November 22

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Top 7 Antivirus Software For Small Business

By Hanson Cheng

November 22, 2022


  • minute read

Being protected from virus infections is essential for any company, but especially for small businesses. Small businesses often have fewer resources to dedicate to IT, making them more vulnerable to attacks. That's why it's essential to have a good antivirus solution in place.

While various antivirus solutions are on the market, it's important to note that not all are created equal; some are better suited for small businesses than others. To help you choose the best antivirus for your small business, I've compiled a list of the best solutions to consider.

Best Small Business Antivirus Review

Here are the top antivirus software for small businesses to consider.

Webroot Business Endpoint Protection

Best Overall Antivirus

Webroot Business Endpoint Protection

Webroot Business Endpoint Protection uses Artificial Intelligence and machine learning to stop threats in real time—before they can even reach your network. By blocking threats at the endpoint, you can avoid costly network disruptions and data breaches. 

Independent testing organizations regularly rank Webroot Business Endpoint Protection as one of the best antivirus software for small businesses.

Its machine-learning technology analyzes files and recognizes patterns to provide zero-day protection against unknown threats. In addition, Webroot protects endpoints without draining system resources. The software is also easily scalable, so you can add devices without adding IT staff.

Using artificial intelligence and machine learning to stop threats in real-time, Webroot protects your business from costly network disruptions and data breaches.

Key Features:

  • Contextual threat intelligence provides the company with information about the latest cyber threats.
  • Industry-leading efficacy means the software is constantly updated to protect against the latest threats.
  • The cloud-based console makes managing protection for all devices from one central location easy.
  • RMM, PSA & BI integrations allow businesses to integrate the software into their existing systems easily.
  • Lower TCO & flexible billing make it easy to budget for protection.

Pricing:

Webroot Business Endpoint Protection Pricing

Webroot Business Endpoint 1-year protection costs $150.00

Symantec End-user Endpoint Security

Best For Blocking Malicious Traffic

Symantec End-user Endpoint Security

Symantec End-user Endpoint Security offers protection against inbound and outbound threats targeting end users, information, and critical infrastructure. It identifies and blocks malicious traffic before it can reach your network or devices. And if a threat does get through, Symantec has you covered there, too, with its advanced malware scanning and remediation capabilities.

This comprehensive approach to security ensures that your business is protected from all angles. And because Symantec is constantly updating its security solutions with the latest threat intelligence, you can be confident that your business is always protected against the latest threats.

Symantec End-user Endpoint Security offers secure access control to safeguard your most confidential data. With Symantec, you can control who has access to what data and when they can access it. This helps keep your employees productive while protecting your most sensitive data from unauthorized access.

Key Features:

  • Prevent breaches with robust protection against all types of attacks.
  • Remediate and respond quickly and effectively to advanced threats.
  • Authentication ensures that only authorized individuals can access data.
  • SaaS and Corporate Assets Protection protect against threats targeting cloud-based applications and resources.
  • Secure web usage provides granular control over web activity and web content.

Pricing:

Symantec End-user Endpoint Security Pricing

You can buy Symantec End-user Endpoint Security from a partner or contact their sales team for more information.

ESET PROTECT

Best For Its Adaptive Scanning

ESET PROTECT

ESET PROTECT Advanced is a comprehensive security solution that offers best-in-class endpoint protection backed by robust data security. With adaptive scanning, machine learning, cloud sandboxing, and in-depth behavioral analysis, ESET PROTECT Advanced provides complete multilayered protection for computers, smartphones, and virtual machines.

ESET PROTECT Advanced offers multiple layers of protection against ransomware. Various layers of security work together to provide the best possible defense against these types of attacks - both known and unknown.

And because ESET PROTECT Advanced is constantly updated with the latest threat intelligence, you can be confident that your business is always protected against the latest threats.

Key Features:

  • Secure computers, mobiles, file servers, and virtual machines.
  • This solution is easy to set up and deploy within minutes.
  • Enjoy easy-to-use management with an intuitive web console or via REST API.
  • Advanced threat defense uses machine learning & contextual analysis to detect never-before-seen ransomware.

Pricing:

Norton Antivirus

Best For Secure Web Browsing

Norton Antivirus

When it comes to antivirus software, you want something effective against the latest threats. You also want something easy to use and won't slow down your devices. And, of course, you want something affordable. Norton ticks all of those boxes and more. They are constantly innovating and updating their software to ensure they are always one step ahead of the hackers. 

With easy-to-use features, affordable plans, and unmatched experience, Norton is one of the top antivirus providers to consider.

Norton provides multiple plans to suite your needs for online privacy and protection against ID theft. Device security helps block hackers, and Norton's Secure VPN keeps your connection private on public Wi-Fi.

You can also take advantage of their decades of experience and proven track record of keeping people safer daily.

Key Features:

  • Real-time threat protection ensures your devices are protected against the latest online threats.
  • A smart firewall helps to keep hackers out of your network.
  • Their password Manager enables you to create and manage strong passwords for your online accounts.
  • 2GB cloud backup allows for storing and protecting important files and documents.
  • Device security helps to protect your devices from malware and other online threats.
  • Nortonâ„¢ Secure VPN encrypts your Internet connection so that your online activity is private and secure.

Pricing:

Malwarebytes For Business

Best For Product Confidence

Malwarebytes For Business

Malwarebytes for Business not only does it offer comprehensive next-gen protection against ransomware and other malicious threats, but it also comes with a money-back guarantee if your organization does suffer a ransomware attack. 

Malwarebytes for Business' Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is so confident in its product that it will refund your annual subscription fee if you suffer a ransomware attack. EDR uses cutting-edge machine learning and artificial intelligence to detect and block even the most sophisticated attacks. And if an attack does slip through, EDR provides actionable insights that can help you minimize the damage and get your business back up and running as quickly as possible. 

In addition to its industry-leading EDR, Malwarebytes for Business also offers DNS filtering to keep threats from nefarious websites, web-based apps, or online content from wreaking havoc in your organization. DNS filtering works by blocking access to known malicious domains and websites, which helps to prevent employees from accidentally downloading malware or revealing sensitive information to cybercriminals.

Key Features:

  • Endpoint detection and response uses cutting-edge machine learning and artificial intelligence to detect and block even the most sophisticated attacks.
  • Endpoint protection for servers helps protect your servers from malware and other online threats.
  • Endpoint detection and response provide actionable insights if an attack does slip through.
  • Incident Response helps you minimize the damage and get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.

Pricing:

Sophos Intercept X

Best For Deep Learning Capabilities

Sophos Intercept X

Deep learning makes Sophos Intercept X more innovative, scalable, and effective against never-seen-before threats. Not only does Sophos Intercept X use deep learning to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals, but it also uses it to make the product more intelligent and scalable. This means that their endpoint protection solution can be used by businesses of all sizes, from small businesses to enterprises. 

As such, Sophos Intercept X helps protect users from never-before-seen cyber threats. Their team of experts is constantly working behind the scenes to improve the platform and keep your business safe. Their endpoint detection and response also ensure that any suspicious activity on your network is immediately detected and responded to.

Key Features:

  • Extended Detection and Response (XDR) takes things a step further by providing comprehensive visibility and analysis of all activity on your network—not just endpoint-related activity. This means you can quickly identify, investigate, and respond to threats before they cause damage.
  • Threat Analysis Center Dashboard provides a central location to view all the latest information on threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Anti-ransomware protects your business from ransomware attacks, one of the most popular attacks used by cybercriminals today.
  • Deep learning technology is at the heart of Sophos Intercept X and enables the product to evolve and improve constantly. This means you can stay one step ahead of the latest threats and protect your business from never-before-seen attacks.
  • Exploit prevention blocks known and unknown exploits so that they can't be used to exploit vulnerabilities in your system.

Pricing:

Sophos Intercept X Pricing

Sophos Intercept X provides a free, no-commitment quote customized to your needs.

Avast Endpoint Protection

Best For Ease Of Use

Avast Endpoint Protection

Avast is designed with the user in mind. It's easy to install and set up and requires no technical expertise. The interface is clean and user-friendly, so you can quickly find what you're looking for and return to work.

Avast offers comprehensive protection against all cyber threats, including viruses, phishing scams, ransomware attacks, and more. It also stops threats from locking down devices and files, so you can rest assured that your business is protected from all angles.

Avast has won numerous awards for its industry-leading antivirus protection, including the AV-TEST Award for Best Protection and the PCMag Editors Choice Award. This is a testament to Avast's commitment to providing its users with the highest level of security.

Key Features:

  • USB Protection helps ensure that any device plugged into your computer is safe from viruses and other malware.
  • Patch management automatically installs the latest security updates for your operating system and applications, so you can be sure that you're always up-to-date on the latest protection.
  • Unlimited VPN allows you to encrypt your internet connection and browse the web anonymously, so you can stay safe when using public Wi-Fi or accessing sensitive information.
  • Identity protection helps prevent identity theft by safeguarding your personal information, such as your social security number, date of birth, and more.
  • Ransomware protection protects your business from ransomware attacks, one of the most popular attacks used by cybercriminals today.

Pricing:

How To Use Antivirus Software For Small Business

While having the right antivirus software is essential, it's just one part of protecting your business from cyber threats. Knowing how to use the software is just as critical. Here are the main tips to consider.

Install The Software On Each Of Your Devices

Once you've chosen the right software, make sure to install it on all of your devices. This includes PCs, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. There are no devices that shouldn't have antivirus protection.

Also, consider that users in your organization might bring in their own devices (BYOD). It's essential to have a policy in place for how these devices will be managed and monitored.

Set Up Regular Scans

Most antivirus software will offer real-time protection, meaning it will automatically scan new files as they're downloaded or accessed. But you should also set up regular, full system scans. This is especially important if you suspect there might already be malware on your system.

Scheduling regular scans ensure that nothing gets missed and that potential threats are dealt with quickly. After a scan, review the results and take any necessary action, such as removing a virus or quarantining a file.

Keep Your Software Up To Date

New viruses and other malware are constantly created, so it's essential to have the latest protection. Antivirus software companies are continually releasing updates to their products to keep up with the latest threats. So make sure you're regularly checking for updates and installing them as soon as they're available.

Speaking of keeping software up to date, it's also vital that your business intelligence tools always use the latest version. This is the only way to ensure you get accurate data and insights.

Educate Your Employees About Cybersecurity Risks

Your employees are one of your most significant assets but can also be a weak spot regarding cybersecurity. After all, it only takes one click on a malicious email to infect your entire network.

That's why it's essential to educate your employees about the risks of cyber threats and how to protect against them. Teach them how to spot suspicious emails, how to create strong passwords, and what to do if they think their device has been compromised. The more they know, the better equipped they'll be to defend against attacks.

The risks involved when using specific tools are higher than others. For example, some social media tools can be used to spread malware, so it's essential to be aware of the potential risks before using them.

Create A Policy For Managing Devices And Data

As mentioned, more and more businesses are allowing employees to bring their own devices to work (BYOD). This can help improve productivity, but it also creates new cybersecurity risks.

To mitigate these risks, you must have a clear policy for how BYOD devices will be managed and monitored. Will you require employees to install specific security software? What kind of access will they have to company data? How will you handle lost or stolen devices? Answering these questions ahead of time will help you keep your data safe.

Backup Your Data

No matter how well you protect your systems, there's always a chance that something could go wrong. That's why it's so important to have a backup plan in place.

Regularly backing up your data ensures that you can quickly and easily recover from any malware attack. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most important thing is to make sure your backups are stored off-site in case of a physical disaster.

Monitor Your Network For Unusual Activity

One of the best ways to defend against cyber threats is to monitor your network for unusual activity proactively. This can help you spot attacks early and take action before any damage is done.

Top Features Of Antivirus Software

Now, consider some of the features you should look for in an antivirus program.

Protection Against Malware, Viruses, And Other Online Threats

As a small business owner, you must know the dangers around you. These threats can come from many sources, including email attachments, websites, and social media links. Make sure that your antivirus program offers protection against all of these threats.

Firewall Protection

A firewall is a critical piece of security software that helps to protect your network from outside attacks. Look for an antivirus program that includes a firewall module that can be easily configured for your small business network.

Identity Theft Protection

Identity theft is a severe problem that can devastate your business. Look for an antivirus program that protects your business from identity theft, such as credit monitoring and fraud alerts.

Spam Filtering

Spam is a nuisance that can clog up your email inbox and make it difficult to find important messages. Look for an antivirus program that includes a spam filter to help reduce the amount of junk mail you receive.

Parental Controls

If you have employees who access the internet on company computers, you may want to consider implementing parental controls to limit their access to specific websites. Look for an antivirus program that offers this type of functionality.

Password Management

Passwords are critical to online security, yet they can be challenging to remember and manage. Some antivirus software comes with password managers, making it easier to keep track of your passwords and login information.

File Encryption

File encryption is a critical security feature that can help to protect your business data from unauthorized access. Look for an antivirus program that offers file encryption as an optional feature.

Backup And Recovery Features

Small businesses are especially vulnerable to data loss due to hardware malfunctions, software crashes, or malicious attacks. Ensure that your antivirus program includes backup and recovery features to recover your data in a disaster. The proper cloud backup for small business can make all the difference.

These are just some features you should look for in an antivirus program. By taking the time to find the right software, you can help to protect your business from the many threats it faces.

Other Key Business Tools

A successful business requires a variety of tools to help it run smoothly. In addition to antivirus software, there are other vital tools that every small business should consider.

Collaboration Tools For Business

If your business relies on teamwork, you need a way for your employees to communicate and collaborate easily. Collaboration tools for business include project management software, video conferencing software, and online collaboration platforms.

Business Management Tools

The right business management tools can help you to streamline your operations, improve communication, and increase productivity. Look for software that includes features such as task management, contact management, invoicing, and accounting.

Market Research Tools

Knowing your target market is essential for any small business. Various market research tools are available, including surveys, focus groups, and customer data analysis.

Marketing Tools For Small Business

Finally, small businesses can only succeed with a solid marketing strategy. Several marketing tools for small business are available, including social media management software, email marketing platforms, and SEO tools. Choosing the right mix of marketing tools will depend on your business goals and budget.

Antivirus Software For Small Business - FAQ

Do Small Business Antivirus Free Tools Exist?

While some free antivirus programs are available, they typically lack the features and protection that small businesses need. For the best security, it's worth investing in a paid antivirus program.

Which Antivirus Is Best For Small Businesses?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best antivirus for small businesses will depend on your company's specific needs. Knowing the particular protection you want and the budget you have to work with will help you to find the perfect fit.

Conclusion

Choosing the right small business antivirus software is essential for protecting your business from online threats. There are various features to consider, and the right software will depend on your company's specific needs. By taking the time to find the perfect fit, you can help to keep your business safe from harm.

Last Updated on November 22, 2022 by Hanson Cheng

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Hanson Cheng

About the author

Living in Bali with my Fiancee and puppy, (Alina and Pickles).
Scaling online businesses and sharing lessons learned on this website and in our email newsletter.

Always happy to hear from you, so find me on Instagram if you want to say hi!

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