In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, businesses must prioritize the protection of their Windows devices from a multitude of threats, including malware such as viruses, spyware, and trojans. However, the spectrum of risks extends beyond malware, encompassing phishing attacks, malicious websites, and compromised cloud applications. To combat these challenges, many antivirus providers have expanded their offerings to include comprehensive endpoint protection capabilities, addressing advanced threats that can jeopardize business integrity.
Top Windows antivirus software comparison
Each antivirus solution featured here not only safeguards endpoints like laptops and desktops but also enhances security through features such as intrusion prevention and control over unauthorized peripheral devices. This comparison evaluates six leading antivirus options for Windows 10 and 11, focusing on core features, pricing, and overall safety.
Bitdefender GravityZone: Best overall
Bitdefender has garnered acclaim for its free antivirus offerings, yet its business solutions, particularly the GravityZone platform, provide exceptional value. This platform is designed to deliver advanced endpoint protection against ransomware, phishing sites, and real-time exploits in widely used applications like browsers and Microsoft Office. Enhanced plans introduce features such as web control, attack forensics, and a sandbox environment for testing suspicious files.
Why I chose Bitdefender GravityZone
Bitdefender strikes a commendable balance between affordability and robust security features, earning a positive reputation for user data privacy. Its comprehensive suite is well-suited for businesses seeking effective protection without breaking the bank.
Pricing
- GravityZone Small Business Security: 9.49 per year for 10 devices, offering anti-phishing and ransomware protection.
- GravityZone Business Security: 8.99 per year for 10 devices, adding network-based attack protection and analytics.
- GravityZone Business Security Premium: 0.49 per year for 10 devices, featuring machine learning detection and Microsoft Exchange anti-spam.
Features
- Ransomware prevention and decryption.
- Protection against fileless attacks.
- Advanced anti-phishing capabilities.
- Network intrusion prevention.
- Web content control and filtering.
- Sandbox analyzer for suspicious files.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
ESET PROTECT: Best for multi-layered protection
ESET PROTECT stands out as a robust antivirus solution catering to Windows 10 and 11 endpoints, as well as mobile devices and cloud applications. Although its pricing is on the higher side, the multi-layered security controls, including encryption solutions and patch management, are impressive.
Why I chose ESET PROTECT
This platform provides a comprehensive security framework that can encompass an organization’s entire IT environment, making it ideal for businesses with complex security requirements.
Pricing
- Protect Entry: 2 per year for 10 devices.
- Protect Advanced: 0 per year for 10 devices, adding mobile threat defense and full disk encryption.
- Protect Complete: 5.45 per year for 10 devices, including vulnerability management and cloud app protection.
Features
- Network intrusion prevention.
- Mobile threat defense.
- Full disk encryption.
- Automatic vulnerability remediation.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Malwarebytes ThreatDown: Best managed detection and response
Renowned for its on-demand scanning utility, Malwarebytes offers the ThreatDown platform, which features advanced capabilities such as automatic incident response and ransomware rollback. The managed threat hunting service provides businesses access to expert security resources.
Why I chose Malwarebytes ThreatDown
Despite its higher price point, Malwarebytes is celebrated for its detection accuracy and privacy standards, making it a valuable investment for businesses seeking robust managed services.
Pricing
- Core: 0 per year for 10 devices.
- Advanced: 0 per year for 10 devices, adding ransomware rollback and endpoint detection.
- Elite: 0 per year for 10 devices, including full managed detection and response.
Features
- Incident remediation and response.
- Application blocking and vulnerability assessment.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Avast: Best for small businesses
Avast caters specifically to small businesses, offering features such as data loss prevention and a VPN service for secure browsing. However, recent controversies regarding user data sharing have affected its standing.
Why I chose Avast
Avast provides a well-rounded suite of security features at competitive pricing, making it a practical choice for small enterprises.
Pricing
- Avast Small Office Protection: 9.99 per year for 10 devices.
- Avast Essential Business Security: 6.72 per year for 10 devices.
Features
- Ransomware protection.
- Data loss prevention.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Trend Vision One from Trend Micro: Best for custom security bundles
Trend Micro’s Vision One solution allows businesses to create customized security bundles tailored to their specific needs. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for larger organizations with unique security profiles.
Why I chose Trend Vision One
The ability to mix and match security services offers businesses a tailored approach to cybersecurity, potentially reducing costs by only paying for necessary features.
Pricing
Trend Micro employs a credit-based pricing model, and potential customers are encouraged to contact sales for detailed pricing information.
Features
- Behavioral analysis of endpoints.
- Data loss prevention.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
McAfee: Best for beginners
McAfee offers a range of affordable antivirus solutions tailored for families and small businesses. Its recent product updates have improved user experience and security.
Why I chose McAfee
Despite past criticisms, McAfee’s current offerings are competitively priced and feature advanced privacy protections, making them suitable for startups and family-run businesses.
Pricing
- McAfee+ Premium: .99 per year for unlimited devices.
- McAfee+ Advanced: 9.99 per year for unlimited devices.
Features
- Text scam detector.
- Parental controls.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
How do I choose the best Windows antivirus for my business?
Choosing the right antivirus solution involves balancing pricing with security needs. Larger companies in regulated sectors may require comprehensive solutions like Malwarebytes ThreatDown, while smaller businesses might find adequate protection in more budget-friendly options like McAfee or Avast. Bitdefender stands out as a well-rounded choice, offering a blend of features, pricing, and safety.
Methodology
The products selected for this comparison were chosen based on their unique business-focused features and positive customer feedback. Extensive research was conducted through product pages, datasheets, and trial versions, supplemented by insights from industry forums and publications to evaluate their safety and usability.
