In the world of cybersecurity, two names stand out from the rest: Kaspersky and Norton. For years, these two giants have been vying for dominance, each claiming to offer the best protection for your digital life. But which one truly reigns supreme? In this article, we’ll delve into the features, pricing, performance, and user experiences of both Kaspersky and Norton to help you make an informed decision.
The History Of Kaspersky And Norton
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a step back and explore the histories of these two cybersecurity powerhouses.
Kaspersky: A Russian Upstart
Founded in 1997 by Eugene Kaspersky, Kaspersky Lab has grown from a small Russian startup to a global cybersecurity leader. With a strong focus on research and development, Kaspersky has consistently pushed the boundaries of malware detection and removal. Today, the company boasts over 400 million users worldwide, making it one of the most popular antivirus software providers.
Norton: A Legacy Of Innovation
Norton, on the other hand, has a rich history dating back to 1982. Founded by Peter Norton, the company quickly established itself as a pioneer in the field of computer security. With its flagship product, Norton Antivirus, the company has been protecting users from malware and other online threats for decades. Today, Norton is a subsidiary of Symantec, one of the largest cybersecurity companies in the world.
Features: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Now that we’ve explored the histories of Kaspersky and Norton, let’s take a closer look at the features each offers.
Antivirus Protection
Kaspersky: Kaspersky’s antivirus engine is widely recognized as one of the best in the industry. With advanced features like behavioral detection, cloud-based protection, and automatic software updates, Kaspersky offers comprehensive protection against malware, viruses, and other online threats.
Norton: Norton’s antivirus engine is also highly effective, with features like SONAR (Self-Protecting Network Access Resistance) and Insight, which provide real-time protection against unknown threats. Additionally, Norton’s cloud-based protection ensures that users receive updates and protection in real-time.
Additional Features
Kaspersky: Kaspersky offers a range of additional features, including:
- Password Manager: Securely stores and generates strong passwords
- Online Backup: Automatically backs up important files to the cloud
- Safe Money: Protects online transactions with advanced security features
- Kaspersky Rescue Disk: Creates a bootable disk to remove malware from infected systems
Norton: Norton also offers a range of additional features, including:
- Norton Wi-Fi Privacy: Encrypts public Wi-Fi connections to protect user data
- Norton Identity Safe: Stores and generates strong passwords, as well as monitors for identity theft
- Norton 24/7 Threat Protection: Provides continuous protection against emerging threats
- Norton Bootable Recovery Tool: Creates a bootable disk to remove malware from infected systems
Pricing: Which Is More Affordable?
When it comes to pricing, both Kaspersky and Norton offer a range of options to suit different budgets and needs.
Kaspersky Pricing
- Kaspersky Anti-Virus: $59.99 per year (1 device)
- Kaspersky Internet Security: $79.99 per year (3 devices)
- Kaspersky Total Security: $99.99 per year (5 devices)
Norton Pricing
- Norton Antivirus Plus: $39.99 per year (1 device)
- Norton 360 Standard: $59.99 per year (1 device)
- Norton 360 Deluxe: $69.99 per year (5 devices)
Performance: Benchmarks And Testing
To get a better understanding of how Kaspersky and Norton perform in real-world scenarios, let’s take a look at some benchmarking and testing results.
Achievements And Awards
- Kaspersky: Winner of the AV-Test Awards 2020, Top Rated Product by AV-Comparatives 2020, and Editor’s Choice by PC Magazine 2020
- Norton: Winner of the AV-Test Awards 2020, Top Rated Product by AV-Comparatives 2020, and Editor’s Choice by PC Magazine 2020
Independent Testing Results
- AV-Test: Kaspersky scored 99.8% in the malware detection test, while Norton scored 99.5%
- AV-Comparatives: Kaspersky scored 99.9% in the malware detection test, while Norton scored 99.7%
User Experience: Ease Of Use And Customer Support
When it comes to user experience, both Kaspersky and Norton offer intuitive and user-friendly interfaces. However, there are some differences in their approaches to customer support.
Kaspersky User Experience
- Intuitive interface with easy-to-use features
- 24/7 technical support through phone, email, and online chat
- Online knowledge base with extensive tutorials and guides
Norton User Experience
- Streamlined interface with clear features and options
- 24/7 technical support through phone and online chat
- Online knowledge base with extensive tutorials and guides, as well as a community forum for user discussion
Conclusion: Is Kaspersky Better Than Norton?
So, which antivirus software reigns supreme? The answer ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize advanced features and customization options, Kaspersky may be the better choice.
If you prefer a more streamlined interface and a lower price point, Norton may be the way to go.
Ultimately, both Kaspersky and Norton offer exceptional protection against malware and other online threats. By understanding their unique features, pricing, performance, and user experiences, you can make an informed decision about which antivirus software is right for you.
| Features | Kaspersky | Norton |
|---|---|---|
| Antivirus Protection | Advanced behavioral detection, cloud-based protection, and automatic software updates | SONAR and Insight for real-time protection, cloud-based protection |
| Password Manager | Securely stores and generates strong passwords | Stores and generates strong passwords, monitors for identity theft |
| Additional Features | Online Backup, Safe Money, Kaspersky Rescue Disk | Norton Wi-Fi Privacy, Norton Identity Safe, Norton 24/7 Threat Protection |
By considering the features, pricing, performance, and user experiences of both Kaspersky and Norton, you can make an informed decision about which antivirus software best fits your needs.
Is Kaspersky A Russian Company?
Kaspersky is a Russian-based multinational cybersecurity company founded in 1997 by Eugene Kaspersky. Although the company is headquartered in Moscow, Russia, it operates globally with offices in over 30 countries. Despite its Russian roots, Kaspersky has grown into a reputable global brand, providing innovative cybersecurity solutions to individuals and businesses worldwide.
It’s essential to note that while Kaspersky’s origins might raise concerns among some users, the company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to protecting users’ data and privacy. Independent tests and reviews have confirmed Kaspersky’s effectiveness in detecting and removing malware threats. Moreover, Kaspersky has been compliant with international regulations and standards, ensuring the company operates transparently and securely.
Does Norton Offer Better Customer Support Than Kaspersky?
Norton has an extensive customer support system in place, offering 24/7 assistance through phone, email, and live chat. In addition, Norton’s support team is available in multiple languages, catering to a broader range of users. On the other hand, Kaspersky also provides 24/7 technical support, although the scope of languages supported is more limited compared to Norton.
That being said, Kaspersky’s support team has received praise for its responsiveness and technical expertise. Many users have reported quick resolutions to their issues, and Kaspersky’s online resources, including FAQs and tutorials, are comprehensive and easy to navigate. While Norton might have a slight edge in terms of language support, both companies offer reliable and efficient customer support, making it a tie in this regard.
Can I Use Kaspersky And Norton Together?
It’s generally not recommended to run two antivirus programs simultaneously, as they might interfere with each other’s performance and potentially cause system conflicts. Both Kaspersky and Norton are designed to be standalone security solutions, and using them together could lead to false positives, slow system performance, or even crashes.
If you’re considering using multiple security tools, it’s best to choose a single, comprehensive antivirus solution and supplement it with additional security software, such as a firewall or VPN. This approach will ensure optimal system performance and effective protection against malware threats. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines when installing and configuring your security software.
Is Kaspersky More Expensive Than Norton?
The pricing of Kaspersky and Norton varies depending on the specific product, subscription period, and number of devices to be protected. Generally, both companies offer competitive pricing, with Norton’s Antivirus Plus starting at around $60 per year for a single device. Kaspersky’s Anti-Virus software is priced similarly, with a one-year subscription for three devices costing around $60.
However, as you move up the product tiers, prices can differ significantly. For example, Kaspersky’s Internet Security suite, which includes additional features like a password manager and online backup, can cost upwards of $100 per year for five devices. Norton’s 360 Deluxe, on the other hand, offers similar features at a slightly lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between Kaspersky and Norton will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Does Kaspersky Offer Better Malware Detection Than Norton?
Both Kaspersky and Norton are highly effective in detecting and removing malware threats. Independent tests, such as those conducted by AV-Test and AV-Comparatives, have consistently ranked both companies among the top performers in terms of malware detection. However, Kaspersky has a slight edge in terms of its ability to detect and remove advanced threats, such as zero-day attacks and ransomware.
Kaspersky’s advanced threat detection capabilities are due in part to its extensive global network of sensors and machine learning algorithms, which enable the company to quickly identify and respond to emerging threats. Norton, on the other hand, relies on its vast database of malware signatures and advanced heuristics to detect and remove threats. While both companies offer excellent malware protection, Kaspersky’s cutting-edge technology gives it a slight advantage.
Is Kaspersky Compatible With All Operating Systems?
Kaspersky offers antivirus software compatible with a range of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. However, the specific features and functionality of Kaspersky’s products may vary depending on the operating system. For example, Kaspersky’s Internet Security suite is designed specifically for Windows and offers advanced features like a firewall and online backup.
Norton, on the other hand, also supports multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. However, Norton’s product lineup is more comprehensive, with specific products tailored to each operating system. For instance, Norton 360 for Mac offers advanced features like a firewall and password manager, optimized for the macOS environment. Both companies offer a wide range of compatibility, making it easy to find a security solution that fits your specific needs.
Can I Get A Free Trial Of Kaspersky Or Norton?
Yes, both Kaspersky and Norton offer free trials for their antivirus software. Kaspersky provides a 30-day free trial for its Antivirus and Internet Security products, allowing users to test the software and its features before committing to a purchase. Norton, on the other hand, offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to try its software risk-free.
During the free trial or guarantee period, you can experience the full range of features and protection offered by each company. This provides an excellent opportunity to evaluate the software and determine which one best fits your needs and budget. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of each company’s trial offer to understand any limitations or requirements.