Best Kaspersky Alternatives in 2026 (After the US Ban)

If you’re looking for a reliable Kaspersky antivirus alternative, you’ve come to the right place. This article presents several strong antivirus options that can replace Kaspersky.

These alternatives offer a similar set of security features, strong virus protection, the ability to use the antivirus on multiple devices, and in some cases free trials. Read on to find out which Kaspersky alternative might work best for you.

Video: Kaspersky Free Antivirus Review

Why Look for an Alternative to Kaspersky?

Kaspersky has long been considered a capable antivirus program, but recent developments have led many users to seek alternatives. Most importantly for US readers, the US Commerce Department issued a final determination in June 2024 prohibiting Kaspersky from new agreements with US customers starting July 20, 2024, and from providing updates or other services in the US after September 29, 2024. This means Kaspersky can no longer be purchased in the US and no longer receives updates for US users.

Countries like Germany and Italy are already getting rid of Kaspersky Total Security out of concern about eavesdropping and information leaks as Russia’s threats against the EU and NATO intensify daily.

These concerns are not new; there have been allegations that the company communicated with Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), sharing certain data gathered from its users.

What’s worse is that Eugene Kaspersky, the company’s owner, has taken a neutral stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

With all of this in mind, US readers in particular should consider switching to an alternative antivirus program.

Best Kaspersky Alternatives

Below is a list of strong Kaspersky alternatives. If you’re ready to switch from Kaspersky, any of these can serve as a capable replacement.

1. TotalAV

TotalAV is a popular Kaspersky alternative. It includes a free edition with anti-malware scanning that provides a basic level of protection. The paid subscriptions, however, offer more features and stronger endpoint security.

TotalAV provides solid virus protection, and independent lab tests have shown strong results. In addition to real-time protection, you can choose from several scan types. TotalAV also guards against ransomware.

You’ll also get additional features, including a VPN with unlimited data. Like Kaspersky, TotalAV includes a password manager that can generate strong passwords and store your login information.

Additionally, if your device has been acting a little sluggish lately, you can always utilize TotalAV’s system optimizer to remove unnecessary programs and garbage files.

TotalAV’s apps are user-friendly, whether you need one for a desktop computer or a smartphone. They are straightforward and easy to navigate.

2. Bitdefender

Look no further than Bitdefender if you’re seeking a less expensive alternative to Kaspersky Internet Security or any other version of it.

Bitdefender has performed well in virus detection tests. AV-Comparatives has rated it highly for protecting computers from infection.

If you appreciated Kaspersky’s scanning options, Bitdefender offers a similar range. You can choose between a quick scan, a full system scan, or a custom scan tailored to your preferences.

Naturally, you’ll also get a ton of additional security features. Bitdefender offers everything Kaspersky brags about, plus WiFi protection, ransomware protection, safe browsing, a robust firewall, webcam/microphone protection, a Rescue Environment, and even Bitdefender mobile security. 

You’ll also get other features, including a Bitdefender VPN, a file shredder, a password manager, and anti-spam protection.

Bitdefender is competitively priced compared to many alternatives, making it a cost-effective choice.

3. Norton Antivirus

Norton Antivirus is another Kaspersky rival that is well worth your time. Even if you have no knowledge of technology, you have undoubtedly already heard this name one or two times, and for good cause.

Norton has strong virus detection rates. It has performed well in independent tests conducted by AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, and SE Labs.

Norton also offers effective real-time protection. The software is good at both detecting and removing existing threats as well as preventing new viruses from entering your system.

Norton provides many extra features, so you won’t miss your old antivirus program. You’ll get Norton Secure VPN, a password manager, cloud backup, Dark Web monitoring, webcam security, and parental controls.

Norton offers a range of plans based on your needs. Check the Norton website for current pricing and options.

4. Avira

Avira Antivirus is another solid Kaspersky alternative. It has received recognition for strong virus detection rates and consistently performs well in independent virus tests.

Avira provides the features you’d expect from a quality antivirus application. This includes real-time protection, various virus scanning options, ransomware defense, web protection against phishing and scams, and a software updater.

Additional features are also available, including a password manager, a safe shopping browser extension, and a driver updater.

Many users appreciate Avira’s light impact on PC performance. Because Avira is lightweight, you shouldn’t notice a significant slowdown when a scan is running.

Visit Avira’s website to view pricing and choose a subscription plan.

5. Trend Micro

Trend Micro offers an easy-to-use interface and a variety of useful features. Its AI technology detects suspicious activity, and the program has a light impact on system performance.

Trend Micro’s antivirus software includes most of the features you’d expect from a complete cyber protection solution.

It offers malware scanning, ransomware protection, real-time protection, suspicious URL detection, and defense against phishing attacks.

Trend Micro includes additional features for everyday browsing protection. A Pay Guard function creates a secure environment for online transactions.

There’s also a Privacy Scanner for social media privacy. You can upgrade to include a VPN proxy and a password manager for an additional fee.

Both free and premium versions of this antivirus are available. The free version offers more limited functionality. There is a 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to try the premium service risk-free.

6. ESET

ESET internet security is a widely used antivirus program that provides strong performance. It includes features like anti-theft optimization and performs well in independent lab testing.

ESET offers multi-platform protection with a single license, covering devices running Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux.

It includes real-time ransomware protection and a secured banking and privacy feature to keep your online transactions secure.

ESET’s home network security feature is also notable. It alerts you to attempts to access your connection and blocks attempts to compromise your devices.

ESET offers a complete security package that includes a password manager and the option to protect your private files.

A 30-day money-back guarantee makes it risk-free for you to try out any of the plans.

7. McAfee

If you still haven’t decided on a Kaspersky Internet Security replacement, see what McAfee Total Protection can offer you.

McAfee includes all the essentials. Real-time protection, various scan types, ransomware protection, a device cleaning feature, and a file shredder help keep your computer or mobile phone running securely. There’s also a Vulnerability Scanner that verifies your apps are up to date.

In addition to everything mentioned above, McAfee also provides a few add-ons like the Safe Connect VPN and the True Key password manager.

McAfee offers a free trial that doesn’t require credit card information, so you can try the service before committing.

Which Kaspersky Alternative Should I Choose?

Which Kaspersky alternative you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. The good news is that all of the antivirus products featured on this page are high quality, with only minor differences in functionality and malware detection rates.

However, if you’re still unsure about which Kaspersky rival to choose, the following advice can be helpful:

• Free editions. If you can’t currently pay for antivirus software, consider the free versions. Good free options for desktop devices include TotalAV, Bitdefender, and Avira.
• Device coverage. If you only plan to use the antivirus on one device, you may not need to pay for multiple device coverage. However, if you need to protect many devices, McAfee offers plans covering multiple devices.
• Features. More expensive plans typically include more features. Consider whether you actually need them all. If you already have a VPN or password manager, you may not need to pay extra for those features in your antivirus.
• Money-back guarantee. Antivirus software should come with a money-back guarantee. Most products on this page offer either a 14- or 30-day guarantee. Norton offers 60 days to change your mind.

How Does Antivirus Software Work? (Easy Guide)

CONCLUSION

If you’re moving away from Kaspersky, be sure to choose a replacement antivirus. Antivirus software remains an important part of protecting your devices.

Without antivirus software installed, your computer is more vulnerable to threats including Trojan horses, worms, and viruses. Ransomware could potentially lock you out of your machine entirely.

It only takes one click on a dangerous email attachment or one visit to a malicious website. Switching to an alternative antivirus is a much safer choice than going without protection.

References:

https://www.avast.com/c-kaspersky-alternatives

https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-security-suites

Frequently Asked Questions