10 best antivirus software for businesses in 2023

Antivirus software protects your data against cybercriminals, ransomware and malware. Compare the best software now.

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It’s nearly impossible to have a business in the modern age without having some sort of digital presence. What follows naturally from such a presence are countless cybersecurity risks, which in turn necessitate software to protect your systems.

The importance of having quality antivirus software to protect your business from malware, viruses and other cyberthreats cannot be overstated. With so many options available, choosing the right antivirus software for your business can be challenging.

Find the antivirus solution that best fits your business among the 10 top business antivirus software products covered here.

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Feature comparisons of the best antivirus software

FeaturesReal-time antivirus scanLive 24/7 supportVPN OptionMalwareFirewall protectionIdentity theft

McAfeeYesYesYesYesYesYes

KasperskyYesYesYesYesYesYes

CrowdStrike FalconYesYesNoYesYesYes

BitdefenderYesYesYesYesYesYes

ESETYesNoNoYesYesYes

AvastYesNoYesYesYesYes

Trend MicroYesYesYesYesYesYes

MalwarebytesYesYesYesYesNoYes

SymantecYesNoYesYesYesYes

Microsoft Business DefenderYesNoYesYesYesYes

Best enterprise antivirus software options

Below are our reviews of the best antivirus software for businesses in 2023:

McAfee Total Protection

McAfee Total Protection is an antivirus solution that provides continuous and automatic protection from cybersecurity threats such as phishing, viruses, hackers and ransomware. It is a great option for smaller businesses and startups that need real-time malware protection across all devices. Offered in multiple subscription plans, a small business can customize the product for its purposes.

In addition to standard features such as firewall protection, Wi-Fi security, password management and PC optimization, McAfee offers features like a PC cleaner, identity protection, file shredder and a virtual private network. This solution can run on various devices, such as PCs, Macs, ChromeOS and Android devices.

Pricing

McAfee Total Protection offers three plans:

• Essential: Starts from $39.99 per year and protects up to five devices.
• Premium: Starts from $44.99 per year and misses some features but includes unlimited devices.
• Advanced: Starts from $79.99 per year and covers the full services, including unlimited devices.

Features

• Identity theft protection.
• Secure VPN option.
• Compatible with major operating systems except for Linux.
• Password manager.
• Features a file shredder that can delete files without leaving traces.

Pros

• There is a free trial.
• It can protect an unlimited number of devices.
• Multiple plans mean more flexibility for businesses.
• 24/7 customer support.

Cons

• Lower plans miss out on some important features.
• Prices could be high for some small businesses.

McAfee

Kaspersky

Kaspersky’s antivirus solution is designed to fit any business, regardless of size or type. For small businesses with 1-50 employees, Kaspersky offers Small Office Security protection, an antivirus suite that features premium VPN, password manager and safe money services. The small office security suite protects servers, computers, data and is compatible with various operating systems like Windows, Android, macOS and iOS.

For businesses with over 250 employees, Kaspersky offers Endpoint Security Cloud. This suite comes with Kaspersky’s full protection features and is offered under three different plans. The Endpoint Security Cloud helps businesses uncover, understand and remediate known and unknown vulnerabilities on their workstations with a remediation engine.

Pricing

Kaspersky antivirus for businesses is offered in two categories: Small Office Security and Endpoint Security Cloud.

• Small Office Security: Starts from $135 per year for up to five users.
• Endpoint Security Cloud: Starts from $192.37 per year for up to five users.
• Endpoint Security Cloud Plus: $308.75 per year for up to five users.
• Endpoint Security Cloud Pro: $461.70 per year for up to five users,

Features

• Patch management and encryption management.
• Software updater helps fix vulnerable applications on PCs.
• Smart protection automatically connects you to a VPN when an insecure network is detected.
• The software can be customized to control user access to applications and internet resources.

Pros

• The platform offers cybersecurity training.
• It covers multiple devices and operating systems.
• It offers a free trial for each of the plans.

Cons

• Prices may be high for small businesses.

Kaspersky

CrowdStrike Falcon

CrowdStrike Falcon is cloud-based software employing artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to detect and respond to attacks in real-time. With endpoint protection, businesses can secure their devices and networks against malware, ransomware and other cyberattacks.

In addition, CrowdStrike’s AI-powered threat analysis also enables businesses to identify and respond to potential threats quickly. Its cloud-based management console allows businesses to manage their security from a centralized location, eliminating the need for on-premises hardware and reducing the workload of IT departments. CrowdStrike provides detailed threat intelligence and reporting, allowing businesses to track and analyze threats on all popular platforms, including Windows, Windows Server, macOS and Linux.

Pricing

CrowdStrike Falcon runs on four pricing tiers:

• Falcon Go: $299.95 per year (minimum of five devices).
• Falcon Pro: $499.95 per year (minimum of five devices).
• Falcon Elite: Contact the vendor for a quote.
• Falcon Complete: Contact the vendor for a quote.

Features

• Real-time threat detection and response.
• Endpoint protection.
• Cloud-based management console.
• AI-powered threat analysis.
• 24/7 monitoring and support.

Pros

• Easy to deploy and manage.
• Detailed threat intelligence and reporting.
• A range of pricing options to fit different business needs.

Cons

• Some may find the cost relatively high compared to other antivirus solutions.
• Some features may require additional licenses or add-ons.
• It requires an internet connection for full functionality.

CrowdStrike Falcon

Bitdefender GravityZone

Bitdefender’s GravityZone is an on-premise/cloud antivirus solution offering unified endpoint security and analytics, and advanced threat intelligence. A key feature is advanced threat detection technology that incorporates machine learning algorithms to identify and block threats in real time.

Another standout feature is its data security provision to enhance compliance. With it, businesses can leverage Bitdenfender’s data theft protection, customer data safeguard and data breach prevention.

Pricing

Bitdefender GravityZone plans come under three main categories: GravityZone Business Security Premium + Add-ons, GravityZone Business Security Premium and GravityZone Business Security. Each category covers small, medium-to-large and managed service providers.

There are multiple pricing plans depending on the size of the business and the type of service you need. The lowest price comes under the GravityZone Business Security, which is pegged at $258.99 for 10 devices.

Features

• Advanced threat detection using machine learning algorithms to identify and block malware in real-time.
• Centralized management console allows IT administrators to monitor and control security policies across all devices and endpoints.
• Security for AWS.
• Email security for filtering spam.

Pros

• Offers security for on-premise and cloud.
• Easy to use and manage with a centralized console.
• Provides detailed reports and logs for auditing purposes.

Cons

• Complex pricing categorization.
• May require additional customization to fit specific business needs.
• Can be expensive compared to other antivirus solutions.

Bitdefender

ESET Protect

Eset Protect is an antivirus solution that leverages advanced multi-layered technology to secure PCs, file servers and mobiles from viruses, brute force attacks and other attack vectors. The solution can be run on-premise or via the cloud, making it easy for enterprises running on a cloud-based, hybrid and on-premise ecosystem to adopt the product.

With ESET, you not only have access to advanced threat reports but the flexibility to customize these reports to suit your needs. Some key security features covered by ESET Protect are mail security, advanced threat defense, full disk encryption, cloud application protection and file server security.

Pricing

ESET Protect pricing is categorized under SMBs, Enterprise and Additional Protection. Each category offers multiple plan options.

For the SMBs, ESET offers:

• ESET Protect entry: $190 per year for five devices.
• ESET Protect Advanced: $248 per year for five devices.
• ESET Complet: $382 per year for five devices.

Features

• Mail security.
• Unified security management console.
• Compatible with multiple operating systems, including Linux.
• Advanced protection for Microsoft 365.

Pros

• Wide variety of reporting options.
• Offered on-premise and cloud.

Cons

• Complex pricing plans.
• Lacks patch management features.

ESET

Avast Business

Avast Business is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution designed for small to medium-sized businesses. It offers multiple layers of protection against malware, viruses, spyware, ransomware and phishing attacks. With advanced threat detection capabilities, Avast Business provides password security for businesses that want to protect their employees’ passwords and ensure USB security and VPN protection.

Avast’s software also includes firewall, email protection and web protection — all providing businesses with an extra layer of security. Its easy-to-use management console allows businesses to manage their security across all devices from a single dashboard.

Pricing

Avast Business offers multiple pricing tiers and each price is influenced by factors such as the number of devices and type of operating system.

• Home office business:: $139.99 per year for up to 10 devices.
• Essential Business Security: $148.36 per year for up to five devices.
• Premium Business security: $187 per year for up to five devices.
• Ultimate Business Security: $227 per year for up to five devices.

Features

• Advanced threat detection.
• Real-time scanning and threat identification.
• System and application patching.
• Cloud-based technology for automatic updates.
• Firewall, and email and web protection.

Pros

• Can be deployed for either on-premise or cloud environments.
• Easy-to-use management console for managing security across all devices.
• Automatic updates to systems and applications to ensure protection against latest threats.

Cons

• The pricing plans may be too costly for small and mid-sized businesses.
• System performance may slow during scans and updates.
• Limited support options for Essential Business Security subscribers.

Avast

Trend Micro

There is a lot of security software available from Trend Micro, with antivirus and endpoint defense just two of its many features.

First, there’s Apex One, a software-as-a-service security product that integrates EDR with endpoint security and other solutions. The other option, one of three user protection security packages, offers some of the features of Apex One but in an à la carte fashion designed for smaller organizations and those looking to save money.

Pricing

Trend Micro offers over twenty layers of security for businesses, each with varying pricing plans. 

Features

• VPN service automatically comes on when you connect to a suspicious network.
• Firewall protection.
• Can be used in on-premise, cloud and hybrid environments.
• Advanced threat detection.
• Mobile security.
• Email security.

Pros

• Real-time protection.
• There is a basic free version.
• Free 30-day trial.

Cons

• No Windows web camera protection.
• Password manager feature is only available in the top two plans.
• Multiple plans could be confusing to some people.

Trend Micro

Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes is cloud-based antivirus software that detects threats, including zero-day threats, brute force attacks and malicious payloads.

AI-powered and automated, the software is a single, lightweight agent. With EDR technology that identifies and remediates attacks, the Malwarebytes antivirus can help businesses recover from a cyberattack using their linking engine which can remove malware traces.

Pricing

• Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection: Starts from $69.99 per year, per device.
• Malwarebytes Endpoint Detection and Response: Starts from $84.99 per year, per device.

Features

• Browser guard acts as an ad-blocker.
• Uses AI/ML to monitor, detect and interrupt payload delivery.
• DNS filtering functionality protects users from suspicious web domains.
• Cloud management console provides easy setup.

Pros

• Leverages AI/ML for faster and automated threat detection.
• Offers browser guard to keep businesses away from unwanted ads.
• Comes with a free trial.

Cons

• Firewall option is not included.
• No file shredder option.

Malwarebytes

Symantec Endpoint Security Enterprise

Broadcom-owned Symantec Endpoint Security is a single-agent antivirus solution powered by Symantec Global Intelligence Network. This solution helps businesses secure their endpoints by ensuring attack surface reduction, breach prevention, and detection and response.

As a single-agent solution, businesses can run this solution through different deployment options, including fully cloud-based, on-premise and hybrid. In addition, SES is compatible with all operating systems, such as Windows, MacOS, Linux Android and iOS.

Pricing

Contact the vendor for pricing.

Features

• Single cloud console for easy rollout, management and policy updates.
• Uses machine learning for threat detection.
• Covers all operating systems and devices.
• Uses SONAR behavioral analysis to monitor the behavior of applications.

Pros

• Security for all endpoints, including desktops, laptops, tablets, mobile phones and servers.
• Protect all popular operating systems, including macOS, Windows, Linux iOS and Android.

Cons

• There is no free trial.
• Prices are not stated on their website.

Symantec

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Microsoft Defender for Business is one suite of threat protection solutions from Microsoft. Although primarily offered to serve organizations using Microsoft products, the solution can extend to third-party software.

Microsoft Defender for Business is designed to protect endpoint devices from advanced threats like ransomware and file-less malware. It uses cloud technology to provide security for various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS.

Pricing

Microsoft Defender for Business has two pricing plans.

• Microsoft Defender for Business: $3 per user, per month.
• Microsoft 365 Business Premium: $22 per user, per month.

Features

• Cloud-based management provides easy deployment and management.
• Offers advanced reporting and analytics.
• Leverages machine learning and behavioral algorithms to detect and block threats.
• The tool monitors for both Microsoft and third-party software vulnerabilities.

Pros

• It offers a free trial.
• Vulnerability monitoring is not limited to Microsoft software.
• Can investigate security alerts automatically.

Cons

• Limited support for non-Microsoft platforms.
• Requires a Microsoft ecosystem if you want to get the full benefits.

Microsoft

Features of antivirus solutions for your business

Here are some features to look for when selecting an antivirus solution for your business:

Malware detection and removal

The primary function of an antivirus solution is to detect and remove malware. Before you go for a particular antivirus, you should check if the software has the capacity not just to detect malware but be able to get rid of it. The antivirus software should be capable of detecting all types of malware, including viruses, Trojans, worms and spyware. The software should also be able to remove the malware effectively without damaging the system, deleting any critical files or significantly slowing the system down.

Real-time scanning and protection

One of the critical features of business antivirus is real-time scanning and protection. The antivirus software should be capable of scanning all incoming and outgoing data in real-time to detect any potential threats.

Email protection

Cybercriminals often use email to launch social engineering attacks on businesses. A business without email security leaves its employees vulnerable to phishing attacks. A robust antivirus solution should include email protection that can scan all incoming and outgoing emails for potential threats. The software should also be able to detect and block any malicious attachments or links.

Firewall protection

Many businesses have a network security policy that includes a firewall as a component. Most antivirus solutions for businesses include a firewall to help monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic and block any suspicious activity as well as blocking any attempts at unauthorized access.

How to choose a good antivirus solution for your business

How do you go about choosing the best antivirus solution for your business? Here are some tips:

Consider compatibility and integration

Compatibility and integration are essential factors to consider when choosing an antivirus solution for your business. The software should be compatible with all operating systems and applications used in the organization. The antivirus software should also be able to integrate with other cybersecurity solutions a business may use, such as intrusion detection and data loss prevention systems.

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Consider cost and needs

The cost of an antivirus solution is another crucial factor to consider. However, don’t be tempted to compromise on quality. The best way to arrive at the best cost for your business is to determine your needs. Consider the size of your business, the number of devices you need to protect, and the level of protection required. Some antivirus software may offer more advanced features that you do not need.

Consider ease of use

Another important factor to consider is the ease of use of the antivirus solution. It should be user-friendly and easy to install and manage. Consider solutions that offer centralized management, automated updates and remote access. This will ensure that your IT team can manage the antivirus solution easily without causing any disruption to your business operations.

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Check scalability

Your business will most likely grow over time, and choosing an antivirus solution that can accommodate your growing needs is essential. Ensure the antivirus solution is scalable and protects multiple devices and systems. This is particularly important if you have employees who use personal devices for work, as you need to ensure that those devices are also protected.

Note: This article was originally written by Brandon Vigliarolo. It was extensively updated by Jack Wallen.