The Top 5 Free Endpoint Protection Solutions for 2024
- Most outstanding free endpoint protection platform: Bitdefender
- Ideal for effortless setup: Avast
- Perfect for complimentary one-time scans: ESET
- Top-notch complete endpoint security solution: Malwarebytes
- Great for various free security tools: Trend Micro
Endpoint protection platforms can become costly, but they need not be. In this overview, we present five free endpoint protection solutions from well-known providers recognized for their expertise in antivirus protection. We delve into the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each platform and examine the compromises between the free and premium versions.
Comparison of the Top Free Endpoint Protection Platforms
Below are several factors to consider when comparing free endpoint protection solutions:
| Our evaluation (out of 5) | Starting cost | On-demand scans | Scheduled scans | Continuous real-time defense | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bitdefender | 4.0 | $189.99 annually for three members and six devices | Yes | No | No |
| Avast | 3.7 | $139.99 per year for 10 devices | Yes | Yes | No |
| ESET | 3.9 | $211 per year for five devices | Yes | No | No |
| Malwarebytes | N/A | $69 per endpoint | Yes | No | No |
| Trend Micro | 3.9 | Contact vendor for pricing | Yes | No | No |
Bitdefender: The Finest Free Endpoint Protection Tool
Our evaluation: 4.0 out of 5 stars
Bitdefender provides free endpoint protection and antivirus software for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices — the Windows version even includes live customer support. The paid Ultimate Small Business Security package also includes additional tools such as an unlimited VPN and password managers. Those needing more security features can opt for Bitdefender GravityZone for a comprehensive all-in-one solution tailored for small business owners.
Reasons for Choosing Bitdefender
We selected Bitdefender due to its plethora of free antivirus software downloads and stellar reputation. Their transparent pricing plans cater to small business owners’ needs, whether they require only a password manager and VPN or seek advanced security protocols.
Pricing
- Ultimate Small Business Security: Starts at $189.99 per year for three members and six devices.
- GravityZone Small BusinessProtection: Commences at $199.49 annually for 10 endpoints and three servers.
- Business Safety Zone: Begins at $258.99 per annum for 10 endpoints and three servers.
- Business Protection Prime: Initiates at $570.49 per year for 10 endpoints and three servers.
Characteristics
- Free antivirus installations for Personal Computer, MacBook, Android, and iOS gadgets.
- Limitless Virtual Private Network (VPN) data for all members and gadgets under the Premier Small Business Safety strategy.
- Smart Scam Assist powered by AI to detect phishing schemes and other fraudulent activities.
Advantages and disadvantages
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
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Avast: Optimal for effortless setup
Our rating: 3.7 out of 5
Avast’s antivirus downloads are entirely complimentary for Personal Computer, MacBook, Android, and iOS devices, although a permit must be purchased for Linux systems. I particularly appreciate that the Avast team frequently issues updates, and the free version allows users to schedule scans in advance—a feature uncommon in free antivirus programs. For additional security features, the budget-friendly Avast Business plans amalgamate utilities such as personal VPNs and USB defenses — and you can thoroughly evaluate them due to a generous 30-day free trial.
SEE: Suggestions to Begin a Career in Cybersecurity (TechRepublic Premium)
Prior to downloading Avast’s free software, it’s essential to know that the Federal Trade Commission determined that Avast unjustly gathered browsing data from consumers through its browser extensions and antivirus programs, storing it indefinitely and vending it through its subsidiary Jumpshot without adequately notifying users. The FTC has currently prohibited Avast from selling, disclosing, or licensing any web browsing data for advertising purposes. For further details, refer to the official statement on the FTC website. If this raises concerns for you, favor Bitdefender over Avast.
Reasons for Choosing Avast
I opted for Avast due to its diverse complimentary endpoint security choices and regular updates. The free version was extremely simple to download on both my smartphone and laptop, and the setup guide methodically walked me through enabling permissions step by step. I am confident that most small business proprietors will be proficient in setting up this free endpoint software without much difficulty, even if they are inexperienced in employing endpoint protection on their workplace devices.
Pricing Details
Avast Business pricing is on a subscription basis. A 30-day complimentary trial is provided for the Avast Ultimate Business Security plan.
- Avast Small Office Shield: $139.99 yearly for 10 devices.
- Necessary Business Safety: $148.36 annually for five devices.
- Premium Business Security: $187 per year for five devices.
- Ultimate Business Security: $227.08 annually for five devices.
Characteristics
- Complementary antivirus installations for Personal Computer, MacBook, Android, and iOS devices.
- Ransomware protection, data security, and phishing safeguard available on all paid Business schemes.
- USB defense aids in blocking unauthorized storage tools.
Advantages and disadvantages
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
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ESET: Highest quality for complimentary single-use scans
Our rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars
If you simply require an effortless method for one-time scans of your devices, then the perpetually free tool provided by ESET is an excellent choice to consider. The tool will scan your devices for viruses, Trojans, spyware, phishing, and other threats, and subsequently eliminate them. If you demand more comprehensive protection, ESET presents a variety of pricing schemes to select from, most of which include a 30-day trial period to evaluate before making a commitment.
SEE: Organisations Have Endpoint Security Tools But Are Still Falling Short on the Basics (TechRepublic)
Reasons for my selection of ESET
My preference for ESET stems from its capability to safeguard both mobile and desktop devices at endpoints, encompassing Macs and Linux (albeit the latter’s functionality is moderately restricted). The online scanner provided for free is rapid and user-friendly, while ESET offers numerous pricing schemes for selection, enabling you to pick the most suitable one that fits your business’ financial means.
Pricing
- ESET Protect Entry: $211 annually for five devices.
- ESET Protect Advanced: $275 annually for five devices.
- ESET Complete: $287 annually for five devices.
- ESET Protect Elite: Pricing available upon contacting the vendor.
Characteristics
- Choice to establish either a cloud-based or on-premises security console.
- Users have reported minimal system slowdowns while using ESET.
- Abundance of supplementary features available, including cloud app protection and multifactor authentication, to allow customization of your pricing plan.
Advantages and disadvantages
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Malwarebytes: Optimal comprehensive endpoint security solution
Malwarebytes offers complimentary malware scans for Macs, PCs, iOS, and Android devices, albeit the setup process differs slightly from other software included in this list. Upon downloading Malwarebytes, I was automatically enrolled in a 14-day trial of the Premium version. Skipping the trial period is not an option. You must allow it to expire before being downgraded to the free version, which lacks real-time threat protection. To fully utilize Malwarebytes, opting for one of the paid plans is necessary, granting access to a comprehensive endpoint security platform.
SEE: The 5 Best VPNs With Free Trials in 2024 (TechRepublic)
Reasons for my selection of Malwarebytes
I opted for Malwarebytes due to its all-encompassing endpoint security solution that combines simple deployment with a transparent pricing structure. While the free version aids in detecting existing viruses, real-time protection necessitates the adoption of one of the paid plans.
Pricing
- ThreatDown Core: $69 per endpoint.
- ThreatDown Advanced: $79 per endpoint.
- ThreatDown Elite: $99 per endpoint.
- ThreatDown Ultimate: $119 per endpoint.
Characteristics
- Free on-demand malware scanning available.
- Premium plans present a comprehensive endpoint protection platform.
- Intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, including advanced features for enhanced security.
interface.
Advantages and disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
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Characteristics
- Free virus scanning and malware detection scans for Macs and PCs.
- Password manager and generator downloadable.
- All-in-one adblocker, password manager, and browser extension that enhances privacy for Chrome.
Advantages and disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
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What is the optimal free endpoint protection platform selection for my company?
While picking the finest free endpoint protection platform for your company, deliberate on the number of endpoints and varieties of devices that require safeguarding. Some free antivirus software exclusively functions on desktops or Windows and Android devices, for instance. Remind yourself that each device needs individual installation.
Remember that most free endpoint protection platforms necessitate a manual initiation of scans—you won’t receive real-time proactive scanning and threat blocking. This is because most endpoint protection platforms reserve this feature for paid subscriptions to encourage users to upgrade. As a result, you can’t just set up and forget about your free endpoint protection platform.
SEE: 5 Best Free Password Managers for 2024 (TechRepublic)
Upon readiness to switch to a paid tier, exploit all available free trials to extensively evaluate premium features and identify the optimal combination of price and features for your requirements. Many of these services deliver trials spanning from seven to 30 days, facilitating comprehensive software testing before making a commitment.
Approach
To select the finest free endpoint protection platforms, I compiled a roster of esteemed antivirus software offering perpetual free scans in some form. Testing involved downloading their applications on my Mac and iPhone. Factors such as usability, speed, precision, supported device types, supplementary security tools, and pricing packages were pivotal in making the final decision.
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