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Top Free
Security Alternatives

Professional-grade replacements for Security software. Verified for features, security, and zero cost.

18
Tools Tested
100%
Free or Open Source
Database Updated Dec 2025

Hand-Picked Comparisons

Save $2.99 - $4.99/mo

1Password

A premium, highly polished password manager known for its 'Watchtower' security alerts and 'Travel Mode.' While it offers a top-tier user experience, it lacks a free forever tier and is closed-source, which can be a dealbreaker for privacy purists.

Top Recommended Replacement
BitwardenPRO CHOICE
Fully open-source and independently audited; unlimited passwords on unlimited devices for free; recently updated, modern UI; supports passkeys.
Save $29 - $89/yr (Introductory)

McAfee Antivirus (Total Protection)

A comprehensive security suite that has pivoted toward identity restoration and AI-powered scam detection (McAfee Smart AI). While it is one of the few providers to offer 'Unlimited Device' protection, its aggressive renewal pricing and performance-heavy full scans make it a controversial choice for budget-conscious or performance-focused users.

Top Recommended Replacement
Windows DefenderPRO CHOICE
Zero cost; no installation required; perfectly integrated with Windows 11; consistently high lab scores (AV-TEST); no 'upsell' pop-ups or renewal fees.
Save $29 - $119/yr (Introductory)

Norton 360 (2026 Edition)

The most feature-dense security suite on the market. In 2025, it launched 'Genie' AI and Deepfake Protection to combat social engineering. While it offers unmatched identity restoration via LifeLock, users are often deterred by its high renewal rates, 'busy' interface, and the performance overhead of its all-in-one approach.

Top Recommended Replacement
Bitdefender Total SecurityPRO CHOICE
Includes 'Scam Copilot' to rival Norton's AI features; significantly lighter on system resources; native 'Profiles' (Game/Work/Movie) automate system optimization.
Save $3/mo (Premium) / $4/mo (Families)

LastPass

The veteran password manager that pioneered the industry. While its 2025 'Secure Access Experience' features a modernized UI and passkey support, the legacy of its 2022 security breaches and its decision to limit the free plan to one device type (mobile OR computer) have made it a difficult recommendation for privacy-conscious users.

Top Recommended Replacement
BitwardenPRO CHOICE
100% open-source and audited; the free tier allows UNLIMITED devices and passwords; supports self-hosting for total data ownership; arguably the most trusted name in the industry post-2022.
Save $4.99/mo (Premium) / $7.49/mo (Family)

Dashlane

A high-end security suite that recently discontinued its free tier in late 2025. It differentiates itself by bundling a full VPN (Hotspot Shield) and 'Passwordless' login features. While it offers the most polished web-first experience, its high cost and lack of a permanent free version have driven budget-conscious users to competitors.

Top Recommended Replacement
Proton PassPRO CHOICE
The leading choice for ex-Dashlane users; unlimited device sync and unlimited passwords on the free plan; includes 'Hide-my-email' aliases; Swiss-based privacy laws.
Save Enterprise

Checkmarx One

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
SonarQubePRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save $40/yr

Bitdefender Total Security

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
Bitdefender FreePRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save $30/yr

Kaspersky Premium

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
Kaspersky FreePRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save $3/mo

LastPass Premium

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
BitwardenPRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save $24/yr

RoboForm

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
EnpassPRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save Enterprise

Check Point Harmony

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
Sophos Home FreePRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save Enterprise

Palo Alto Prisma

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
pfsensePRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save $6/user/mo

LastPass Business

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
VaultwardenPRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save Enterprise

InsightIDR

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
WazuhPRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save Enterprise

Qualys VMDR

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
OpenVASPRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save Enterprise

Rapid7 Nexpose

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
GreenbonePRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save Enterprise

Akamai WAF

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
Nginx Proxy ManagerPRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.
Save Enterprise

BeyondTrust Remote

A popular Security tool that many users find too expensive or restrictive.

Top Recommended Replacement
TeleportPRO CHOICE
Completely free or has a generous free tier.

Mastering Security for Free

Our mission at Best Free Alternatives is to democratize access to high-end digital tools. The software listed above provides professional-grade results without the burden of monthly subscriptions. Whether you are a student, freelancer, or small business owner, these Security alternatives are production-ready.