[Topic 87342]

About Kaspersky solutions

Our new solutions embody our vision of modern-day cybersecurity. In addition to new names, you will find a brand new user interface, and a host of new functionality.

Solutions are presented by several plans. The plans differ by level of protection, and by the number of features and services made available to users. Plans contain both new and time-tested features which fall into three categories.

Explore the features available to you in each category:

• Security
• Performance
• Privacy
• Identity
• Home Wi-Fi

[Topic 152975]

Comparison of subscription plans

The availability of certain subscription plans depends on your region.

The application offers three subscription plans. The following table lists the application functionality available for each subscription plan.

Subscription plans

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[Topic 43520]

Hardware and software requirements

General requirements

• 1500 MB free disk space on the hard drive
• Processor that supports the SSE2 instruction set (except ARM)
• Internet access (for the application installation and activation, for the use of Kaspersky Security Network, and for updating databases and application modules)
• Microsoft Windows Installer 4.5 or later
• Microsoft .NET Framework 4 or later
• Webcam access protection is provided only for compatible webcam models

Operating system requirements

Kaspersky application cannot be installed on Microsoft Windows 7 without installed operating system updates: KB4490628 (March 12, 2019) and KB4474419 (September 23, 2019).

Kaspersky application cannot be installed on Windows Enterprise multi-session systems.

For the Safe Browsing, Anti-Banner, and Safe Money protection components to work, the Base Filtering Engine service must be running in the operating system.

Browser support

The following browsers support installing the Kaspersky Protection extension:

• Chromium-based Microsoft Edge 77.x – 129.x;
• Mozilla Firefox versions 52.x – 130.x, including Mozilla Firefox MSIX 94.x;
• Mozilla Firefox ESR 52.x, 60.x, 68.x, 78.x, 91.x, 102.x, 115.x, 128.x;
• Google Chrome versions 48.x – 129.x;
• Yandex Browser 18.3.1 – 22.9.5, 24.x.

The following browsers support On-Screen Keyboard and scanning of encrypted connections:

• Chromium-based Microsoft Edge 77.x – 129.x;
• Mozilla Firefox versions 52.x – 130.x, including Mozilla Firefox MSIX 94.x;
• Mozilla Firefox ESR 52.x, 60.x, 68.x, 78.x, 91.x, 102.x, 115.x, 128.x;
• Google Chrome 48.x – 129.x;
• Yandex Browser 18.3.1 – 22.9.5, 23.x, 24.x.

The following browsers support Protected Browser mode:

• Microsoft Internet Explorer 8.0, 9.0, 10.0, 11.0;
• Chromium-based Microsoft Edge 77.x – 129.x;
• Mozilla Firefox versions 52.x – 130.x, excluding Mozilla Firefox MSIX 94.x in Protected Browser mode;
• Mozilla Firefox ESR 52.x, 60.x, 68.x, 78.x, 91.x, 102.x, 115.x, 128.x;
• Google Chrome 48.x – 129.x;
• Yandex Browser 18.3.1 – 22.9.5, 23.x, 24.x (with limitations).

Newer versions of browsers can be supported if the browser supports the corresponding technology.

Kaspersky supports Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox in 32-bit and in 64-bit operating systems.

Requirements for tablet computers

• Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows 8, Microsoft Windows 8.1, Microsoft Windows 10, Microsoft Windows 11;
• Intel Celeron processor with a clock speed of 1.66 GHz or faster;
• 1024 MB free RAM.

Requirements for netbooks

• Intel Atom CPU 1.60 GHz or faster;
• 1024 MB free RAM;
• 10.1-inch display with 1024x768 screen resolution;
• Intel GMA 950 graphics core or later.

The requirements for Kaspersky Password Manager are available in the help files of this application.

[Topic 149022]

Compatibility with other Kaspersky applications

Kaspersky is compatible with the following Kaspersky applications:

• Kaspersky Safe Kids 1.5 and Safe Kids 2023
• Kaspersky Password Manager 10.0, 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 2023.0, 2023.1, 2023.2, 2024.0, 2024.1, 2024.2, 2024.3
• Kaspersky Security for Exchange 9.7
• Kaspersky Software Updater 2.1
• Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool 2015, 2020
• Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection 4.0, 5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 5.13, 5.14, 5.15, 5.16, 5.17, 5.18, 5.19

Kaspersky VPN functionality is not available in some regions.

[Topic 119653]

What's new in the latest version of the application

The latest version of the application introduces the following new features and improvements:

• We’ve added the Firewall card on the Security page.
• Safe Money. We've redesigned the information bar in Protected Browser. Now the bar does not overlap browser's content.
• The Battery Saver function now correctly indicates that it is only available for laptops when used on a desktop computer.
• Improved the message suggesting users install the browser extension, providing them with a better understanding of its benefits.
• Added the option to cancel scans for Quick Scan, Full Scan, Selective Scan, Instant File Scan, Removable Drive Scan, and Vulnerability Scan.
• Added a separate notification for malware detection.
• Removed some columns from the Firewall reports to simplify user comprehension.
• Implemented special tools that can be used to record technical information about the application's operation and provide it to Support if the application fails to start.
• We’ve updated the text message in the Profile section when your subscription is about to expire to let you know that if you renew your license, you will not lose days left on your current subscription.
• Data Leak Checker and Identity Theft Check. The Data Leak Checker window now displays a list of data leaks. Clicking on a leak will show you a recommendation.

Starting from version 21.18, the application no longer includes the Anti-Spam feature. While the functionality has been removed, our other protection features remain in place to keep your inbox safe from malicious email attachments.

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[Topic 101565]

Limited free version of Kaspersky application

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Kaspersky Free is a limited free version of Kaspersky application. Using the free version of the application gives you high-quality protection supplemented by advanced features and a user interface fully reworked for ease of use.

You can activate the application by logging into your My Kaspersky account from the device on which you are installing the application. Kaspersky Free does not work if your device is not connected to your account. You can create an account in the account connection window during application activation or on My Kaspersky website. You can also use credentials from other Kaspersky resources to sign in to your account.

The Kaspersky Free subscription is renewed without your intervention.

Moreover, you can always switch to a paid subscription of Kaspersky application without downloading and installing any additional software.

Switching from Kaspersky Free to Kaspersky Standard or Kaspersky Plus

• How to switch to trial subscription

  You can temporarily switch to the free trial subscription for Kaspersky Standard or Kaspersky Plus to evaluate the functionality.

  The trial period is not available if you have already used a trial subscription on your device.

  To set up a trial subscription:

  1. Open the main application window.
  2. Go to the Profile section.
  3. In subscription information, click Upgrade.
  4. On the Upgrade page, click Try for free.

     If the application is not connected to a My Kaspersky account, you must sign in to the account. If you do not have an account, you can create one in the connection window. On the territory of the European Union, you must accept the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal or the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal and regulating license limitations.

  5. The Migration Wizard starts.

     When switching to Kaspersky Standard or Kaspersky Plus in the European Union, the application offers you to read and accept the End User License Agreement, Kaspersky Security Network Statement, and Statement regarding data processing for marketing purposes. You may also need to accept the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal or the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal and regulating license limitations.

     The application may take some time to set up and start. After the completion of the process, the application is automatically activated using the trial subscription.

     During the activation process, you may be prompted to install extra applications that are offered as part of the subscription.

  6. Click Close to finish with the Wizard, then click Start to begin using the application with the trial subscription.
• How to switch to paid subscription

  You can purchase a Kaspersky Standard or Kaspersky Plus subscription in the user interface of the application.

  To buy a subscription:

  1. Open the main application window.
  2. Go to the Profile section.
  3. In subscription information, click Upgrade.
  4. On the Upgrade page, click Buy now.

     The website of Kaspersky or one of our partners opens in the default browser. Follow the instructions on the website.

     After the successful purchase, the subscription is added to your My Kaspersky account.

     If the application is not connected to a My Kaspersky account, you must sign in to the account. On the territory of the European Union, you must also accept the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal or the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal and regulating license limitations.

  5. The Migration Wizard starts. To proceed with the wizard, click the Continue button.

     When switching to Kaspersky Standard or Kaspersky Plus in the European Union, the application offers you to read and accept the End User License Agreement, Kaspersky Security Network Statement, and Statement regarding data processing for marketing purposes. You may also need to accept the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal or the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal and regulating license limitations.

     The application may take some time to set up and start. After the completion of the process, the application is automatically activated using the new subscription.

     During the activation process, you may be prompted to install extra applications that are offered as part of the subscription.

  6. Click Close to finish with the Wizard, then click Start to begin using the application with the new subscription.

What is included in Kaspersky Free?

File Anti-Virus

File Anti-Virus prevents infection of the computer's file system. The component starts upon startup of the operating system, continuously remains in the computer's RAM, and scans all files that are opened, saved, or launched on your computer and all connected drives. Kaspersky Free intercepts each attempt to access a file and scans the file for known viruses and other malware. Further access to the file is allowed only if the file is not infected or is successfully disinfected. If a file cannot be disinfected for any reason, it is deleted. A copy of the file is moved to Quarantine when that happens. If an infected file is placed in the same location where the deleted file with the same name used to be, Quarantine saves only a copy of the last file. A copy of the previous file with the same name is not saved.

Mail Anti-Virus

Mail Anti-Virus scans incoming and outgoing email messages on your computer. An email message is available to the recipient only if it does not contain dangerous objects.

Safe Browsing

Safe Browsing intercepts and blocks the execution of scripts on websites if they pose a threat. Safe Browsing also monitors all web traffic and blocks access to dangerous websites.

Anti-Phishing

Anti-Phishing allows checking URLs to find out if they are included in the list of phishing URLs. This component is built into Safe Browsing.

System Watcher

The System Watcher component rolls back the changes made to the operating system by malicious or other activity of applications.

The component protects against malware, including:

• Exploits
• Screen lockers
• Encryptors that encrypt data
• Ransomware that encrypts data or blocks access to files or the system and extorts ransom for restoring the files or access to them

Disabling this component is not recommended.

Network Attack Blocker

Network Attack Blocker loads at operating system startup and tracks incoming network traffic for activities characteristic of network attacks. When an attempt to attack your computer is detected, Kaspersky Free blocks all network activity from the attacking computer that is aimed at your computer.

On-Screen Keyboard

On-Screen Keyboard prevents interception of data entered on the hardware keyboard and protects personal data against interception attempts that use screen shots.

Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI)

Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) allows a third-party application that supports AMSI to send objects (for example, PowerShell scripts) to Kaspersky for additional scanning and to receive scan results for these objects.

[Topic 144975]

Data provision

This section contains information on the specific data that you provide to Kaspersky while using the application. The Saving data to the application operation report subsection contains data that are stored locally on your computer and are not sent to Kaspersky.

[Topic 144976]

Data provision under the End User License Agreement

This section contains information on the specific data that are provided to Kaspersky if you have installed the application version which is not intended for use in the European Union, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Vietnam, or by California residents:

Data for Kaspersky Free plan

Data for Kaspersky Standard plan

Data for Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium plans

Kaspersky protects the received information according to legal requirements and applicable rules of Kaspersky. The data is transmitted over encrypted channels.

[Topic 175193]

Data provision under the End User License Agreement on the territory of the European Union, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Vietnam, or by California residents

This section contains information on the specific data that are provided to Kaspersky if you have installed the application version which is intended for use in the European Union, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Vietnam, or by California residents:

Data for Kaspersky Free and Kaspersky Standard plans

Data for Kaspersky Plus plan

Data for Kaspersky Premium plan

The information mentioned in this section does not contain any personal data of the User.

The information received is protected by the Rightholder in the manner prescribed by the law and is required for the operation of the Software made available to use under the license.

Kaspersky may use the acquired statistical data based on the information received to monitor trends in computer security threats and publish reports on those threats.

[Topic 144977]

Data provision to Kaspersky Security Network

The scope of data transmitted to Kaspersky Security Network is described in the Kaspersky Security Network Statement.

To view the Kaspersky Security Network Statement:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click the button in the lower part of the application window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Security settings → Kaspersky Security Network.

   The Kaspersky Security Network window opens showing the details of Kaspersky Security Network and Kaspersky Security Network participation settings.

4. Click the Kaspersky Security Network Statement link to open the text of the Kaspersky Security Network Statement.

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[Topic 144978]

Saving data to the application operation report

Report files may contain personal data obtained during operation of protection components such as File Anti-Virus, Mail Anti-Virus, and Safe Browsing.

Report files can contain the following personal data:

• IP address of the user's device
• Online browsing history
• Blocked links
• Messaging history in social networks
• Versions of the browser and operating system
• Names of cookies and other files and paths to them
• Email address, sender, message subject, message text, user names, and list of contacts

The maximum number of records that can be displayed in each section of the report file is 10000.

When you use the Protection for kids, Smart Home Monitor, and Security news components, you submit the following data:

• Wi-Fi network ID, Wi-Fi network status, device ID, hash of the device MAC address, device status;
• Information about websites visited;
• Information about the number of times that a file has been launched on the computer (file popularity).

Report files are stored locally on your computer and are not transmitted to Kaspersky. Path to report files: %allusersprofile%\Kaspersky Lab\AVP21.19\Report\Database.

Reports are stored in the following files:

• reports.db
• reports.db-wal
• reports.db-shm (does not contain any personal data)

Report files are protected against unauthorized access if self-defense is enabled in Kaspersky. If self-defense is disabled, report files are not protected.

[Topic 248517]

Locally processed data

This section contains information on data that is collected and processed locally. The data is used to send statistics about product errors to improve its functionality.

• Software component ID
• Version of the Software component
• Source file path
• Number of the string in the script where the error has occurred
• Name of the module in which the failure probably occurred
• Software module ID
• Nested error occurred during the application operation
• Error type
• Text of the error message
• Memory stack of the Software process failure
• Address for the Software module loading
• Process system ID (PID)
• Size of the object being processed
• Description of an object being processed as defined in the object properties
• Attribute data

[Topic 178754]

Saving data for Customer Service

The application processes and stores the following personal data for further analysis by Customer Service:

• Data that is displayed in the application interface:
  • Email address used to connect to My Kaspersky
  • Website addresses that were added to the exclusions (displayed in the Safe Browsing, Anti-Banner, Private Browsing, and Network components, and in the Reports window)
  • License data

  This data is stored locally in a non-modified form and can be viewed under any user account on the computer.

• Data on the system memory of the application processes at the moment when a memory dump is created.
• Data that is gathered when traces are enabled.

This data is stored locally in a modified form and can be viewed under any user account on the computer. This data is transmitted to Kaspersky only with your consent when contacting Customer Service. To learn more about the data, click the Support Statement link in the Support Tools window.

[Topic 160950]

About using the application in the European Union, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Vietnam, or by California residents

The versions of the application that Kaspersky and our partners distribute in the European Union, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Vietnam (as well as the versions intended to be used by California residents) meet the requirements of the regulations governing the collection and processing of personal data that have been established in these regions.

To install the application, you must accept the End User License Agreement and the terms of the Privacy Policy.

In addition, the Setup Wizard prompts you to accept the following agreements regarding how your personal data is processed:

• Kaspersky Security Network Statement. This statement allows Kaspersky experts to promptly receive information about threats detected on your computer, about applications being run and signed applications being downloaded, as well as operating system information to improve your protection.
• Statement regarding data processing for marketing purposes. This statement allows us to create more valuable offers for you.

You can accept or decline the Kaspersky Security Network Statement and Statement regarding data processing for marketing purposes at any time from the Settings → Security settings → Kaspersky Security Network window.

If you decline the Statement regarding data processing for marketing purposes, it may take up to 4 days for all marketing campaigns and communications to be permanently deactivated.

[Topic 228632]

How subscription works

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How paid subscription works

The subscription is automatically renewed at the end of each period unless you cancel it. Towards the end of the paid period, you will receive an email with a reminder about the upcoming charge with a confirmation of the next renewal price. The payment for the next period takes place before the current period expires, to make sure you enjoy uninterrupted protection from cybersecurity threats. If the subscription is successfully renewed, remaining days of the current period are added to the new period.

You may receive a special offer that allows you to enable an automatic renewal and get a discount on the next subscription period when activating the subscription. If you agree to enable the automatic renewal, click Grab my discount and you will be redirected to the website where you can specify payment information. If you do not want to turn on the automatic renewal right now, you can do it later. The special offer will be available in the Profile section.

Note that the price of the subscription may vary. At the moment of renewal, special offers and discounts may be available, which will not affect your subscription.

How free subscription works

Free trial subscription becomes active immediately when you subscribe. A few days in advance of the expiration of the trial period, you will receive a reminder about subscription renewal. If you do not cancel your subscription during the trial period, after the trial period expires, the subscription is automatically renewed for the next period.

If there is a problem with the payment

If for some reason your subscription could not be automatically renewed (your bank card has expired, has been blocked, or auto-renewal is disabled), you may be granted a grace period to renew your subscription when it expires; you can use the complete functionality of the application without limitations while the grace period is active. If you have not renewed your subscription, the application may switch to limited functionality mode when the grace period expires. The duration of limited functionality mode depends on your region and licensing terms. For information about the expiration date of the grace period and the limited functionality mode, see the Profile section.

About subscriptions bought from service providers

[Topic 210121]

How to buy a subscription

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There are several ways to acquire a subscription for an application:

Purchase on the Kaspersky website

Purchase using the application interface

Purchase from a Kaspersky partner

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[Topic 85309]

How to manage your subscription using your My Kaspersky account

You need a My Kaspersky account to use the application.

Depending on your subscription, connecting the device on which you are installing the application to your My Kaspersky account may be required to have access to some or all application functionality.

In your My Kaspersky account, you can:

• View information about subscriptions and their expiration dates.
• Remotely manage device protection.
• Securely store and synchronize your passwords and other personal information if you use Kaspersky Password Manager.
• Download purchased applications.
• Contact Customer Service.
• Learn about new applications and special offers from Kaspersky.

For details about all functionality of the My Kaspersky account, see My Kaspersky Help.

How to connect a device to My Kaspersky account

If you purchased your subscription from the Kaspersky website, an account was created during the purchase process. An email with the password creation link was sent to the email address that you specified during purchase.

You can sign in to your My Kaspersky account using your email address and password, or with your Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK account. If you already have an account, you can configure quick sign-in with your Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK account in the window used for connecting your device to your My Kaspersky account. This is possible if, when creating your My Kaspersky account, you used the email address from your Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK account.

The availability of quick sign-in depends on your region. For more details on restrictions in Russia, please see this article (available only in English and Russian).

If you do not have an account yet, you can create one in the process of connecting the device to your account. You can also use credentials from other Kaspersky resources to sign in to your account.

You can connect a device to your account:

• In the connection window when activating the application

  To connect your device to My Kaspersky when activating the application:

  1. Go through installation steps of the application.
  2. Once the installation is complete, you will be prompted to activate the application.
  3. Enter the activation code and click Activate or restore a subscription from your My Kaspersky account by clicking Restore subscription from your account.

     

     Then, you will be prompted to sign in to your My Kaspersky account or create a new My Kaspersky account to save your activation code.

     In the account connection window, select the connection method that you find the most convenient:

     • Sign in with an email address. Enter your email address in the text box. A message with a password creation link is sent to the specified email address.

       If you have configured two-step verification in your My Kaspersky account, a text message containing the verification code is sent to your phone. In the entry field, enter the verification code and click Continue.

     • Sign in with Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK account.
       1. Click Sign in with Google, Sign in with Facebook, Sign in with Apple, Sign in with Yandex ID, or Sign in with VK ID.

          This opens a browser window; in that window, sign in to your Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK account and allow the application to gain access to your email address.

          If you do not have a Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK account, you can create one and proceed with configuring quick sign-in to My Kaspersky.

          If two-step verification is configured for your My Kaspersky account, configure quick sign-in in your account on the My Kaspersky website then go back to the application and sign in with Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK.

          If you are using the Microsoft Edge browser, to configure the sign-in to My Kaspersky, you will need a version of Microsoft Edge based on Chromium 77.x or later. In case of a connection error, select a different browser as your default browser, install the latest version of the Microsoft Edge browser, or update the Microsoft Windows operating system.

       2. Go back to the application and proceed with creating the account by clicking Continue. Follow subsequent on-screen instructions.

          Your device will be connected to your My Kaspersky account. In addition, you can set up a password for your account on the My Kaspersky website.

          Data processing when signing in to the account

          When you sign in to your My Kaspersky account with Google, Facebook, Apple, Yandex, or VK, the following data is processed:

          • Rightholder's resource ID
          • Value generated for request verification
          • Token type
          • URI to which the response of the authentication provider is sent

          When you sign in to the account on a service provider website using authentication providers, the following data is processed:

          • Rightholder's resource ID
          • Token used for authorization in the service provider's infrastructure
          • Token type
          • Parameters requested from the authentication providers
          • URI to which the response of the authentication provider is sent

     In some regions, the application prompts you to read and accept the Statement regarding data processing for purpose of using Web-Portal. If you accept the terms of the statement, click Accept.

     ‎

• In the user interface of the application, in the Profile section

  To connect your device to My Kaspersky account through the Profile section:

  1. Open the main application window.
  2. Go to the Profile section.
  3. In the Sign in to My Kaspersky block, click the Sign in button.

     

  4. In the account connection window, select the connection method that you find the most convenient. For more details about available connection methods, see Step 3 in the procedure above on this page.

     

• On the My Kaspersky website
• When activating certain functionality of the application

[Topic 230187]

How to cancel the subscription

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You can cancel your subscription at any time. A canceled subscription is not automatically renewed, and your devices remain protected until the last paid period expires.

To avoid unnecessary expenses, you should cancel your subscription before the payment date for the next period. Note that the payment for the next period is made before the current period expires, to make sure protection is maintained without interruption.

How to cancel the subscription in Russia, Belarus, Abkhazia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, South Ossetia, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan

How to cancel the subscription in other countries

[Topic 230186]

How to set a different payment method

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Automatic charges for subscription renewal use the payment method that you chose when purchasing the subscription. You can set a different payment method.

How to set a different payment method in Russia, Belarus, Abkhazia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, South Ossetia, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan

How to set a different payment method in other countries

[Topic 210122]

How to activate a subscription on your device

In this section, you will learn how to start using applications after you have purchased a subscription. An Internet connection is required for activation.

[Topic 214812]

If you purchased a subscription from Kaspersky website

If you have purchased your subscription in the Kaspersky online store, your My Kaspersky account was created in the course of completing the purchase. My Kaspersky account is required to activate your subscription on different devices and to manage your subscription. You can activate your subscription by logging into your My Kaspersky account from the device on which you are installing the application.

To activate a subscription on your devices:

1. Check the inbox for the email address you specified when making your purchase. There should be two emails from Kaspersky: a receipt and instructions for completing the activation of your subscription.
2. Click the Go to My Kaspersky link in the instructions email to complete creating your account and to log in.
3. In the subscription information window, click Download to download the app to your device.

   

   Subscriptions

4. Install the application.

When the installation is successfully completed, the application will automatically connect to your account and be activated according to the subscription you have purchased.

When a subscription is renewed, its expiration date will be updated automatically within 24 hours on all the devices that have been activated for this subscription and are linked to your My Kaspersky account.

If you purchase a subscription from the Kaspersky Online Store, the term of the subscription begins from the moment of purchase.

[Topic 214814]

If you purchased a box or an activation card

If you purchased a box or an activation card in a shop, you need an activation code to activate the application. You can find the activation code on the box, in documentation or on the backside of the card. The activation code is a unique sequence of twenty digits and Latin letters in the format xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx-xxxxx.

The countdown for the expiration of a subscription activated with an activation code starts from the date when you activate the application on the first device.

If you have purchased an activation card:

1. Open My Kaspersky website on the device you want to protect.
2. Create a My Kaspersky account or sign in to an existing account.
3. Under Already have an activation code? in the lower part of the page, enter the activation code in the entry field.

   

   Adding the activation code

4. Click the Add button.

   If the activation code was added successfully, the Subscriptions section displays the subscription panel.

5. Click the subscription panel.

   

   Subscription dashboards

6. In the subscription information window, click Download to download the app to your device.

   

   Subscription download

7. Install the application.

   After the application has been successfully installed, it will be activated automatically according to the terms of your subscription.

If you have purchased a box with an installation disk:

1. Insert the disk into the disk drive.
2. In the My Kaspersky account connection window, create an account or sign in to an existing account.

   

   Signing into the account

3. In the activation code window, enter the activation code in the text box and click Continue.

   

   “Continue” button

   The activation code is saved in your account under Subscriptions.

4. Click Download and Install to download and install the application to your device.

   

   “Download and Install” button

5. Install the application.

   After the application has been successfully installed, it will be activated automatically according to the terms of your subscription.

Your activation code is now stored in your My Kaspersky account. To protect a new device, sign in to the account and download the application. You can also manually enter the activation code in the application.

[Topic 214822]

Activating your subscription if the application is already installed on your device

In this section, you will learn how to renew an expired subscription, add a new activation code to an application that has an active subscription to have it renewed automatically, and switch from the trial subscription to a paid subscription.

[Topic 270286]

Subscription with automatic renewal

A subscription with auto-renewal guarantees continuous protection against viruses, malware, and other cyberthreats. If you purchased a pre-paid subscription with auto-renewal from a retail store or a third-party affiliated website, you will be required to provide and save payment information in your account in order to activate and use your subscription. The information that you provide will be stored and will not be used until your plan is due for renewal.

You will receive an email reminder 15 days before your subscription ends. You can cancel the auto-renewal of your subscription at any time.

If you did not provide payment information upon purchase, you will be required to provide it when activating your subscription. Click Enter payment details and you will be redirected to the website where you can specify payment details. Then, wait a few moments, go back to the application window, and click Refresh.

[Topic 210458]

Your subscription expired

If you have automatic renewal activated, the subscription is automatically renewed for another term without your intervention. If you do not have automatic renewal activated, you must renew the subscription manually.

If you renew the subscription manually and you have previously added a reserve activation code in the application, when the current subscription expires, the application is automatically activated with the reserve activation code.

To renew a subscription:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Profile section. If your device is connected to your My Kaspersky account, your email address is displayed here.
3. In subscription information, click Renew now.

   The website of the Kaspersky eStore or one of our partners opens in the default browser.

   During the purchase process, enter the email registered with your My Kaspersky account. If you do not have an account yet, it will be created with the specified email. After purchasing and connecting the application to your My Kaspersky account, the subscription is automatically activated on the device within an hour from renewal.

You can also send the new subscription to devices from your My Kaspersky account. For details about sending a subscription to a device connected to your account, see My Kaspersky help.

If you have not renewed your subscription, the application may switch to limited functionality mode.

[Topic 214985]

Renewing the subscription using a reserve activation code

If you have a new activation code, you can add it to the application to be used as a reserve code. When the current subscription expires, the application is activated automatically with the reserve activation code. This way, you can ensure uninterrupted protection for your device.

There are cases when you cannot add a reserve activation code.

To add a reserve activation code:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Profile section. If your device is connected to your My Kaspersky account, your email address is displayed here.
3. Under subscription information, click the three dots and select Enter activation code.
4. In the entry field, enter the activation code and click the Save activation code button.

The reserve activation code will be displayed in the Subscription details window.

If you enter a reserve activation code that was issued for multiple devices, you must follow the steps to apply the reserve code on all devices where you want to renew the subscription automatically.

An attempt to activate and fully verify the reserve code will be made when the current subscription expires, or if the current subscription is removed from the device. The application verifies the expiration date of the reserve activation code, the maximum number of devices that the subscription can be used on, as well as the compatibility of the subscription with the installed version of the application. During the activation of a reserve activation code, a connection to the My Kaspersky account may be required.

If the reserve activation code that you are adding has already been applied on this device or on another device, the activation date for the purpose of renewing the subscription using the reserve code is the date on which the application was activated with this code for the first time. To renew the subscription, add a reserve activation code that has an expiration date later than the expiration date of the subscription currently used by the application.

If the application did not automatically activate with a reserve activation code, you can activate it manually by clicking the Try again button. If the current subscription is blocked, you can activate the application using a reserve activation code by clicking Activate now.

You can also send the reserve activation code to devices from your My Kaspersky account. For details about sending a subscription to a device connected to your account, see My Kaspersky help.

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[Topic 210448]

Switching from trial subscription to paid subscription

When the free trial period expires, the subscription is renewed and activated without your involvement. The price of subscription renewal is charged to your chosen payment method.

In some regions, the automatic switch to paid subscription may not be available. If you did not enter payment details for subsequent renewal when subscribing to the free trial, you will need to buy a subscription to make sure your devices stay protected.

To switch from trial subscription to paid subscription:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Profile section. If your device is connected to your My Kaspersky account, your email address is displayed here.
3. In subscription information, click Buy now.

The website of Kaspersky or one of our partners opens in the default browser. During the purchase process, enter the email registered with your My Kaspersky account.

The subscription that you bought is automatically activated on your device.

[Topic 226833]

How to install or remove the application

[Topic 43538]

How to install the application

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The application is installed to your computer in interactive mode using the Setup Wizard.

The Wizard consists of a series of windows (steps). The number and sequence of steps in the Wizard depend on the region where you install the application. In some regions, the Wizard prompts you to accept additional agreements regarding how your personal data is processed. To stop the Wizard's activity at any step of installation, close the Wizard window.

If the application will be used to protect more than one computer (with the maximum number of computers defined by the terms of the End User License Agreement), the installation procedure will be identical on all computers.

To install the application on your computer,

• If you are using an installation disk, insert the disk into the disk drive and follow the instructions on your screen.
• If you have downloaded the application from the Internet, launch it. The application is then installed using the standard Setup Wizard. In this case, the Wizard displays several additional installation steps for some localization languages.

You can also install the application from the command prompt.

The Setup Wizard goes through the following steps:

1. Starting installation

   During this step, the Wizard prompts you to install the application.

2. Install additional applications

   When you install Kaspersky Plus or Kaspersky Premium, you can additionally install the following applications:

   • Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection, which enables Kaspersky VPN functionality using Virtual Private Network (VPN) technology.

   Kaspersky VPN functionality is not available in some regions.

   • Kaspersky Password Manager for protecting passwords.

   These applications are available only on Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium plans. If you want to use these applications, you can download and install them as separate applications. You can remove Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection or Kaspersky Password Manager without removing Kaspersky application.

   Depending on the installation type and the localization language, during this step the Wizard may prompt you to view the End User License Agreement concluded between you and Kaspersky, and ask whether you want to participate in Kaspersky Security Network.

   Reviewing the End User License Agreement

   This step of the Wizard is displayed for some localization languages when installing the application downloaded from the Internet.

   During this step, the Wizard prompts you to review the End User License Agreement concluded between you and Kaspersky.

   Read the End User License Agreement thoroughly and, if you agree with all of its terms, click Continue (this button is called Accept in some regions).

   

   License Agreement acceptance window

   In some versions of the application, the End User License Agreement can be opened by clicking the link on the Wizard welcome screen. In this case, only the Back button is available on the window containing the text of the End User License Agreement. By clicking the Continue button, you accept the terms of the End User License Agreement.

   

   Window containing the text of the End User License Agreement

   Installation of the application to your computer then continues.

   If the terms of the End User License Agreement are not accepted, the application will not be installed.

   In some regions, you must also accept the terms of the Privacy Policy to continue installation of the application.

   Reviewing the Kaspersky Security Network Statement

   During this step, the Wizard invites you to participate in Kaspersky Security Network. Participation in the program involves sending information about threats detected on your computer, running applications, and downloaded signed applications, as well as information about your operating system, to AO Kaspersky Lab. No personal data received from you is collected, processed, or stored.

   Read the Kaspersky Security Network Statement and do one of the following:

   • If you accept all of its terms, click the Accept button.
   • If you do not want to participate in Kaspersky Security Network, click the Decline button.

     

     The Kaspersky Security Network Statement acceptance window

   In some application versions you need to select the I want to participate in Kaspersky Security Network and have read the KSN Statement check box on the welcome screen of the wizard to accept Kaspersky Security Network Statement. You can read the statement by clicking the KSN Statement link. After you read the statement, click the Back button to continue installation. If the I want to participate in Kaspersky Security Network and have read the KSN Statement check box is selected, you accept the terms of Kaspersky Security Network Statement by clicking the Continue button.

   

   Kaspersky Security Network Statement

   After you accept or decline participation in Kaspersky Security Network, application installation continues.

   In some application versions, the Kaspersky Security Network Statement includes information about personal data processing.

3. Installing the application

   Installation of the application can take some time. Wait for it to finish. Upon installation completion, the Setup Wizard automatically proceeds to the next step.

   Checks during application installation

   The application performs several checks during installation. These checks may detect the following problems:

   • Non-compliance of the operating system with the software requirements. During installation the Wizard checks the following conditions:
     • Whether the operating system and Service Pack meet the software requirements;
     • All the required applications are available;
     • The amount of free disk space is enough for installation;
     • The user installing the application has administrator privileges.

     If any of the above-listed requirements is not met, a corresponding notification is displayed.

   • Presence of incompatible applications on the computer. If any incompatible applications are detected, they are displayed in a list on the screen, and you will be prompted to remove them. Applications that cannot be removed automatically must be manually removed by clicking the Remove manually button.

     

     Incompatible software removal window

   When removing incompatible applications, you will need to restart your operating system, after which installation of Kaspersky continues automatically.

4. Completing the installation

   During this step, the Wizard informs you of the completion of application installation.

   All necessary application components will be automatically started immediately after installation is complete.

   In some cases, you may need to restart your operating system to complete installation.

Along with the application, plug-ins for browsers are installed to ensure safe Internet browsing.

When you run audio and video recording or playback applications for the first time since installation of Kaspersky application, audio and video playback or recording may be interrupted. This is required to enable the functionality that controls access by applications to sound recording devices. The system service that controls audio hardware is restarted when Kaspersky application is run for the first time.

If you downloaded the application from your My Kaspersky account, after installation, the application is automatically activated with the subscription from your account.

[Topic 137590]

Installing over other Kaspersky applications

The application can be installed over the following Kaspersky applications:

• Kaspersky Free
• Kaspersky Anti-Virus
• Kaspersky Internet Security
• Kaspersky Total Security
• Kaspersky Security Cloud

When you install the new application, previously installed Kaspersky Anti-Virus, Kaspersky Internet Security, Kaspersky Security Cloud, Kaspersky Total Security applications are removed. The license of a removed application can be used for the new Kaspersky application. The settings of removed applications are kept.

When you install the new application, the previously installed Kaspersky Free application is removed. The settings of Kaspersky Free are not saved.

When you switch from Kaspersky Total Security to Kaspersky Standard, backup copies of files are kept but not displayed in these applications. You can add backup copies of files manually. When you switch from Kaspersky Total Security to Kaspersky Plus, copies of files are kept and displayed automatically.

[Topic 97156]

Kaspersky Protection browser extension

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In order for Kaspersky application to fully support browsers, the Kaspersky Protection extension must be installed and enabled in the browsers. The Kaspersky Protection extension injects a script into the web page opened in Protected Browser and into traffic. The application uses this script to interact with the web page and to transmit data to banks whose websites are protected by the Safe Money component. The application protects data transmitted by the script using a digital signature. The application can embed the script without using the Kaspersky Protection extension.

The application signs data transmitted by the script using the installed anti-virus databases and requests to Kaspersky Security Network. The application sends requests to Kaspersky Security Network regardless of whether or not you accepted the terms of the Kaspersky Security Network Statement.

When working with your browser, the Kaspersky Protection extension allows you to:

• Manage Private Browsing
• Manage Anti-Banner
• Safe Money

If the extension is installed together with Kaspersky Free, you will only have access to the following functions:

• Inform about suspected phishing

  To report a suspected phishing website:

  1. Make sure you are on the page that you suspect is a phishing page.
  2. In the toolbar of the browser, click Kaspersky Protection.
  3. In the extension menu, select Inform about suspected phishing.
  4. This opens a window; make sure the window displays the web address of the website you suspect of phishing.
  5. Click Inform.

  Your report will be delivered to Kaspersky Security Network.

• Inform about website problem

  To inform about a website problem:

  1. Make sure you are on the page that you want to report as problematic.
  2. In the toolbar of the browser, click Kaspersky Protection.
  3. In the extension menu, select Inform about website problem.
  4. This opens a window; make sure the window displays the web address of the website.
  5. Describe the problem in the text box.
  6. Click Inform.

  The message is delivered.

• Open On-Screen Keyboard

Installing the Kaspersky Protection extension in Chromium-based Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Yandex Browser and Google Chrome

Automatic installation of Kaspersky Protection extension in Chromium-based Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Yandex Browser and Google Chrome is not available. You must download and install the Kaspersky Protection extension manually. You can download and install the extension from the notification window that is displayed when you start the browser for the first time after installing the application. Alternatively, you can download and install the extension from the application window or from Chrome Web Store.

How to download and install Kaspersky Protection extension in Chromium-based Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Yandex Browser and Google Chrome

Yandex Browser support

When using Yandex Browser, the following application components are operating:

• Protected Browser;
• URL Advisor;
• Safe Browsing;
• Anti-Phishing;
• Anti-Banner;
• Private Browsing;
• On-Screen Keyboard;
• Secure Keyboard Input.

Internet Explorer support

Kaspersky Protection does not support Internet Explorer.

[Topic 43539]

How to uninstall the application

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After removing the application, your computer and personal data will be unprotected.

The application is removed using the Setup Wizard.

How to uninstall the application in Windows 7

How to uninstall the application in Windows 8 or later

Removal involves the following steps:

1. To remove the application, you must enter the password for accessing the application settings. If you cannot specify the password for any reason, application removal will be prohibited. After entering the password, click Confirm.

   

   Password entry window

   This step is available only if a password has been set for application removal.

2. Saving a subscription in your My Kaspersky account.

   At this step, you can specify whether you want to save the subscription in your My Kaspersky account for future use.

   

   Saving activation code window

   1. If you want to save a subscription, click the Save button.
   2. Click the Next > button.

   The window with the saved subscription will be displayed.

   

   Window with the saved subscription

   1. Click the Next > button.
3. Saving data for future use

   During this step you can specify which of the data used by the application you want to keep for further use during the next installation of the application (for example, when installing a newer version of the application).

   

   Saving settings window

   You can save the following data:

   • Subscription details is a set of data that rules out the need to activate the application during future installation, by allowing you to use it under the current subscription unless the subscription expires before you start the installation.
   • Quarantine files are files scanned by the application and moved to Quarantine.

     After the application is removed from the computer, quarantined files become unavailable. To perform operations with these files, Kaspersky application must be installed.

   • Operational settings of the application are values of application settings selected when configuring the application.

   You can also export the protection settings at the command prompt, by using the following command: avp.com EXPORT <file_name>.

   • iChecker data are files that contain information about objects that have already been scanned using
     iChecker technology

     iChecker is a technology that increases the speed of anti-virus scans by excluding objects that have remained unchanged since their last scan, provided that the scan parameters (the anti-virus database and settings) have not changed. The information for each file is stored in a special database. This technology is used in both real-time protection and on-demand scan modes.

     For example, you have an archive file that was scanned by a Kaspersky application and assigned not infected status. Next time, the application will skip this archive unless the archive has been altered or the scan settings have been changed. If you altered the archive content by adding a new object to it, modified the scan settings, or updated the anti-virus database, the archive is re-scanned.

     Limitations of iChecker technology:

     • This technology does not work with large files, since it is faster to scan a file than to check whether the file has been modified since it was last scanned.
     • The technology supports a limited number of formats (EXE, DLL, LNK, TTF, INF, SYS, COM, CHM, ZIP, RAR).
     .
   • Secret Vault are files placed in storage using Secret Vault functionality.

   To continue uninstalling the application, click Next >.

4. Confirming removal

   Since removing the application threatens the security of your computer and personal data, you will be asked to confirm your intention to remove the application. To do this, click the Remove button.

   

   Window for confirming the removal of the application

5. Completing removal

   During this step, the Wizard removes the application from your computer. Wait until removal is complete.

   This functionality may be unavailable in some regions.

   During removal of the application, you must restart your operating system. If you cancel an immediate restart, completion of the removal procedure is postponed until the operating system is restarted or the computer is turned off and then started up.

6. To restart the computer, click Yes.

   

   Uninstallation completion window

[Topic 71677]

How to update the application

The application is updated automatically if you select the Automatically update mode in the update settings window (Security → Anti-Virus Database Update → Databases update schedule).

The application is automatically updated if you install a new version of the application over the previous one. When you update paid versions of Kaspersky application, all your settings are preserved.

If the user has paused scanning tasks at the moment when the update arrives, the application will force these tasks to stop and will run the update. Active scanning tasks are not forced to stop.

While downloading the update, the application compares the previous and new versions of the End User License Agreement, Kaspersky Security Network Statement, and Statement regarding data processing for marketing purposes. If the texts of agreements and/or statements are not identical, the application prompts you to read and accept them again.

Limitations on upgrades from a previous version of Kaspersky Free

[Topic 231204]

How to protect more devices

Functionality is not available in some regions.

Available only in Kaspersky Standard, Kaspersky Plus, and Kaspersky Premium.

You can use your subscription to protect all your devices running OS Windows and other operating systems. The exact number of devices on which you can use the subscription was specified in subscription properties when you were making your purchase.

You can always check how many devices you are already protecting and how many more you can protect in the Profile section of the application and in your My Kaspersky account. You can add more devices for your current subscription by clicking the Change terms button in the Profile section of the application. This button appears depending on the availability of offers in your region for your current package.

There you will also find easy-to-use tools for sharing your protection with other devices. To share protection using those tools, you do not need to remember the activation code, the subscription is transferred through your account. If you have never signed in to your My Kaspersky account on the relevant device, we will ask you to do so as part of the process. After the installation, your applications are automatically activated with the subscription from your account.

To share protection from your application:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Profile section.
3. Click the button. In some subscription, the text on the button reads Protect device.
4. In the Protect more devices window, select one of following options:
   • Scan a QR code

     On the QR code tab, point your phone's camera to the QR code.

     On your mobile device, this opens the online store at the application download page. After you download and install the app, it automatically connects to My Kaspersky and starts protecting your device.

   • Send a link by email
     1. Go to the By email tab.
     2. Click the link.

        This opens My Kaspersky sign-in window in your default browser.

     3. In the Send by email window, enter the email address in the text box and click Send.
     4. Download the application by following the link in the email.

        After downloading and installation, the application automatically connects to your My Kaspersky account.

In some subscription plans, only the general information about the total number of devices that you can protect may be displayed.

To learn more about remote management of device protection, revoking the subscription from a user, or revoking the subscription from a device, see My Kaspersky Help.

[Topic 229661]

Basic functionality of the application

In this section you will learn about basic setup of the application, including configuring notifications and user interface, and how to fix security issues that may arise.

[Topic 70907]

Assessing computer protection status and resolving security issues

Problems with computer protection are symbolized by an indicator located in the upper part of the main application window. Green indicates that your computer is protected. Yellow indicates that there are protection problems and red indicates that your computer's security is at serious risk. You are advised to fix problems and security threats immediately.

The most important recommendations are displayed in the main application window. Each recommendation card contains a problem category. To view the full list of recommendations, open the Notification Center window by clicking the Details button. This window provides detailed information about the protection status of the computer and suggests possible actions for rectifying problems and threats.

Problems with protection are grouped by categories. For each problem, a list is displayed of actions that you can take to solve the problem.

The Status section displays information about the computer protection status and subscription status. If problems are detected that must be fixed, a Fix button is displayed next to the notification; you can fix security problems by clicking this button.

The Recommendations section lists actions that should be performed to optimize operation of the application and use it more effectively.

The News section displays cybersecurity news.

Clicking the Show N ignored recommendations button displays notifications to which the Ignore action has been applied. Ignored notifications do not affect the color of the protection indicator in the main application window.

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[Topic 221186]

How to fix security issues on your PC

To fix security issues on your PC:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click on the Details link in the upper part of the main application window to go to the Notification Center window.
3. Go to the Status section. This section displays security issues on your PC.
   • Select an issue from the list and click an action button, e.g. Fix.
   • Select Ignore from the drop-down list if you do not want to fix this issue now. You can view the list of ignored notifications later by clicking the Show N ignored notifications button.
4. Go to the Recommendations section. This section displays recommendations that are not mandatory but will help you optimize your usage of the application and better protect your PC.
   1. Select a suggestion from the list.
   2. Click the button next to a suggested action; for example, click the Turn on button next to the Want to get rid of noisy pop-up ads? suggestion.
5. Go to the News section. In this section, you will find cybersecurity news. Use the navigation buttons to read the next news item or to go back to the previous news.

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[Topic 136788]

Security news

This section provides information on security news from Kaspersky.

[Topic 137575]

About security news

Every day, the world is seeing more and more mass theft of passwords, hacking of databases, and online banking fraud. Kaspersky security news provides fresh information about such crimes and helps you prevent situations in which you could become a victim of hackers. To make sure that the security news you receive is specifically relevant for you, the application analyzes information about the resources you visit and the apps that you run. This information is used only for the purpose of selecting news that may be important or interesting to you.

Security news is displayed in the Notification Center together with other news from Kaspersky. Security news notifications appear in the taskbar notification area. Notification windows contain the news header and a brief recommendation on resolving the problem described in the news.

Depending on the severity level, news can be of the following types:

• Important news – news about events that pose a potential threat to your security (for example, news about mass theft of Facebook passwords). Windows containing important news are yellow.
• General news – news that is for information purposes (for example, news about more and more frequent cases of data breaches in online banking caused by Trojan malware). Windows containing general news are green.

If a notification about security news appears on the screen, you can proceed to the full text of the news by clicking the Details button in the pop-up window, or you can close the pop-up window. You can view the full text of news at any time by selecting the relevant news in the Notification Center news list.

If you do not want to receive security news on a specific device, you can disable the display of news. If you do not want to receive news on any of your devices, you can disable the receipt of news on My Kaspersky.

Security news is not displayed during the first hour of operation of the application after it is installed.

[Topic 137577]

How to enable or disable security news

To enable or disable security news:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Interface settings section.

   This opens the Interface settings window.

4. In the Promotional materials section, perform one of the following:
   • If you want to receive security news, select the Receive informational messages and advertisements from Kaspersky check box.
   • If you do not want to receive security news, clear the Receive informational messages and advertisements from Kaspersky check box.

[Topic 137579]

How to enable or disable the receipt of security news on My Kaspersky

To enable or disable the receipt of security news on My Kaspersky:

1. Open the main page of My Kaspersky.
2. Click the Sign in button and enter your email address that you specified when creating the account and your password.
3. Click the button .

   This opens the window for viewing notifications.

4. Click the Settings link to go to the Notification settings window.
5. Do one of the following:
   • If you want to enable the receipt of security news, select the Security news check box.
   • If you want to disable the receipt of security news, clear the Security news check box.

[Topic 230368]

Application activity log and detailed report

In the main window, you can view a brief overview of all actions performed by the application in the course of operation. This information helps you understand exactly how the application protects your device and your data.

To view the timeline:

1. Open the main application window.

   In the Home section, look under Timeline to see a brief activity history of the application.

2. To view the activity history of the application, click View all.

   This opens a window with a detailed description of actions taken by the application and the time when events occurred.

3. To view a detailed report of the application, click View reports.

   This takes you to the Reports window.

You can also view the detailed report by clicking Reports in the Security section. The Reports window displays data in the form of a table. For convenient viewing of reports, you can select various filtering options.

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[Topic 201574]

How to configure the application interface

This section contains information on how to configure the interface of the application.

[Topic 201575]

How to configure application notifications

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Notifications that appear in the taskbar notification area inform you of application events that require your attention. Depending on how critical the event is, you may receive the following types of notifications:

• Critical notifications inform you of events that have critical importance for the computer's security, such as detection of a malicious object or dangerous activity in the operating system. Windows used for critical notifications and pop-up messages are red.
• Important notifications inform you of events that are potentially important for the computer's security, such as detection of a probably infected object or suspicious activity in the operating system. Windows used for important notifications and pop-up messages are yellow.
• Information notifications inform you of events that do not have critical importance for the computer's security. Windows used for information notifications and pop-up messages are green.

If a notification is displayed on the screen, you should select one of the options that are suggested in the notification. The optimal option is the one recommended as the default by Kaspersky experts.

A notification can be closed automatically when the computer is restarted, when Kaspersky application is quit, or in Connected Standby mode in Windows 8. Intrusion Prevention notifications are closed automatically after 500 seconds. Notifications about the startup of the application are closed after 1 hour. When a notification is closed automatically, Kaspersky application performs the default recommended action.

Click the links below to learn how to configure the application notifications.

How to configure delivery of notifications

How to configure delivery of notifications containing news and special offers from Kaspersky

How to enable notification sounds

How to configure notifications when a child is using the application

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[Topic 201577]

How to change the application design theme

The capability to change the application design theme is not available in some regions.

To change the application design theme:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Interface settings section.
4. In the Design theme block, choose one of the following options:
   • Same as the operating system. The current operating system design theme is used.
   • Light. The light application design theme is used.
   • Dark. The dark application design theme is used.
   • Use a custom design theme, if you want to use a custom design theme. Click Select and enter the path to the ZIP archive or folder containing the files with the custom design theme.

The design theme is applied after application restart.

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[Topic 201576]

How to configure the application icon

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In this section, you will learn about configuring the application icon on your desktop and in the notification area.

How to change the application icon

How to change the icon in the notification area depending on the protection status

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[Topic 70756]

How to password-protect access to the application management functions

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A single computer may be shared by several users with various levels of experience and computer literacy. Unrestricted access of different users to the application and its settings may compromise the level of computer security.

To restrict access to the application, you can define an administrator password for the KLAdmin account. This user has unlimited rights to manage and modify the settings of the application, and to assign application access permissions to other users. After you create a password for KLAdmin, you can assign application access permissions to various users or groups of users.

To create a KLAdmin administrator password:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Interface settings section.
4. Switch the Password protection toggle to On.
5. In the opened window, fill in the User name (KLAdmin is recommended), Enter password and Confirm password fields.

   Tips on creating a strong password:

   • The password must contain at least eight and no more than 128 characters.
   • The password contains at least one number.
   • The password contains both lowercase and uppercase letters.
   • The password must contain at least one special character (for example: ! @ # $ % ^ & *).
6. Click the Save button.

A forgotten password cannot be recovered. If you have forgotten your password, contact Customer Service to recover access to the application settings.

The user KLAdmin can assign permissions to the following users and user groups:

• Everyone user group. This group includes all users of the operating system. If you grant this group permission to perform a particular action, then group users will always be allowed to perform this action, even if a specific user or a user group belonging to the Everyone user group does not have individual permission to perform the action. By default, members of the Everyone group are not allowed to perform any actions.
• <system user>. By default, the selected user is not allowed to perform any actions. This means that when you try to perform a prohibited action, you will be prompted to enter your KLAdmin account password.

How to add a user or user group

How to edit permissions for a user or user group

How to allow an action for an individual user or user group

How to forbid an action for an individual user or user group

When you try to perform any action from the list in the Add permissions for a user or a group window, the application will ask you to enter a password. In the password window, enter the username and password for the current user account. The action will be executed if the specified account has permission to perform this action. In the password window, you can specify the time interval during which the user will not have to reenter the password.

In the password window, you can switch the input language only by pressing ALT+SHIFT. Any other shortcuts will not switch the input language, even if that shortcut is configured in the operating system.

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[Topic 70884]

How to restore the default settings of the application

You can restore the application settings recommended by Kaspersky experts at any time. When the settings are restored, the Optimal security level is set for all protection components.

To restore the default settings of the application:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Manage settings section.
4. Click the Restore link to run the Settings Restore Wizard.
5. Click the Next button.

   The window of the Wizard shows the progress of restoring the application settings back to the default settings configured by Kaspersky experts.

6. After the default application settings restoration process is finished, click Done.

[Topic 82867]

How to apply the application settings on another computer

Expand all | Collapse all

Having configured Kaspersky application in a particular way, you can then apply the settings on another computer. As a result, Kaspersky application will be configured identically on both computers.

Kaspersky application settings are saved in a configuration file that you can move from one computer to another.

The settings of Kaspersky application are moved from one computer to another in three steps:

1. Save Kaspersky application settings to configuration file.
2. Move the configuration file to the other computer (for example, by email or on a removable drive).
3. Import the settings from the configuration file to Kaspersky application that is installed on the other computer.

How to export settings

How to import settings

[Topic 70886]

How to pause and resume computer protection

Pausing protection means temporarily disabling all protection components for some time.

When protection is paused or Kaspersky application is not running, the activity of the applications running on your computer is monitored. Information about the results of monitoring of application activity is saved in the operating system. When Kaspersky application is started again or protection is resumed, the application uses this information to protect your computer from malicious actions that may have been performed when protection was paused or when Kaspersky application was not running. Information about the results of monitoring of application activity is stored indefinitely. This information is deleted if Kaspersky application is removed from your computer.

To pause computer protection:

1. In the context menu of Kaspersky application icon located in the taskbar notification area, select the Pause protection item.

   The Pause protection window opens.

2. In the Pause protection window, select the time interval after which protection will be resumed:
   • Pause for – protection is enabled after expiration of the time interval selected from the drop-down list.
   • Pause until application restart – protection is enabled after the application is started again or the operating system is restarted (if the application automatically starts on startup).
   • Pause – protection will be resumed when you decide to resume it.
3. Click the Pause protection button and confirm your choice in the window that opens.

How to resume computer protection

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[Topic 176603]

Evaluating Kaspersky application

You can evaluate our application and send your score to Kaspersky.

Some time after the installation, the application offers you to evaluate its operation.

To evaluate the application:

1. In the We value your opinion window, do one of the following:
   • If you are ready to evaluate Kaspersky application, rate the application using a 10-point scale.
   • If you do not want to evaluate the application, click the button to close the evaluation window.
2. Click the Send button.
3. Click the Close button to close the window.

What data is transferred when rating the application

In addition to the rating, Kaspersky processes the following information that is necessary for analyzing the survey:

• Name and version of Kaspersky application
• Version of the operating system
• Activation region and user interface language of Kaspersky application
• Usage period of Kaspersky application

[Topic 256059]

Searching the functionality of the application

You can search the functionality of the application in the header of the main window. Clicking the text box takes you to the Search results window.

The application searches:

• For exact matches with the text you entered; typos are not taken into account
• Among all names of functions and settings

Search results are displayed as cards which take you to the relevant screen of the application when clicked.

[Topic 232343]

Store

This functionality is available if Kaspersky has offers for you in your region.

To go to the Store, click the button with the bag icon in the lower part of the main window of the application.

On the Store page, we offer Kaspersky solutions, solutions provided by our partners, and solution bundles with a discount that you might find interesting. Here you will be able to buy a solution that is tailored to your needs, browse previously bought applications and services, keep an eye on your subscription status, proceed to install an application, or read an instruction manual.

The applications are grouped by purpose and priority. New and recommended applications are also labeled.

Clicking Buy (button may be called differently depending on the offers available in your region) takes you to the online store where you can learn more about the selected solution and check out your purchase. You will receive an email with information about your purchase and activation instructions.

According to legal requirements, the Kaspersky Store Terms of Use link is available in some regions on the Store page.

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[Topic 226944]

Security

Today's hackers are getting smarter in their target to break into your devices. New ransomware, phishing and other malware types call out for new cybersecurity solutions to get you a step ahead the growing threats. We created the new Kaspersky application to help you stay on top of today's threats. Find out what you can do to feel secured.

To learn more about cybersecurity technologies used in the application, click the Our cybersecurity technologies link at the top of the Security page.

[Topic 82511]

Scanning the computer

During scanning, the application searches for infected files and malware. There are several types of scans that vary in their search duration and scope. You can pause, resume or stop all scan types except Background Scan.

• Full Scan. Scans all areas of the computer. This scan requires a lot of time to complete.
• Quick Scan. Scans objects that are loaded when the operating system starts as well as system memory and boot files. This scan does not require a lot of time to complete.
• Selective Scan. Scans the selected file or folder.
• Removable drives scan. Scan of removable drives, such as hard drives and USB sticks connected to the computer.
• Instant File Scan. This option scans files from the context menu.
• Background Scan. Scan of system memory, the system partition, boot sectors, and startup objects, as well as rootkits search.

• Application Vulnerability Scan. Scan the computer for vulnerabilities in applications that malware can exploit to infect your system.

After you install the application, we recommend that you perform a full scan of your computer.

[Topic 70775]

How to run a Quick Scan

During a quick scan, the application scans the following objects by default:

• Objects loaded on operating system startup;
• System memory;
• Disk boot sectors.

To run a Quick Scan:

1. Open the main window of the application and perform the following actions:
   • Go to Home section, and click the Quick Scan button.
   • Go to the Security section.
     1. In the Scan block, click the Choose scan button.
     2. This opens the Scan window.
     3. In the Scan window select the Quick Scan section.
     4. In the Quick Scan section, click the Run button.

The application starts a quick scan of your computer.

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[Topic 70771]

How to run a Full Scan

During a full scan, the application scans the following objects by default:

• System memory;
• Objects loaded on operating system startup;
• System backup storage;
• Hard drives and removable drives.

We recommend running a full scan immediately after installing the application to your computer.

To run a Full Scan:

1. Open the main window of the application and go to the Security section.
2. In the Scan block, click the Choose scan button.

   This opens the Scan window.

3. In the Scan window select the Full Scan section.
4. In the drop-down list next to the Run button, select the action to perform when the scan is complete.
5. Click the Run button.

The application starts a full scan of your computer.

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[Topic 70905]

How to run a Custom Scan

A Selective Scan lets you scan a file, folder, or drive for viruses and other threats.

To run a Custom Scan:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the Scan block, click the Choose scan button.

   This opens the Scan window.

4. In the Scan window select the Selective Scan section.
5. Click the Select button and specify an object in the file or folder selection window that opens.
6. Click the Run button.

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[Topic 199671]

How to run a removable drive scan

Removable drives that you connect to the computer may contain viruses or other applications that present a threat. Kaspersky application scans removable drives to prevent your computer from becoming infected. You can configure a removable drive scan to be started manually or automatically when a removable drive is connected to the computer. Automatic scanning of removable drives is enabled by default.

To run a removable drive scan manually:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the Scan block, click the Choose scan button.

   This opens the Scan window.

4. In the Scan window select the Removable Drives Scan section.
5. Go to the Removable Drive Scan settings, and select one of the following options:
   • Quick Scan (selected by default)

     If you select this option, Kaspersky application will only scan files with certain formats that are the most susceptible to infection and are located in the root folder.

   • Detailed Scan

     If you select this option, Kaspersky application will scan all files located in every folder of the external device.

6. Go back to the Removable Drives Scan section. In the drop-down list, select the drive letter of the external device and click on the Run button.

The application will start scanning the connected device.

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[Topic 199673]

How to run a Context Menu File or Folder Scan

To run a Context Menu File or Folder Scan:

1. Right-click on the file or folder that needs to be scanned.
2. In the context menu that opens, select Scan for viruses.

The application will start scanning the selected file or folder.

In Microsoft Windows 11, you must expand the context menu of an object to see the application commands.

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[Topic 199672]

How to enable or disable a background scan

A Background scan is an automatic scan mode that does not display notifications. This scan requires fewer computer resources than other types of scans (for example, Full Scan). When in this mode, the application scans the system memory, system volumes, boot sectors and startup objects, and searches for rootkits.

A background scan is started in the following cases:

• After the databases and application modules are updated
• 30 minutes after application launch
• Every six hours
• If the computer remains idle for five or more minutes (after the screen saver is started)

A background scan is interrupted when any of the following conditions is met:

• The computer becomes active again.
• The computer (laptop) switches to battery mode.

If a background scan has not been performed for over ten days, the scan is not stopped. When running a background scan, the application does not scan files whose contents are located in OneDrive cloud storage.

To enable or disable a background scan:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the Scan block, click the Choose scan button.

   This opens the Scan window.

4. Click the icon in the Background Scan block.

   This opens the Background Scan settings window.

5. In the Background Scan settings window, switch the toggle to On or Off.

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[Topic 202599]

How to create a scan schedule

To create a scan schedule:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the Scan block, click the Choose scan button.

   This opens the Scan window.

4. In the Scan window, select the type of scan and click the icon.
5. In the opened window, click the Scan schedule link to proceed to the Scan schedule window.
6. In the Scan schedule window, in the Run scan list, select a period, such as Daily, and specify the time to start the scan.

A scan schedule cannot be created for the Scan from Context Menu or Background Scan.

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[Topic 70776]

How to search for vulnerabilities in applications installed on your computer

Applications installed on your computer may have vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malware. Scanning your computer will help find these vulnerabilities and prevent infection of your computer.

Kaspersky application does not detect vulnerabilities in OpenSSL applications.

To run the Application Vulnerability Scan:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the Scan block, click the Choose scan button.

   This opens the Scan window.

4. In the Scan window select the Application Vulnerability Scan section.
5. Click the Run button.

The application starts scanning your computer for vulnerabilities in applications.

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[Topic 227390]

How to exclude a file, folder, or threat type from scanning

To exclude a file, folder, or threat type from scanning:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Security settings → Exclusions and actions on object detection.
4. Click the Manage exclusions link to open the Exclusions window.
5. Click the Add button.
6. Add an exclusion in one of the following ways:
   • Click Browse and select the folder or file that you want to exclude from scanning. Click the Select button.
   • In the File or folder field, enter the full name or mask of the file or folder.
   • In the Object name field, enter the full name or mask of the threat type in accordance with the Kaspersky classification of detected object.
   • If you fill in both fields, File or folder and Object name, the specified file or folder is not scanned for the specified threat type.
   • In the File hash field, enter the hash if you want files to be excluded from scanning by their hashes.
7. Clear the check boxes for protection components that the exclusion rule must not apply to. Enter a comment if you like.
8. Select the Active status for the rule and click Add.

Specified objects are excluded from scanning.

For details about the settings, see the Exclusions and actions on object detection window

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[Topic 172863]

Scanning files in OneDrive cloud storage

In Windows 10 RS3 or later, the application does not scan files in OneDrive cloud storage. If the application detects such files during a scan, it shows a notification stating that the files in cloud storage were not scanned.

The following components do not scan files in OneDrive cloud storage:

• Full Scan
• Selective Scan
• Quick Scan
• Background Scan

The report on the operation of the application contains a list of files in OneDrive cloud storage that were skipped during scan.

Files downloaded from OneDrive cloud storage to a local computer are scanned by real-time protection components. If a file scan was postponed and the file has been uploaded back to OneDrive cloud storage before the scan is started, this file may be skipped during a scan.

When running applications and scripts, the Intrusion Prevention and System Watcher components download applications from the OneDrive cloud storage to the local computer to scan.

In order to make sure that OneDrive files are displayed in Explorer, turn on the Files on demand in the OneDrive client application feature. If you are connected to the Internet, you can use them just like any other files on your computer.

[Topic 70772]

Updating anti-virus databases and application modules

This section contains information about database and application module updates.

[Topic 93957]

About updating databases and application modules

The installation package of the application includes databases and application modules. Using these databases:

• The application detects the majority of threats using Kaspersky Security Network, which requires an Internet connection.
• The application detects adware, auto dialers, and other legitimate software that can be used by intruders to damage your computer or personal data.

To get full protection, we recommend updating the anti-virus databases and application modules as soon as the application has been installed.

Databases and application modules are updated in stages:

1. The application starts updating databases and application modules according to the specified settings: automatically, on schedule, or on demand. The application contacts an update source that stores an anti-virus databases and application modules update package. To complete the installation of the update package for application modules, the computer must be restarted.
2. The application compares the existing databases with the databases available at the update source. If the databases are different, the application downloads the missing parts of the databases.

The application then uses the updated databases and application modules to scan the computer for viruses and other threats.

Update sources

You can use the following update sources:

• Kaspersky update servers
• HTTP or FTP server
• Network folder

Special considerations involved in updating anti-virus databases and application modules

Updates of anti-virus databases and application modules are subject to the following restrictions and specifics:

• Anti-virus databases are considered out of date after one day and extremely out of date after seven days.
• To download an update package from Kaspersky servers, an Internet connection is required.
• Updates of anti-virus databases and application modules are unavailable in the following cases:
  • The subscription has expired, and the grace period or limited functionality mode is not available.
  • A metered mobile Internet connection is used. This limitation applies on computers running under Microsoft Windows 8 or more recent versions of this operating system if automatic updates or scheduled updates are enabled and a traffic limit has been set for a metered mobile connection. If you want the application to update anti-virus databases and application modules in this case, clear the Limit traffic on metered connections check box in Settings → Security settings → Advanced settings → Network settings.
  • The application is used under subscription from a service provider, and you have suspended your subscription on the website of the service provider.

Installing an update package

When an update package (patch) is received, the application installs it automatically. To complete the installation of an update package, you must restart the computer. Until the computer is restarted, the application icon in the notification area is red, and the application Notification Center window displays a prompt to restart the computer.

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[Topic 93958]

How to start an update of databases and application modules

By default, databases and application modules are updated automatically. You do not need to take any action. If automatic updates are disabled, you can update application databases and modules manually.

To start an update of databases and application modules:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the Anti-Virus Database Update block, click the Update button.

   

   Anti-Virus Database Update

[Topic 70909]

Intrusion Prevention

Kaspersky application helps to minimize the risk associated with using unknown applications (such as the risk of infection with viruses and other malware).

Kaspersky application includes components and tools that allow checking an application's reputation and controlling its activities on your computer.

[Topic 70910]

About Intrusion Prevention

Available only in Kaspersky Standard, Kaspersky Plus, and Kaspersky Premium.

The Intrusion Prevention component prevents applications from performing actions that may be dangerous for the operating system, and controls access to operating system resources (including file resources located on remote computers) and your personal data.

Intrusion Prevention tracks actions performed in the operating system by applications installed on the computer and regulates them based on rules. These rules restrict suspicious activity of applications, including access by applications to protected resources, such as files and folders, registry keys, and network addresses.

On 64-bit operating systems, applications' rights for the following actions cannot be configured:

• Direct access to physical memory
• Managing printer driver
• Service creation
• Service reading
• Service editing
• Service reconfiguration
• Service management
• Service start
• Service removal
• Access to internal browser data
• Access to critical objects of the operating system
• Access to password storage
• Setting debug privileges
• Use of program interfaces of the operating system
• Use of program interfaces of the operating system (DNS)
• Use of program interfaces of other applications
• Change system modules (KnownDlls)
• Start drivers

On 64-bit Microsoft Windows 8 and Microsoft Windows 10, applications' rights for the following actions cannot be configured:

• Sending windows messages to other processes
• Suspicious operations
• Installation of keyloggers
• Interception of inbound stream events
• Making of screenshots

Applications' network activity is controlled by the Firewall component.

When an application is started on the computer for the first time, Intrusion Prevention checks the safety of the application and assigns it to a group (Trusted, Untrusted, High Restricted, or Low Restricted). The group defines the rules that Kaspersky application applies for controlling the activity of the application.

Kaspersky application assigns applications to trust groups (Trusted, Untrusted, High Restricted, or Low Restricted) only if Intrusion Prevention or Firewall is enabled, and also when both these components are enabled. If both these components are disabled, the functionality that assigns applications to trust groups does not work.

You can edit application control rules manually.

The rules you create for applications are inherited by child applications. For example, if you deny all network activity for cmd.exe, that activity will also be denied for notepad.exe when it is started using cmd.exe. When an application is not a child of the application it runs from, rules are not inherited.

[Topic 82507]

How to change Intrusion Prevention settings

Available only in Kaspersky Standard, Kaspersky Plus, and Kaspersky Premium.

To change Intrusion Prevention settings:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Security settings section.
4. Select the Intrusion Prevention component.
5. In the Intrusion Prevention settings window, click the Manage applications link to open the Manage applications window.
6. Select the application you need in the list and double-click its name to open the Application rules window.
7. To configure the rules for access by an application to operating system resources:
   1. On the Files and system registry tab, select the relevant resource category.
   2. Click the icon in the column with an available action for the resource (Read, Write, Delete, or Create) to open the menu. In the menu, select the relevant item (Inherit, Allow, Ask user, or Deny).
8. To configure the rights of an application to perform various actions in the operating system:
   1. On the Rights tab, select the relevant category of rights.
   2. In the Action column, click the icon to open the menu and select the relevant item (Inherit, Allow, Ask user, or Deny).
9. To configure the rights of an application to perform various actions on the network:
   1. On the Network rules tab, click the Add button.

      This opens the Network rule window.

   2. In the window that opens, specify the required rule settings and click Save.
   3. Assign a priority to the new rule. To do so, select the rule and move it up or down the list.
10. To exclude certain application actions from the scan, on the Exclusions tab, select the check boxes for actions that you do not want to be controlled.
11. Click the Save button.

    All exclusions created in the Intrusion Prevention rules are accessible in Kaspersky application settings window, in the Exclusions and actions on object detection section.

Intrusion Prevention monitors and restricts the actions of the application in accordance with the specified settings.

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[Topic 70908]

Checking application reputation

Kaspersky application allows you to verify the reputation of applications with users all over the world. The reputation of an application comprises the following criteria:

• Name of the vendor;
• Information about the
  digital signature

  An encrypted block of data embedded in a document or application. A digital signature is used to identify the author of the document or application. To create a digital signature, the document or application author must have a digital certificate proving the author's identity.

  A digital signature lets you verify the data source and data integrity and protect yourself against counterfeits.

  (if the application is digitally signed);
• Information about the group to which the application has been assigned by Intrusion Prevention;
• Number of users of Kaspersky Security Network who use the application (available if the application has been included in the Trusted group in the Kaspersky Security Network database);
• Time at which the application become known to Kaspersky Security Network;
• Countries in which the application is the most widespread.

Checking of application reputation is available if you have agreed to participate in Kaspersky Security Network.

To learn the reputation of an application:

Open the context menu of the application’s executable file and select Check reputation in KSN.

This opens a window with information about the reputation of the application in Kaspersky Security Network.

[Topic 134312]

Weak Settings Scan

In this section, you will learn about weak operating system settings, and how to search for and fix weak settings in the operating system.

[Topic 134313]

About weak settings of the operating system

When you are working with a computer, operating system settings can be changed as a result of your actions or the actions of applications that you run. Changing the operating system settings can pose a risk to the security of your computer. For example, if automatic sign-in with the current user name and password is enabled in the browser, a third-party website can intercept your password.

Weak settings in the operating system can be divided into two types:

• Critical settings. Such settings are equated with vulnerabilities of the operating system.
• Recommended settings. You are advised to fix these settings to improve the security of the operating system.

By default, the application scans for weak settings of the operating system at least once a day. If the application detects weak settings in the operating system, it prompts you to fix them to restore the security of the operating system. For details about each weak setting, click the link next to the relevant setting in the application window.

You can click the link in the notification window to go to the Weak Settings Scan window that displays the weak settings detected in the operating system. Information about weak settings is also displayed in the Notification Center. You can proceed to view and fix the weak settings from the Notification Center.

In the Weak Settings Scan window, you can perform the following actions:

• Fix weak settings in the operating system.
• Ignore: Leave weak settings of the operating system unchanged.
• Cancel: Restore previously fixed weak settings of the operating system to their original state.

The application identifies weak settings of the operating system for all user accounts on your computer. You can fix weak settings for other user accounts on the computer only if you have logged in to the operating system under an administrator account.

If you are not an administrator of the computer, you can ignore weak settings only for your own user account. Only a computer administrator can ignore weak settings of all user accounts.

You can manually start a scan for weak settings or disable the scan for weak settings.

You can remotely manage the protection of your computer and send a command to fix weak settings from My Kaspersky.

[Topic 134314]

How to find and fix weak settings in the operating system

To find and fix weak settings of the operating system:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Security section.
3. Under Security, select Weak Settings Scan.
4. Click the Scan button.

   This runs a Weak Settings Scan. After the scan is complete, you will see scan results in the Weak Settings Scan section.

5. Click View to go to the Weak Settings Scan window.
6. In the Weak Settings Scan window, select an action to take on weak settings:
   • Detected weak settings. Do one of the following:
     • Click the Fix all button to fix all weak settings.
     • Click the Fix button to fix a weak setting.
     • If open applications are interfering with fixing a weak setting, click the View button to view the list of interfering applications.

       To close applications that prevent the setting from getting fixed, do one of the following:

       • Click the button to the right of the name of the interfering application to shut it down normally. If the application detects any unsaved changes, it will prompt you to save them.
       • Click the Force close link to close all interfering applications without saving data.
     • In the drop-down list next to the Fix button, select Ignore to leave a weak setting unchanged.
     • In the drop-down list next to the Fix button, select Read more to view information about a weak setting on the Kaspersky Support website.
   • Previously fixed weak settings.
     • Click the Roll back button to restore the fixed setting to its original state.
     • In the drop-down list next to the Roll back button, select Read more to view information about a weak setting on the Kaspersky Support website.

• Ignored settings. Click the Show all link next to the N ignored settings message to open the list of weak settings that you left unchanged, and click the Fix button.

[Topic 139723]

How to enable Weak Settings Scan

To enable Weak Settings Scan:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to the Security settings section.
4. Click the Weak Settings Scan block.
5. In the Weak Settings Scan settings window, switch the Weak Settings Scan toggle to On.

The application will scan for weak settings of the operating system and show notifications about them.

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[Topic 222843]

Network Monitor

Available only in Kaspersky Standard, Kaspersky Plus, and Kaspersky Premium.

Network Monitor allows you to view your PC's network activity data in real time, block network activity, or create network and packet rules for applications installed on your PC.

To go to the Network Monitor settings:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the Network Monitor block, click the View button.

This opens the Network Monitor window.

The Network activity section displays all the currently active network connections. It displays both the inbound and outbound connections. You can use the Block all network activity link to block all network connections.

The Open ports section lists all the open network ports. You can also use this section to create network and packet rules for applications.

The Network traffic section displays the volume of inbound and outbound network traffic between your PC and other computers on your network.

The Blocked computers section contains a list of IP addresses for remote computers from which the Network Attack Blocker has detected network attack attempts and has blocked their network activity.

[Topic 82512]

Pre-Kaspersky virus removal

This section contains information on restoring the operating system after it has been infected with malware.

[Topic 40951]

Recovering the operating system after infection

If you suspect that the operating system of your computer has been corrupted or modified due to malware activity or a system failure, use the Microsoft Windows Troubleshooting Wizard, which clears the system of any traces of malicious objects. Kaspersky recommends that you run the Wizard after the computer has been disinfected to make sure that all threats and damage caused by infections have been fixed.

The Wizard checks whether there are any changes to the system, which can include access to the network being blocked, file name extensions for known formats being changed, Control Panel being blocked, etc. There are different reasons for these different kinds of damage. These reasons may include malware activity, incorrect system configuration, system failures, or malfunctioning applications for system optimization.

After the review is complete, the Wizard analyzes the information to evaluate whether there is system damage that requires immediate attention. Based on the review, the Wizard generates a list of actions that are necessary to eliminate the damage. The Wizard groups these actions by category based on the severity of the problems detected.

[Topic 82513]

Troubleshooting the operating system by using the Microsoft Windows Troubleshooting Wizard

To run the Microsoft Windows Troubleshooting Wizard:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to Security → Microsoft Windows Troubleshooting.
3. Click Find damage.

The Microsoft Windows Troubleshooting Wizard window opens.

The Wizard consists of a series of pages (steps), which you can navigate through by clicking the Back and Next buttons. To close the Wizard after it finishes, click the Done button. To stop the Wizard at any stage, click the Cancel button.

Let us review the steps of the Wizard in more detail.

Start recovery of the operating system

1. Select one of the two options for Wizard operation:
   • Search for damage caused by malware activity. The Wizard will search for problems and possible damages.
   • Roll back changes. The Wizard will roll back the fixes applied to previously identified problems and damages.
2. Click Next.

Search for problems

If you selected the Search for damage caused by malware activity option, the Wizard searches for problems and possible damages that should be fixed. When the search is complete, the Wizard proceeds automatically to the next step.

Select actions to fix damage

All damage found at the previous step is grouped based on the type of danger that it poses. For each damage group, Kaspersky recommends a set of actions to repair the damage.

There are three groups:

• Strongly recommended actions eliminate problems that pose a serious security threat. You are advised to repair all damage in this group.
• Recommended actions are aimed at repairing damage that may pose a threat. You are also advised to repair damage in this group.
• Additional actions repair operating system damage that is not dangerous now, but may pose a threat to the computer's security in the future.

Expand the list of the selected group to view damage within the group.

To get the Wizard to fix a specific type of damage, select the check box next to the damage description. By default, the Wizard fixes damage belonging to the groups of recommended and strongly recommended actions. If you do not want to fix a specific type of damage, clear the check box next to it.

It is strongly recommended that you not clear the check boxes selected by default, as doing so will leave your computer vulnerable to threats.

After you define the set of actions for the Wizard to perform, click the Next button.

Fix damage

The Wizard performs the actions selected during the previous step. It may take a while to fix damage. After fixing damage, the Wizard automatically proceeds to the next step.

Wizard completion

Click the Done button to exit the Wizard.

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[Topic 96493]

Operating system emergency recovery

Kaspersky Rescue Disk is intended for emergency recovery of the operating system. You can use Kaspersky Rescue Disk for scanning and disinfecting infected computer that cannot be disinfected using other methods (for example, with anti-virus applications).

More details on using Kaspersky Rescue Disk are available on the Kaspersky Support website.

[Topic 70904]

How to restore a deleted or disinfected file

Backup copies of deleted or disinfected files are placed in a special folder on your computer, named Quarantine. Backup copies of files are stored in a special format that is not dangerous to your computer. You can restore deleted or disinfected file from the backup copy stored in Quarantine.

We recommend that you avoid restoring deleted or disinfected files since they may pose a threat to your computer.

The application does not disinfect Windows Store apps. If scanning results indicate that such an app is dangerous, it is deleted from your computer. When a Windows Store app is deleted, Kaspersky application does not create a backup copy of it. To restore such objects, you must use the recovery tools included with the operating system (for detailed information, see the documentation for the operating system that is installed on your computer) or update apps via the Windows Store.

To restore deleted or disinfected file:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Security section.
3. In the upper-right corner of Kaspersky application window, click the Quarantine button.

   This opens the Quarantine window.

4. In the Quarantine window that opens, select the required file from the list and click the Restore button.

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[Topic 82514]

Protecting email

This section provides information about how to protect your email against spam, viruses, and other threats.

[Topic 70873]

Configuring Mail Anti-Virus

Kaspersky application allows scanning email messages for dangerous objects by using Mail Anti-Virus. Mail Anti-Virus starts when the operating system is started and remains constantly in the RAM of the computer, scanning all email messages that are sent or received over the POP3, SMTP, IMAP, and NNTP protocols, as well as via encrypted connections (SSL) over the POP3, SMTP, and IMAP protocols.

By default, Mail Anti-Virus scans both incoming and outgoing messages. If necessary, you can enable scanning of incoming messages only.

To configure Mail Anti-Virus:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Security settings section.
4. In the Security settings window, select the Mail Anti-Virus component.

   This takes you to the Mail Anti-Virus settings window.

5. Make sure that the switch in the upper part of the window that enables / disables Mail Anti-Virus, is enabled.
6. Select a security level:
   • Optimal. When this security level is set, Mail Anti-Virus scans incoming and outgoing messages and attached archives, and performs heuristic analysis with the Medium scan level of detail.
   • Low. If you select this security level, Mail Anti-Virus scans incoming messages only, without scanning attached archives.
   • Extreme. When this security level is set, Mail Anti-Virus scans incoming and outgoing messages and attached archives, and performs heuristic analysis with the Deep scan level of detail.
7. In the Action on threat detection section, select the action that you want Mail Anti-Virus to perform when an infected object is detected (for example, disinfect).

If no threats are detected in an email message, or if all infected objects have been successfully disinfected, the message becomes available for further access. If the component fails to disinfect an infected object, Mail Anti-Virus renames or deletes the object from the message and adds a notification to the message subject line, stating that the message has been processed by Kaspersky application. Before deleting an object, Kaspersky application creates a backup copy of it and places a copy in Quarantine.

When you upgrade to a more recent application version, the user-configured Mail Anti-Virus settings are not saved. The new application version will use the default Mail Anti-Virus settings.

If Kaspersky application detects the password for the archive in the message text during scanning, the password is used to scan the contents of that archive for malware. The password is not saved. The archive is unpacked before scanning. If the application crashes while unpacking the archive, you can manually delete the files that are unpacked at the following path: %systemroot%\temp. The files have the PR prefix.

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[Topic 41367]

Participating in Kaspersky Security Network

Kaspersky application uses cloud protection to make protection of your computer more effective. Cloud protection is implemented using the Kaspersky Security Network infrastructure that uses data received from users all over the world.

Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) is the cloud-based knowledge base of Kaspersky containing information about the reputation of applications and websites. The use of data from Kaspersky Security Network ensures faster responses by Kaspersky application to new threats, improves the performance of some protection components, and reduces the likelihood of false positives.

Users' participation in Kaspersky Security Network allows Kaspersky to promptly receive information about types and sources of new threats, develop solutions for neutralizing them, and minimize the number of false positives. Participation in Kaspersky Security Network lets you access reputation statistics for applications and websites.

If you participate in Kaspersky Security Network, you automatically send information about the configuration of your operating system and the start and completion time of processes in Kaspersky application to Kaspersky.

If you work under the terms of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), see this article.

[Topic 70882]

How to enable or disable participation in Kaspersky Security Network

Participation in Kaspersky Security Network is voluntary. You can enable or disable the use of Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) when installing Kaspersky application and/or at any moment after the application is installed.

To enable or disable participation in Kaspersky Security Network:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Security settings → Kaspersky Security Network.

   The Kaspersky Security Network window opens showing the details of Kaspersky Security Network and Kaspersky Security Network participation settings.

4. Enable or disable participation in Kaspersky Security Network by using the toggle in the upper part of the window:
   • If you want to participate in Kaspersky Security Network, set the toggle to On.

     A window with the text of the Kaspersky Security Network Statement opens. If you accept the terms of the statement, click I agree.

   • If you do not want to participate in Kaspersky Security Network, set the toggle to Off.

In some versions of Kaspersky application, the Kaspersky Security Network window shows the Kaspersky Security Network Statement instead of information about Kaspersky Security Network.

To accept Kaspersky Security Network Statement:

1. Click the Accept button in the Kaspersky Security Network Statement section.

   Kaspersky Security Network Statement opens. This statement allows Kaspersky experts to promptly receive information about threats detected on your computer, about applications being run and signed applications being downloaded, as well as operating system information to improve your protection.

2. If you accept the terms of the statement, click the Accept button.

To decline the Kaspersky Security Network Statement,

click the Decline button in the Kaspersky Security Network Statement section.

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[Topic 70883]

How to check the connection to Kaspersky Security Network

Your connection to Kaspersky Security Network may be lost for the following reasons:

• You do not participate in Kaspersky Security Network.
• Your computer is not connected to the Internet.
• Current key status does not allow connecting to Kaspersky Security Network. For example, a connection to KSN may be unavailable due to the following reasons:
  • The application is not activated.
  • License or subscription has expired.
  • License key issues have been identified (for example, the key has been added to denylist).

  The current status of the key is displayed in My Kaspersky.

To check the connection to Kaspersky Security Network:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to Security settings → Kaspersky Security Network.

The Kaspersky Security Network window shows the status of your connection to Kaspersky Security Network.

[Topic 185853]

Protection using Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI)

This section informs you that third-party applications such as Microsoft Office can send scripts to Kaspersky application to be scanned using the Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI), and describes how to disable protection using the AMSI in Kaspersky application.

[Topic 185854]

About protection using Antimalware Scan Interface

Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) allows a third-party application that supports AMSI to send objects (for example, PowerShell scripts) to Kaspersky application for additional scanning and to receive scan results for these objects. For example, Microsoft Office applications can be such third-party applications. For more information about the AMSI interface, refer to Microsoft documentation.

Antimalware Scan Interface allows only to detect a threat and notify a third-party application about the detected threat. After receiving the threat notification, the third-party application prevents malicious actions (for example, shuts down).

Kaspersky application may decline a request from a third-party application if, for example, this application exceeds the maximum number of requests allowed for a period. In this case, Kaspersky application displays a notification about the declined request. If you receive such a notification, you do not have to perform any actions.

Protection using Antimalware Scan Interface is available on Windows 10 Home / Pro / Education / Enterprise and Windows 11 Home / Pro / Enterprise operating systems.

[Topic 186113]

How to enable protection using Antimalware Scan Interface

To enable protection using Antimalware Scan Interface:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Security settings → AMSI Protection.
4. In the Script scanner section, select the Scan scripts using Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) check box.

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[Topic 186114]

How to exclude a script from scanning using Antimalware Scan Interface

To exclude a script from scanning using Antimalware Scan Interface:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Security settings → AMSI Protection.
4. In the Script scanner section, select the Scan scripts using Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) check box.
5. Click the Manage exclusions link to go to the Exclusions window.
6. In the Exclusions window, click the Add button.

   The Add new exclusion window opens.

7. In the File or folder field, specify the folder with the script.
8. In the Object field, specify the name of the script.

   You can also add several files of the same type to the exclusions by using a mask.

9. In the Protection components section, select the check box next to the File Anti-Virus component.
10. Select the Active status.

The specified object will not be scanned using Antimalware Scan Interface.

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[Topic 85310]

Remote management of computer protection

If your computer has Kaspersky application installed and is connected to My Kaspersky, you can manage protection of this computer remotely.

To manage computer protection remotely, sign in to your My Kaspersky account and go to the Devices section.

In the Devices section, you can:

• View the list of computer security problems and fix them remotely
• Scan the computer for viruses and other threats
• Update databases and application modules
• Configure components of Kaspersky application

If a computer scan is started from My Kaspersky, Kaspersky application processes objects that are detected automatically without your involvement. On detecting a virus or other threat, Kaspersky application attempts to perform disinfection without rebooting the computer. If disinfection without restarting the computer is impossible, the list of computer security problems on My Kaspersky shows a message to the effect that the computer needs restarting to perform disinfection.

If the list of detected objects on My Kaspersky includes more than 10 items, they are grouped. In this case, the detected objects can be processed via My Kaspersky only together without the ability to examine each object separately. To view separately objects in this case, you are advised to use the interface of the application installed on the computer.

How to proceed to remote management of computer protection

To proceed to remote management of computer protection:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Profile section.
3. In the Sign in to My Kaspersky block, click the Sign in button.
4. In the window that opens, perform one of the following operations:
   • If you have an account, enter your email address and password and connect to My Kaspersky.
   • If you do not have an account, enter your email address in the text box and click Create. A message with a password creation link is sent to the specified email address.

After a successful connection, the Profile section displays information about your connection to the account. You can now manage protection of this computer remotely from your My Kaspersky account.

To learn more about remotely managing device protection, see My Kaspersky Help.

[Topic 203269]

Performance

If your device slows down or hangs up, you are not alone. Sometimes apps refuse to open or a browser will fail to respond at a crucial time. There are multiple reasons why it can happen. Ensure the stable operation of your device for many years to come.

[Topic 222847]

Quick Startup

Does your computer take too long to boot? This usually happens when many applications are launched when the operating system starts up. We will tell you which applications are slowing down your PC at startup, and help you to disable autorun of these applications.

Analysis of applications that run at operating system startup is carried out automatically. If the analysis finds applications that run at operating system startup, Kaspersky application displays a notification. The notification can take you to the analysis results window.

To speed up your computer startup:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. Click the Search button in the Quick Startup section.

   The Speed up computer startup window opens, which displays a list of applications that are launched at startup.

   The Impact on startup column displays information about the impact each application has on computer startup. This information is taken from the operating system and depends on how much computer resources the application consumes (CPU load and RAM).

4. Select an app from the list and toggle the Autorun switch to Off.

The app will no longer be launched at startup.

To turn off the automatic analysis of applications that run at operating system startup:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the Quick Startup block, click .
4. This opens a window; in that window, clear the Quick Startup check box.

[Topic 222848]

PC Speed-Up

Clutter builds up in an operating system over time, slowing down your PC's performance. Large number of files that are not being used and Windows registry issues contribute to that. Kaspersky application will alert you if the amount of this data becomes excessive, and you will be given an opportunity to decide which data to delete.

By default, the search for ways to speed up the computer is carried out automatically. If the search discovers opportunities to improve performance, the application displays a notification. The notification can take you to the search results window.

Some system files and objects may not be deleted if for any reason a file or an object has been started after being detected and is still running. You can delete them later when the process is complete.

For your convenience, all found system and temporary files your applications do not need are sorted by categories. Trace files you record under the direction of a Customer Service expert to solve issues with any of your Kaspersky applications fall into the Trace files of Kaspersky applications category. The application detects trace files of Kaspersky applications even if tracing is running, but in this case does not allow to delete them. The trace file grows in size until you stop recording, this may consume your disk space and slow down your PC. To delete the file, you need to turn off tracing first. For instructions on how to turn off tracing in this Kaspersky application, see How to enable and disable tracing. To turn off tracing in other Kaspersky applications, follow the instructions provided in the Help of the corresponding application.

To view all found unused system files and Windows registry issues, you need to sign in as an administrator.

To declutter your operating system:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the PC Speed-Up block, click the Search button (or View if the search was already performed).

   Kaspersky application performs a search and generates a report with the following contents:

   • Unused system files. Click the button View to view a detailed report on the operating system files that are not being used. Click the Clean up button to delete these files.
   • Windows registry issues. Click the button View to view a detailed report on the Windows registry issues that you can delete without risking damage to the operating system. Click the Fix button to fix detected issues.

Removal of unused files and fixing the detected issues will speed up your PC.

To disable the automatic search for ways to speed up your computer:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the PC Speed-Up block, click .
4. Clear the PC Speed-Up check box.

The Windows.old folder is only detected during the automatic search for ways to speed up your computer.

[Topic 127465]

App Updater

This section provides information on how you can use Kaspersky application to update installed applications.

Available only in Kaspersky Standard, Kaspersky Plus, and Kaspersky Premium.

[Topic 127466]

About App Updater

If you have not updated applications on your computer for a long time, these applications may contain vulnerabilities. Intruders can exploit such vulnerabilities to harm your computer or data.

Updating installed applications improves the security of your computer. Using Kaspersky application, you can search for updates for installed applications and download and install the latest updates.

Kaspersky application divides application updates into two types:

• Important – updates that fix vulnerabilities of installed applications and improve the security of your computer.
• Recommended – updates that improve the functionality and/or make changes to the installed applications.

Kaspersky application regularly searches for updates. When Kaspersky application finds a new update for an application installed on your computer, Kaspersky application shows a pop-up notification in the notification area. Information about the availability, quantity, and type of available updates is displayed in the Notification Center. You can view, download, and install available updates via the Notification Center.

You can also manually start the search for application updates.

By default, Kaspersky application automatically downloads and installs all updates for known applications if they do not require you to accept new end user license agreements.

In Windows 8 and later versions, Kaspersky application pauses automatic downloads of application updates when a metered Internet connection is used. Downloading of updates is resumed once the unlimited connection is restored. If you have manually started the update, Kaspersky application will download the update regardless of whether or not you are using a limited connection.

Applications that you do not want to update or for which you do not want to install individual updates are placed by Kaspersky application into the exclusions list. You can view and edit the list of exclusions.

[Topic 127468]

Search for application updates

To start the search for application updates:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the App Updater block, click the Search for updates button.

This starts the search for application updates.

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[Topic 127467]

How to change App Updater settings

To change App Updater settings:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Performance settings section.
4. Click the Automatic search for updates button.

   This opens the App Updater settings window.

5. If you do not want Kaspersky application to automatically download and install application updates that do not require acceptance of a new end user license agreement, clear the Automatically download and install updates if there is no need to accept a new license agreement check box.

   This check box is selected by default.

6. In the Search for application updates section, select which application updates will be downloaded and installed by Kaspersky application:
   • Select Important updates that improve computer security if you want Kaspersky application to install only important updates that fix software vulnerabilities and improve the security of your computer.
   • Select All updates for known applications if you want Kaspersky application to install all software updates.

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[Topic 152134]

How to configure the update search mode

To configure the update search mode for installed applications:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Performance settings section.
4. Click the Automatic search for updates button.

   This opens the App Updater settings window.

5. In the Update block, select the Enable search for application updates check box.
6. Click the Set up a schedule link to open the Updates search mode window.
7. In the Search for updates drop-down list, select one of the following options:
   • Automatically. If you select this option, Kaspersky application will run a search for application updates at least once every 24 hours according to the internal settings of the application.
   • Daily / Weekly / Monthly. If you select one of these options, Kaspersky application will search for updates based on your defined schedule up to the exact minute. When one of these options is selected, the Postpone running after application startup for N minutes list is available.

   The following options for the Search for updates drop-down list are no longer available and will be replaced by Automatically after the application update: Manually, Every minute, Every hour, At a specified time, After application startup, and After every update.

8. Select the Search for updates on the next day if computer is turned off check box to start a search when the computer is turned on after a scheduled search was missed. If the check box is not selected, the application will start the search for updates only at the scheduled time while the computer is turned on.
9. To save the settings, click the Save button.

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[Topic 129908]

Viewing the list of application updates

Kaspersky application regularly searches for updates for applications installed on your computer. Information about the number and types of updates available for applications can be viewed in Notification Center.

To view the list generated as a result of searching for application updates:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click the Details button in the upper part of the window.

   This opens the Notification Center window.

3. In the Status section, click the Show button in the line with the message about available application updates.

   This opens the App Updater window with a list of available application updates.

4. To update all applications appearing in the list, click the Update all button (not available in some regions).
5. To selectively update specific applications, perform one of the following actions:
   • Click the Update button in the line containing the application that you want to update.

     You are advised to read the end user license agreement before updating the application. End user license agreements are available in the License agreements drop-down list. By default, the language of the end user license agreement corresponds to the language of the application interface. If the end user license agreement in the language of the application interface is unavailable, the EULA text is provided in the language of Kaspersky application interface. In all other cases, the text of the end user license agreement is provided in English or the first available language if the English text is unavailable.

   • Click the button to open the menu and select Do not update this application if you want Kaspersky application to stop notifying you about available updates for the selected application.

     The selected application is moved to the list of exclusions. Kaspersky application stops showing notifications about new updates released for this application.

   • Click the button to open the menu and select Skip this update if you want Kaspersky application to stop notifying you about the selected update.

     The selected application update is moved to the list of exclusions. Kaspersky application shows a notification about a new update released for this application.

   • Click the button to open the menu and select Open the vendor website if you want to manually download and install the update for the selected application.

     The default browser of the operating system opens the website of the software vendor. You can view the update on the website and download it manually.

The window interface, App Updater, and viewing of the End User License Agreements may differ depending on the localization language of Kaspersky application.

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[Topic 127469]

Removing an update or application from the exclusions list

When viewing the list of application updates, you can skip notifications about individual updates or skip notifications about all updates for specific applications. Kaspersky application adds these updates and applications to the exclusions list.

To remove an update or application from the exclusions list:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Select the Performance settings section.
4. Click the Automatic search for updates button.

   This opens the App Updater settings window.

5. Click the Exclusions link to open the Exclusions window.

   The Exclusions list contains the applications and updates for which you have indicated that no updates are necessary, as well as individual updates of applications that you did not install.

6. Select the update or application in the list and click the Delete button.

During the next search for updates, Kaspersky application will notify you about the availability of updates for applications that you have removed from the exclusions list.

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[Topic 222849]

Duplicates

Your computer may store files with identical file names and identical content. These duplicate files clutter up memory, take up space on your hard drive and make your computer run slower. You can find duplicate files and delete extra copies using the Duplicate Files feature.

The search for duplicates is performed automatically in the user's folders once a week. If the search discovers files that have the same name and identical content, the application displays a notification. The notification can take you to the search results window.

To remove duplicate files:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. Select the search area in the drop-down list in the Duplicates section.
4. Click the Search button.
5. In the search results window, select the files and click Delete.

Duplicate files will be removed from your computer, while the original data will be preserved.

To turn on automatic search for duplicates:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the Duplicates block, click .
4. This opens a window; in that window, clear the Duplicates check box.

[Topic 222850]

Large Files

You are trying to save data on your computer but you suddenly find out that your hard drive is almost full. Sounds familiar? In this case, you might want to find and delete large files that you do not need, and we are going to help you with that.

The automatic search for large files is enabled by default. If you upgrade the application from a previous version, the value of the option will be preserved.

When enabled, the search is performed in the user's folders once a week. By default, this means files larger than 1 GB. If the search discovers files of the configured size, the application displays a notification. The notification can take you to the search results window.

To turn on the automatic search for large files:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the Large Files block, click .
4. In the window that opens, select the Large Files check box.

To find large files on your computer and remove them:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the Files larger than drop-down list of the Large Files section, specify the size of files you want to find, for example > 1 GB.
4. Select a specific folder for your search, or leave the default value User's folders unchanged.
5. Click the Search button.

   The search will be performed, and the Large Files window will open. It will display a list of large files found. You can sort the files by file type. To do this, select a file category, for example, Images.

   Some files can be marked as Files that need your attention. These files may contain important data, such as emails, backups, or encrypted folders. Deleting these files may affect the operation of installed applications.

6. You can add files to the list of exclusions so the application will skip them when searching for large files. To do this, select the files you need and click Add to exclusions.
7. Perform the following actions:
   • Check the Select all box if you want to remove all the files, and click the Delete button.
   • Otherwise, check the boxes next to specific files and click the Delete button.

   The selected files will be removed from your computer.

[Topic 222851]

Unused Apps

Several factors affect your computer's performance, and the number of installed applications is one of them. The more applications you have installed, the slower your computer is running. This is caused by the fact that some apps, including those installed without your knowledge, may be launched automatically, consuming the CPU resources and using up RAM, as well as performing unnecessary and sometimes even malicious actions.

Kaspersky application will help you find and remove these apps.

To remove applications you do not use:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. Click the Search button in the Unused Apps section.

   After completing the search, Kaspersky application will display the list of unused apps. You can select specific apps to remove in that list.

4. To remove an app, click the Remove button next to the app you want to remove.

The app will be removed from your computer.

[Topic 155985]

Hard Drive Health Monitor

This section provides information on how you can use Kaspersky application to check the health of your computer's hard drive or a connected external hard drive.

[Topic 155986]

About Hard Drive Health Monitor

Available only in Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium.

If your hard drive suddenly becomes damaged, this can cause loss of data stored on the hard drive. Kaspersky application lets you monitor the health of your hard drives using S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology). This technology is based on continuous monitoring of the main performance characteristics of the hard drive. Using Kaspersky application, you can quickly find out about hard drive health getting worse and copy data from damaged drives to other media.

If Hard Drive Health Monitor is enabled, Kaspersky application constantly monitors the health of your hard drives and notifies you when the health is getting worse. You can view the health of both internal and external hard drives. Notifications about hard drive health getting worse are shown in the taskbar notification area. Detailed reports about hard drive monitoring results are shown in the Reports section.

If your hard drive’s health got worse and it is no more safe to store data on the drive, Kaspersky application offers you to copy data from this drive to other media to avoid data loss. You can copy data from a damaged hard drive to any good medium that is available.

You can disable Hard Drive Health Monitor. After disabling Hard Drive Health Monitor, Kaspersky application no longer notifies you about changing health of your hard drives and does not offer you to copy data from damaged drives to other media.

[Topic 155988]

How to enable or disable Hard Drive Health Monitor

To enable or disable Hard Drive Health Monitor:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Performance settings → PC performance optimization.
4. Do one of the following:
   • To enable Hard Drive Health Monitor, select the Perform hard drive health scan check box.
   • To disable Hard Drive Health Monitor, clear the Perform hard drive health scan check box.

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[Topic 156129]

How to check health of a hard drive

Kaspersky application constantly monitors the health of both internal and external hard drives of your computer. The monitoring works in the background. If your hard drive's health is getting worse and it is no more safe to store data on the drive, the application notifies you and offers to copy data to other media.

The Hard Drive Health Monitor window shows the following information about the hard drive:

• Drive health.
• Drive temperature.

The hard drive can be in one of the following states:

• Healthy – the state corresponding to a new hard drive.
• Optimal – there are minor issues with the hard drive.
• Critical – the hard drive state is critical, data loss is possible.

The hard drive temperature range can be one of the following:

• Healthy – the hard drive is not overheating.
• Optimal – the temperature of the hard drive is slightly raised.
• Critical – the hard drive is overheating.

The Drive health history chart shows information about drive health change over the specified period. The maximum displayed period is 1 year.

Kaspersky application also shows the following statistics about your hard drives:

• Total power-on hours – the total hard drive uptime, in hours.
• Total power cycle count – the total number of power-ons of the hard drive.

The <drive name> S.M.A.R.T. attributes report shows information about the hard drive's S.M.A.R.T. parameter values sorted by severity. Parameter set may vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the hard drive.

To check the current health of your computer's hard drives:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. Under Take care of your hard drive and data:
   • If you want to view the graph, click the History button.
   • If you want to view the report, click the Details button.

This takes you to the window where you can look at details of your hard drive condition.

[Topic 156130]

How to copy data from a damaged hard drive

If the health of one or more hard drives on your computer got worse and it is no more safe to store data on the drives, Kaspersky application notifies you and offers you to copy data from these drives to other media.

To copy your data from a damaged hard drive to a good hard drive:

1. Do one of the following:
   • If you receive a notification that the health of the hard drive got worse, click the Details button in the notification window.

     The Hard Drive Health Monitor window opens.

   • Click the Copy data button in the Hard Drive Health Monitor window.
2. In the Copying data window that opens, click the Start backup button.

   This opens the Select storage window.

3. In the Select storage window, select a good hard drive to copy data from the damaged drive.
4. Click Next.

   This opens the Select files and folders to copy window.

5. Do one of the following:
   • Drag and drop files from Windows Explorer to the highlighted area of the Select files and folders to copy window.
   • Click the select them from the list link.

     In the Explorer window that opens, you can select files and folders to copy to the good hard drive.

6. After adding all the files and folders you want to copy to the list, click the Next button.

   This opens the Creating folder to copy data window.

7. Do one of the following:
   • Click the Next button to create a new folder on the selected good hard drive and copy files and folders from the damaged drive to it.
   • Click the Change button to select an existing folder on the good drive and copy files and folders from the damaged drive to it.
8. Do one of the following:
   • If the selected good drive has sufficient disk space to copy selected files and folders, click the Next button to start copying.
   • If the selected good drive has insufficient disk space to copy selected files and folders, click the Back button to select another good drive and try again.
9. When copying is finished, perform one of the following:
   • To open the folder with files copied from the damaged hard drive, click the Open folder button.
   • To close the window, click the Done button.

To copy your data from a damaged hard drive to the Dropbox online storage:

1. Do one of the following:
   • If you receive a notification that the health of the hard drive got worse, click the Details button in the notification window.

     The Hard Drive Health Monitor window opens.

   • Click the Copy data button in the Hard Drive Health Monitor window.
2. In the Copying data window that opens, click the Start backup button.

   This opens the Select storage window.

3. In the Select storage window, select your Dropbox online storage.

   You also can perform one of the following actions:

   • If the storage is not active, click the Sign in button.
   • To disable the storage, click the Remove the storage link.
4. Click Next.

   This opens the Copying data window.

5. Do one of the following:
   • Drag and drop files from Windows Explorer to the highlighted area of the Copying data window.
   • Click the select them from the list link.

     In the Explorer window that opens, you can select files and folders to copy to the Dropbox online storage.

6. After adding all the files and folders you want to copy to the list, click the Start backup button.

   Data copying begins.

7. When copying is finished, perform one of the following:
   • If data backup is completed successfully, click the Done button to close the window.
   • If the application has notified you that backup has failed, free up some space in the Online storage and try again.

There are restrictions on copying data that is stored in OneDrive cloud storage.

[Topic 202627]

Hard Drive Health Monitor limitations

In some cases, Kaspersky application cannot determine the state of the hard drive due to the following limitations:

• The hard drive does not support S.M.A.R.T technology.
• The S.M.A.R.T. feature is turned off on the hard drive.
• Kaspersky application does not support:
  • Type of connected hard drive
  • Type of USB controller of the hard drive
• The hard drive is disabled.
• The hard drive belongs to a virtual machine, for example, VMWare. Information about the health of such hard drives is either not displayed or displayed incorrectly.

[Topic 84523]

Backup and Restore

This section provides information about data backup.

[Topic 84679]

About Backup and Restore

Available only in Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium.

Backup and Restore is needed to protect your data against loss when your computer malfunctions or gets stolen, or when it is deleted accidentally or corrupted by hackers.

To backup data, create and start a backup task. The task can be started automatically according to schedule or manually. The application also lets you view information about completed backup tasks.

It is recommended to save backup copies of data on removable drives or in Cloud storage.

Kaspersky application cannot create a full copy of a drive while a Microsoft Windows operating system is active on the drive.

Kaspersky application lets you use the following storage types for creating backup copies:

• Local drive;
• Removable drive (e.g., an external hard drive);
• Network drive;
• Cloud storage.

Creating tasks based on user's access rights

Backup tasks are created based on user's access rights to files on the local computer.

If you do not have local administrator rights on the computer, you can access only tasks created by yourself. If you have local administrator rights on the computer, you see all backup tasks, but you cannot modify tasks created by other users.

Backup tasks that were created earlier without taking user rights into account are available to all users of the computer. However, if such a task gets modified, it will be run based on the rights of the user that modified the task.

Restoring tasks based on user's access rights

If you do not have local administrator rights on the computer, you can restore data only from backup tasks created by yourself and only to folders you have rights to access. If you have local administrator rights on the computer, you can restore data from any backup task to any folder.

The total size of the copied files in a folder may exceed the size of that folder if it contains links to other folders (for example, when copying the Documents folder, the My Music, My Pictures and My Videos folders will also be copied if the Documents folder contains links to those folders).

About Backup and Restore in OneDrive

When backing up files to a OneDrive folder on your computer, Kaspersky application acts differently depending on whether the cloud file is downloaded to the OneDrive folder:

• If the file is in the cloud and in the OneDrive folder on your computer, Kaspersky application makes a backup copy of this file.
• If the file is not in the cloud, but it is present in the OneDrive folder on your computer, Kaspersky application makes a backup copy of this file.
• If the file is displayed in the OneDrive folder but it is only stored in the cloud and not on your computer, Kaspersky application makes a backup copy of this file.

[Topic 84524]

How to create a backup task

To create a backup task:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Performance section.
3. In the Backup and Restore block, click the Make backup button to start the backup creation wizard.

   The Backup Task Creation Wizard starts.

   The Wizard consists of a series of pages (steps), which you can navigate through by clicking the Next button. To go back, click on the name of the previous step at the top of the page. To stop the Wizard at any step, click the Cancel button.

   Let us review the steps of the Wizard in more detail.

[Topic 93342]

Step 1. Select files and folders for backup

In the Select folders step of the Wizard, you can specify folders and files you wish to back up. To do this, drag and drop the required folder to the Select folders window or choose the folder by clicking the Select a folder button that opens the Select a folder window. In the Select a folder window you can select a folder from the tree or enter the path to the folder in the text box manually.

Kaspersky application does not create backup copies of files located in the "Desktop" and "My Documents" folders if these folders are located on a network drive.

To add more folders, click the Add folder button at the upper-right corner of the page. To delete a folder from this page, hover over the folder you need and click the recycle bin button.

After the folder is added, you can select files that you want to back up. To view the list of files in a folder, double-click the folder you need. To include or exclude specific files from the backup copy, you can use check boxes next to the files. If you need to find a specific file in the list, use the Search option.

If you need to sort files by type in order to perform quick configuration, click Select file types and select any of the predefined categories: Audio, Images, Documents, Financial documents, Video, or Other file types.

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[Topic 93345]

Step 2. Select a backup storage

Expand all | Collapse all

In the Select storage step of the Wizard, you can configure a backup storage or specify an existing one:

• Cloud storages. Select the Dropbox option if you want to store backup copies in the Dropbox cloud storage. Note that the Dropbox cloud storage needs to be activated before use. When backing up data to Cloud storage, Kaspersky application does not create backup copies of data types that are restricted by Dropbox usage rules.
• Network drives. If you prefer to store backup copies on a network drive, specify the relevant network drive by clicking the Add button.

• Local and removable drives. If you prefer to store backup copies on a local or removable drive, select the relevant drive from the list.
• I already have storage. If you already have a backup storage, specify it by clicking the Connect button.

To ensure data security, we recommend using the Cloud storage or creating backup storages on removable drives.

How to add a network drive as storage

How to add a local or removable drive as storage

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[Topic 93346]

Step 3. Configure a backup schedule

In the Configure schedule step of the Wizard, you can specify the following settings:

• Specify the name of the backup task.
• Select the Run backup manually option if you wish to start the task manually.
• Specify the backup task schedule if you want the backup task to start automatically.
  • Select the Run backup automatically option and set a time interval to run the task (for example, Every week), weekday, and the task run time.
  • Specify the username and password of your Windows account on this computer. The data of your Windows account is required to access files during the backup. If you are logged in to the operating system under a domain account, specify the username and password of your domain account to create the backup task.
  • Select the Run scheduled backup at computer startup if it was turned off at the specified time check box if you want to run a backup as soon as possible after the computer is turned on. For example, if the backup is scheduled to be performed every weekend and the computer was turned off, the backup is performed after the computer is turned on a weekday. If the check box is cleared, backup is performed according to schedule without retrying to run backup after a failed attempt.
  • Select the Run backup on connecting the removable drive check box if you want to run a backup when a removable drive is connected to your computer.

When working with backup tasks, please note the following:

• If you create a scheduled backup task, you need to specify the data of your account on this computer.
• If you create an on-demand backup task, you do not need to specify the data of your account on this computer.
• If you change an on-demand task to a scheduled task, you need to specify the data of your account on this computer.

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[Topic 93348]

Step 4. Configure a backup storage

In the Configure storage step of the Wizard, you can specify the file storage settings:

During each backup, the application checks whether the file has changed since the previous backup. If the file has changed, the application creates a new version of its backup copy in the storage. The previous version of the backup copy is also saved in the storage. You can restrict the number of versions of backup copies. To do this, select the Restrict the number of backups of one file, if the file was changed several times check box, and in the Number of latest copies of one file field specify the number of versions of backup copies of one file to be stored. A backup copy can have up to 999 versions.

Also, you can restrict the storage period for each version of the backup copy of a file. Older versions of backup copies of the file will be automatically deleted. The last saved version of the backup copy of the file will be stored indefinitely. To restrict the storage period, select the Delete old backups of a file after the specified time. The latest, i.e. the newest copy, will be stored indefinitely check box to specify the number of days or weeks that each file version of a backup copy should be stored. The maximum number of days or weeks is 999.

You can optionally specify a password that protects your backup copies from unauthorized access. To do this, click Set in the Password section and set the password.

The password will apply to all the backup copies in this storage. It cannot be changed later. If you forget your password, you won't be able to restore files from the backup copies in this storage.

The application will prompt you to enter a password in the following cases:

• When you first create a backup storage on a local or removable drive (like a flash drive). When creating subsequent backup tasks to a local drive or this removable drive, the application will no longer ask you to enter a password. The password that you previously entered will be used.

  If you copy the local backup storage to a removable drive and connect this removable drive to another computer, the application will ask you to enter a password to copy or restore data from this storage.

• When you connect a removable drive to your computer. The application checks the removable drive and asks you to enter a password if it detects a backup storage on this removable drive.

If your backup storage is located on the computer where Kaspersky application is corrupted or is not installed, you can use Kaspersky Restore Utility to restore files from backup copies. For that, you need to copy the utility to this storage by selecting the Copy Kaspersky Restore Utility to storage check box in the Kaspersky Restore Utility section.

After you configure a backup storage, click the Run button to start the backup task immediately, or click the Save and close button to run this task later manually or on schedule.

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[Topic 93350]

Wizard completion

The process of configuring the backup storage may take some time. At this step, you will be sent to the Backup and Restore window were you can see the list of backup tasks.

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[Topic 84965]

How to start or resume a backup task

To start a backup task:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Performance section.
3. In the Backup and Restore block, click the View my backups button.
4. In the window that opens, select a backup task and click the Run button.

The backup task is started.

[Topic 84525]

Restoring data from a backup copy

To restore data from a backup copy:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Performance section.
3. In the Backup and Restore block, click the View my backups button.

   This opens the Backup and Restore window.

   • Click the View files option from the drop-down menu next to the selected backup task.
   • Click the My storages link and in the window that opens, click the View files button next to the selected backup storage.
4. If a password was specified when the backup copy was created, enter this password in the Enter the password you set to access the backup copies in the storage window. The Select files to restore window opens.
5. To sort and restore specific types of files, select these file types at the top of the page.
6. The backup storage may contain copies of deleted files, and you can restore a deleted file from the backup copy. Select the Do not show backups of deleted files check box if you prefer not to see backups of deleted files.
7. Then, do one of the following:
   • If you want to restore all data, select the All data check box.
   • If you want to restore only certain folders, select the check boxes next to the relevant folders.
   • If you want to restore only certain files, select the check boxes next to the relevant files in the Name column.
8. In the Backup date drop-down list, you can specify the date and time when the backup copy was created.
9. Click the Select button. This opens the Select files to restore window.
10. Select one of the two options:
    • Original folder. The application restores data to the original folder.
    • Specified folder. The application restores data to the specified folder. Click the Select button to select the folder to which you want to restore data.
11. In the If file names conflict drop-down list, select the action to be performed by the application when the name of the file being restored matches the name of the file already present in the destination folder:
    • ask – when file names match, the application prompts you to choose one of the following options: replace the file with the backup copy, save both files, or do not restore the file.
    • replace file with backup copy – Kaspersky application deletes the existing file and replaces it with the file restored from the backup copy.
    • save both files – Kaspersky application leaves the existing file unchanged and saves the file restored from the backup copy under a new name in the same folder.
    • do not restore this file – Kaspersky application leaves the existing file unchanged and does not restore the file of the same name from the backup copy.
12. Click Restore files.

    The files selected for recovery will be restored from the backup copy and saved in the specified folder.

[Topic 201581]

Restoring data from FTP storage

Kaspersky application does not support Backup and Restore over FTP. To restore backup copies created in other Kaspersky applications from FTP storage, follow the instructions below.

To restore backup copies from FTP storage:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Performance section.
3. In the Backup and Restore block, click the View my backups button.

   This opens the Backup and Restore window.

4. Click the My storages link to open the Storages window.
5. Open the FTP storage folder in Windows Explorer.
6. Copy the data (including the storage.xml file) to a local drive (for example, С:\<folder name>).
7. In the Storages window next to the FTP storage, click the Delete storage button.
8. In the deletion confirmation window, click Delete.

   The FTP storage is now deleted.

9. In the Storages window, click the Connect my storage button.
10. In the Connect storage window, select the Local drive section and use the Browse button to specify the path to the folder containing the backup copies that you copied to the local drive from FTP storage.
11. In the Storages window, next to the connected storage, click the View files button.
12. Follow the standard restoration procedure.

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[Topic 57646]

Restoring data from a backup copy using Kaspersky Restore Utility

Kaspersky Restore Utility lets you manage backup storage data on a computer where a Kaspersky application is corrupted or has been removed. By default, after installation of the application the utility is located in the Kaspersky Restore Utility folder located in the application setup folder. To use the utility on a computer where a Kaspersky application is not installed or is corrupted, copy the utility to a removable drive.

To start Kaspersky Restore Utility, you need local administrator rights.

How to start the Restore Utility

How to open a storage using the Restore Utility

How to restore data from a backup copy

[Topic 84772]

About Cloud storage

Kaspersky application lets you save backup copies of your data in Cloud storage via the Dropbox service.

To use Cloud storage:

• Make sure that the computer is connected to the Internet.
• Create an account on the website of the cloud data storage service provider.
• Activate Cloud storage.

You can use one and the same Dropbox account to back up data from different devices with Kaspersky application installed to a single Cloud storage.

The Cloud storage size is determined by the provider of the cloud storage services, the Dropbox web service. See the Dropbox website for more details on the terms of use of the web service.

When copying files to Dropbox, Kaspersky application does not differentiate between uppercase and lowercase letters in the name of a file and/or name of a path to the file. Therefore, when attempting to create backup copies of files whose names and/or paths differ only by their case, Kaspersky application creates only one backup copy because a conflict arises in Dropbox.

[Topic 84526]

How to activate Cloud storage

To activate Cloud storage:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Performance section.
3. In the Backup and Restore block, click the Make backup button to start the backup creation wizard.
4. In the folder selection window, specify the folder and files that you want to back up.
5. In the storage selection window, select the Dropbox option in the Cloud storages block, and click the Sign in button.

   An Internet connection is required to create a Cloud storage.

   A Dropbox account login dialog opens.

6. In the window that opens, perform one of the following operations:
   • Complete registration if you are not a registered Dropbox user.
   • If you are a registered Dropbox user, log into your Dropbox account.
7. To finish Cloud storage activation, confirm that Kaspersky application is allowed to use your Dropbox account for backing up and restoring data. Kaspersky application places backup copies of saved data in a separate folder that is created in the Dropbox storage folder for applications.

   After Cloud storage activation has been completed, the storage selection window opens. It contains a selection of online storages to choose from. For the activated Cloud storage, the application shows the amount of used space and the amount of free space available for data storage.

When copying files to Dropbox, Kaspersky application does not differentiate between uppercase and lowercase letters in the name of a file and/or name of a path to the file. Therefore, when attempting to create backup copies of files whose names and/or paths differ only by their case, Kaspersky application creates only one backup copy because a conflict arises in Dropbox.

[Topic 222852]

Current Activity

If you have noticed that your computer freezes or runs slower, you can open the Application Activity window, which shows a list of currently running apps and active processes, and terminate an app or apps that are consuming too much of your computer's resources.

To see the current activity and/or terminate an app:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the Current Activity block, click the View activity button.

   This will open the Application Activity window on the Running tab.

4. From the app list, select the one consuming the most of your processor resources (in the CPU column) and/or RAM (the Memory column), and click the Terminate process button.

The app will terminate.

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[Topic 222853]

Do not Disturb Mode

In the Do not Disturb Mode, Kaspersky application does not show pop-up notifications about events on your PC that occur during a video call, when you are watching a movie, actively using installed applications or the keyboard. Do not Disturb Mode can also pause some automatically started tasks or delay running scheduled tasks to avoid excessive utilization of computer resources.

To enable Do not Disturb Mode in the application settings (automatic):

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Performance settings → PC performance optimization.
4. Select the Do not Disturb Mode check box.

To enable Do not Disturb Mode manually:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the Do not Disturb Mode block, select the number of hours from the drop-down list and click the Turn on button.

   Also, you can enable Do not Disturb Mode by clicking Turn on Do not Disturb Mode in the context menu of the application icon.

The Do not Disturb Mode can be activated manually when the automatic start of this function is configured in the application settings.

After exiting Do not Disturb Mode, the application will use the taskbar notification area to display a message regarding any event that occurred while you were busy. If there were multiple events, click the View button to go to the Notification Center and view all events.

You can also view all events that occurred over the past three days in the Notification Center on the Status tab in the Notifications section.

As long as the Game Mode or Do Not Disturb mode is enabled, you will also not see notifications from Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection and Kaspersky Password Manager applications installed on the same device.

Kaspersky VPN functionality is not available in some regions.

You can find out more about displaying notifications in the How to configure application notifications section of Help.

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[Topic 70774]

Game mode

When Kaspersky application runs in full-screen mode together with some other applications (particularly computer games), the following issues may occur:

• Application or game performance decreases due to lack of system resources;
• Notification windows of Kaspersky application distract the user from the gaming process.

To avoid changing the settings of Kaspersky application manually every time you switch to full-screen mode, you can use Game Mode. If Game Mode is being used and you are playing or working with applications in full-screen mode, Kaspersky application does not run scan and update tasks and does not display notifications.

To enable Game Mode in the application settings (automatic):

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Performance settings → PC performance optimization.
4. Select the Game Mode check box.

To enable Game Mode manually:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Performance section.
3. In the Game Mode block, select the number of hours from the drop-down list and click the Turn on button.

   Also, you can enable Game Mode by clicking Turn on Game Mode in the context menu of the application icon.

The Game Mode can be activated manually when the automatic start of this function is not configured in the application settings.

You can also select the Do not Disturb Mode check box. In this mode, you do not see notifications if you're actively working in some applications, also scan and update tasks are not started.

As long as the Game Mode or Do Not Disturb mode is enabled, you will also not see notifications from Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection and Kaspersky Password Manager applications installed on the same device.

Kaspersky VPN functionality is not available in some regions.

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[Topic 222854]

Battery Saver

When Battery Saver mode is activated, Kaspersky application postpones scheduled scan and update tasks. You can start scan and update tasks manually, if necessary.

You can also enable or disable Battery Saver mode in the PC performance optimization window by selecting or clearing the Battery Saver check box.

[Topic 199601]

Optimizing the load on the operating system

When you run a computer scan using Kaspersky application, it can consume significant system resources. In order to optimize the load on the system, you can configure Kaspersky application to run scan tasks (for system memory, the system partition, and startup objects) and to update databases when the computer is locked or the screen saver is activated. This additional setting allows you to enhance the security of your computer without sacrificing performance when you are using it.

If the computer is running on battery, Kaspersky application will not execute tasks when the computer is idle in order to prolong battery life.

To optimize the load on the operating system:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Click in the lower part of the main window.

   This opens the Settings window.

3. Go to Performance settings → PC performance optimization.
4. Select the Postpone computer scan tasks when the CPU and disk systems are at high load check box.

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[Topic 226949]

Privacy

Nowadays massive data breaches, marketers tracking your every step online — the list of digital annoyances goes on and on. Keeping your privacy protected becoming crucial. Learn how Kaspersky application protects your privacy online, so you can manage and control your digital footprint.

[Topic 127185]

Kaspersky VPN

Kaspersky VPN functionality is not available in some regions.

Available only in Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium.

The VPN connection is established using Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection, which is offered as part of Kaspersky Plus subscription plan. You can start Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection from the Start menu (in the Microsoft Windows 7 operating system or earlier version), from the start screen (in the Microsoft Windows 8 operating system or later versions), or from the window of Kaspersky application.

To start Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection from Kaspersky application window:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Privacy section.
3. In the Kaspersky VPN block, click the Use button.

This opens the main window of Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection.

More details about the operation of Kaspersky VPN Secure Connection are available in the help files of this application.

[Topic 240755]

Caller ID

Kaspersky Who Calls is available in Russia, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan as a standalone product. In Russia, the application is also available as part of Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium.

The Caller ID component can tell you who is calling from an unknown number and it is then up to you whether to pick up the phone or not. Phone numbers are checked against phone number databases of the Kaspersky Who Calls app. If a number is found in the databases, the incoming call screen displays information about that number, including the name of the organization associated with the number, the organization's category, and whether the caller is considered a spammer or this call is possibly useful.

Kaspersky Who Calls also supports Caller ID for incoming calls in WhatsApp.

You can configure all spam calls or specific categories of spam calls to be always blocked. Subsequently, all incoming spam calls will be automatically hidden.

To use Caller ID, you must download and install the Kaspersky Who Calls app on your mobile device.

If you purchase a Kaspersky subscription or the standalone Kaspersky Who Calls app only for one device and activate it on a computer with Microsoft Windows, the app will be unavailable. To access Kaspersky Who Calls, you need to activate the subscription on a mobile device or add more devices to your subscription.

How to download and install Kaspersky Who Calls

[Topic 156401]

Data Leak Checker

This section explains how to check if your user account data can be accessed publicly.

[Topic 153899]

About Data Leak Checker

Automatic checks for your My Kaspersky account and other accounts are available only for Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium plans. Other Kaspersky application plans only allow checking the My Kaspersky account manually.

Most users create accounts on various websites for work, shopping, and communication purposes. There is always the risk that attackers could hack the site and gain access to user data. If you use the same email address and password for different sites, it is more likely that your data will be leaked.

With Kaspersky application, you can check your user accounts for potential leaks. If the check reveals that your data may be publicly accessible, the application will notify you about it and display a list of sites from which a data leak could have occurred, the date of possible leakage, and the data that may be publicly accessible.

Kaspersky application also checks your accounts for data leaks to Darknet. If a leak is found, the application warns you about it.

When checking user accounts, Kaspersky application does not retrieve data in plaintext form, and uses it only for the specified check without storing it. On detecting a leak, Kaspersky application does not gain access to the user data itself, but only provides information about categories of data that may be publicly accessible.

Kaspersky application can notify you of a possible leak of the following categories of data:

• Personal data: for example, passport data, biometric data, data about age.
• Banking data: for example, numbers of credit cards and bank accounts, information about funds available on credit cards and bank accounts.
• Activity history: for example, authentication tokens, password history.

By default, Kaspersky application tries to check your user accounts when you are authorized on a particular website. During authorization, your email address used to sign in to the website is encrypted and forwarded to the KSN cloud. If the check reveals that your data may be publicly accessible, you will receive an appropriate notification. You can disable Data Leak Checker.

You can add up to 50 accounts for automatic checking. Lists of accounts in Kaspersky application are not synchronized between devices. Added accounts are checked once a day.

Adding accounts to the list for automatic checking may be unavailable in your region.

Kaspersky application periodically checks the email address linked to your My Kaspersky account. The first such check is performed 48 hours after installation of Kaspersky application. Further checks are made every 24 hours.

Data Leak Checker for My Kaspersky account does not work if Kaspersky application is not connected to My Kaspersky or the My Kaspersky account password is not entered in the application.

[Topic 156403]

How to enable or disable Data Leak Checker

To enable or disable Account Check:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Privacy section.
3. In the Data Leak Checker block, click the Search leaks button.

   This opens the Data Leak Checker window.

4. Use the toggle switch to enable or disable the Data Leak Checker component.

[Topic 156404]

How to check if your data may become publicly accessible

To check if your data may become publicly accessible:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Privacy section.
3. In the Data Leak Checker block, click the Search leaks button.

   This opens the Data Leak Checker window.

4. Specify your email address in the input field and click the Check button.

   Kaspersky application starts checking the specified address. If the check reveals that your data may be publicly accessible, the application will notify you about it and display a list of sites from which a data leak could have occurred, the date of possible leakage, and the data that may be publicly accessible. Clicking a data link will provide recommendations on how to minimize the consequences of a possible leak of this data.

   Kaspersky application lets you check for possible leaks of not only your own data, but from other user accounts that belong to your friends and family, for example.

[Topic 183770]

How to create a list of accounts for automatic checking

To create a list of accounts for automatic checking:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Select the Privacy section.
3. In the Data Leak Checker block, click the Search leaks button.

   This opens the Data Leak Checker window.

4. Go to the Accounts tab and specify the email address of the account that you want to add to the list for automatic checking in the Check more accounts field. Then, click the Check button.

   The account you’ve added will be shown in the Accounts list.

5. The Recent sign-ins tab displays all attempts when the specified accounts were used to log in to sites and were checked.

Adding accounts to the list for automatic checking may be unavailable in your region.

[Topic 92436]

Private Browsing

This section provides information on how Kaspersky application can protect you against tracking of your online activity.

[Topic 93724]

About Private Browsing

Available only in Kaspersky Standard, Kaspersky Plus, and Kaspersky Premium.

Some websites use tracking services to collect information about your Internet activities. This information is then analyzed and used for the purpose of showing you ads.

The Private Browsing component is designed to prevent the collection of information about your online activity.

In detection mode, the Private Browsing component detects and counts attempts to collect data and writes this information in a report. Detection mode is enabled by default, and data collection is allowed on all websites.

In blocking mode, the Private Browsing component detects and blocks attempts to collect data, and information about these attempts are written in a report. In this mode, data collection is blocked on all websites except:

• by websites added to exclusions
• by websites of Kaspersky and its partners
• by websites that may be rendered inoperable as a result of tracking services being blocked, according to information available to Kaspersky

The counter of blocked attempts to collect data displays the total number of blockings across the entire site depending on how many site pages are open in the browser. If one page is open in the browser, only blocked attempts to collect data on this page of the site are counted. If several pages of the same site are open in the browser, the blocked attempts to collect data on all pages of the site opened in the browser are counted.

You can manage the Private Browsing component via Kaspersky application interface or with the help of the Kaspersky Protection extension in your browser.

Private Browsing has the following limitations:

• The application does not block data collection by the tracking service of the "Social networks" category while you are on the website of the relevant social network.
• If the web page from which the data collection attempt originated could not be determined, Kaspersky application does not block this data collection attempt and does not display information about it.
• If the web page from which the data collection attempt originated could be determined but could not be matched to any web page currently open in the browser, Kaspersky application applies the action specified in the Private Browsing settings (blocks or allows data collection). The application displays information about the data collection attempt in reports but does not include this information in the Private Browsing statistics displayed in the browser.

By default, the component is disabled.

[Topic 93505]

Blocking data collection

To block data collection:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Privacy section.
3. Select the Private Browsing component, and click the icon.

   This opens the Private Browsing settings window.

4. If the component is disabled, enable it by setting the toggle in the upper part of the window to On.
5. Select the Block data collection option.

   Kaspersky application will block data collection attempts on all websites except exclusions.

6. If you want to block or allow data collection based on the categories of tracking services:
   1. Click the Categories and exclusions link to open the Categories and exclusions window.
   2. By default, data collection is blocked for all categories of tracking services and all social networks. Clear the check boxes opposite the categories of tracking services and social networks for which you want to allow data collection.

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[Topic 129231]

Allowing data collection on all websites

To allow data collection on all websites:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Privacy section.
3. Select the Private Browsing component, and click the icon.

   This opens the Private Browsing settings window.

4. If the component is disabled, enable it by setting the toggle in the upper part of the window to On.
5. Select the Only gather statistics option.

   Kaspersky application detects and counts attempts to track your online activity without blocking them. You can view the results of the component's operation in the report.

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[Topic 93506]

Allowing data collection as an exclusion

You can allow tracking of your activity on specific websites as an exclusion.

To allow data collection as an exclusion:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Privacy section.
3. Select the Private Browsing component, and click the icon.

   This opens the Private Browsing settings window.

4. If the component is disabled, enable it by setting the toggle in the upper part of the window to On.
5. Select the Block data collection option.

   Kaspersky application will block data collection attempts on all websites except exclusions.

6. By default, there is an exclusion to allow data collection on the websites of Kaspersky and its partners. If you want to block data collection on these websites, clear the Allow data collection on the websites of Kaspersky and its partners check box.
7. By default, there is an exclusion to allow data collection on websites that may be rendered inoperable as a result of data collection being blocked, according to information available to Kaspersky. If you want to block data collection on these websites, clear the Allow data collection on incompatible websites check box.

   Kaspersky application updates the list of incompatible websites as compatibility issues are resolved.

8. If you want to specify your own exclusions:
   1. Click the Categories and exclusions link to open the Categories and exclusions window.
   2. Click the Exclusions link to open the Private Browsing exclusions window.
   3. Click the Add button.
   4. In the window that opens, enter the address of the website on which you want to allow activity tracking, and click the OK button.

      The specified website is added to the list of exclusions.

You can also allow data collection on a chosen website while it is open in the browser.

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[Topic 93501]

Viewing a report on attempts to collect your data on the Internet

To view a report on attempts to collect your data on the Internet:

1. Open the main application window.
2. Go to the Privacy section.
3. Select the Private Browsing component, and click the icon.

   This opens the Private Browsing settings window.

   If the component is disabled, enable it by setting the toggle in the upper part of the window to On.

The window displays a consolidated report with information about attempts to collect data on your online activity.

You can also view the report on data collection attempts in a browser or in the application performance report.

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[Topic 93503]

Managing the Private Browsing component in a browser

You can manage the Private Browsing component directly in the browser:

• Enable the component if it is disabled;
• View statistics on detected attempts to collect data;
• Go to the Private Browsing settings window;
• Block or allow data collection.

To manage the Private Browsing component in the browser,

Click the  Kaspersky Protection button on the browser toolbar.

The menu that opens shows information about the operation of the component and the component controls.

[Topic 134549]

Password Manager

This section contains information on how you can protect your passwords.

[Topic 84839]

Checking and securely storing your passwords

Expand all | Collapse all

Available only in Kaspersky Plus and Kaspersky Premium.

If you are an active Internet user, you normally have to use many different passwords, such as when you visit websites of banks, social networks, and mail services. It is not convenient to use a large number of passwords because you have to remember which password you use on a particular website. This frequently causes users to resort to the easy solution of using one simple password on different websites. However, this is not a secure solution. A simple password that is used on several websites can be easily cracked or intercepted by hackers. If this happens with a password from a banking website, you risk losing your money.

Check password strength

Kaspersky application checks the security of passwords that you create on the Internet. If passwords are not secure enough, Kaspersky application can help you to create strong passwords and store them in a safe place.

Protect against using the same passwords

When you enter a password on a website where password security is especially important (such as on a social network), Kaspersky application prompts you to enable protection against the use of the same passwords.

If protection against the use of the same passwords is enabled, Kaspersky application checks whether or not you have previously used the password that you are entering on websites of the following categories:

• Websites of banks and payment systems;
• Social networks;
• Mail services.

If the password that you are entering has already been used on the websites of these categories, Kaspersky application notifies you about it and offers you to create a new password. You can select website categories, for which the use of the same passwords should be monitored.

Secure storage for passwords and documents

Kaspersky Password Manager is designed to keep your passwords and documents safe. It uses a special encrypted storage to securely store your personal information: passwords, identity data, financial or medical information.

You can download Kaspersky Password Manager from Kaspersky application window.

How to download and install Kaspersky Password Manager

How to start Kaspersky Password Manager from Kaspersky application window

See the Kaspersky Password Manager Help for instructions on using Kaspersky Password Manager.

[Topic 232502]

How to check the safety of your passwords

Available only in Kaspersky Premium.