffic to Phishing links, scan your Smart Home devices and more.
- Is your router on the latest firmware? NETGEAR releases new router and WiFi System firmware regularly. Having the latest firmware ensures you have all the latest security and performance enhancing updates. Keeping up with the latest firmware updates will help boost your protection score!
- Is Bitdefender Security installed on all personal devices? Installing Bitdefender Security on your personal devices such as laptops, phones and tablets ensure and extra layer of protection, especially when outside of your home network.
- How vulnerable is your network to threats and vulnerabilities? Good network security begins with good habits. If you have a lot of insecure activity in your home network such as clicking on links that are considered targeted phishing attacks or spam attacks, then your score is lowered. The best way to boost your score is to clean up any infected devices or make sure you take action to remove the source of threats.
- You will receive Armor Recommendations based on your Protection Level needs, which are prioritized based on your home network needs. This allows you to see and address the most important vulnerabilities quickly. The Protection Level automatically refreshes every time you open the Armor app.
- NETGEAR Armor calculates your home network’s level of protection to help you understand what steps you should take to make sure your connected devices are secured.
- There are different Protection Levels, ranging from 0 (critical) to 99 (excellent), and these scores are calculated based on threats to your network traffic, vulnerable devices, password protection and strength, firmware versions, and more.
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0-59 - Your Protection Level is CriticalYour network security requires immediate attention
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60-69 - Your Protection Level is LowYour network is vulnerable and at risk from multiple cyber threats
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70-79 - Your Protection Level is ModerateMajor improvements are necessary to increase network security
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80-89 - Your Protection Level is GoodA few quick adjustments will improve your network security
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90-95 - Your Protection Level is Very GoodYour network protection is very good, minor changes will make it excellent
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95-99 - Your Protection Level is ExcellentYour network and connected devices are well protected
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A dangerous link was blockedYou may be exposed to malicious threats. Don't open attachments or links you do not recognize
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A new device has joined your networkIf unknown, block device Internet access or change your WiFi password
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A brute force attack on device was detected and blockedMajor improvements are necessary to increase network security
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A scanning attack was detected and blockedAvoid the default username/password by manufacturer for devices. Update credentials.
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Scans found devices at risk.Make sure devices have the latest firmware
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Suspicious device attempted from suspicious remote location.Make sure the device belongs to your family. If yes, make sure device has the latest firmware
What is Bitdefender VPN?
A VPN (or Virtual Private Network) is a service that allows you to connect to the Internet by the means of an encrypted and secure tunnel. This way, all your traffic stays private and anonymous. Bitdefender VPN secures your online activity so that you remain protected each time you connect to unsecured wireless networks while in airports, malls, cafés, or hotels. This way, unfortunate situations such as theft of personal data, or attempts to make your device’s IP address accessible to hackers can be avoided. Restricted content can be accessed as well, no matter the country that practices internet censorship.
When should I use Bitdefender VPN?
You have to be careful when you access, download, or upload content on the Internet. To make sure you stay safe while browsing the web, we recommend you use Bitdefender VPN when you:
- want to connect to public wireless networks
- want to access content that is normally restricted in specific areas, no matter if you are home or abroad
- want to keep your personal data private (usernames, passwords, email addresses, credit card information, etc.)
- want to hide your IP address
Can Bitdefender VPN be installed as a stand-alone app?
Bitdefender VPN is installed automatically alongside your Bitdefender security solution. It can also be installed as a standalone app from the support page, from Google Play Store & App Store.
What is the difference between Bitdefender VPN and the Premium VPN version?
Bitdefender VPN is included by default in your Bitdefender product on Windows, Android, macOS and iOS. It offers 200MB daily traffic per device (a 500MB daily traffic quota is included only in Bitdefender Small Office Security subscriptions) and automatically connects you to the optimal server, without having the possibility to change it. You can purchase the Bitdefender Premium VPN subscription to get unlimited traffic and the option to connect to any available server. The benefits of the Premium version will get unlocked once you activate the subscription.
Will Bitdefender share my IP address and personal data shared with third parties?
No, with Bitdefender VPN your privacy is 100% safe. Nobody (advertising agencies, ISP’s, insurance companies, etc.) will have access to your personal information.
Can I have access to GEO-IP restricted content?
With Premium VPN you have access to an extensive network of virtual locations all over the world.
Will Bitdefender VPN have a negative impact on the battery life of my device?
Bitdefender VPN is designed to protect your personal data, hide your IP address while connected to unsecured wireless networks, and access restricted content in certain countries. To avoid unnecessary battery consumption of your device, we recommend you use the VPN only when you need it and disconnect when offline.
Is Bitdefender Premium VPN a different subscription?
Yes, Bitdefender Premium VPN is a separate subscription from the Bitdefender security solution one.
What happens when my Bitdefender security solution’s subscription expires but I still have an active Premium VPN subscription?
Once your Bitdefender subscription expires your device will no longer be protected against threats and you will not be warned when trying to access dangerous sites. However, the Premium VPN functionality will still be available in the product.
Why am I encountering internet slowdowns while connected with Bitdefender VPN?
Bitdefender VPN is designed to offer you a light experience while surfing the web; however, your internet connectivity or the server distance you connect to may cause a slowdown. In this case, if it is not a must to connect from your location to a faraway hosted server (e.g., from the USA to China), we recommend you allow Bitdefender VPN to automatically connect you to the nearest server, or find a server closer to your current location.
How many devices do my Premium VPN subscription cover?
Regardless of the subscription type, Premium VPN can be used on a maximum of 10 devices at once. If your Bitdefender security solution includes a Premium VPN subscription (e.g., Bitdefender Premium Security), then the VPN will inherit the device limit in that bundle (10, 15, etc.). It can protect the same number of devices as your Bitdefender security solution subscription but no more than 10 devices connected at a time. However, if your Bitdefender Security solution does not include a Premium VPN subscription (such as Bitdefender Family Pack that covers up to 15 devices) when you purchase a Premium VPN subscription it will cover only 10 devices, not 15.
How do I troubleshoot VPN connection errors?
If you encounter issues while using Bitdefender VPN, you can try to solve them by following the instructions provided in this article – Troubleshooting Bitdefender VPN errors.
Notification Overview
NETGEAR Armor will anticipate, detect, and instantly block even the newest threats before they can cause you any trouble. NETGEAR Armor will send you notifications about the threats listed here:

New Device
NETGEAR Armor triggers this notification when a new device has joined your network. Please make sure this device belongs to you, a family member, or a friend. If this device is unknown to you, you can easily block internet access by visiting device details in the app.
If unknown devices are connecting to your network, you can always block their internet access or change your WiFi password.
Dangerous URL
NETGEAR Armor triggers this notification when NETGEAR Armor blocks a dangerous link.
The notification will communicate:
- The blocked URL
- The device accessing the URL
- The URL name
Some websites may expose you to malicious threats. Please make sure that you don’t open an attachment or a link that you do not recognize.


Vulnerability Report
Vulnerability Reports let you know if any devices added to your network are not yours or do not belong to your family. These reports will also help uncover default usernames and passwords that the manufacturer set for your devices - especially IoT devices like cameras, thermostats, lights, and doorbells - that would allow unwanted access to hackers.
Armor will notify you of any firmware updates to be sure your protection is up to date with the latest OS version and NETGEAR firmware.
Network Attack
NETGEAR Armor triggers this notification when Armor blocks a network attack.
A network attack is an attempt to gain unauthorized access to your network, with the objective of stealing data or performing other malicious activity. Attackers try to gain access to unprotected networks in order to eavesdrop on private activities or steal sensitive information. With NETGEAR Armor, you don't need to worry. Your devices are safe because they are protected at the router level in your home network and Bitdefender Security protects your devices when out of your home.
To ensure your network is not vulnerable, please make sure you change the default credentials on devices, especially IoT devices, and make sure you choose a strong password. Passwords should be 6-8 characters long, with alphanumeric, uppercase, and lowercase characters. Also, make sure your IoT devices are up to date with the latest firmware.


Privacy Threat
NETGEAR Armor sends this notification when NETGEAR Armor A.I. detects that a device is attempting to send unencrypted sensitive data. The notification will provide details about:
- An attempt to connect to a suspicious remote location
- The suspicious location IP address and URL
- The device name that is attempting to connect
Botnet Behavior and Network Attack Blocked
A botnet is a collection of internet-connected devices infected by malware that allow hackers to control them. Cybercriminals use botnets to instigate botnet attacks, which include malicious activities such as credential leaks, unauthorized access, data theft, and DDoS attacks.
NETGEAR Armor sends this notification when NETGEAR Armor A.I. detects that a device is attempting to connect to a Command & Control / Botnet server.

How to transfer Armor subscription to a new router?
Please contact NETGEAR Support and we can do this for you.
Can't find your trial activation or renewal code?
Your Armor activation and/or renewal code will be emailed to you. If you do not see the email, please check your spam folder.
If you still having trouble finding your code, we recommend contacting NETGEAR Support .
Please note, that if your Armor subscription was purchased directly from the NETGEAR online store, an activation code is not required because Armor is automatically activated for you.
How do I check my NETGEAR Armor protection level?
NETGEAR Armor ranks the security of your home network and connected devices. This ranking is shown as a protection level score and ranges from 0 (critical) to 99 (excellent). Learn more
How do I unblock URLS in NETGEAR Armor?
NETGEAR Armor automatically blocks suspicious and potentially dangerous websites in order to secure your network. Learn more
What is NETGEAR Armor device detection and how does it work?
NETGEAR routers are able to detect any devices connected to your network and display them in the NETGEAR Armor portal. Learn more
How does the NETGEAR Armor URL database work?
NETGEAR Armor uses Bitdefender technology to intercept all outgoing Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) requests. Learn more
I get an error when I try to activate NETGEAR Armor, what do I do?
If you get a “Device offline” error when you try to activate NETGEAR Armor, turn remote management on and off using the Nighthawk app. Learn more
30-day Free Trial Activation
To activate NETGEAR Armor using the Nighthawk or Orbi app:
- Connect your mobile device to your router's WiFi network
- Launch the Orbi or Nighthawk app
- Tap Security
- Enter your NETGEAR account credentials and tap the NETGEAR SIGN IN button
- Tap ACTIVATE
- Tap Security from your Orbi or Nighthawk app dashboard to launch NETGEAR Armor
How to Purchase
To purchase Armor:
- Launch the Orbi or Nighthawk App
- Tap Security
- Armor detects that your subscription status and a screen displays with subscription information
- Tap Confirm
- Provide the required payment information
- Tap the confirmation button at the bottom of your screen to confirm your purchase
- Note: Please allow 24 hours for Armor activation to take effect