Norton vs. Kaspersky – Which antivirus program offers the best protection in 2025?

Norton vs. Kaspersky – Which antivirus program offers the best protection in 2025?

In an increasingly digital world where cyberattacks, phishing emails, ransomware, and zero-day exploits are everyday threats, powerful virus protection is essential. Whether you're a private individual working from home, protecting your children online, or managing sensitive customer data as a business owner, choosing the right antivirus software can mean the difference between security and data loss.

The best-known names in internet security in 2025 are still Norton 360 and Kaspersky Total Security. Both have been among the world's leading antivirus programs for many years and stand for a high level of reliability, protection, and functionality. But which program will protect you better against viruses, Trojans, and other digital threats in 2025?

In this comprehensive antivirus comparison for 2025, we analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both programs in the key categories:

  • Security & virus detection
  • System performance & resource usage
  • Additional features & user-friendliness
  • Value for money
  • Data protection & trust

This comparison gives you an informed, practical assessment of which antivirus program best meets your individual requirements. Whether you're looking for the best virus protection for Windows in 2025, a powerful security suite for multiple devices, or special features such as VPN, password manager, or parental controls, you'll find all the information you need here.

 

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Malware detection & real-time protection comparison: How well do Norton and Kaspersky 2025 protect against viruses and cyber threats?

The most important aspect of any antivirus program in 2025 is and remains the ability to reliably detect and defend against current and future cyber threats. From classic viruses and spyware to dangerous zero-day attacks, modern security solutions must provide round-the-clock protection without compromising user-friendliness.

Malware detection in the test: Kaspersky vs. Norton

Both Norton 360 and Kaspersky Total Security received very good ratings in the latest test series conducted by AV-Test and AV-Comparatives in 2025. Both programs are among the best antivirus solutions on the market and achieved the maximum score of 6/6 points in the “Protection” category.

  • Kaspersky detected nearly 100% of all known malware in the test, as well as zero-day threats that exploit new vulnerabilities before an update is available.
  • Norton also performed excellently, but showed a slightly lower detection rate than Kaspersky for particularly complex types of malware.

This small but relevant difference could make a difference in security-critical areas, such as in companies or online banking.

 

Advantages in direct comparison: What are the pros and cons of each antivirus program?

Advantages of Kaspersky 2025:

  • Excellent detection rate for zero-day exploits
  • Kaspersky responds particularly quickly to new threats and effectively blocks even sophisticated attacks.
  • Short response time to newly discovered malware
  • Thanks to a global threat analysis network, Kaspersky can often identify and neutralize new viruses within minutes.

Advantages of Norton 360 2025:

  • Integrated phishing protection for emails and websites
  • Norton offers one of the best protection mechanisms against fake websites and fraudulent login pages.
  • Specialized financial protection
  • Features such as “Safe Web” and “Online Banking Protection” ensure secure transactions – ideal for online shopping and banking.

 

Conclusion: Who wins the 2025 malware protection comparison?

In the virus protection and real-time protection category, Kaspersky 2025 is slightly ahead of Norton, mainly due to its above-average zero-day detection rate and fast response time to new threats.

However, this does not mean that Norton is unsafe – on the contrary: Norton is also one of the best antivirus programs worldwide in 2025, especially for users who value integrated additional features such as web protection and secure payments.

In short:

  • Kaspersky for maximum malware detection
  • Norton for a secure online experience with a focus on phishing and financial protection

 

System performance in the 2025 antivirus program comparison: How resource-efficient are Norton and Kaspersky?

An often underestimated but crucial factor when choosing the right antivirus software is system utilization. After all, what good is the best virus protection if it slows down your computer noticeably or causes programs to respond with delays?

Especially on older devices or in professional contexts with high performance requirements, it is important to choose an antivirus solution with low system load. That's why we took a close look at Norton 360 and Kaspersky Total Security in this area as well.

 

Resource consumption in everyday use: How do Norton and Kaspersky affect PC performance?

Norton 360 performance advantages:

  • Uses cloud-based scanning, which means that many analyses are performed in the background via the cloud without placing a heavy load on the system's CPU.
  • The latest version 2025 is particularly resource-efficient in continuous operation – ideal for users who work extensively with Office programs or multimedia.

Kaspersky Total Security advantages:

  • Impresses with an extremely fast quick scan, which was completed in less than two minutes in the test – while maintaining a high detection rate.
  • Shows very low CPU and RAM usage, which is a major advantage on older or less powerful computers.

 

Test results & user feedback on performance 2025

In the latest performance tests by AV-Test (as of March 2025), both programs received the maximum score of 6/6 points in the “System Performance” category. This means:

  • No noticeable slowdown when starting applications
  • No negative effects when copying files or surfing the Internet
  • Minimal impact on system startup and background processes

In addition, many users report in independent forums and reviews that Kaspersky often runs a touch faster and smoother than Norton on older hardware or systems with little RAM.

 

Conclusion: Which antivirus program puts less strain on your system – Norton or Kaspersky?

Both security solutions are among the most powerful and efficient antivirus programs on the market in 2025. They have been specially designed to protect you in the background without slowing down your computer.

  • Norton 360 is ideal for modern devices and impresses with its integration of cloud-based security processes.
  • Kaspersky Total Security is particularly recommended for users with older PCs or laptops, as it runs smoothly even on weaker systems with minimal resource consumption.

Our tip for 2025:

If you are looking for a particularly lightweight, performance-optimized antivirus program, both solutions are a good choice – with Kaspersky having a slight edge for older hardware.

 

Features & extras compared: Which antivirus software offers the better overall package in 2025?

Modern antivirus programs in 2025 are now much more than just simple virus scanners. They have evolved into full-fledged security suites that offer a wide range of features: VPN services for anonymous surfing, password managers for secure logins, parental controls for families, dark web monitoring for early detection of stolen data, and much more.

But which software offers the greater range of features? We compare Norton 360 and Kaspersky Total Security in detail to find out which of the two programs is the better all-in-one security solution in 2025.

 

Features of Norton 360 (2025) – The all-inclusive package for digital security

Norton 360 relies on a holistic security concept that appeals to both individuals and families. The most important features of the current 2025 version at a glance:

  • 50 GB cloud backup: Automatically protects important files from ransomware, hardware failures, or accidental deletion.
  • VPN with unlimited data: Included in the premium version – ideal for secure and anonymous surfing, even on public Wi-Fi networks.
  • Password manager: Stores passwords in encrypted form and simplifies secure login with a single click.
  • Dark web monitoring: Warns you if personal information (e.g., email addresses or credit card details) appears on the dark web.
  • Parental control (Safe Family): Allows you to monitor and control your children's online activities – on multiple devices simultaneously.
  • Protection for up to 10 devices: Ideal for households with multiple PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

 

Features of Kaspersky Total Security (2025) – Data protection at the highest level

In 2025, Kaspersky is placing a special focus on user protection, privacy, and secure communication. The most important features:

  • Secure payment browser (“Safe Money”): Opens banking sites in a protected environment – ideal for online banking and shopping.
  • Webcam and microphone protection: Detects unauthorized access to the camera or microphone and blocks it immediately.
  • VPN (limited in basic version): Offers secure surfing – but with a monthly data limit that is only removed in higher packages.
  • Password manager: Securely store, generate, and synchronize passwords across different devices.
  • Parental control: Filters inappropriate content, limits screen time, and enables location tracking.
  • File encryption & file shredder: Securely delete sensitive files or store them in encrypted form – particularly useful for professional purposes.

A direct comparison of the features offered by Norton 360 and Kaspersky Total Security in 2025 shows that both programs offer a wide range of security features, but with different areas of focus.

Norton 360 stands out thanks to its integrated cloud backup with 50 GB of storage, which automatically protects important files – a feature that Kaspersky Total Security does not offer. Another advantage of Norton is the unlimited VPN included in the premium version, which is particularly suitable for secure surfing on public networks. Kaspersky also offers a VPN, but with a fixed data limit in the basic version, which can significantly restrict usage.

Both programs include a password manager that allows you to create, store, and manage secure passwords. Norton is ahead when it comes to dark web monitoring: it monitors the darknet for leaked personal data – a feature that Kaspersky does not offer.

For secure online banking, Kaspersky offers a particularly secure environment for transactions with its “Safe Money” browser. Norton also offers protection features for payment transactions, but in a somewhat limited form. The difference becomes more apparent when it comes to webcam and microphone protection: this privacy feature is available exclusively from Kaspersky, while Norton does not include it.

Both programs offer comprehensive parental controls – known as “Safe Family” in Norton – and are suitable for protecting up to 10 devices simultaneously, making them particularly attractive for households with multiple users. Kaspersky scores another point with its ability to encrypt or irrevocably delete specific files – features that are missing in Norton.

Overall, Norton 360 offers more convenience features and cloud services, while Kaspersky Total Security scores with advanced privacy features that will appeal to security-conscious users in particular.

 

Conclusion: Who has the better features – Norton or Kaspersky?

If you're looking for a comprehensive online protection package for 2025 that combines data security, cloud backup, unlimited VPN, and family-friendly features, Norton 360 is the best choice. Norton's wide range of features gives it a clear advantage, especially for households with multiple devices and different user needs.

If, on the other hand, you place particular importance on data protection, privacy, and secure payment processing, Kaspersky Total Security scores highly with specialized features such as webcam protection and file encryption — a real added value for security-conscious users or freelancers.

Tip: Decide based on your priorities:

  • Norton: More features, ideal for families and power users
  • Kaspersky: More privacy and control over sensitive data

 

Price comparison of antivirus programs in 2025: How much does Norton or Kaspersky cost, and which package is really worth it?

When choosing the right antivirus software, security is not the only decisive factor – price also plays a key role. Especially in times of rising costs and multiple devices in the household, it is worth taking a closer look at the price-performance ratio of the leading providers. In 2025, Norton 360 and Kaspersky Total Security will continue to be among the most popular virus protection solutions – but how do they differ in terms of pricing, number of devices, and term?

 

Special features of the pricing

Kaspersky – Flexible entry with a free version

Kaspersky scores with a permanently free basic version that already offers basic protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware – ideal for beginners or price-conscious users. Those who need more features such as VPN, password manager, or parental controls can upgrade to paid packages.

Norton – Premium features right from the start

Norton does not offer a free version – but the entry-level versions already include significantly more premium features, such as cloud backup, unlimited VPN, dark web monitoring, and comprehensive parental controls. The Deluxe package is particularly attractive, protecting up to 5 devices simultaneously – perfect for households or families.

 

Best value for money for families and frequent users?

For users with multiple devices or family members, Norton 360 Deluxe offers a strong feature set and multi-device support, making it the overall best value for money in the premium segment.

Kaspersky, on the other hand, is ideal for:

  • Users on a tight budget
  • Users who only need basic protection for a single device
  • Security-conscious users who are looking for specific features such as webcam protection or file encryption

In short

  • Kaspersky impresses with low entry-level prices and a free version – ideal for price-conscious users.
  • Norton offers a more comprehensive feature set with better family options – at a cost from the outset, but with significantly more value for money.

 

Platforms & compatibility 2025: Which antivirus program best protects Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS?

In a world where many people use multiple devices simultaneously, cross-platform protection is a crucial factor when choosing the right antivirus software. Whether you're on a Windows PC, MacBook, Android smartphone, or iPhone, your security solution should work seamlessly across all operating systems and provide comprehensive protection.

 

Antivirus for Windows 2025

Both Norton 360 and Kaspersky Total Security are fully compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11. Both offer:

  • Real-time protection against malware and ransomware
  • Firewall features
  • Web protection for secure browsing
  • System optimization tools (e.g., temporary file cleanup, startup manager)

Both programs are particularly powerful on Windows devices, where they can unleash their full range of features.

 

Antivirus programs for macOS

Norton and Kaspersky also offer effective protection on macOS Ventura and Sonoma (2025):

  • Norton also offers cloud backup and VPN
  • Kaspersky scores with webcam monitoring and a secure browser

Both programs integrate well into the Apple environment, although Norton's range of features on Mac is slightly more extensive than Kaspersky's.

 

Antivirus programs for Android smartphones and tablets

Mobile devices have long been the target of numerous cyberattacks, especially Android smartphones through insecure apps or phishing attacks via SMS.

Features of both providers on Android:

  • Protection against malicious apps
  • Web protection while surfing
  • Device location detection in case of theft
  • App scan during installation
  • Wi-Fi security check

Norton Mobile Security and Kaspersky Internet Security for Android are among the top-rated security solutions in the Google Play Store in 2025.

 

Antivirus for iOS (iPhone & iPad)

Since Apple iOS is highly restricted, classic virus protection is not necessary – nevertheless, both programs offer valuable additional features for iPhones and iPads:

Norton:

  • Wi-Fi security check
  • Web protection for Safari
  • SMS spam filter
  • VPN function

Kaspersky:

  • Anti-phishing protection
  • Secure browsing features
  • Data protection warnings in the event of data leaks

Conclusion: Both apps are less virus scanners than smart security tools for iOS – Norton impresses here with its wider range of features.

Cross-platform protection: One license for all devices

Both Norton and Kaspersky offer 2025 cross-platform security solutions that allow you to protect multiple devices with different operating systems at the same time. This is particularly useful for households with Windows, Android, and Apple users, especially with the Deluxe and Family versions.

Both Norton 360 Deluxe and Kaspersky Plus or Total Security offer comprehensive cross-platform protection for all major operating systems in 2025. On Windows PCs, both programs deliver the full range of features, including real-time protection, firewall, web protection, and additional tools for system maintenance. Both providers also offer reliable protection on macOS, with Norton having a slight advantage with additional features such as cloud backup and VPN.

Both solutions perform at their best on Android smartphones and tablets, offering powerful protection against malicious apps, phishing attempts, and unsecure networks – particularly important for mobile users. Norton and Kaspersky are also well positioned on iOS devices such as iPhones and iPads. Although classic virus protection is not necessary on Apple devices due to the nature of the system, both apps offer useful features such as web protection, Wi-Fi scanners, and anti-phishing.

A particularly big advantage of both providers is their cross-platform license usage: Both Norton 360 Deluxe and Kaspersky Total Security allow you to protect up to 10 devices at the same time, regardless of whether they run Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS. This makes both products ideal for households and users with a mixed device fleet.

 

Conclusion: Which antivirus program is better suited for multiple platforms in 2025?

  • All versions of Norton 360 offer very good protection for Windows, Android, and iOS, as well as advanced cloud and VPN features, even on Mac.
  • Kaspersky impresses with strong security features on all platforms, especially in the areas of data protection and device protection.

Recommendation for multi-device users:

If you use different devices and operating systems, both programs are reliable solutions, with Norton slightly ahead thanks to its slightly wider range of features on mobile devices.

Our recommendation for 2025

  • Choose Norton 360 if you want a complete security package with cloud backup, unlimited VPN, parental controls, and dark web monitoring. Ideal for families, frequent users, and anyone looking for an all-inclusive package with clear privacy policies.
  • Choose Kaspersky if you value excellent malware detection, very good performance, and privacy-oriented features such as a webcam blocker and file encryption.

 

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is Kaspersky secure in 2025 despite the geopolitical situation?

Technically, absolutely. The software offers the highest detection rates and modern protection. Politically, its use is viewed critically depending on the region – users should inform themselves individually and weigh up the pros and cons.

Is Norton available for free?

No. Norton only offers paid packages – but with particularly extensive features even in the cheapest version.

Which program is better for families?

Norton 360 Deluxe is specially designed for families: it protects up to 5 devices, offers comprehensive parental controls, unlimited VPN, and cloud backup.

Can I use both antivirus programs to bank online securely?

Yes. Both Norton and Kaspersky offer special protection features for online payments, such as secure browser environments, phishing protection, and real-time monitoring while surfing.