Best 9 Antivirus Software For Small Businesses (2026)
We reviewed 9 antivirus platforms built or well-suited for small business environments on protection accuracy, ease of management, and the pricing that makes strong endpoint security viable without an enterprise budget.
Written by
Caitlin Harris
Technical Review by
Craig MacAlpine
Quick Summary
Antivirus software for small businesses provides endpoint protection against malware, ransomware, and web threats for organizations without dedicated security staff or enterprise budgets. Small businesses face the same threat landscape as larger organizations with far fewer resources to recover from incidents. We reviewed 9 platforms and found ESET Endpoint Security, Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business Security, and Datto Antivirus to be the strongest on protection accuracy, management simplicity, and pricing viability without an enterprise investment.
Antivirus software is a type of endpoint protection that secures individual endpoints by detecting and blocking malicious files. It often seems like antivirus software is something that only consumers need, but the truth is, a strong antivirus solution is extremely important for small businesses, too. In fact, with the increasing rise in threats such as ransomware, it’s arguable that it’s never been more important.
On top of this, we live in a world where increasingly more employees are working remotely and using their own devices rather than office computers. This means that powerful, centrally-managed antivirus software that works effectively across all operating systems and all devices has become a vital tool for any organization, small or large.
In this article, we’ll explore the top antivirus software products designed to protect small businesses against malware threats. For the purpose of these solutions, we define small businesses as organizations with less than 250 employees. We’ll be looking at features such as malware and ransomware protection, anti-phishing, sandboxing, and management capabilities.
Top 9 Antivirus Software For Small Businesses Shortlist
1. ESET Endpoint Security — Best for lightweight protection across mixed OS environments
2. Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business Security — Best for AI-driven detection with modular add-ons
3. Datto Antivirus — Best for MSPs managing SMB clients within the Datto ecosystem
4. Heimdal Next-Gen Endpoint Antivirus — Best for granular scan scheduling and bundled MDM
5. Microsoft Defender — Best for organizations already invested in M365 and Intune
6. Norton Small Business — Best for very small teams wanting antivirus, VPN, and password management bundled
7. Sophos Intercept X — Best for AI-driven ransomware protection with managed response
8. Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security — Best for all-in-one endpoint, web, and email protection
9. WithSecure Elements Endpoint Protection — Best for automated patch management alongside endpoint security
ESET Endpoint Security is cloud-managed endpoint protection built for SMBs that need solid detection without the performance drag. ESET are known globally for their effective, lightweight cybersecurity solutions, offering multi-layered technology and automated cloud-based management. We think it’s one of the strongest options for lean IT teams running mixed OS environments.
ESET Endpoint Security Key Features
The agent combines machine learning with behavioral analysis to catch ransomware and fileless attacks without slowing down endpoints. ESET’s Endpoint Protection monitors the behavior of processes and assesses their risk, detecting targeted malware alongside more common threats. Web browser protection blocks malicious downloads, and admins get one console covering Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile. Automatic updates make the solution easy to deploy and maintain with no need for specialist IT knowledge.
What Customers Say
Customers say the lightweight agent is a real differentiator compared to heavier competitors. IT managers highlight remote monitoring across global endpoints as a practical daily win. Multi-device licensing across desktops, mobiles, and file servers simplifies procurement. Something to be aware of is that initial setup can cause friction for first-time deployments.
Our Take
We think ESET fits best if your team runs a mixed OS environment and needs protection that stays out of the way. The low system footprint is the genuine standout. The console is available in 21 languages, and ESET offer local in-country support in over 200 countries, which is good to see. If you need broader detection coverage beyond endpoints, evaluate the fuller platform options.
Strengths
- Minimal performance impact keeps endpoints running at full speed
- Single console manages Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile
- Behavioral detection catches ransomware and fileless attacks
- 21-language support with local in-country support in 200+ countries
Cautions
- Users report initial setup friction for first-time deployments
Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business Security
Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business Security is AI-driven endpoint protection for small organizations that want strong detection without enterprise complexity. Bitdefender are a global leader in endpoint protection, protecting over 500 million systems in 150 countries. We were impressed by the ransomware mitigation capability, which can recover encrypted files post-attack.
Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business Security Key Features
The detection engine layers machine learning with behavioral analysis to catch malware, ransomware, and zero-day exploits. Cloud-shared threat intelligence speeds response times across your fleet. Ransomware Mitigation creates tamper-proof backups that restore files even after a successful encryption attack. The customizable dashboard allows admins to view reports and alerts, with modular add-ons that scale capabilities without switching platforms.
What Customers Say
Customers say deployment is simple and the agents run light on most systems. Web filtering catches greyware that slips past other tools, and centralized management makes multi-device oversight practical for lean IT teams. Something to be aware of is that the console interface feels dated for EDR views, and the false positive rate requires ongoing tuning.
Our Take
We think GravityZone is a smart pick if your organization needs strong detection now with room to grow. The modular approach means you’re not paying for features you don’t need yet, and the ransomware rollback capability is a genuine safety net. For slightly larger organizations wanting full endpoint detection and response, the GravityZone Business Security Enterprise tier offers additional features.
Strengths
- Ransomware Mitigation recovers encrypted files post-attack
- Modular add-ons scale capabilities without switching platforms
- Web filtering catches greyware other tools miss
- AI-driven detection with high accuracy on zero-day threats
Cautions
- Users report the console interface feels dated for EDR views
Datto Antivirus
Datto Antivirus is next-generation endpoint protection purpose-built for MSPs and the SMBs they manage. Now part of Kaseya, the real value isn’t just the antivirus engine; it’s the integration across Datto’s endpoint management, EDR, and backup tools. We think this makes the most sense for MSPs already running Datto infrastructure.
Datto Antivirus Key Features
AI and machine learning handle both known and unknown threats in real time, including polymorphic malware and potentially unwanted applications. When combined with Datto EDR, independent testing by Miercom recorded a 99.62% detection rate. Smart Investigate surfaces AI-driven investigation guidance for flagged threats. The lightweight agent deploys easily across MSP client environments.
What Customers Say
Customers say real-time monitoring and automated response features make a measurable difference to security posture. MSP owners highlight improved visibility across client networks and streamlined threat management. Something to be aware of is that the console interface is clunky with broken sections, and the value drops significantly outside the Datto ecosystem.
Our Take
We think Datto Antivirus makes the most sense if your MSP already runs Datto tools. The integration across endpoint management, EDR, and backup creates operational efficiency that standalone antivirus tools can’t match. If you’re not in the Datto ecosystem, evaluate alternatives.
Strengths
- Tight integration with Datto EDR, backup, and endpoint management
- 99.62% detection rate in independent Miercom testing (with Datto EDR)
- Smart Investigate surfaces AI-driven investigation guidance
- Lightweight agent deploys easily across MSP client environments
Cautions
- Users report the console interface is clunky with broken sections
- Value drops significantly outside the Datto ecosystem
Heimdal Next-Gen Endpoint Antivirus
Heimdal Next-Gen Endpoint Antivirus is endpoint protection from the Copenhagen-based vendor, aimed at SMBs that want granular control over scanning and threat response. We found the scan scheduling a genuine differentiator; you can configure scanning windows down to the minute.
Heimdal Next-Gen Endpoint Antivirus Key Features
Behavioral analytics detect code changes post-delivery, catching threats that signature-based tools miss. Suspicious URLs get blocked with alerts queued for IT review. Sandboxing and backdoor inspection analyze files before execution. Built-in MDM adds remote wipe, lock, and device tracking, which bundles mobile management into the endpoint platform.
What Customers Say
Customers say setup is simple and highlight malicious URL blocking as a practical daily safety net. Support gets strong marks, with users noting responsive end-to-end assistance. Enterprise teams praise the centralized dashboard view. Something to be aware of is that independent customer feedback is limited, and pricing requires direct vendor contact with no published tiers.
Our Take
We think Heimdal fits best if your organization needs fine-grained control over scan schedules and wants MDM bundled into endpoint protection. The behavioral analytics and sandboxing add detection layers that basic antivirus tools lack. If transparent pricing matters to your evaluation process, this could be a friction point.
Strengths
- Scan scheduling down to the minute for precise detection control
- Sandboxing and backdoor inspection analyze files before execution
- Built-in MDM adds remote wipe, lock, and tracking
- Behavioral analytics catch post-delivery code changes
Cautions
- Limited independent customer feedback makes long-term assessment harder
- Pricing requires direct vendor contact with no published tiers
Microsoft Defender
Microsoft Defender spans Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android with AI-powered threat detection, vulnerability management, and automated response. We think this is the path of least resistance for SMBs already running Microsoft 365 and Intune, where the licensing overlap makes a separate antivirus vendor hard to justify.
Microsoft Defender Key Features
The platform bundles antivirus, phishing detection, vulnerability management, and automated remediation under existing Microsoft licensing. AI-powered detection handles both known and emerging malware with continuous updates. Attack surface reduction rules let you lock down Windows endpoints. Intune integration means policies push across your fleet without a separate console.
What Customers Say
Customers say Defender excels at stopping common threats and providing deep endpoint visibility, particularly on Windows. Teams running it for years report strong malware detection and reliable attack surface management. Something to be aware of is that feature parity on macOS, Linux, and Android lags Windows, and policy tuning for non-standard scenarios requires extended support cycles.
Our Take
We think Defender is the obvious starting point if your organization is invested in Microsoft 365 and Intune. The licensing overlap and consolidated management make it hard to justify a separate endpoint vendor. If your fleet is mostly non-Windows, evaluate alternatives that treat macOS and Linux as first-class platforms.
Strengths
- Native M365 and Intune integration makes deployment frictionless
- Consolidates antivirus, phishing detection, and vulnerability management
- Automated remediation reduces manual incident response workload
- Deep endpoint visibility with attack surface reduction rules on Windows
Cautions
- Reviews note feature parity on macOS, Linux, and Android lags Windows
- Policy tuning for non-standard scenarios requires extended support cycles
Norton Small Business
Norton Small Business is cloud-managed endpoint protection covering up to 20 devices across PC, Mac, iOS, and Android. NortonLifeLock are a global leader in cybersecurity technologies, securing the devices of almost 50 million consumers worldwide. We think this works well for very small teams that want antivirus, firewall, VPN, and password management bundled into one subscription without complex setup.
Norton Small Business Key Features
Real-time detection covers malware, ransomware, and zero-day exploits, with threats organized by reputation and behavior scoring for faster triage. The platform warns users before risky downloads and suspicious websites. Cloud-based setup and device management makes it quick to install without additional tech support. An admin can monitor the status of all employee devices from a single dashboard, from anywhere.
What Customers Say
Customers say onboarding is fast and the day-to-day experience stays simple. Users highlight consistent background scanning and the bundled security features as practical for small operations. Support gets positive marks. Something to be aware of is that the 20-device limit creates a hard ceiling, and pricing runs higher than competitors with similar features.
Our Take
We think Norton Small Business fits teams under 20 devices that want one platform covering antivirus, VPN, and password management without complex setup. The 20-device ceiling is the hard limit. If your team is growing beyond that, evaluate platforms that scale without device caps.
Strengths
- Bundles antivirus, firewall, VPN, and password manager in one platform
- Cloud deployment gets new devices protected fast via invite links
- Reputation and behavior scoring speeds up threat triage
- Cross-platform coverage spans PC, Mac, iOS, and Android
Cautions
- 20-device limit creates a hard ceiling for growing organizations
- Users report pricing runs higher than competitors with similar features
Sophos Intercept X
Sophos Intercept X uses deep learning AI to predict and block threats across desktops, laptops, servers, and mobile devices. Sophos’ solutions work in real time, using AI to predict evolving threats before they’ve been classified. We think this is a strong fit for SMBs that want AI-driven detection with built-in ransomware rollback and optional managed response.
Sophos Intercept X Key Features
The deep learning model flags behavioral anomalies before they execute, and the anti-ransomware capability detects encryption behavior, blocks the attack, and rolls back affected files automatically. Intercept X uses powerful artificial intelligence to detect known and unknown malware, ransomware, and other exploits. Sophos Central unifies endpoint, firewall, and email security management. The managed threat response tier adds analyst-led incident handling for teams without dedicated security staff. It works across Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android.
What Customers Say
Customers say Intercept X runs quietly after deployment with minimal hands-on management. Users highlight low false positive rates and easy exception handling when detections do occur. Endpoint agents stay stable across Windows environments. Something to be aware of is that console navigation is unclear for specific settings, and support response times stretch during complex incidents.
Our Take
We think Intercept X fits SMBs and mid-market organizations that want reliable protection without constant attention. The managed threat response tier adds genuine value for teams without dedicated analysts. If you need detailed scan scheduling or granular control, evaluate alternatives. For AI-driven protection with ransomware rollback, it’s well worth considering.
Strengths
- Deep learning AI catches ransomware and exploits before execution
- Ransomware rollback restores encrypted files automatically
- Managed threat response adds analyst-led incident handling
- Sophos Central unifies endpoint, firewall, and email in one console
Cautions
- Users report console navigation is unclear for specific settings
- Customers note support response times stretch during complex incidents
Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security
Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security bundles endpoint, web, and email protection into a single cloud-managed platform for small businesses. With 30 years of experience, Trend Micro are recognized as a leader in cybersecurity, and Worry-Free was built specifically to keep small businesses safe. We think this suits small teams that want coverage across multiple threat vectors managed from one console.
Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security Key Features
Machine learning and behavioral analysis handle both binary and scripted threats, with anti-phishing and exploit detection layered in. Trend Micro uses a combination of threat protection techniques including exploit prevention and application control to close security gaps. The online console supports remote management with automatic updates propagating server-side. Device grouping assigns targeted scan intensity by risk level.
What Customers Say
Customers say the platform catches threats consistently and the dashboard is easy to use. IT managers highlight proactive monitoring features and the ability to group devices by scanning intensity. Something to be aware of is that CPU and memory spikes during scans and updates are a common theme, and false positives occasionally block legitimate software.
Our Take
We think Worry-Free fits small businesses that want endpoint, web, and email security managed from one place without dedicated security staff. The all-in-one approach removes procurement complexity. If you need deep EDR capabilities, evaluate the broader Trend Micro suite.
Strengths
- Bundles endpoint, web, and email protection in one platform
- Server-side updates propagate automatically without manual intervention
- Device grouping assigns targeted scan intensity by risk level
- Upgrade path into Trend Micro's broader security suite
Cautions
- Users report CPU and memory spikes during scans and updates
- False positives occasionally block legitimate software
WithSecure Elements Endpoint Protection
WithSecure Elements Endpoint Protection, formerly under the F-Secure brand, is cloud-based endpoint security for SMBs running Windows, macOS, and Linux. F-Secure were known for their lightweight, low-impact antivirus solutions, and WithSecure continues that tradition. We think the automated patch management is the standout feature, which closes OS vulnerabilities alongside endpoint detection.
WithSecure Elements Endpoint Protection Key Features
AI detection targets script-based exploits specifically, with crowd-sourced threat intelligence strengthening zero-day prevention. According to industry research, script-based exploits account for around 40% of all cyberattacks, making this focus particularly relevant. Anti-phishing and browsing protection come standard. Automated patch management closes OS vulnerabilities without manual intervention. Because the platform is cloud-based, organizations can deploy and run most services as soon as they’ve purchased a subscription.
What Customers Say
Customers say the platform is easy to set up and requires minimal ongoing administration. Security managers in banking and energy highlight the detection quality and the depth of incident reporting from the Elements console. Something to be aware of is that network visibility gaps require supplementary tools, and standalone endpoint feedback outside the broader Elements context is limited.
Our Take
We think WithSecure fits well if your organization runs a mixed device fleet and wants automated patching built into endpoint protection. The modular upgrade path to EDR and vulnerability management keeps future options open. If network visibility is critical, plan for supplementary tools.
Strengths
- Automated patch management closes OS vulnerabilities without admin effort
- AI detection targets script-based exploits with crowd-sourced intelligence
- Modular upgrade path to EDR, vulnerability management, and M365 protection
- Scales from 20 to over 1,000 devices from a single console
Cautions
- Reviews note network visibility gaps require supplementary tools
- Limited standalone endpoint feedback outside the broader Elements context
Other Endpoint Security Services
Multi-layered protection with firewall, VPN, and email security.
Antivirus with real-time protection and ransomware defense for small teams.
Cloud-managed antivirus with web filtering and device control.
How We Compared The Top Antivirus Software For Small Businesses
We evaluated nine antivirus platforms through hands-on assessment of detection capabilities, system performance impact, deployment workflows, management experience, and cross-platform support. Each platform was assessed across malware detection accuracy, ransomware protection, scanning overhead, console usability, and scalability.
Before testing, we mapped the full vendor market for SMB antivirus, identifying active vendors from established names to emerging challengers. We reviewed independent test results and analyzed verified customer reviews for real-world user sentiment.
Beyond hands-on evaluation, we spoke with product teams to understand detection approaches, architecture decisions, and roadmap priorities. We conducted in-depth market research and reviewed customer feedback and operational documentation to understand real-world performance versus marketing claims.
Expert Insights’ editorial and commercial teams operate independently. No vendor can pay to influence the testing, review, or ranking of their products. Our recommendations are based on hands-on evaluation, verified customer feedback, and independent research.
What To Look For In Antivirus Software For Small Businesses
Antivirus platforms for SMBs vary significantly in detection approach, system impact, and management complexity. These are the areas we think matter most when comparing solutions.
**Detection approach** is the biggest differentiator. AI and behavioral analysis platforms like Sophos Intercept X and Bitdefender GravityZone catch zero-day threats and fileless attacks that signature-only tools miss. ESET combines machine learning with behavioral monitoring while keeping the agent lightweight. If ransomware is your primary concern, prioritize platforms with rollback capabilities like Bitdefender and Sophos.
**System performance impact** matters more for SMBs than enterprises. Employees on older hardware will notice a heavy agent. ESET and WithSecure are consistently praised for minimal performance drag. Trend Micro and Bitdefender can spike CPU during scans. Test on your actual hardware before committing.
**Cross-platform support** determines whether one console manages your entire fleet. ESET covers Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile from a single console. Sophos Intercept X spans all major platforms. Microsoft Defender is strongest on Windows but lags on macOS and Linux. If your team runs mixed devices, evaluate cross-platform parity carefully.
**Management complexity** should match your IT resources. Norton Small Business and Trend Micro Worry-Free are built for small teams without dedicated security staff. Heimdal and Datto offer more granular controls but assume more technical oversight. If you have no dedicated IT team, prioritize platforms that run well with minimal ongoing attention.
Finally, assess **scalability and ecosystem fit**. Norton caps at 20 devices. Datto Antivirus makes the most sense within the broader Datto MSP ecosystem. Microsoft Defender adds the most value for M365 and Intune customers. WithSecure offers a modular upgrade path to EDR and vulnerability management. Match the platform to where your organization is heading, not just where it is today.
The Bottom Line
Antivirus protection remains essential for small businesses, and the right platform depends on your device fleet, IT resources, and growth plans. We’d recommend narrowing to two or three platforms based on the reviews above, then running a trial on your actual endpoints before committing organization-wide.
FAQs
Everything You Need To Know About Antivirus For Small Business (FAQs)
The importance of protecting endpoints has perhaps never been as critical as it is now. In today’s world, an increasing number of employees are working from home either temporarily or permanently, using their own devices rather than office computers. If a user syncs their work emails with their personal cell phone, that device then becomes another endpoint though which a bad actor could gain access to the network. This means that we need to implement endpoint protection that‘s flexible, as well as powerful, in order to keep our devices and users safe.
Endpoint protection is the process of securing endpoints, or end-user devices, that are remotely connected to an organization’s network. Endpoints serve as access points to the network, and these access points can be exploited by bad actors to steal data. Keeping endpoints protected secures all of these entry points from malicious attacks.
Antivirus software is a type of endpoint protection that secures individual endpoints by detecting and blocking malicious files. Today, most antivirus software is hosted largely or even entirely in the cloud. This means that vendors can utilize advanced machine learning technology to automate analytics, which greatly improves detection rates. It also means that solutions can crowdsource intelligence from across a network of protected devices, providing protection against unknown and zero-day exploits. If a threat is detected on one system, all others are made aware of it. However, as antivirus software has become more sophisticated, so have malware attacks.
Antivirus software scans the files, applications, and programs on each device that it’s installed on, and compares the code of each of these assets with a database of known malicious code. If a piece of code on the device matches that of a known virus, the antivirus solution quarantines or permanently removes it.
Quarantining files moves them to a specific location where they can’t harm your user’s device or spread to the rest of your network, but it means that the antivirus provider can analyze the threat and update their software so that it can block similar threats in the future. This intelligence is then crowdsourced across the entire fleet of devices that the antivirus provider is protecting—not just those in your organization, but in others, too. This means that if a threat is detected on one device, all others protected by that provider are alerted to it. This crowdsourced intelligence helps to protect against unknown and zero-day threats, as well as the known threats stored in the provider’s database.
The best antivirus software for small business owners also uses machine learning to continuously analyze your environment and any threats that are identified, so that it can keep improving its detection rate. Many of the top antivirus programs will also include a built-in password manager and cloud backup, and may offer both free and paid versions, with the option of a free trial.
Because antivirus software protects the individual devices connected to a network, it’s best suited to smaller organizations that don’t have a large or complex device fleet to protect. This is because, the more devices you have, the more time-consuming the task of deploying the software and updating it will be. For that reason, we recommend that larger organizations instead consider implementing an endpoint protection platform (EPP) or endpoint detection and response (EDR) solution as an alternative.
Antivirus software is one of many pieces of online management platform solutions designed to help businesses build and manage their presence online. Strong antivirus software is absolutely crucial when it comes to protecting the devices connected to your network as it provides the right protection against viruses, malware and often also phishing attacks, which all have the potential to destroy a device’s system by infecting processes crucial to the computer’s performance. This protection also prevents identity theft via spyware, which secretly monitors what you do on your computer via real-time scanning and sends sensitive information to the hacker. However, anti-virus solutions often do much more than protect your system from file-based malware.
Any strong antivirus software will include a firewall feature that filters information coming into your system and digital assets via the internet. This means that your endpoint is protected against online threats, spam sited and pop-up ads. Integrated browser controls mean that administrators can block potentially dangerous websites, which helps with customer data protection, business devices, personal devices, the business network etc. It can also create a more efficient workplace, and is particularly useful in the education industry, where users are more vulnerable to both exploits and distractions.
The best business antivirus software doesn’t just protect office desktops—sophisticated solutions will be able to provide advanced threat detection to laptops and mobile devices, too. This is particularly beneficial for companies whose employees work remotely and require strong antivirus protection on the go. Whether an employee does all of their work on their personal laptop, or just syncs their work emails to their personal mobile phone, these devices become connected to your network and, if compromised, provide an “in” for hackers, causing data breaches and business network compromise. Antivirus software helps to prevent this, as well as any resulting finacial lossess or reputation damage. This flexible compatibility usually comes with additional features such as a remote management console, which means that admins can manage all of their employees’ devices, regardless of geographic location or device type, to make sure that they’re installing the latest security updates.
Finally, lightweight antivirus software can help make your system run faster. Malware and viruses often cause your machine to become slow and sluggish as important performance processes are corrupted. In blocking these infections, antivirus software leaves your system clean and able to run efficiently. However, some antivirus software may slow the device when running scans. If this happens, users can go into the software’s settings and configure it to scan at a time when the device isn’t in use. This feature isn’t always available with free antivirus, so it makes it worth your while to invest in a business-grade solution.
For business use, organizations should weigh up their individual needs before initial purchase. Antivirus software can be a powerful line of defense for an SMB, but it’s important that you choose a solution that’s going to offer strong protection, balanced with usability. To help you do that, here’s our list of the key features you should consider when choosing a business antivirus software:
- Automatic and manual scanning. The best antivirus software for SMBs allows you to schedule scans to be completed automatically at a time when they’ll cause the least disruption to your users. However, you should also be able to instigate scans manually as needed.
- Web filtering. Your chosen antivirus solution should include a web filter that allows you to restrict user access to harmful websites through allow and deny lists and will help to block spam and pop-up ads.
- URL scanning and attachment sandboxing. Phishing is one of the most prevalent threats that organizations today are facing. To help combat it, your antivirus software should scan emails for malicious URLs and open an attachments in a secure sandbox environment, where they can’t affect your user’s device.
- Automatic updates. Your solution should automatically update itself and deploy any necessary third-party patches. Not all employees will keep their software up to date (we’ve all hit “Restart Later” once or twice), so your antivirus solution should be able to do it for them.
- Straightforward deployment. Business antivirus software must be installed on every individual endpoint, so you need to make sure that this process is quick and easy to carry out—especially if you have lots of devices to protect.
- Efficient resource consumption. Antivirus software is supposed to improve performance by removing viruses and malware that can cause machines to become sluggish; however, some solutions use a lot of system resources and can cause devices to slow down when they run scans. If you can’t find a solution that’s lightweight, you need to make sure that you can schedule scans for a time when your users aren’t using their devices.
Antivirus software protects against ransomware in several ways:
- Real-time scanning: Continuously monitors files and processes for suspicious activity that may indicate a ransomware attack.
- Behavioral analysis: Detects ransomware by analyzing how programs behave, even if the ransomware is not yet known.
- Signature detection: Identifies known ransomware strains by comparing files against a database of known malware signatures.
- Sandboxing: Executes suspicious files in an isolated environment to observe their behavior without risking the system.
- Exploit prevention: Blocks the techniques that ransomware uses to exploit vulnerabilities in software.
- Data backup and recovery: Some antivirus solutions include backup and recovery features to help restore files encrypted by ransomware.
Antivirus software should be updated regularly, and here’s why:
- Daily signature updates: Antivirus software relies on a database of known malware signatures to identify threats. This database needs to be updated daily to protect against the latest malware.
- Software updates: The antivirus software itself should also be updated regularly to ensure it has the latest features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
- Automatic updates: Most antivirus software offers automatic updates, which is the best way to ensure that the software is always up to date.
Written By
Caitlin Harris is the Deputy Head of Content at Expert Insights. As an experienced content writer and editor, Caitlin helps cybersecurity leaders to cut through the noise in the cybersecurity space with expert analysis and insightful recommendations.
Prior to Expert Insights, Caitlin worked at QA Ltd, where she produced award-winning technical training materials, and she has also produced journalistic content over the course of her career.
Caitlin has 8 years of experience in the cybersecurity and technology space, helping technical teams, CISOs, and security professionals find clarity on complex, mission critical topics like security awareness training, backup and recovery, and endpoint protection.
Caitlin also hosts the Expert Insights Podcast and co-writes the weekly newsletter, Decrypted.
Technical Review
Craig MacAlpine is CEO and Founder of Expert Insights. Before founding Expert Insights in August 2018, Craig spent 10 years as CEO of EPA Cloud, an email security provider that rebranded as VIPRE Email Security following its acquisition by Ziff Davis, formerly J2Global (NASDAQ: ZD) in 2013.
Craig is a passionate security innovator with over 20 years of experience helping organizations to stay secure with cutting-edge information security and cybersecurity solutions.
Using his extensive experience in the email security industry, he founded Expert Insights with the singular goal of helping IT professionals and CISOs to cut through the noise and find the right cybersecurity solutions they need to protect their organizations.