Bitdefender versus Kaspersky (2024): Which Solution Is Superior?

In today’s digital landscape, security breaches pose a significant challenge for enterprises of all scales. These online risks have evolved to be more elusive, making it a complex endeavor for OpSec professionals in search of effective countermeasures.

SEE: Debunking 10 Myths About Cybersecurity (TechRepublic Premium)

Two robust endpoint detection and response platforms widely adopted internationally are Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business and Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security. Both these EDR software options offer strong detection, elimination, and threat handling capabilities. Let’s delve into their commonalities and distinctive advantages.

• Bitdefender: Ideal for larger enterprises with internal Security Operations engineers, capable of leveraging Bitdefender’s advanced security functionalities to the fullest.
• Kaspersky: Suited for small-to-medium-sized businesses due to its intuitive interface and convenient automation features.

SEE: Guidelines for Mobile Device Security (TechRepublic Premium)

Comparison of Features between Kaspersky and Bitdefender

Comparison of EDR Pricing between Bitdefender and Kaspersky

Bitdefender pricing

The cost of Bitdefender’s GravityZone platform is influenced by the specific security package you select among: Small Business Security, Business Security, Business Security Premium, and Business Security Enterprise.

SEE: Bitdefender vs McAfee: An In-depth Look at EDR Software (TechRepublic)

Thankfully, Bitdefender offers an online portal where you can input your desired number of devices for protection and contract duration. Upon entering this information, the portal will generate an estimated subscription cost.

Here’s a concise table comparing prices across the different packages:

I appreciate Bitdefender’s initiative to provide trial versions for most of their GravityZone products, enabling enterprises to evaluate their solutions without immediate financial commitments.

Kaspersky pricing

Subscriptions for Kaspersky’s Endpoint Security suite are available to…are categorized into: Business Elite, Business Superior, and Total Protection for Business.

Below is a summary of pricing:

Similar to Bitdefender, Kaspersky also provides an easily accessible trial version of their Endpoint Security software.

Side-by-side Comparison: Bitdefender vs. Kaspersky

Control Board

Both Bitdefender and Kaspersky present detailed control panels to access all features and configurations for their tools. Kaspersky Endpoint Security employs the Kaspersky Security Center interface. Users favor this interface for its simplicity and user-friendly layout, particularly suitable for small businesses or those lacking specialized staff to handle sophisticated tools.

SEE: McAfee vs Kaspersky: Compare EDR Software (TechRepublic)

Bitdefender GravityZone also offers a control panel, but it is notably more intricate than Kaspersky’s, with users often finding it challenging to navigate. Although powerful, it has a steep learning curve and is not immediately intuitive. Consequently, it caters more to larger businesses with staff dedicated to understanding its nuances.

Implementation

Both tools are Software as a Service (SaaS), and Bitdefender is perceived as the easier option for deployment. While Kaspersky is user-friendly post-deployment, it tends to be slightly slower during the initial deployment phase in most scenarios, according to experienced SecOps engineers familiar with both platforms.

Bitdefender comes with most functionalities readily available, whereas Kaspersky follows a model with tiered modules and pricing, which can confuse smaller enterprises in determining the necessary configurations for a fresh installation.

Threat Detection and Resolution

Kaspersky allows users to establish automated parameters and responses for various detections and threats, reducing the workload for staff without dedicated teams or seeking to streamline efforts.

Bitdefender lacks the same level of automation but offers vulnerability management, which can identify trends and historical data across the network to pinpoint vulnerabilities. This can expedite tasks related to cybersecurity audits and threat handling.

Antivirus Solutions

Both Bitdefender and Kaspersky offer top-tier antivirus solutions. When businesses opt for their chosen EDR solution, they should also consider the antivirus products offered by both vendors in their purchase decision.

This becomes especially vital as having both EDR and antivirus solutions can enhance a business’ overall security approach. It also saves time by eliminating the need to engage another vendor for a separate security solution.

Here is a brief comparison of Bitdefender and Kaspersky’s antivirus products:

Is Kaspersky or Bitdefender the Right Choice for Your Organization?

Both EDR solutions have been thoroughly tested and proven effective for businesses of varying sizes. They identify a broad spectrum of threats and offer flexible options for swift threat resolution.

The disparities lie mainly in the user experience, with Kaspersky targeting smaller to mid-sized businesses that do not require extensive staff for software management. Their automation tools contribute to a simplified approach to EDR management.

Conversely, Bitdefender is better suited for dedicated SecOps engineers, where the advanced features and slightly more complex interface can be fully leveraged.

Methodology for Comparison

My assessment of Bitdefender and Kaspersky’s EDR solutions involved a thorough evaluation of each product’s security offerings, pricing, and standout features.

Specifically, I scrutinized their EDR capabilities, such as threat detection and resolution, control console usability, and deployment ease, among other factors. This evaluation was based on comprehensive analyses of both vendors’ official documentation and feature sets.

Furthermore, I incorporated genuine user feedback from reputable review platforms to provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses of both EDR solutions.

About Author

AndyC

Andy Curtis is an award-winning security consultant, researcher and public speaker. He has been working in the computer security industry since the early 1990s, having been employed by state and federal government, leading healthcare and banking providers across three continents. He has given talks about computer security for some of the world’s largest companies, worked with law enforcement agencies on investigations into hacking groups, and is a regular voice on TV and radio explaining IT security threats.

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