The Best Antivirus Solutions for Business in 2020

Big companies know how much a business can suffer from a data leak or any other kind of cyber attacks. That’s why they put a lot of effort and budget in securing their corporate information on every level. But smaller businesses tend to think that they are invisible to hackers and thus, safe.

The truth is, small companies are as vulnerable to threats as big ones. Even if hackers less often target them for their profit, there are other reasons why malefactors would want to aim at a specific firm.

For example, they can be hired by competitors of the company. But the more likely scenario is that employees would just catch a virus or malware on their device that will harm the corporate data.

In 2018, more than half of the businesses that suffered from cyber attacks were small companies. Therefore, regardless of the size every organization should choose the best antivirus and install it on every device that is used in the office.

Good software will protect computers not just from viruses and malware but from network-based attacks and other kinds of threats.

It will keep the corporate data and all the passwords safe eliminating the possibility of a data leak. Moreover, antivirus providers usually offer a lot of additional useful tools that will improve the performance of computers.

Best Business Antivirus Software

To pick the best antivirus for business, you should understand what every software has to offer. To help you out, we have created short overviews of all popular providers and gave our unbiased opinion on each of them. So you can go through the descriptions quickly and pick the solution that fits your needs.

1. Norton Small Business: Affordable Solution for Basic Protection

We like:

• Easy cloud management
• Reliable protection
• 24/7 support

We don’t like:

• No extras
• Servers protection is not available

Norton is another prominent player in the antivirus market. As the name suggests, its Small Business antivirus was designed to meet the needs of small companies. With Norton Small Business, you get solid protection against all types of malware at a competitive price.

Independent labs did not test this exact product, but Symantec Endpoint Protection, which is another Norton antivirus for larger businesses, traditionally scores high in the lab test. As the Small Business uses the same antivirus engine, you can rest assured all your office devices will be well protected.

At the same time, unlike more expensive business antiviruses, Norton Small Business offers no extra features, which is the reason for its affordability.

Setup and management is not a problem with Norton. The product is managed from the cloud, which makes it easy to add and remove devices from the network. Every new employee will get an e-mail with step-by-step installation instructions.

Norton Small Business is compatible with Windows, Mac, and mobile devices. You can cover up to 20 nodes under one subscription. The price of such a package is $249.99. For comparison, Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cloud package for 20 devices will cost you $510.0 and Avast Business antivirus comes at $444.80.

Norton Small Business is also available as a 5-device package ($99.99) and 10-device package ($149.99).

2. AVG Business Antivirus: Best for File Server Protection

We like:

• Decent online protection for small business
• User-friendly interface
• Easy management

We don’t like:

• Lacks some advanced features
• May freeze on older devices

Since Avast and AVG became one company in 2016, they run on one and the same detection engine for enhanced protection. Therefore, detection rates Avast demonstrated in lab tests are also valid for AVG.

At the same time, the two products offer different antivirus packages for a business that include different features. Besides, AVG is slightly more affordable than Avast, especially with the 30% discount we offer.

The cheapest AVG File Server Business Edition will protect PCs and file servers from all types of malware including ransomware. The package also includes a Cybercapture feature, a Smart Scanner, and a File Shredder (with Avast you’ll have to go Pro to get this feature). A Smart Scanner feature allows to schedule scans at a convenient time (when you are not at work).

AVG Antivirus Business Edition will also protect you from online threats. It comes with a firewall, a link scanner, an online shield, identity protection, and email protection features.

The top tier, AVG Internet Security Business Edition adds email server security along with anti-phishing and anti-spam protection to the deal.

All AVG packages are equipped with the remote management console, which is very convenient. Overall, the product is very easy to use, and even less tech-savvy employees wouldn’t struggle with it. Still, if you face any problems, you can easily get in touch with AVG 24/7 customer support.

With a 30% discount, the pricing is as follows:

• AVG File Server Business Edition — $20.41/1 device/year
• AVG AntiVirus Business Edition — $46.99/1 device/year
• AVG Internet Security Business Edition — $61.41/1 device/year

3. Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business: Best for Precise Control

We like:

• Decent protection
• Well-deserved reputation
• Single management console

We don’t like:

• Mobile software needs to be improved
• Might slow down the performance of the system

Kaspersky Antivirus is one of the veterans among antiviruses. This antivirus boasts stellar lab test results. In the latest AV-Comparative Real-World Protection Test (March-April 2019) it blocked 100% of threats with zero false positives earning the first place on the rating list.

Kaspersky can offer a decent shield from cyber attacks. It protects computers from ransomware and spyware well. The antivirus is equipped with a cloud-assistance intelligence which means the software has access to a pretty much endless database. Therefore, in theory, it can offer better security. Nonetheless, all advanced antivirus providers are cloud-based. So there is nothing new or unusual here.

The great advantage of Kaspersky is that all computers with the installed antivirus can be controlled from one console. It is very convenient, as you can manage the level of access to settings and controls others have. And even though the software is packed with different features, it is easy to use with its simple interface. So even not that tech-savvy employees will be able to perform at least basic actions.

The Select version of Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business offers only protection for computers, servers, and mobile devices. If you want more, you should consider Advanced package that includes encryption, vulnerability and patch management. Additionally, it has an application control for servers and operating system and third-party software installation tool.

Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business is compatible with all operating systems for computers, servers, and mobile devices. However, mobile software requires some significant improvements. It is not reliable enough and doesn’t allow to control installed apps as precisely as desired.

With both Kaspersky packages, you can protect up to 50 nodes. Naturally, the price will go higher as increase the number of devices in the package. Now, the 25% off offer is available for all the new customers.

• Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business Select — $335/10 devices/1 year
• Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business Advanced — $575/10 devices/1 year

4. Avast Business Antivirus: Best for Customization

We like:

• Easy to configure
• Intelligent firewall
• Filters the web perfectly

We don’t like:

• Some issues with the spam filter
• Lab test results are not perfect

Avast Antivirus has scored 99.5% during the latest tests. Sure, it’s not a bad result but not the best one. And even though this provider didn’t score the perfect 100%, it still offers great protection. To be fair, there is no need to pay too much attention to lab tests — they are held in a specific environment and usually give the antivirus more challenge than it gets in real life. We know from experience that Avast can block most of the existing cyber threats and can detect unknown ones based on their behavior.

Avast Business Antivirus comes in three packages: Basic, Pro, and Pro Plus. The Basic option will provide you with all the essential tools a business needs to be protected from threats. In addition to the plain antivirus, Avast offers a firewall, a web shield that blocks malicious websites, an email shield, an anti-spam and behavior shield that detects deep-rooted malware.

Also, in the Basic package you get a smart scan, a sandbox for testing suspicious files, Wi-Fi inspector that detects vulnerabilities in the network, and a Real Site feature that protects you from phishing. Last but not least — Rescue Disk, the feature that helps to save a compromised computer.

If you get the Pro package, you will additionally have a software defender that will update programs automatically and a data shredder. If you want even more — Pro Plus version is for you. Here on top of listed features, you will get trash cleaning tools, a webcam shield, a safe vault for passwords. But most importantly, you will get a VPN that will give you an additional layer of protection.

Avast Business Antivirus is compatible with all platforms. Therefore, you will not experience any struggle if you have devices based on different operating platforms in your office. The provider offers a 30-day money back guarantee. Therefore, you can feel safe — if you understand this antivirus is not for you, you can just get your money back. Besides, there is a 3-day free trial.

All the packages are now available with a 20% discount:

• Avast Business Antivirus– $39.99/1 device/year
• Avast Business Antivirus Pro– $49.99/1 device/year
• Avast Business Antivirus Pro Plus– $59.99/1 device/year

5. ESET Endpoint Protection: Best for Simple Protection

We like:

• Light software
• Simple interface
• It is possible to schedule scans

We don’t like:

• No 24/7 easy to reach support
• You’ll have to contact sales to get the price

ESET is a well-known antivirus provider that shows rather good results during tests. With 99.2% protection rate and a few false positives, it lags behind Kaspersky and Avast, but it still remains one of the reliable business antiviruses.

ESET offers endpoint security with ransomware protection. With this antivirus installed on all devices, the whole network can be managed from a single panel which is convenient. The panel can be accessed via the browser so it won’t overload the computer of the administrator. The antivirus itself updates automatically and is light. So you won’t need to upgrade office PCs.

The antivirus includes anti-malware, web control, firewall, and anti-spam. It successfully blocks ransomware by monitoring programs and detecting suspicious activity. ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced package will provide you with protection against targeted attacks, ransomware, and fileless attacks. You can manage the installed software remotely. It also offers protection for mobile devices.

Those who need something more can try ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced Cloud. This package can be managed from the cloud which will be convenient for medium-sized and large companies. It will additionally equip you with the protection for your emails.

We should say that the set of tools is pretty basic in all packages. So if you want more advanced security, you should choose another provider.

To get ESET Endpoint protection, you should pay $190 for 5 devices per year. Trial version is also availiable.

6. Bitdefender GravityZone Security: Best for Impeccable Protection

We like:

• Simple, well-organized interface
• Packed with features
• Perfect protection

We don’t like:

• Initial setup might seem complicated
• The patch management module is sold separately

Bitdefender Antivirus constantly scores the perfect 100% during lab tests. This machine learning business antivirus is the most reliable so far. It won’t miss any threat keeping your devices and corporate data safe. And even though the software is packed with a wide range of features, it remains simple and easy to use. Therefore, you won’t struggle with it.

However, the initial setup might be challenging for some people. So you might need some help here. Gladly, the support team is always there for users. Even if you face some difficulties, you can get extensive help from the provider.

With Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security you will get your computers and servers protected. This package offers basic protection with anti-exploit and process inspector. Also, it has clean up tools. So this option is great for small businesses.

If you need something more, try Advanced Business Security. It offers Endpoint and Datacenter Security, protection for mobile devices and data exchange. Additionally, this package allows smart centralized scanning that will offload scanning to the central dedicated appliance.

Companies that need more aggressive protection should opt for Elite Suite. It offers many additional security features like application control, sandbox, and HyperDetect. Also, Bitdefender makes suspicious activities visible to draw the attention of the user to them. This package can protect businesses from sophisticated threats and advanced cyber attacks.

Ultra Security package will equip your devices with the advanced Endpoint Security XDR and EDR platform. It’s next-gen security that will prevent threats of any kind and deal with them on its own so you won’t have to step in and make decisions — the software will do everything for you.

All products are available for trial so that you can test the option and see if it fits your needs in reality.

Pricing:

• Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security — from $77.99 to $2043.99/year (depending on the number of devices 3–100)
• Bitdefender GravityZone Advanced Business Security — from $202.99 to $31023.99/year
• Elite Suite — custom
• Ultra Security — custom

7. McAfee Endpoint Security: Best for Weak Computers

We like:

• Good protection against viruses and trojans
• Real-time scanning
• Gives great visibility of all scanned areas and issues

We don’t like:

• Removes the infected file before notifying the user
• Not the best anti-malware

McAfee Antivirus can foresee possible threats and protects users from viruses. However, users report that this antivirus is not that effective against malware — it misses some malicious files. But it offers decent real-time protection by alarming the user if they visit a potentially threatful website or open an infected email. So McAfee will do great if you have additional anti-malware installed.

McAfee Endpoint Security provides companies with basic antivirus, exploit prevention and firewall. Also, the software is equipped with machine learning so it can identify malicious files by their behavior and appearance. And the endpoint detection and response technology allow reacting to an incident in one simple click.

The software is compatible with all operating systems and can be controlled in a single management console. Also, McAfee provides users with detailed reports on incidents that allow understanding of why the threat occurred and how to prevent further incidents.

McAfee Endpoint Security is available for a free trial. However, you will have to contact the provider to find out the pricing for your business. Still, the offer is $94.99 per year for 1 device.

McAfee MVISION Endpoint package is created for Windows 10 and offers an automated workflow control. It basically is a powerful enhancement for the firewall, and antivirus Windows 10 already has. This software is light, easy to use and quite reliable. Although, it won’t give you perfect all-around protection. To find out the pricing, you have to contact the provider.

How to Choose the Best Antivirus for Business?

Choosing the antivirus, you have to rate options by certain criteria:

Protection. Security is the reason why you get an antivirus. Therefore, ensure that the chosen provider actually offers solid protection, not just claims to offer one on its website. It has to spot all malware and viruses, follow you while you’re browsing online, so you don’t get scammed by phishing, warn you when you open threat emails. If your budget is limited, forget extra features and focus on the level of security.

Performance. A good software won’t slow down your device. To understand if the antivirus you want to get slows down the PC or not, you can go through lab tests or install a trial version. If computers in your office are not that updated, look for cloud-based options. You don’t want your employees to lose their productivity due to slow PCs.

Simplicity. The software must be as easy to use as possible. Users don’t have to learn to work with it. Everything should be simple. Therefore, you should choose providers that offer a plain and structured interface so even the least tech-savvy employees can use it without any struggle. Also, look for decent support — users should be able to reach the support team 24/7 and get help as quickly as possible.

Prices. The antivirus shouldn’t become an issue for your budget. So you should check the minimum number of devices the license covers — if you don’t have as many, it’s better to find another provider. Also, many of them offer discounts all the time. Thus, you have a chance to buy the software much cheaper.

Compatibility. The good antivirus must work on any operating system — both desktop and mobile. Most providers make their software compatible with all platforms. But you should double check if this particular provider supports your particular operating system. Also, if you need a multi-platform antivirus, check if it has decent security for every platform.

Management. You should have precise control over your antivirus, especially if it is installed on multiple computers and mobile devices. Therefore, it’s better to choose the provider that offers a central management console that shows statuses of all gadgets and allows controlling them remotely.

Additional features. If your budget is not that tight, you can opt for more advanced programs with a wide range of tools. Some antiviruses have a VPN service in addition to core protection. Some providers include tools that improve the performance of the computer by cleaning the trash and controlling installed apps.

Bottom Line

Every business, no matter whether it is large or small, should take care of its security. Threats are waiting for us everywhere, both online and offline. You can catch a virus downloading the file or using someone’s flash drive. You can get scammed by phishing website. You can receive malware in the email.

Therefore, it is crucial to get the strongest antivirus possible that will reliably protect all devices in your office. Because even if you teach your employees how to use the internet safely, there is a huge chance they will get their work PC infected if it is not secure. So don’t trick yourself into thinking that you can avoid threats without any protection

Choosing an antivirus is not that difficult. The best antivirus and malware protection are the two main aspects that you need to pay attention to. You just need to understand what you are looking for. With our tips and quick reviews, you can get a grasp of your requirements and expectations. So it will be easy for you to pick the right solution.