In this guide, we review the aspects of Dod Approved Antivirus Software List, dod approved ess software, free antivirus for military, and What does the government use for antivirus?
Dod Approved Antivirus Software List
The Department of Defense has approved the following antivirus software for use on DOD computers, networks and mobile devices.

Selecting the Correct McAfee Product
If you’re a DOD user and want to purchase McAfee software, there are two main options: McAfee Total Protection and McAfee Endpoint Security.
- McAfee Total Protection is the best option for DOD users because it provides broad-spectrum protection across devices, platforms and operating systems (OS). It also offers powerful endpoint security services including training for IT administrators on how to keep their networks safe from threats.
- McAfee Endpoint Security is the best option if you only need antivirus protection on your local computer (laptop / desktop)
New computers purchased from a commercial vendor
If you purchased a computer from a commercial vendor, such as Dell or HP, and the computer comes with McAfee Total Protection or Sophos Anti-Virus for Windows preinstalled, then that is the antivirus software that needs to be installed. If you are on a Mac, you need to install Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac.
New computers purchased from the Exchange
If you are receiving a new computer from your Exchange, you will need to install McAfee Total Protection on the machine. This is a free antivirus software application that can be downloaded from the DOD-approved software list here: https://www.dodigitalnetworkusers.com/dod_approved_software_list/. For assistance with installation, please consult an IT technician at your organization’s IT department or help desk.
If you choose between installing McAfee Total Protection or McAfee Internet Security on your newly purchased computer, it must be noted that McAfee Total Protection is DOD-approved for DOD use only; therefore, if under any circumstances an individual leaves DoD service and wishes to continue using this product after separation (whether by choice or because they were involuntarily separated due to misconduct), he/she must purchase his/her own subscription license in order for continued use of said software beyond those granted by service time remaining upon separation date (i.e., if a soldier retires after 20 years but still has 180 days left on their contract when they retire).
If you do not have an Exchange computer, and are on Windows, you need to install McAfee Total Protection to get antivirus protection for your computer. For Mac users, we recommend Sophos as it is free for DOD use.
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If you do have an Exchange computer, you have a choice of which product to install based on what your needs are. Select the option that best describes where you need antivirus protection (this may be different than where the Exchange computers were installed). Some options include:
If you do have an Exchange computer, you have a choice of which product to install based on what your needs are. Select the option that best describes where you need antivirus protection (this may be different than where the Exchange computers were installed). Some options include:
- McAfee Total Protection
- McAfee Internet Security
- McAfee AntiVirus Plus
- McAfee Multi Access
Only need protection on your local computer (laptop / desktop)
If you only need antivirus protection on your local computer (laptop or desktop), the following products are approved by DOD:
- McAfee Total Protection
- McAfee Endpoint Security
- McAfee Internet Security
- McAfee All Access
Need protection on your local computer and networked computers.
There are many ways you may be connected to the internet, and with these multiple connections comes the threat of viruses and other malware. If you’re using your computer at home or work, it might be less likely that you connect to the internet from an outside source, but there could be times when this does happen. If that happens without protection, then your computer will be at risk for malware attacks.
Mobile devices like phones and tablets also need antivirus software as well.
Need protection on your local computer, networked computers and other mobile devices (Android / iPhones)
McAfee Total Protection provides protection for all of your devices. It’s available free of charge and can be installed on any Mac or Windows computer, as well as Android or iPhone devices.
dod approved ess software
DISA has recently “rebranded” HBSS (Host-Based Security System) into a new suite, Endpoint Security Solutions (ESS), which adds new capabilities on top of the existing HBSS commercial, off-the-shelf (COTS) Endpoint Security software that the Department of Defense uses to monitor, detect, and defend IT assets and systems. Like HBSS, McAfee developed this system using the ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) management engine.
Endpoint Security is a multi-point product designed to meet known intrusion points, discover gaps, and reduce the likelihood of unauthorized device and network access.
ESS
Protecting Your Network
At the Endpoint Security Solutions center is a data monitoring, analytics, and protection capability that provides administrators and select teams access to real-time asset status and reports, plus centralized configuration and management tools that enable your organization to react quickly.
The Endpoint Security suite of products is designed to actively protect your network assets from theft, manipulation, or loss from internal or external threats. The centrally-managed server allows staff to deploy, update, configure, and manage the suite of products remotely and discreetly across your network.
ESS SUPPORT
Our Expertise
ESS support is a core requirement for any SIPRNet environment, and to maintain a passing grade for your CCRI. ESS is a powerful tool that significantly reduces risk and protects core assets by safeguarding network assets. However, managing this tool and/or integrating the new FRAGO 6 requirements can be complex and costly.
As one of the countries leading cyber security companies, our team of experts work side-by-side with a variety of agencies that utilize Endpoint Security and its many components. We design our efforts to identify risks that ESS can mitigate or detect, and help you determine the best implementation policies and plans to maintain the delicate balance of maintaining a secure network while maximizing daily organization operations. We also provide on-the-job ESS training that will make your staff members subject matter experts for this enterprise tool.
Together, we can build a strategy that optimizes your assets, budget, and personnel to employ Endpoint Security in a way that gives you today’s leading cyber threat protections on your most prolific devices. Collectively, our team has many of the foremost certifications in the industry.
Our team can help you make sure that you are compliant with DISA OPORD 16-0080 for Endpoint Security (effective January 9, 2017) and FRAGO 6 (effective September 30, 2021).
Implementing ESS
Here at SecureStrux, we work with our clients to ensure that they get the best result for their individual needs. We offer services for:
Project Support
Training — One of our subject matter experts (SMEs) will provide onsite or virtual ESS training for your team to educate and mentor them on ESS.
ESS Setup & Implementation — One of our highly qualified SMEs will work for a set period of time to help you implement and enhance your ESS configuration.
Embedded Defense Support Plan
A Subject Matter Expert (SME) will join your team for a set number of weeks per month or year, to reinforce your team and help you maintain your compliance and enhance your cyber hygiene. This is often done in conjunction with our Embedded Defense Support Plan, where we will also provide support for ACAS, Engineering, and other technical areas to support your team.
Staff Augmentation
For an extended period of time, an SME will come to your site and work on implementing, monitoring, and managing your Host-Based Security System for an extended period of time. This plan ensures you have constant support for your Endpoint Security. The Endpoint Security Technology consists of Managed Assets/Endpoints Configuration, Security Requirements, Source of Requirements, and User’s operational needs. This technology is ever-changing and evolving. Our SME will keep your organization apprised of and prepared for all such changes and enhancements through efficient on-site or remote training.
Utilizing the full suite of Endpoint Security point products allows government agencies, defense contractors, and other R&D organizations to meet the latest CCRI requirements in every criteria element. The Endpoint Security dashboards, queries, and reports provide a constant flow of data to improve asset management and visibility. Thus, allowing you to manage specific assets across your network and enhance compliance monitoring and remediation capabilities. SecureStrux also provides cmmc level 3 compliance.
Together, we can create a plan to pass any upcoming CCRI with a smart, sophisticated approach.
Partners in CCRI Compliance
Simplify your path to pursuing a passing CCRI grade and reduce your exposure to risk. Whether you need a Staff Assisted Visit (SAV), fix-action support or continuous monitoring, we’ll support your team through to compliance.
free antivirus for military
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The McAfee Total Protection military discount is available for active duty, guard, and reserve servicemembers of both the United States and Canada.
Military family members, veterans, and retirees are also eligible. You can access the McAfee military discount discount by clicking this link.
If you have an Apple Macbook, chances are you do not need a virus scanner.
However, for the rest of us out there using Microsoft Windows, it is essential you protect your PC or laptop from ransomware, viruses, malware, spyware, and unwanted programs.
McAfee Military Discount
McAfee is offering a 2 year discount to US Armed Forces members, veterans, retirees, and their families.
10 devices covered by McAfee Total Protection software suite. That’s coverage for your laptop, PC, cell phone, tablet, and all of your family’s other devices.
The McAfee Total Protection software normally costs $170 for 2 years.
The deal comes standard with a 100% guarantee of all viruses removed from your computer or your money back. You also get 24×7 free tech support over the phone or online to help you clean up your computer and secure your digital life.
Another great feature of the McAfee products is the password management tool. This tool stores your passwords for you in an encrypted files. That makes it much easier to remember all the passwords you have to manage to run your life online.
Click here to buy the McAfee Total Protection Package for only $49.99 per year, a savings of $70.
McAfee Free for DOD Servicemembers and Civilians
There is also a McAfee Home Use Program, similar to the Microsoft Office military discount, that allows US servicemembers and civilian government employees of the DOD access to McAfee Anti-Virus software on their home computer for free. Contractors are not eligible.
The McAfee military home use program was reactivated in March 2020 in response to increased teleworking due to the COVID-19 or coronavirus pandemic.
The program offers a free, one year subscription to McAfee Internet Security, for both Macs and PCs. Here’s the 4 step process to getting your free McAfee Internet Security software:
You must go to the McAfee DOD website through the correct link for PC or MAC and enter the code as described below.
McAfee Home Use Program for Military and DOD (codes good until March 22, 2022):
That’s it! This is an easy way to help secure your computer from all the nasty stuff floating around on the web.
Please let me know if you have any questions. If you successfully used either of the above McAfee military discount programs, let us know in the comments!
McAfee Military Discount FAQ
Yes, McAfee is free for military as of March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the increased teleworking by DOD military and civilian employees. You can download a Mac or PC version of McAfee and get a license code emailed to your work email address. You can find out how to get the free military McAfee version on my site or on DISA.
The US military or Department of Defense uses McAfee antivirus for their home users and on the standard desktops and laptops.
The easiest way to get McAfee free for military users is to go to mcafee.com/windows/dod if you have a PC or mcafee.com/mac/dod if you have a Mac. For PC enter the code DIS41FBC06 and for Mac enter DIS75F9D61. Enter your .mil official government email address and download the software on your home computer. You will enter the unique code emailed to your .mil email.
Yes, probably. If you couple with a strong anti-malware, Windows Defender is probably good enough.
What does the government use for antivirus?
Antivirus software maker Kaspersky Labs has been added to a federal list of companies that pose “an unacceptable risk to the national security of the United States.”
The Moscow-based cybersecurity firm, which says it has more than 400 million users worldwide, was added to the Federal Communications Commission’s list of restricted entities on Friday alongside two Chinese companies.
Now that Kaspersky is on the list — which also includes Huawei and China Telecom, among other Chinese firms — American businesses are banned from buying its products or services using federal subsidies.
FCC chair Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement that the move “will help secure our networks from threats posed by Chinese and Russian state backed entities seeking to engage in espionage and otherwise harm America’s interests.”
In a statement to The Post, Kaspersky accused the FCC of playing politics amid Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.
“Kaspersky is disappointed with the decision by the Federal Communications Commission,” Kaspersky said. “This decision is not based on any technical assessment of Kaspersky products — that the company continuously advocates for — but instead is being made on political grounds.”
It’s not the first time Kaspersky, which claims to be the world’s largest privately held cybersecurity company, has been mired in American political controversy.
In 2017, the US government said that Russian hackers had used Kaspersky software to pilfer classified documents from the National Security Agency.
The Trump administration subsequently banned all US agencies from using Kaspersky software, citing national security concerns.
At the time, US officials said Kaspersky was vulnerable to influence from the Kremlin — an allegation the company denied at the time and criticized again on Monday.
“Kaspersky maintains that the US Government’s 2017 prohibitions on federal entities and federal contractors from using Kaspersky products and services were unconstitutional, based on unsubstantiated allegations, and lacked any public evidence of wrongdoing by the company,” Kaspersky said.
Germany, meanwhile, has also warned about Kaspersky’s alleged Kremlin ties in recent weeks.
In mid-March, the country’s cybersecurity agency told Germans they should uninstall Kaspersky software from their devices because it left them vulnerable to hacking.