Running anti-malware software is essential for businesses of all sizes to ensure their data and systems remain secure from malware attacks. Various options are available, so it’s important to research which malware protection best suits your needs.
But what is anti-malware software, and why do you need it?
What Is Anti-Malware Software?
Anti-malware software is a computer program designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software or malware. Malware can take many forms, such as viruses, spyware, ransomware, and Trojans, and can cause severe damage to the device it infects; anti-malware is the best way to protect against this type of threat.
An anti-malware program scans files regularly for malicious code; if any suspicious code is found, the program will alert the user and quarantine or delete the infected files. Additionally, anti-malware solutions can block websites known for hosting malicious content and offer real-time protection against new threats as they emerge.
Why Is Anti-Malware Software Important?
Anti-malware software is essential for protecting your computer systems and network from malicious threats.
Here are key reasons why your business needs anti-malware protection.
Prevent Data Theft: Anti-malware tools can detect and protect against malicious programs designed to steal sensitive information, such as passwords, financial records, customer data, and more.
Protect Against Ransomware: Ransomware is an attack that locks users out of their computers or networks and demands payment for access. Anti-malware software offers ransomware protection by detecting and blocking ransomware attacks before they can cause significant damage.
Guard Against Phishing: Phishing emails trick users into believing they’re from a legitimate source to gain access to confidential information. An anti-malware tool monitors incoming emails for malicious files and programs and warns users when potential threats are detected.
Block Malicious Downloads: Many malicious programs are spread through legitimate downloads but are actually viruses or other types of malware. Anti-malware software can help identify and stop these types of downloads before they cause any damage.
Ensure System Stability: Malware can cause instability in systems by corrupting files or disabling critical services like antivirus updates or security patches. With the best malware removal software in place, businesses have peace of mind knowing their data is secure and stable throughout the year.
Best Malware Protection in 2023
1. Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security
Bitdefender has an array of solutions that provide strong protection against different forms of malware evolving at a blazing pace. This award-winning cybersecurity solution protects you from financial extortion attacks, malicious files, and unfriendly websites. Bitdefender is also trained to detect AI-written highly-personalized emails and stop any undetected hijacking of PC resources.
Some of the helpful features of Bitdefender are:
User-friendly and easy to navigate
Complete protection from all types of malware: ransomware, phishing, zero-day attack, viruses, spyware, etc.
Removes malware as soon as it is detected
Stays current with the latest threats
Keeps device performance at its best
Cost-effective, with live customer support
Device Support: Windows, Mac, and Android
Pricing: $258.99 per year for up to ten devices. A free version (with limited features) is also available.
2. Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cloud
Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cloud is designed for growing businesses that want security with simplicity. It’s ideal for protecting the data on your laptops, desktops, and mobile devices while keeping Windows file servers safe. Kaspersky combines the power of home device security and server protection. It helps you avoid online fraud and scams in every situation.
The key features of Kaspersky Endpoint Security Cloud are the following:
Prevents malicious hijack attempts
Protects data on all connected devices
Secures passwords and payment credentials
Fixes and updates outdated applications
Manages devices with a central portal
Device Support: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Windows Server
Pricing: $550.00 per year for five devices, with a 30-day free trial. Lower-tier plans are also available.
3. Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection
Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection is a comprehensive and effective protection software built for speed. Its precise threat detection provides complete protection and remediation against malware through a cloud-based system. Malwarebytes is created for organizations of all sizes and doesn’t impact user productivity. It’s an ideal mix of protection and performance.
The best features of Malwarebytes are as follows:
Easy to set up for all organizations
Removes malware as soon as it is detected
Keeps end-user productivity at their best
Manages device health across the network
Provides instant, on-demand security reports
Device Support: Windows and Mac (Linux/Windows Server optional)
Pricing: $84.99 per device per year, with a free trial available on request. Lower-tier plans are also available.
4. Webroot Business Endpoint Protection
Webroot Business Endpoint Protection is your online guard against cyber threats. It protects against all malware, including phishing attacks. Webroot provides comprehensive online browsing, shopping, and banking protection. It’s a cloud-based security scanner that doesn’t take up prominent space in the device, thus resulting in faster scans.
Among the many security features of Webroot are:
Takes care of your time with fast scans
Stays current with the latest threats
Secures passwords and payment credentials
Keeps device performance at its best
Leaves all device storage space for your needs
Device Support: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chromebook
Pricing: $150.00 per year for five devices, with a 30-day free trial. Lower-tier plans are also available.
5. ESET Endpoint Protection
ESET Endpoint Protection provides multi-layered protection against malware. It leverages ESET’s global threat detection network, machine learning capabilities, and human expertise to detect and prevent cyber-attacks. ESET has a robust intelligence technology that detects malicious activities and provides instant remedies. It can also stop and detect modern file-less malware attacks.
Some of the best features of ESET are:
Remedies malware attacks around the clock
Detects and prevents file-less attacks
Recognizes suspicious system behavior
Blocks internet attacks on the web browser
Manages devices with a central portal
Device Support: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS
Pricing: $382.50 per year for five devices, with a 30-day free trial. Lower-tier plans are also available.
6. Norton Small Business
Norton Small Business is among the best anti-malware software for small businesses. It offers comprehensive protection against malware. Norton checks all access requests and protects sensitive company and customer information. It’s custom-built for various devices, adapts to them protects them from security threats. The security deployment is entirely customizable.
Among the many essential features of Norton are:
Offers easy cloud-based setup
Secures all endpoints of business
Prevents unwanted access to data
Works in the background all day, every day
Evolves with the growing business needs
Device Support: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Pricing: $99.99 per year for five devices, with a 7-day free trial. Other plans are also available.
7. AVG File Server
AVG File Server is a network-based malware protector. It keeps your customer and business data safe from malware. And it allows for system configuration and updates remotely. AVG protects your files and business data from the prying eyes of even the most notorious hackers. It enables the system to care for the entire computer network from a single location.
Among the helpful features of AVG File Server are:
Prevents costly hacks and delays
Updates itself with each latest threat
Maintains effective control of the network
Installs and updates remotely if needed
Free email and phone support
Device Support: Windows Server
Pricing: $61.23 per year for three devices. A free version (with limited features) is also available.
8. Avast Cybersecurity Solutions
Avast is a simple but powerful cybersecurity solution for growing businesses. It uses cloud-based machine learning and behavioral techniques to detect changes and deliver protection when needed. Avast protects devices against cyber-attacks, including malware, ransomware, and phishing. It keeps all personal, business, and customer data safe from theft.
With Avast, you enjoy features such as:
User-friendly and easy to install
Protects data at affordable rates
Secures data across all user devices
Manages subscriptions with an online dashboard
Provides IT support via chat, email, and phone
Device Support: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
Pricing: $283.85 per year for five devices, with a 30-day free trial. High-tier plans are also available.
9. Trend Micro Worry-Free Services Suites
Trend Micro Worry-Free Services Suites is a unified cybersecurity platform to secure an entire business ecosystem. It correlates data across devices and sources to protect them against looming attacks. Trend Micro offers cloud-based system protection with automatic updates that come with AI-powered threat intelligence. The services can be tailored to security needs as the business grows.
With Trend Micro, you get features like:
Offers easy cloud-based setup
Secures all endpoints of business
Correlates data across endpoints and email
Stops threats before they reach you
One of the best malware removal tools
Manages subscriptions with an online dashboard
Device Support: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Windows Server
Pricing: Available on request.
10. Sophos Small Business Cybersecurity
Sophos Small Business Cybersecurity delivers enterprise-grade protection at an affordable price. It’s a cost-effective solution that provides endpoint protection from all types of malware attacks. Sophos uses its machine-learning technology to detect threats as soon as they crop up. It has an elite threat-hunting team that provides 24/7 system checks and threat monitoring.
Among the features available in Sophos are:
Protects data at affordable rates
Adapts to your specific business needs
It gets you up and running in minutes
Secures data across all user devices
Provides 24/7 breach prevention
Device Support: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and Windows/Linux/UNIX Server
Pricing: Available on request.
How to Choose the Best Anti-Malware Software Program
To choose the best anti-malware software, consider factors such as the level of protection offered, customer support, subscription fee, and user interface. Also, buy security software from a reputable company that regularly updates its anti-malware program to stay ahead of the latest threats.
Is Anti-Malware Software Safe?
Yes, anti-malware software is generally safe. It is designed to protect your computer from viruses, malware, and other malicious threats. Anti-malware software uses scanning and identification tools to detect potential threats before they can do any damage to your system. Additionally, most programs offer real-time protection and can even actively block known malicious sites, ensuring you remain safe while browsing the web.
Which Is Better, Antivirus Software or Anti-Malware?
Antivirus software is designed to detect and block viruses. At the same time, anti-malware programs focus on detecting and blocking a broader range of threats, such as viruses, spyware, ransomware, adware, and Trojans. So anti-malware program is better as it offers more comprehensive protection than an antivirus.
What Is the Most Trusted Malware Scanner?
Norton 360 with LifeLock comes with the most trusted malware scanner.
What Is the Best App to Remove Malicious Software?
The best free malware removal tool is Malwarebytes. You should understand that a free malware removal software program offers only basic security. You should opt for a premium version for comprehensive malware removal and optimum protection.
Is There a Free Malware Protection Tool?
Yes, there are many free malware protection tools available online. These range from browser extensions to full-featured antivirus programs. Most of these free options offer basic protection against malicious software. One popular free anti-malware software is the Bitdefender antivirus free edition.
READ MORE:
What is Cybersecurity
What is Malware
Best Antivirus Software Options
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This article, “Best Anti-Malware Software for Your Business” was first published on Small Business Trends
