When selecting antivirus solutions, small businesses often find themselves in a challenging position: the personal antivirus options like McAfee or Kaspersky may not provide the necessary strength, while enterprise-grade systems tend to be too complex and pricey. Fortunately, there are antivirus options specifically designed for the unique requirements of smaller enterprises. We have compiled a list of our six top recommendations for the best antivirus software suitable for small businesses.
In addition to cost, there are several other considerations to keep in mind when selecting the ideal antivirus software for small businesses. Some of these factors are highlighted in the table below:
Bitdefender is widely recognized for its consumer-oriented antivirus software, but it also provides highly effective antivirus solutions for smaller businesses. Bitdefender offers protection for macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, and Windows Server systems, making it an excellent option for SMBs that utilize a variety of devices. With its user-friendly dashboard, managing your security is straightforward, even without extensive IT knowledge. Additionally, several plans include unlimited VPN traffic and account breach monitoring for all users covered under the plan.
SEE: How to Create an Effective Cybersecurity Awareness Program (TechRepublic Premium)
I opted for Bitdefender GravityZone due to its user-friendly interface and solid reputation in the industry. The variety in pricing plans is another aspect I value greatly. You can select payment options based on the number of devices or users, ensuring you only pay for what you need. Moreover, if you decide to expand, Bitdefender provides security solutions and managed services tailored for mid-sized businesses, which means a provider switch might not even be necessary.
In a small business setting, work hours often blur, making it crucial to select antivirus software that offers comprehensive support. Luckily, Norton provides 24/7 online chat support for English-speaking users. There’s also an extensive knowledge base available for self-service, allowing you to troubleshoot before contacting customer support. Their small business plans encompass a variety of features, such as password management and cloud backup facilities.
I selected Norton because it comes with 24/7 customer support along with a complete security platform. While it may not scale as effectively as other options for growing businesses, it serves as a valuable choice for a genuine small business needing protection for 20 devices or fewer.
Trend Micro stands out for its capability to detect and safeguard against cyber threats, which is why I’ve recognized it as one of the top antivirus software for Windows. The solution is offered in two editions: Trend Vision One for Small Businesses and Trend Vision One for larger enterprises. The small business version provides protection not only for endpoints but also for workloads and cloud applications, featuring both endpoint detection response and extended detection response.
I chose Trend Micro due to its array of cyber threat tools designed for early detection and resolution of issues. What stands out is its scalability; the various plans can grow alongside a small business as it transitions into a midsize company or even a large enterprise. Additionally, it provides managed services through collaborations with third-party providers for those looking to outsource their IT operations.
Currently, Trend Micro does not make public the pricing details for Trend Vision One for Small Businesses or for Trend Vision One itself. To obtain a personalized quote, reaching out to the sales team is necessary.
ESET provides antivirus software tailored for small businesses with five distinct pricing plans available. This allows expanding businesses ample opportunities to upgrade as their cybersecurity requirements evolve. Moreover, several add-ons enhance the flexibility of the pricing options. Even the basic plan encompasses all types of endpoints and device control, while higher-tier plans offer further features such as full disk encryption and patch management.
I selected ESET because it presents four pricing plans along with three add-ons for small and medium-sized businesses, which grants companies significant flexibility to scale with growth. The platform is also relatively simple to manage, though having a dedicated IT administrator is recommended to fully leverage the cybersecurity capabilities available in the more premium plans.
If you are a small business owner looking for an effective way to secure multiple devices without breaking the bank, Avira Prime is worth considering. This antivirus solution is available for just $134.99 annually, covering up to 25 devices. This price point is competitive, often less than what other providers charge for protection on only 5 to 10 devices. In addition to antivirus capabilities, the package also offers an unlimited VPN, a password manager, and a device cleaner, ensuring you receive comprehensive protection at that cost. For those on a tighter budget, be sure to explore our compilation of the best free endpoint detection software.
I selected Avira due to its appealing pricing structure, which enables small business owners to safeguard up to 25 devices affordably. The added bonus is that it incorporates essential features like a VPN within the same plan, unlike some competitors that charge extra for similar services.
If your small business predominantly relies on Windows devices, Microsoft Defender could fulfill your basic antivirus requirements. Defender is conveniently pre-installed on Windows 11 and 12. Additionally, it can be included with other Microsoft applications such as Word and Excel via the 365 E3 and E5 software packages. While Defender is also compatible with other operating systems including Macs and iPhones, utilizing alternative solutions from this list may provide a smoother installation on non-Windows devices.
I recommended Microsoft Defender because it tends to be the most straightforward choice for small businesses operating exclusively on Windows. By opting for one of the 365 E5 software bundles, you can access Defender along with your other Microsoft applications, eliminating the need for a separate subscription setup.
When selecting the ideal antivirus software for small businesses, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs alongside your budget. Keep in mind that combined packages, which offer extra features like a VPN and password manager, can prove to be more cost-effective over time compared to purchasing each component separately. Utilize your financial limits and essential requirements to refine your choices to a select few, or consider starting with the six services listed below.
Next, take advantage of free trials to experience the software firsthand. I always emphasize the importance of practical testing before committing to an annual subscription. If you have further inquiries during or after the trial, make sure to arrange demo calls with the sales representatives.
If you’re still uncertain about which antivirus software to choose, consider opting for providers that allow month-to-month subscriptions, such as Avira and Bitdefender. This approach means you won’t be tied to a year-long agreement if you decide to explore other options later.
To determine the best antivirus software for small businesses, I reviewed product documentation and user feedback. I evaluated features such as endpoint protection, anti-phishing and anti-malware capabilities, included VPNs and password managers, as well as automatic updates. Additionally, I took into account various other factors, including pricing structures, scalability, free trials, customer support, usability, and the design of the user interface.
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