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Kaspersky Antivirus Standard Review (2025) The right choice?
By Tibor Moes / Updated: January 2025
Kaspersky Antivirus Standard Review 2025
Kaspersky Antivirus Standard is one of the best entry-level antivirus. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, several security features, and an excellent price.
Buy it if you want straightforward protection. But keep in mind that you will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a few bonus features. Not the password manager or VPN.
Alternatively, you could consider Norton Antivirus Plus. Norton’s entry-level antivirus costs the same, but includes a password manager and 2 GB of cloud storage. On top of that, it has a deeper first-year discount.
- Malware protection: 100%. Kaspersky detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Kaspersky’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 80%. Kaspersky Antivirus Standard includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, and a firewall. But it misses a password manager and VPN.
- Price: 80%. Kaspersky Antivirus Standard has an excellent price, but Norton offers more features and a bigger first-year discount.
Thanks to the 30-day return policy, you can try it risk-free.
Ranking | #9 of 28 |
Anti-malware | ✅ |
Anti-phishing | ✅ |
Firewall | ✅ |
Password Manager | – |
Unlimited VPN | – |
Operating systems | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
🔥 Discount | Save 20% on Kaspersky 🔥 |
Full Review
Kaspersky is ranked #9 of the 28 best antivirus of 2025.
Kaspersky offers a robust antivirus scanner alongside a variety of features aimed at enhancing online security. Its anti-phishing protection uses multi-layered detection to block harmful sites, and the Safe Browsing mode integrates well with popular browsers. Additional tools like the on-screen keyboard and Safe Money add protection against keyloggers, particularly useful for secure online transactions.
The VPN is another standout, offering industry-standard security with fast performance for browsing, streaming, and torrenting across all servers. However, split-tunneling is limited to Windows 10 or later, which may not affect many users.
The user interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate for beginners. Installation is quick, taking just 5 minutes, with protective features automatically activating post-setup.
Kaspersky offers three subscription plans: Standard, Plus, and Premium, covering up to 20 devices in select regions. There’s also a free basic antivirus option, and all paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Anti-malware
Kaspersky’s malware scanner combines a signature-based virus database with cloud-based machine learning to detect a wide range of malware. It performs well, with a 100% detection rate in our tests, placing it on par with top competitors like Norton and Bitdefender.
The scanner offers six types of scans:
- Quick Scan: Checks startup files, memory, and boot sectors.
- Background Scan: Runs during system idle time.
- Full Scan: Scans all files and sectors.
- Selective/Instant Scan: Targets specific files, folders, or drives.
- Removable Drive Scan: Checks external storage devices.
- Application Vulnerability Scan: Looks for outdated or vulnerable software.
While the Quick Scan is fast, completing in 3 minutes during testing, its effectiveness could be improved. In contrast, Kaspersky’s real-time protection performed flawlessly, blocking all malware and ransomware attempts before they could execute. The ransomware simulator was unable to encrypt any files.
However, the Application Vulnerability Scan was slow and less accurate, missing some outdated software that Kaspersky’s built-in app updater later detected and resolved within 8 minutes.
Overall, Kaspersky’s antivirus engine is excellent, providing reliable malware detection, fast scan times, and real-time protection without slowing down the system.
Anti-phishing
Kaspersky provides robust anti-phishing and web protection features, using multi-layered detection to block malicious sites. The Safe Browsing mode checks URLs against a database of harmful addresses and applies heuristic analysis to detect suspicious behavior. While Kaspersky performed well in blocking known phishing sites during our tests, competitors like Norton and Bitdefender had a slightly higher detection rate.
A standout feature is the URL Advisor, which places a green symbol next to safe search results, making it easy to identify dangerous sites before clicking. Kaspersky also includes Private Browsing to block trackers from social networks, ad agencies, and other trackers, but it defaults to allowing data collection by Kaspersky and 86 partner sites—something users need to manually disable.
Kaspersky’s on-screen keyboard, accessible via the Privacy menu, provides an extra layer of protection against keyloggers, especially when used in combination with the Safe Money feature. Safe Money offers a secure browser for banking and shopping, scanning for threats like rootkits and untrusted certificates. While it reliably detected financial sites during testing, the secure browser was slow to load, taking over 10 seconds each time—slower than Bitdefender’s alternative.
Overall, Kaspersky’s web protection is strong, with effective anti-phishing measures, useful ad-blocking and anti-tracking options, and added tools like a secure browser and on-screen keyboard for secure transactions. However, the data collection practices and slow browser load times could be improved.
Firewall
Kaspersky’s firewall provides solid protection against network intrusions and exploit attacks, outperforming the default Windows Defender firewall in our tests. It effectively blocked most of the exploit attempts we threw at it. One feature we found particularly useful is the detailed breakdown it provides for applications with internet access, allowing users to easily modify permissions and manage network activity on a granular level.
For advanced users, Kaspersky includes features like port access detection, packet rule customization, and control over connections such as DNS over TCP/UDP. The network monitor is another valuable tool, enabling users to view active internet connections and block all network activity with a single click, which is especially helpful during malware infections.
However, the firewall’s interface is somewhat clunky, with key features spread across different menus. Packet rules are in the firewall settings, while port access detection and the network monitor are hidden elsewhere, making navigation less intuitive compared to Norton’s streamlined setup. Additionally, the Mac version only offers basic network attack blocking, falling short of more comprehensive Mac firewalls like Intego.
Despite these usability issues, Kaspersky’s firewall is effective on Windows, offering strong network defense with minimal configuration required.
Password manager
Note: Kaspersky’s password manager is not included in Standard. You’ll need to upgrade to Plus or Premium.
Kaspersky’s password manager provides basic yet secure password storage with 256-bit AES encryption and a zero-knowledge policy. The premium version offers unlimited password storage, while the free version (part of the Standard plan) limits users to just 5 passwords, which is restrictive compared to competitors like Norton that offer unlimited storage in their free plans.
The setup is simple — users create a master password (which can’t be recovered if lost), and after importing passwords, a browser extension enables auto-save and auto-fill functionality, which worked flawlessly in our tests. The vault is user-friendly, supporting storage of passwords, bank cards, documents, addresses, and notes, with the ability to organize everything into folders.
Kaspersky also offers a solid password generator, though it lacks options for “easy-to-say” or “easy-to-read” passwords that some competitors provide. It does, however, include a helpful password history feature, allowing users to access their last 5 generated passwords.
Additionally, Kaspersky’s password manager has a built-in authenticator for generating one-time 2FA codes, eliminating the need for a separate app like Google Authenticator.
While it’s a secure and easy-to-use option, Kaspersky’s password manager lacks some advanced features found in standalone products like Dashlane or LastPass. However, it’s a good choice for users seeking a straightforward, integrated password management solution.
VPN
Note: Kaspersky’s VPN is not included in Standard. You’ll need to upgrade to Plus or Premium.
Kaspersky’s VPN, included with the Plus and Premium plans, offers unlimited data, a kill switch, full leak protection, and Smart Protection that automatically activates the VPN on public networks. It also provides servers in 70+ countries, with split-tunneling functionality to control which apps use the VPN.
In our speed tests, Kaspersky’s VPN performed well, maintaining similar download speeds with minimal impact on browsing, though ping and upload speeds did see some reduction. It also works effectively with streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, outperforming some competitors like Avira and Avast.
Overall, Kaspersky’s VPN is a solid addition to its security suite, offering fast speeds, strong privacy, and a wide server network, making it a good choice for users who need both antivirus and VPN services. For those wanting even more privacy protection, consider NordVPN or Surfshark.
Other security features
Note: Several security features are not included in Kaspersky Standard. For the most complete feature set, you’ll need to upgrade to Plus or Premium.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the key tools:
System Cleanup Tools
Kaspersky’s PC cleanup tools include:
- PC Speed-Up: Identifies temporary files, registry issues, and unused system data. It worked efficiently in our tests, cleaning up registry issues and freeing up space.
- Quick Startup: Lists applications set to run on startup and allows users to disable them, improving boot speed.
- Unused App Cleaner: Detects applications not used for over 3 months, though it didn’t perform as accurately in our tests.
- Hard Drive Health Monitor: Alerts you to issues with your hard drives, but doesn’t provide solutions.
- Privacy Cleaner: Removes browsing history and cookies.
- Weak Settings Scanner: Detects system vulnerabilities and provides fixes.
- Windows Troubleshooting Tool: Found issues the built-in Windows troubleshooter missed.
While the cleanup tools work well, it would be more convenient if Kaspersky allowed users to run all these tools simultaneously, as competitors like Bitdefender do.
Smart Home Monitor
The Smart Home Monitor displays all devices connected to your Wi-Fi network and correctly identifies their details (vendor, OS, IP, etc.). However, it lacks the ability to scan for vulnerabilities or create custom security profiles for different networks, features found in competitors like ESET and Bitdefender.
Data Leak Checker
Kaspersky’s data leak checker scans the dark web for compromised email addresses. It identified fewer breaches than free services like “Have I Been Pwned,” but it does provide useful information about the nature of the breach. The premium plans allow you to monitor up to 50 email addresses, but it doesn’t track specific personal data such as bank accounts or IDs like Norton’s dark web monitoring.
Parental Controls (Safe Kids)
Kaspersky Safe Kids offers comprehensive parental controls, including:
- Content filtering for websites and apps.
- Screen time management with app usage reports and scheduling.
- YouTube monitoring, both for video content and search.
- Location tracking and geo-fencing on Android and iOS.
- Social network monitoring, but only for VK (a Russian social media platform).
These features worked well during testing, especially the content filtering, which couldn’t be bypassed even with VPNs. The main limitation is the reduced functionality on iOS, which is restricted to YouTube monitoring, GPS tracking, and online activity reports.
Other Features
Kaspersky includes a variety of additional security tools:
- Webcam and Mic Control: Lets you manage which apps can access your webcam and microphone.
- Intrusion Prevention: Prevents unauthorized access to your system.
- Stalkerware Detection: Alerts you to spyware aimed at monitoring your activities.
- Backup and Restore: Helps you back up important files.
- Rescue Disk: Allows you to boot a clean system from external media to remove malware.
- File Shredder: Permanently deletes sensitive files.
- Gaming Mode: Minimizes interruptions while gaming.
Plans and pricing
In the table below are the core products with their features and prices.
The prices shown are from the USA. However, most brands have different prices (and currencies) in other regions. So visit the brand’s website to see the price in our country.
Note: Kaspersky has rebranded its products. Kaspersky Anti-Virus, Kaspersky Internet Security, and Kaspersky Total Security are now Standard, Plus, and Premium. The Kaspersky Security Cloud is also no longer available.
Plan description
Kaspersky has three main plans—Standard, Plus, and Premium. All come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re looking for free basic protection, Kaspersky Free offers minimal antivirus features.
Kaspersky Standard
Priced at $38.49/year, the Standard plan covers 3 to 10 devices. It offers essential features like malware scanning, anti-phishing, and a firewall. If you only need basic protection for more than one device, this is a solid start. However, Norton AntiVirus Plus offers similar features for a slightly lower price for a single device.
Kaspersky Plus
This middle-tier plan is $52.99/year and covers up to 10 devices. It adds perks like an unlimited-data VPN and a password manager. This plan packs good value, offering features like file shredding and a data leak checker for up to 50 emails. Most users will find this plan the best fit for a mix of security and privacy features.
Kaspersky Premium
The high-end plan is $74.99/year and can cover up to 20 devices. It includes everything in the Plus plan, along with identity protection and parental controls for one year. However, the premium support option feels a bit redundant given their already robust 24/7 customer service.
Final Thoughts
Kaspersky Plus is the sweet spot for most, delivering both security and extra features like an unlimited VPN. The Premium plan is best for families wanting to test out Kaspersky’s strong parental controls. Overall, Kaspersky offers flexible and feature-rich plans, but make sure to compare with competitors like Norton or McAfee for the best value.
Test score comparison
We conduct in-house anti-malware tests and review the results from AV-Test, a German lab renowned for its objective evaluations. Below is the average of the last 10 AV-Test results for Windows. Their scoring criteria are:
- Protection (1-6): Effectiveness in blocking malware.
- Performance (1-6): Impact on system speed.
- Usability (1-6): Frequency of errors like false alarms.
We calculate a final score using this formula:
Final Score = 60% Protection + 20% Performance + 20% Usability.
While these results influence our choice of the best antivirus for Windows 11, other factors like privacy and identity protection also play a key role. For a similar analysis for Android or macOS, visit our other comparisons:
Note: Brands not listed in the table either do not participate in AV-Test trials or are tested too infrequently, such as Surfshark Antivirus.
Source: AV-Test (Last updated: December 2024).
Price comparison
We’ve compared the prices of the top antivirus products for Windows. To make it a fair comparison, we looked at what it would cost us, to protect a single Windows PC with the most essential features:
- Anti-malware
- Anti-phishing (web protection)
- Firewall
- Password manager
- Unlimited VPN (no data limit)
A few notes:
- Some brands are missing features, lowering their value for money.
- Prices are second-year prices in the USA, without first-year discounts.
- Prices are rounded up for readability (e.g., $99.99 becomes $100).
Brands have different prices outside the USA. See those on their website.
User reviews
We’ve compared the user reviews of all antivirus brands. We’ve used the scores and review count of TrustPilot, a leading user review platform.
We consider scores above 4.0 very good. Lower scores indicate that the brand might have a poor product or customer service. McAfee’s scores, for instance, are worrying.
Source: TrustPilot. Last Update: December 2024.
Company Profile
Kaspersky is a leading cybersecurity firm, privately held with its holding company based in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1997, the company has amassed over 25 years of experience in the industry, and it protects more than 400 million individuals and 240,000 corporations across 200 countries and territories.
The company prides itself on its commitment to quality, regularly participating in independent tests to evaluate the effectiveness of its technologies against evolving threats. This has earned Kaspersky a strong presence in public TOP3 metrics and numerous awards.
At the core of Kaspersky’s operations is a team of 4,000 highly qualified specialists. They focus on developing innovative and user-friendly solutions that allow people to use technology without worrying about cybersecurity risks. The company’s portfolio is diverse, offering various security solutions that cater to a wide range of customer needs.
In terms of corporate values, Kaspersky prioritizes transparency, innovation, simplicity, and a human-centric approach. The company aims to build a safer world by adopting a “Cyber Immune” security model, which focuses on creating systems that are inherently secure. This approach is guided by the philosophy that the cost of launching a successful cyberattack should exceed its potential benefits. Eugene Kaspersky, the CEO, is a key proponent of this forward-thinking strategy.
By consistently delivering high-quality, effective solutions and maintaining a strong set of values, Kaspersky has established itself as a market leader in cybersecurity.
How we test antivirus software
At SoftwareLab, we provide thorough and unbiased antivirus reviews to help you make informed cybersecurity decisions. Our comprehensive testing covers all critical aspects of antivirus performance. We assess each product in six key categories, weighted by importance:
For even more details, visit our blog posts on how we test antivirus software.
Anti-Malware Protection (30%)
We evaluate how well the antivirus detects and removes various malware types like viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.
In-House Testing: Using 1,200 diverse malware samples, we conduct real-time attack simulations to assess detection and neutralization of known and emerging threats through signature-based and heuristic analysis.
Independent Lab Results: We incorporate findings from respected institutes like AV-Test, SE Labs, and AV-Comparatives to validate our results.
Security and Privacy Features (30%)
We assess additional tools that enhance cybersecurity:
Web Protection: Testing the software’s ability to block phishing sites and web-based threats by accessing known malicious websites.
Firewall: Evaluating effectiveness using intrusion simulations and the ShieldsUP! test to secure network ports and monitor traffic.
Password Manager: Assessing capabilities to generate, store, and auto-fill complex passwords, plus features like two-factor authentication and biometric login.
VPN: Evaluating security protocols, encryption, speed, server locations, data limits, and support for streaming and peer-to-peer sharing while hiding IP addresses.
Parental Controls: Testing screen time management, content filtering, location tracking, and resistance to bypass attempts to protect children.
Identity Theft Protection: Assessing monitoring of personal info and responsiveness to potential identity theft alerts.
Secure Cloud Storage: Evaluating capacity, security, usability, and features like file encryption and secure sharing.
Anti-Ransomware: Simulating attacks to test detection and blocking of unauthorized encryption via behavioral detection and exploit prevention.
Dark Web Monitoring: Checking effectiveness in scanning the dark web for personal info and providing timely alerts.
System Performance Impact (10%)
We measure how the antivirus affects device performance during everyday tasks:
Resource Usage: Monitoring CPU and memory during scans and real-time protection.
Performance Tests: Evaluating impact on launching apps, downloading files, browsing websites, and copying data, aligned with AV-Test criteria.
False Positives (10%)
Accuracy is crucial to avoid interruptions:
False Positive Detection: Assessing how often legitimate applications or files are incorrectly flagged.
Usability Tests: Referencing AV-Test evaluations to gauge false positive frequency for effectiveness and user-friendliness.
Price and Value (10%)
We analyze overall value by comparing features to cost:
Cost Analysis: Considering subscription prices, device coverage, and multi-year plans.
Feature Evaluation: Assessing if included features justify the price compared to competitors.
Ownership and Reputation (10%)
Trust is essential in cybersecurity providers:
Company Background: Researching history, industry track record, mergers, or acquisitions.
Privacy Policies: Examining data handling, privacy commitment, and compliance with regulations.
Ethical Conduct: Investigating past unethical behavior, data breaches, or controversies.
Sources and tools
- Apple Platform Security
- AV-Comparatives Consumer
- AV-Test Android
- AV-Test macOS
- AV-Test Windows
- GRC Firewall Test
- Microsoft Defender
- SpeedTest VPN
- Trustpilot Security Software

Author: Tibor Moes
Founder & Chief Editor at SoftwareLab
Tibor has tested 28 antivirus programs and 25 VPN services, and holds a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate from Stanford University.
He uses Norton to protect his devices, NordVPN for his privacy, and Proton for his passwords and email.