Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs OpenEDR: side-by-side comparison (2026)
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a commercial endpoint detection and response solution by Microsoft. OpenEDR is a free endpoint detection and response solution. Features, integrations, deployment and the company behind each one, side by side.
Our take
What our shortlists say about the one we picked.
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Best for: Teams already running Microsoft 365
It earns a place because it covers phones as well as desktops and servers, and many companies already own it through their Microsoft 365 license, so the first question is what you have paid for already. Its alerts flow into Microsoft's other security products, which suits a Microsoft-centric estate of any size. If you run a mixed stack, test how well its alerts reach the SIEM and SOAR you already use.
From Best Endpoint Security Solutions for Business, Fall 2026
Reviewed by Nika (Nikoloz) Kokhreidze.
KnocknocSponsored
Hi Citrix. Hide VPNs. Hide Windows on a LAN. Knocknoc solves this. Just in time identity linked allow-listing. DIY, on-premise or SaaS. Prevent attacks fast.
VisitMultiplatform endpoint security with detection and response capabilities
OpenEDR is an open-source platform enhancing cybersecurity through real-time detection and analysis of cyber threats.
Side-by-side comparison
Feature
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
OpenEDR
Pricing model
Commercial
Free
Category
Endpoint Detection and Response
Endpoint Detection and Response
Deployment and fit
Deployment type
Cloud
On-Premises
Company size fit
SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
Startup, SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
Company
Company
Microsoft
–
Use cases and capabilities
Ransomware Prevention
Yes
No
Core features
10 features listed
No features listed
Integrations
29 integrations listed
No integrations listed
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