10 Best Endpoint Protection Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 22 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
The continual challenge of the cybersecurity landscape has always been trying to stay ahead of the curve and detect vulnerabilities before they escalate to potential security incidents–a challenge made even more difficult by the complexity of today’s network infrastructures, with users connecting on a multitude of devices from all over the globe.
That's why I curated the best endpoint protection software known for effectively safeguarding systems against various threats.
What Is Endpoint Security?
Endpoint security provides protection against cyber threats for IT networks that are connected to user’s “endpoints” devices like PCs, tablets, mobile phones, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This complex network configuration means a greater attack surface for potential cyber threats, creating a need for modern endpoint protection software to go beyond outdated legacy security architectures.
Endpoint security software combines network and device security to keep out malware, vulnerabilities, and targeted attacks. These tools can actively monitor and analyze incoming files and activities to identify actions with potential malicious intent. They actively defend your system with real-time protection measures like firewall rules, intrusion prevention, and web filtering.
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Deel
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
New Relic
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.3 -
Checkmk
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.7
The 10 Best Endpoint Protection Software Reviews
Deel IT is a global-first IT solution that helps you manage and automate your company's IT operations across more than 130 countries. It streamlines equipment and software management, making tasks like onboarding and offboarding straightforward, no matter where your team members are located.
Why I picked Deel IT: I chose Deel IT because of its integrated mobile device management (MDM) and endpoint protection features. These tools allow you to automatically secure devices by configuring them with necessary security measures and business-critical applications before they're delivered to your employees. This approach reduces risks associated with manual setups and ensures that devices are ready for immediate use upon arrival.
Deel IT Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include the ability to grant and revoke application access remotely. This means you can control who has access to specific software and data, enhancing your organization's security posture. It also offers device lifecycle management, which covers everything from purchasing and provisioning to monitoring and recovering assets remotely.
Integrations include Hubstaff, QuickBooks, Google Workspace, Slack, JIRA, Brex, Dropbox, Microsoft 365, SAP S/4HANA, Airtable, Google Sheets, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Simplifies global equipment procurement and deployment
- Provides comprehensive asset tracking and visibility
- Includes robust security features like MDM and endpoint protection
Cons:
- Mobile app is limited compared to desktop version
- Not ideal for businesses with complex asset management and IT needs
Malwarebytes is an endpoint antivirus software that scans and removes malicious software, such as viruses, adware, and spyware. It operates in batch mode, which minimizes interference when other on-demand antimalware software is running on the computer.
Why I picked Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection: I chose Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection because it offers solid protection and functionality at a price point that works for budget-conscious startups. I found its malware protection was good, with a lightweight agent and straightforward interface
Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I found are simple yet effective for startup endpoints. It provides essential features such as virus protection and file quarantine, making it a reliable and straightforward antivirus product.
Integrations are built around a range of native plug-ins developed in collaboration with industry leaders such as IBM, Microsoft, Splunk, ArcSight, and Kaseya.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- You can choose multiple analysis types: threats, personalized settings, or quick scans
- Updates database rapidly for superior threat removal/blocking edge
- Speedy scans without system resource burden
Cons:
- Lacks advanced firewall controls
- Useful, but not as feature-rich as top antivirus software like Avast or McAfee
Heimdal Threat Protection Endpoint is a cybersecurity suite that offers integrated protection for your business. It combines threat prevention, patching, antivirus, DNS traffic filtering, vulnerability management, access governance, and incident response for integrated protection of your business.
Why I picked Heimdal Threat Protection Endpoint: I picked Heimdal Threat Protection Endpoint for its integrated security solution, which combines multiple applications like antivirus, firewall, intrusion detection, and more. With machine learning capabilities, Heimdal detects and defends against various polymorphic malware threats.
Heimdal Threat Protection Endpoint Standout Features & Integrations:
Features that I thought stood out are the unified suite of features, including endpoint activity tracking through data analytics. It allows cybersecurity teams to respond quickly to incidents and provides actionable guidance through threat intelligence capabilities.
Integrations are provided via native integrations and include Adobe Acrobat Reader, Logitech, Skype, NGINX, and FileZilla.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Unified dashboard UI
- You can easily add additional modules by simply clicking a button
- Automatically updates software to prevent vulnerabilities from outdated applications
Cons:
- May generate some Java errors on Mac systems
- Occasionally blocks safe sites, necessitating unblocking via support emails
Best for protecting business data for small-to-medium-sized companies
Bitdefender GravityZone is a cloud-based cybersecurity application for workplace devices. It defends against viruses, malware, and other threats.
Why I picked Bitdefender GravityZone: I picked Bitdefender GravityZone for its strong security and user-friendly management. I felt it was a great choice of cybersecurity tool for small-to-medium-sized businesses due to its ease of use, allowing businesses to focus on core activities without the need for dedicated specialists.
Bitdefender GravityZone Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I believe that stood out include a single, user-friendly platform that supports various devices such as desktops, laptops, and physical devices. It employs machine learning and behavioral analysis for advanced threat detection, and can be used through cloud or on-prem management consoles.
Integrations rely on API keys from Bitdefender GravityZone to operate and include pre-built plug-ins such as Amazon AWS, Microsoft Active Directory, and ConnectWise Automate to give control over agent and agentless devices.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Granular control of security settings
- Ability to assign policies for automated deployments with customized settings
- Runs efficiently on low-end computers
Cons:
- Network printers are blocked by default, causing initial difficulties and frustrations.
- Locating quarantined emails can sometimes be challenging
Avast Small Business Solutions is an endpoint security and antivirus software specifically tailored for small businesses. It offers next-gen endpoint protection tools (exploit mitigation, behavioral analysis, and ML) alongside antivirus, patch management, VPN, and USB protection features.
Why I picked Avast Small Business Solutions: I picked Avast Small Business Solutions because it is affordable and easy to use. It provides small businesses with automatic protection against cyber threats by monitoring and eliminating them centrally at each endpoint.
Avast Small Business Solutions Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I appreciated most are those tailored for small businesses, such as offering simplified endpoint protection through a single-screen interface.They enable cybersecurity teams to monitor potential viruses and detect suspicious files on devices both in the office and remotely.
Integrations are native and can be added by ClientID and Client Secret parameters via Avast Business Hub. Integrations include ConnectWise, ConnectWise Automate, and Ivanti.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Transferable devices between policies through the cloud portal to test and maintain security levels
- Set parameters in a policy and apply them to endpoints with a single click
- Lockout prevents unauthorized deactivation and requires authorized passwords
Cons:
- Includes voice notification for antivirus updates, easily disabled in menu options
- Occasionally initiates unexpected startup scans while your system is running
ESET Endpoint Security safeguards company devices from cyber attacks using multiple layers of protection, global threat detection, and machine learning. It also benefits from human expertise and provides remediation options when needed.
Why I picked ESET Endpoint Security: I chose ESET Endpoint Security for its comprehensive malware detection and protection. ESET's Network Attack Protection shields your systems from ransomware by blocking network-level exploits that could lead to system infections. Eset has been top rated for accuracy and detection, which gave me confidence in its protection capabilities.
ESET Endpoint Security Standout Features & Integrations:
Features that caught my eye for endpoints are customizable options and automatic threat detection, ensuring secure devices for uninterrupted work. With cloud-powered scanning and minimal data transfer, you get accurate virus detection without compromising confidentiality or performance..
Integrations are built-in and include ConnectWise Automate, Datto, N-able, and NinjaOne.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Performs scans on hardware and external devices upon insertion
- Includes antivirus, firewall, and alerts for OS updates to address vulnerabilities
- Easily schedule tasks like server analysis, software installation, and diagnostics
Cons:
- Complex service deployment requires multiple servers for full functionality
- Some companies faced firewall issues due to geographical filter blocks in the US
Apex One is an endpoint security solution that proactively protects against vulnerabilities by virtually patching them. It scans for vulnerabilities based on criteria such as severity and Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) listing, providing comprehensive protection for platforms and devices.
Why I picked Apex One: I chose Apex One because it utilizes deep scanning to detect malware, viruses, and other threats on all endpoints. It also collects data from millions of application events to identify and track potential risks, ensuring your product and systems are kept up-to-date with the latest cyber threats.
Apex One Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I found beneficial for endpoint protection and scanning include advanced threat techniques like machine learning, as well as noise-canceling methods such as census and safelisting. This combination minimizes false positives and enhances overall security.
Integrations consist of native plug-ins that enhance security visibility and functionality. Some of the popular plug-ins are IBM QRadar, Fortinet, and Splunk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Behavior monitoring module terminates suspicious processes
- External machines receive direct updates from Apex One servers for protection
- After installing Apex One agents, users can perform full scans and review machine logs
Cons:
- Inability to rename endpoint agent names after they're assigned to a system
- The basic reporting feature is okay but could use improvements
Cynet 360 is a complete endpoint security platform that uses AI and automation to protect your devices and analyze user behavior. It secures many different parts of your tech stack like computers, servers, and online services, ensuring comprehensive security for your environment.
Why I picked Cynet 360: I picked Cynet 360 for its all-in-one solution, combining endpoint management, antivirus protection, and threat intelligence all within a single application. It's perfect for small and medium-sized businesses seeking a comprehensive security platform.
Cynet 360 Standout Features & Integrations:
Features that I found interesting on Cynet 360's platform include automating error identification and resolution in SaaS and Cloud applications, simplifying problem-solving. It also streamlines threat investigation and remediation, enhancing security operations.
Integrations on the platform require configuration but are primarily native. They include AWS S3, Active Directory, Datto, Datto Autodesk, and N-able.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- The dashboard offers a concise threat overview for easy security assessment
- Lightweight agent saves time with auto-remediation for immediate actions
- Customizable USB blocking, threat hunting, and multiple antivirus tools
Cons:
- Custom configurations can be complex
- UI improvements needed for better user-friendliness
Kaspersky Business is a security software solution that protects organizations with threat detection and preventing, and configurations to reduce attack surfaces. It offers features like File, Mail, and Web Protection, machine learning analysis, and control over device, web, and application usage.
Why I picked Kaspersky Business: I picked Kaspersky Business for its adaptive protection. Its robust suite of tools struck me as a good fit for medium-sized and scaling business. With automated vulnerability and encryption management, you can proactively detect and mitigate threats.
Kaspersky Business Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I liked the most include a multi-layered protection approach based on AI algorithms and threat analysis. Kaspersky's AI automates manual tasks, freeing up your security teams to focus on critical tasks.
Integrations include native plug-ins such as ConnectWise Manage, Autotask, Tigerpaw, and SolarWinds N-central.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Background system scans and adjustments enable uninterrupted user focus
- Kaspersky reduces interruptions with fewer pop-ups and security alerts
- The licensing cost of the product is reasonable
Cons:
- Typically detects and organizes new systems but may miss some additions
- May have performance issues with resource-intensive applications
Best for centralizing your cybersecurity defense in the cloud
The Trellix Endpoint Protection Platform is a cybersecurity solution that protects devices and endpoints on your network. It uses advanced analytics, machine learning, and integration with other vendors' products to enhance your defense against evolving threats.
Why I picked Trellix Endpoint Protection Platform: I picked Trellix Endpoint Protection Platform because it lets companies bring all their security together in one place, in the cloud. Whether you're using mobile phones, computers, or other devices, Trellix's centralized management makes it easy to see what's going on and keeps things running smoothly.
Trellix Endpoint Protection Platform Standout Features & Integrations:
Features I liked in Trellix include behavior classification, driven by machine learning, to provide timely threat intelligence, such as fast identification of zero-day threats. I also like the unified dashboard, as well as the integrated anti-malware and firewall features.
Integrations that Trellix provides natively include Aruba ClearPass, BASEL II, Database Content Pack, and DNS Content Pack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports additional modules to enhance alert context and capabilities
- Alert telemetry for detecting and responding to attacks on disk and in memory
- Streamlines CSOC analyst workflow with a unified interface for alert investigation, triage, and containment
Cons:
- Pricing packages are ambiguous
- The persistent notifications about product upgrades may be bothersome
The 10 Best Endpoint Protection Software Summary
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
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1 | Deel Deel offers a comprehensive asset tracker that lets you keep tabs on employee devices around the world. | Best for global teams | Free demo available | Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people | Website |
2 | Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection Malwarebytes covers all OS endpoints, cleans malware, and logs malware activity at a low cost. | Best low-cost option | 14-day free trial available | From $33.74/device/year | Website |
3 | Heimdal Threat Protection Endpoint With Heimdal, you can view endpoint protection, antivirus, and network threat protection on a single dashboard. | Best for integrated endpoint protection | 30-day free trial available | From $34.98/3 devices/year | Website |
4 | Bitdefender GravityZone You can view total endpoint protection and blocked threat types with Bitdefender GravityZone. | Best for protecting business data for small-to-medium-sized companies | 30-day free trial available | From $77.69/3 devices/year | Website |
5 | Avast Small Business Solutions Avast Small Business offers a single dashboard for small business owners to easily monitor recent threats and view all devices. | Best for protecting small businesses endpoints | 30-day free trial available | From $31.37/device/year | Website |
6 | ESET Endpoint Protection With ESET Endpoint Security, you have the ability to view and search for viruses or ransomware on specific computers. | Best for preventing ransomware attacks | 30-day free trial available | From $211/5 devices/year | Website |
7 | Trend Micro Apex One agents allow you to schedule and run deep scans on systems within your company. | Best for endpoint scanning and response | 30-day or 90-day free trial | From $2.00/user/month billed annually | Website |
8 | Cynet 360 Cynet 360 enables you to access an incident response timeline and automates incident resolution as needed. | Best all-in-one endpoint solutio | 14-day free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website |
9 | Kaspersky Business You can monitor cyber threat activity, total infected product components, and more with Kaspersky Business. | Best for preventing cyber attacks for medium-sized businesses | 30-day free trial available | From $539/10 nodes/year | Website |
10 | Trellix Endpoint Protection Platform You can investigate potential malware on your system with Trellix Endpoint Protection Platform. | Best for centralizing your cybersecurity defense in the cloud | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website |
Other Endpoint Protection Options For Securing Endpoints
- CrowdStrike Falcon Endpoint Protection Enterprise
For defending SaaS Cloud endpoints
- Symantec Endpoint Protection
For malware and attack prevention for small businesses
- SentinelOne Endpoint Protection
For protecting your customers' endpoints
- Scalefusion
For multi-OS endpoint management
- Watchguard Endpoint Security
For endpoint security for security analysts
- Cortex XDR
For extended endpoint monitoring
- Absolute Secure Endpoint
For large-scale endpoint management
- Cisco Secure Endpoints
For work-from-home endpoints
- ThreatLocker
For granular control over your endpoints
- Harmony Endpoint
Endpoint tool for the total cost of ownership
- FortiClient
Endpoint protection for VPNs
- Sophos Intercept X
For quick incident response times
Selection Criteria For Endpoint Protection Software
Wondering how I picked the best endpoint protection software? As a cybersecurity specialist, I've worked with companies using a variety of endpoint protection tools, and this practical experience helped me assess tools thoroughly and fairly. Here's what I looked for:
Core Functionality
First, I evaluated each tool's fundamental abilities to protect against cyber threats. Here's the key functionality that I required all tools to have:
- Protection against malicious emails, web downloads, and exploits
- Application and device control to manage and restrict specific devices, controlling their ability to upload or download data, access hardware, or modify registry settings
- Data loss prevention so your data doesn't fall into the wrong hands
Key Features
To facilitate the core functionality of endpoint protection tools, here are the key features that I required all tools to have:
- Rapid detection: Early threat detection is crucial as delays allow for greater spread and damage to your systems.
- Flexible deployment options: Whether it's on-premises or in the cloud, endpoint security tools should adapt to your organization's needs.
- Third-party integrations. To boost system security, I wanted the selected endpoint security tools to integrate with other security tools in your company's environment.
Exploit and threat protection
I prioritized tools that utilized advanced machine-learning technology to catch evolving threats in real time. While all endpoint protection software could detect, protect and eliminate malware on multiple endpoints, I wanted to choose tools with a proven track record of safeguarding company systems.
Pricing
Endpoint monitoring tools typically involve monthly or annual payments, with costs increasing based on the number of devices. Software for endpoint protection starts around $30 to $50 per device and rises as your company and endpoint count grow.
Integrations
In my selection process, I prioritized endpoint security software that integrates with various platforms, including your existing architecture and firewalls. To make things easier, I have compiled a list of important integrations based on native or built-in plug-ins.
People Also Ask
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about endpoint protection:
How does endpoint protection software work?
What is an example of endpoint protection?
What is the difference between EPP and EDR?
Summary
In a tech landscape where employees and customers can connect to your network anytime and anywhere, it’s more important than ever to ensure your endpoint connections don’t expose you to cyber risks. Endpoint protection software plays an important role in safeguarding end-user devices from constantly evolving cybersecurity threats, including malware and malicious actors, ensuring their security and protection. With a variety of features and price points, there’s sure to be a tool to meet your needs, and I hope my list has helped you find the right one.
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