Kaspersky Virus Protection Review

Interestingly, the interface for Kaspersky's free antivirus is not based on that of the premium edition, reviewed here. Rather, the free product is a stripped-down version of Kaspersky Security Cloud, with a shield icon marking premium features as requiring upgrade. I ran my hands-on tests simultaneously with this product and the free edition and got the same results.

Kaspersky Virus Protection Review

Kaspersky Security Cloud Free includes all the antivirus protection you get in the premium antivirus. Even the behavior-based System Watcher, which was once reserved for paid products, is included. I'll summarize those shared features here, and you can get more information by reading my review of the free product.

Kaspersky has an excellent antivirus scanner and some pretty good web protections. It caught all the malware samples I downloaded in my tests, and its anti-phishing protection detected most of the risky sites I tried visiting.

Kaspersky comes with a good antivirus scanner and a ton of additional features that can significantly boost your online safety. For example, it offers really good phishing protection to prevent you from visiting dangerous websites, parental controls to keep your kids safe online, and a pretty decent VPN to keep your browsing data private.

During my testing, Kaspersky detected 100% of my malware samples, ranking it alongside top competitors like Norton and Bitdefender. Similar to Kaspersky, these brands also use a combination of signature databases and machine learning for optimal antivirus protection.

Kaspersky Internet Security covers three devices for $80 per year or five for $90. It adds a two-way firewall, anti-tracking defenses, webcam protection and the Safe Money hardened browser. We've done separate reviews for Kaspersky Internet Security for Mac and Kaspersky Mobile Antivirus for Android, but you also get them with Internet Security and Kaspersky's other multi-platform packages.

Kaspersky Total Security adds file encryption, file shredding and file protection in case of from ransomware attack. It includes Kaspersky Safe Kids Premium (we've reviewed that separately) and an unlimited password manager, and costs $100 per year for five devices or $150 for 10.

Kaspersky Security Cloud is a server-based option that mates regular antivirus protection with online privacy protections. Overall, its features are not too different from those of Kaspersky Total Security, but Security Cloud may appeal to individuals or families with multiple devices.

In the November-December 2020 round of testing by Germany's AV-Test lab (opens in new tab), Kaspersky detected 100 percent of both new "zero-day" and well-known "widespread" malware and had just one "false positive" detection of benign software. Most of the other antivirus brands we review, including Bitdefender, Norton and Microsoft, also had clean sweeps.

While Kaspersky Total Security remains our top choice for the best antivirus program, Norton and Bitdefender's premium programs have caught up in terms of protection and features. All three bring together fast local scans with online malware analysis while not consuming too many system resources.

Those on a budget or who don't have kids may prefer the value-packed Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. If money is no objection, and you need identity-theft protection and unlimited VPN service as well as antivirus software, consider Norton 360 with LifeLock.

Kaspersky released a report recently focusing on cyberattacks on online video games. The report shows that Minecraft is the most-used online video game to lure users for distribution of malicious or unwanted software. If your child plays Minecraft, Kaspersky recommends using strong antivirus software. We also recommend taking these five Minecraft safety tips for extra protection.

We performed the same test on several other antivirus software, and out of all of them, only one other software earned a 100% detection score. This proves that Kaspersky really is one of the best software for detecting viruses.And by the way, the other antivirus software that detected all five viruses was Bitdefender. You can read about our virus detection test in our in-depth review of Bitdefender.

Kaspersky offers extremely high functionality and excellent real-time protection. Even so, most antivirus software in the same price range is comparable in this department, so while Kaspersky does a good job, the competition is tough.

However, during scans, CPU usage and working memory usage go up quickly. Although this is to be expected with good virus protection, it is worth noting, as this might affect your system. For us, these increases did not affect the performance of other software.

• The answer to this question depends on what you are looking for in an antivirus product. Of course, free virus protection is better than no protection at all, but most worthwhile free products are designed to entice you to upgrade to the premium version. This usually means that you can only access the core antivirus engine, with all the heavyweight functions and features are reserved for premium products.\nPremium versions also generally include extra layers of protection, such as web protection or anti-phishing technologies. Using free software, you are also likely to get bombarded with adverts for the premium version, which gets annoying after a while.","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/"}},"@type":"Question","name":"How do I unisntall Kaspersky?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":"@type":"Answer","text":"Kaspersky makes it super easy to uninstall its application if you are not impressed. All you need to do is:\n\nOpen Kaspersky Internet Security.\nTap Settings > Settings > Uninstall the app.\nOn the Uninstall Kaspersky Internet Security screen, tap Next.\nIf prompted, enter the app secret code (the app requests the secret code if the Uninstallation protection checkbox is selected in the Anti-Theft settings).\nConfirm uninstallation of Kaspersky.\nDone!\n","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/","@type":"Question","name":"How do I uninstall McAfee?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":"@type":"Answer","text":"McAfee can be uninstalled from the Windows Add\/Remove programs area or you can download McAfee's custom tool to ensure a complete uninstall. Simply:\u00a0\n\nDownload the MCPR tool.\nDouble-click MCPR.exe.\nIf you see a security warning: Click Yes, Continue, or Run\nFollow the online prompts\n\nMcAfee includes an uninstaller for Mac, which can be found in your applications folder.","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/","@type":"Question","name":"Can I use McAfee and Kaspersky together?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":"@type":"Answer","text":"Ah, the age-old dilemma - two antivirus programs or one? Well, if you're trying to decide which route to take, here's a friendly word of advice: stick with the singular! While using multiple antivirus programs on the same computer is not impossible, it can lead to some unfortunate complications. Think of it like this - two roommates. They live in peace until they both try to do the same thing at the same time...it becomes chaotic and dangerous real quick.\nThe same principle applies when using multiple antivirus programs on your device - their efforts could conflict and cause serious damage, preventing you from achieving the secure environment you're striving for. Of course, if you insist on having two programs installed on your machine, then ensure you configure them properly and regularly update them so that nothing gets left out. But if safety truly is your priority, one is definitely enough!","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/","@type":"Question","name":"Why do I need a VPN?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":"@type":"Answer","text":"\nA VPN is like your own private tunnel - it helps ensure that all your web traffic stays safe from prying eyes. Think of it as your very own bodyguard, helping to protect you while you go about your online activities. So if you're ever out and about on public Wi-Fi, don't forget to turn on the VPN! It'll keep nasty hackers at bay and make sure none of your data gets left behind in the digital dust.\nBut a Virtual Private Network isn't only useful for protecting against malicious actors - it also gives you freedom and access too. With a good VPN, you can bypass government censorship and unblock blocked websites, allowing you to explore the digital world more freely. So whether you're looking for privacy or just a bit of adventure, a VPN is definitely worth considering!\n","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/","@type":"Question","name":"What are the most dangerous types of malware?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":"@type":"Answer","text":"Malware on the internet can be as dangerous as a hungry shark in the ocean! It's lurking out there, looking for unsuspecting victims to prey on - and if your system gets infected, it can wreak major havoc. From spies to ransomers, here's a rundown of some of the most common types of malicious software you should watch out for:\n\nSpyware - This crafty bit of code is designed to track your online activity and steal sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers. It might even bombard you with ads or send you off to some seriously sketchy websites. Yikes!\nRansomware - Like a tech kidnapper, this type of malware holds your computer hostage until you pay up. Not only can it be challenging to remove without expert help, but it also increases the likelihood that your data will be lost forever if not dealt with quickly.\nTrojan horses - These sneaky critters are designed to slip past your security measures and do damage from within its walls. You might not even know that they're there until it's too late! They could install other types of malware or prevent your computer from working correctly without you even knowing it - so stay vigilant!\n\nSo bottom line \u2013 keep an eye out for these cyber-nasties and make sure you have the right security measures in place! Otherwise, things could get nasty fast.","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/","@type":"Question","name":"Does an antivirus prevent wifi hacking?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":"@type":"Answer","text":"It's no secret that antivirus software is a great line of defense against malicious hackers. But when it comes to wifi security, strong passwords, and regular updates are your best friends. Basically, think of them like a two-headed bodyguard - they work together in tandem to keep you safe from cybercrime. Encryption and disabling unnecessary services or ports can also help deter potential threats. And don't forget to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity on your network, such as sudden spikes in traffic or unexpected connections - all red flags!\nWith these simple steps, you'll be well-protected and fully equipped to take on the digital bad guys. And if they manage to breach your defenses, then the antivirus will detect the threat and protect your system from further damage. So invest in some solid cyber-security measures today and rest easy knowing that you're safe from wifi hacking!","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/","@type":"Question","name":"Can Kaspersky still be trusted after the Ukraine conflict?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":"@type":"Answer","text":"Kaspersky has been embroiled in controversy since the Ukraine conflict began. Many were worried about the security and trustworthiness of their flagship antivirus following reports that Russia had infiltrated their system to steal data and disrupt global communications.\nThe fallout from these suspicions was swift, with many governments banning Kaspersky's products. But despite all this, Kaspersky is still a viable option for cybersecurity protection. This is because they've worked hard over the years to ensure their software is protected from malicious actors and continues to outstrip competitors in speed and performance.Kaspersky recently distanced itself from Russian government control by launching the 'Global Transparency Initiative.' Under this program, they invited independent experts to review their source code and scrutinize every aspect of their business operations to prove they're free from external influences. This initiative was backed up with invitations for organizations worldwide to partner with them to strengthen trust in their products further.\nIn short, Kaspersky remains one of the top-tier options for antivirus protection - even after the Ukraine conflict. By investing time and resources into its Global Transparency Initiative, Kaspersky has demonstrated its commitment to being an ethical player in the cybersecurity world \u2013 one that can be trusted for years to come!","author":"@type":"Person","name":"Steve Adams","description":"Steve Adams is a professional writer with 15 years experience working with some of the world\u2019s leading technology companies including Hewlett Packard, Ericsson and AutoDesk. He has a passion for taking complex tech, privacy and security topics and making them accessible and easy for anyone to understand.\n","url":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/author\/steveadams826398\/"]} "@context":"http:\/\/schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":["@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/","@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Antivirus","item":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/antivirus\/","@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"McAfee vs Kaspersky","item":"https:\/\/www.comparitech.com\/antivirus\/mcafee-vs-kaspersky\/"]Antivirus

McAfee vs Kaspersky We are funded by our readers and may receive a commission when you buy using links on our site. McAfee vs Kaspersky: Which is best? McAfee vs Kaspersky - which one will fo the best job at protecting your PC? That's what we're here to figure out in this head-to-head battle of the titans. Steve Adams 15+ years experience in the tech, privacy and security space UPDATED: February 9, 2023 body.single .section.main-content.sidebar-active .col.grid-item.sidebar.span_1_of_3 float: right; body.single .section.main-content.sidebar-active .col.grid-item.content.span_2_of_3 margin-left: 0; 041b061a72