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Kaspersky alternatives

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Best Kaspersky alternatives for 2024

In light of the US government’s ban on Kaspersky’s antivirus software, customers are urgently exploring reliable alternatives to stay secure online.

Here are the best Kaspersky alternatives to bolster your internet safety.

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Exploring the best Kaspersky alternatives

Keep your devices safe with one of these leading antivirus solutions.

Surfshark Antivirus

Surfshark Antivirus comes with key features, such as Webcam Protection and 24/7 malware detection, to defend up to five devices from even the most advanced threats. Extra safety measures like Real-time Protection and a Ransomware Shield provide enhanced safety online. It’s flexible enough to work on Windows, Android, and macOS devices.

Surfshark Antivirus is part of the Surfshark One bundle, an all-in-one cybersecurity suite that combines antivirus software with a flagship VPN service and security tools like Alert, Search, and Alternative ID.

What are the benefits of bundling? Surfshark VPN encrypts all incoming and outgoing traffic, adding an extra layer of security to your device. The Antivirus deals with existing threats, and the VPN helps thwart emerging ones — giving users a secure, private online experience.

Price: Under a two-year subscription, Surfshark One costs $2.69/month ($32.28/year) and provides simultaneous antivirus protection for up to five devices. Yearly and monthly plans are also available, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Norton Antivirus

Norton Antivirus is a solid choice for advanced users looking for a comprehensive Kaspersky alternative — and willing to pay a premium for it.

Norton comes prebuilt with all the antivirus tools you’d expect, whether that’s ransomware protection, parental controls, or cloud backup storage.

That said, you’ll find additional features like dark web monitoring, a smart firewall, and a password manager that provide more robust antivirus protection.

Price: At $29.99 for the first year, Norton’s AntiVirus Plus plan is their least expensive — but it comes with limited features and only works on one device. To unlock every feature, go with their Deluxe plan, which costs $49.99 for the first year. A free version is available for a 30-day trial period.

Bitdefender

Bitdefender boasts lightweight antivirus software that suits users who want a straightforward program that doesn’t compromise performance.

Like Kaspersky Antivirus, Bitdefender offers multilayer malware protection, a digital file shredder, a password manager, and a host of security features to shield against phishing websites.

Bitdefender is one of the more streamlined security suites. It lets users take a hands-off approach while running their performance optimization tools. It has no slowdowns and minimal impact on your device — even when running a full system scan.

Price: A free version is available for Microsoft Windows. Bitdefender’s standard Antivirus Plus plan costs $34.99/year, but it only secures three devices. For more features — including support for iOS devices and sturdier identity protection — you can opt for their $89.99/year Ultimate Security plan.

McAfee

McAfee’s antivirus software is one of the oldest — and most recognizable — Kaspersky alternatives. With a long-standing reputation in cybersecurity, McAfee Antivirus is known for its reliability and broad network protection.

Users can take advantage of key features like web protection, identity monitoring, parental controls, and expert online support. A firewall and real-time malware detection ensure a durable defense against emerging threats. McAfee’s VPN service offers a secure, private browsing experience, too.

Price: A 30-day trial gives you access to a free version, but new customers can enjoy their basic plan on a single device for $29.99/year. A range of other plans are available, stretching to the exclusive McAfee+ Ultimate, which users can splurge on for $199.99/year.

Avast One

Avast One is a globally known Kaspersky alternative and a trusted network security solution. Its portfolio of products — for personal and business use — emphasizes user-friendly interfaces and effective malware detection capabilities.

Avast’s security suite is designed to keep your devices safe from evolving threats. It delivers ransomware protection, safeguards against data breaches, and isolates viruses and malware samples.

Additional features — like a system updater, automatic system scans, and identity theft protection — allow for continuous monitoring and greater online safety.

Price: Avast’s basic plan includes free antivirus software. Three paid tiers unlock more features, with the premium Platinum option going for $119.88/year.

ESET Endpoint Security

ESET Endpoint Security is one of the best antivirus options for advanced users and businesses that want more sophisticated defense.

Endpoint protection solutions don’t just reactively eliminate threats — they’re system optimization tools that prevent attacks across your entire network of devices.

ESET’s products combine endpoint detection with key features like parental controls, webcam protection, and a password manager, making it a great choice for larger organizations — and an excellent alternative to any Kaspersky internet security tools.

Price: ESET’s Essential plan starts at $59.99/year, but its premium business plans can run as high as $287.72/year.

Note: Prices are valid as of September 1, 2024.

Why do I need to switch from Kaspersky?

On June 20, 2024, the US government banned Kaspersky Lab, makers of Kaspersky Antivirus, from selling its products in the United States.

The ban stems from security concerns over the company’s potential ties to the Russian government, which put the personal data of US citizens at risk.

Millions of customers — individuals and businesses alike — are on the lookout for the best Kaspersky alternative, and making the switch is key to upholding their online safety.

In addition, the forced transfer of US customers to UltraAV is pushing many users at home and abroad to replace Kaspersky.

Kaspersky transfers US customers to UltraAV without their consent

On September 19, 2024, Kaspersky began removing its antivirus software from US-based computers and replacing it with UltraAV, an entirely different product from American cybersecurity firm Pango.

The problem? This transfer from Kaspersky to UltraAV was done without the consent or knowledge of US customers. The company announced that a switch was coming but didn’t say when it would happen or that UltraAV would be automatically installed.

To make matters worse, uninstalling UltraAV has proven difficult for many users, and Kaspersky has yet to provide tips on removing the new software. Frustrated customers swiftly took to outlets like Reddit and Kaspersky’s forums to speak out against the move.

The Kaspersky-UltraAV transition has been anything but smooth so far.

Kaspersky transfers US customers to UltraAV without their consent

How to compare antivirus solutions

When comparing the best Kaspersky Antivirus alternatives, prioritize tools that offer the following key features:

Extensive malware protection

Antivirus tools shouldn’t just stop viruses. Spyware, ransomware, phishing sites — the list goes on and on. Make sure your solution does more than the bare minimum.

Full customization

Not everyone uses their antivirus the same way. Do you want full scans or quick scans? What about excluding some files? Find a flexible platform you can tailor to your needs.

Multiplatform functionality

Antivirus software has traditionally been designed with only Windows PCs in mind. With more threats targeting other platforms, it’s crucial to seek out a tool compatible with macOS, Android devices, and more.

Independent certification

Don’t just rely on second-hand advice. The best tools are examined and certified by independent antivirus testing labs like AV-TEST.

VPN bundling

Even the best antivirus solutions only provide partial security. For stronger online protection, choose software that seamlessly pairs with a VPN — like Surfshark Antivirus.

A free trial

Leading options will let you take a test drive. Look for solutions that offer a free version or money-back guarantee, but remember — paid antivirus tools are safer and more effective than free ones.

What’s the best alternative to Kaspersky?

The best Kaspersky alternative depends on your specific needs — one person’s favorite antivirus software might not suit others well. Review your budget, system requirements, and desired features to determine which solution will best serve you.

Thanks to its combination of enhanced features, broad protection, and better value, Surfshark Antivirus is an excellent choice.

With Surfshark, you get the following without cutting corners on privacy or performance:

Comprehensive protection

Built-in features like Webcam Protection, a spyware shield, and a fully customizable app elevate your online security.

Behind-the-scenes functionality

Keep Surfshark on to gain true 24/7 antivirus protection without affecting system performance.

All-in-one cybersecurity

Surfshark bundles Antivirus with an award-winning VPN, Alert, Search, and Alternative ID, giving users all-encompassing internet safety and unmatched peace of mind.

FAQs

What makes Surfshark a good Kaspersky alternative?

Surfshark is one of the best Kaspersky alternatives because it packages powerful antivirus security features with an industry-leading VPN. Not only does Surfshark’s malware protection rival Kaspersky’s — at a fraction of the price — but Surfshark is readily available to users in the United States.

Is it safe to use Kaspersky anymore?

It’s hard to say whether Kaspersky is safe to use. The safety of Kaspersky’s products has been called into question, but the company has denied all allegations against it and insists its antivirus is safe. If you’re in the USA, it doesn’t matter — Kaspersky is banned for national security reasons, so you’ll have to find antivirus alternatives.

Is Kaspersky a Russian company?

Yes, Kaspersky is a Russian company. Officially named Kaspersky Lab, it was founded in Moscow in 1997 by its current CEO, Eugene Kaspersky. Critics claim the company has close ties to the Russian government and that Kaspersky products have compromised sensitive user data.

What are free Kaspersky alternatives?

Many leading antivirus solutions, such as Avast One, Bitdefender, and McAfee, offer a free version, but these often have limited capabilities and quickly bring users to a paywall. Plus, you’ll never really know if you’re safe from data breaches with free antivirus software. Paid antivirus software is more powerful and reliable, making it the optimal choice.

Is Microsoft Defender good?

Microsoft Defender is an acceptable choice for basic antivirus protection, but tests from independent labs show it doesn’t perform as well as many paid solutions. Defender is prebuilt into Microsoft Windows, so you likely won’t need to purchase it separately.

Did Kaspersky change to UltraAV?

While Kaspersky didn’t rename its company or product to UltraAV, it began replacing its antivirus software on US devices with UltraAV since Kaspersky products are banned in the US. This switch led to widespread outrage as UltraAV was installed without users’ consent and, upon being uninstalled, was automatically reinstalled after a full system reboot.

UltraAV and Kaspersky aren’t the same — UltraAV is a completely different product owned by a separate company.

Who owns UltraAV?

UltraAV is owned by Pango, a US-based company that makes various cybersecurity products. Little else is known about this new antivirus tool — as of September 2024, it hasn’t been tested by the Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization. Because of this, seeking a more reputable antivirus alternative is recommended.

Did Kaspersky transfer US customers to UltraAV?

Yes, Kaspersky moved to transfer US customers to UltraAV as part of a September 2024 software update. UltraAV was forcibly installed on US users’ devices without their knowledge or content, sparking widespread backlash against Kaspersky.

Best Kaspersky alternatives for 2024