# Best Endpoint Security Solutions for Business (2026)

Compare 7 endpoint security solutions, like CrowdStrike, Microsoft Defender and Cortex XDR, on ransomware protection, detection, agent weight and ease of use.

We pick every solution on this list [on merit](https://cybersectools.com/methodology#shortlist-order). Featured vendors that made the list are shown first.

Source: https://cybersectools.com/shortlists/best-endpoint-security-solutions
Updated: 2026-11-01
Edition: Fall 2026.
Reviewed by Nika (Nikoloz) Kokhreidze, CybersecTools.

## Executive summary

As of November 2026, CybersecTools tracks 167 companies that sell endpoint security solutions as their main business. The largest groups are based in the United States, Israel and the United Kingdom. In the last 12 months they raised $1.5B across 19 funding rounds, 4 companies were acquired and 18 new companies started in the last two years.

From that field we chose seven solutions that protect your laptops, desktops and servers from malware, ransomware and hands-on attacks. CrowdStrike suits large companies that want a light agent and deep investigation detail. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint fits teams on Microsoft 365, because it works inside the stack they already run and may come with their license. Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR suits security teams that want endpoint, network and identity alerts joined into one incident.

The main choice is between a broad platform and a focused endpoint suite. Cortex XDR and TrendAI Vision One pull in data beyond the endpoint, while Sophos and ESET keep management simple for smaller teams. FortiClient fits companies that already run Fortinet firewalls, because one agent also handles VPN and zero trust access.

Ask each vendor how much the agent slows busy machines, because performance complaints come up for several products here.

## How we evaluated

We looked at 385 endpoint security solutions from 220 companies, and the 7 on this page made the cut. We combined our judgment from years of leading enterprise security programs with market data from [Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist), our market intelligence platform, and with the vendor and review pages listed under Sources at the end of this page. For customer feedback, we left out paid reviews, reviews by vendor staff or partners, review campaigns and anything older than two years, so you get an accurate view of what customers say.

Four traits mattered most: prevention of malware and ransomware; detection and response when prevention fails; Windows, macOS and Linux from one console; and a light agent. We included XDR platforms whose core is endpoint protection. The order follows how widely each product is used by teams like yours. Company momentum shows how the vendor itself is growing, so a market leader can rank first with a lower score.

Read the full method: https://cybersectools.com/methodology#why

## What is Endpoint Security

Endpoint security products protect the computers your staff use and the servers you run. A small agent on each device blocks known and new malware, stops ransomware from encrypting files, and records activity so your team can investigate and respond. Most products now combine prevention with endpoint detection and response (EDR), and some extend into XDR, which adds data from network, identity and cloud.

This matters because almost every attack touches an endpoint at some point, whether through a phishing click, a stolen login or an unpatched app. Good endpoint security stops most attacks early and shows you what happened when one gets through.

### Compare Endpoint Security solutions

This analysis focuses on seven endpoint security solutions. The table compares them on vendor, who each one is best for, deployment model and the NIST CSF functions they cover.

| # | Solution | Best for | Starting price | Deployment | Company size | NIST CSF functions |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | [CrowdStrike Agentic Endpoint Security](https://cybersectools.com/tools/crowdstrike-endpoint-security) | Large companies wanting a light agent and depth | From $59.99 per endpoint per year | Cloud | SMB to Enterprise | Detect, Respond |
| 2 | [Microsoft Defender for Endpoint](https://cybersectools.com/tools/microsoft-defender-for-endpoint) | Teams already running Microsoft 365 | Contact sales | Cloud | SMB to Enterprise | Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond |
| 3 | [Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR](https://cybersectools.com/tools/palo-alto-networks-cortex-xdr) | Security teams joining endpoint, network and identity alerts | Contact sales | Cloud | Mid-Market to Enterprise | Detect, Respond |
| 4 | [Sophos EDR](https://cybersectools.com/tools/sophos-intercept-x) | Mid-sized teams wanting one cloud console | Contact sales | Hybrid | SMB to Enterprise | Protect, Detect, Respond |
| 5 | [TrendAI Vision One Endpoint Security](https://cybersectools.com/tools/trend-micro-trend-vision-onetm-endpoint-security) | Companies with servers, legacy and mixed systems | Contact sales | Hybrid | SMB to Enterprise | Identify, Detect, Respond |
| 6 | [Fortinet FortiClient](https://cybersectools.com/tools/fortinet-forticlient) | Companies already running Fortinet firewalls | Contact sales | Hybrid | SMB to Enterprise | Protect, Detect |
| 7 | [ESET PROTECT](https://cybersectools.com/tools/eset-business-security) | Smaller teams wanting a light agent | Contact sales | Hybrid | Startup to Enterprise | Protect, Detect |

Vendors change prices, so check before you buy.

**See every Endpoint Security solution we list**

The full Endpoint Security market, filtered by company size, deployment and NIST coverage.

[Browse Endpoint Security solutions →](https://cybersectools.com/categories/endpoint-security)

### 1. CrowdStrike Agentic Endpoint Security

**[CrowdStrike](https://mandos.io/data/companies/crowdstrike?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos)**. AI-powered endpoint protection, detection, and response platform

Austin, United States · Founded 2011 · Public company · Momentum 74/100 (Mandos)

Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001, FedRAMP, PCI DSS, HIPAA

**Best for:** Large companies wanting a light agent and depth

Product page: https://cybersectools.com/tools/crowdstrike-endpoint-security

#### At a glance

- Vendor: CrowdStrike
- Headquarters: Austin, United States
- Founded: 2011
- Ownership: Public company (CRWD)
- Deployment: Cloud
- Company size: SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
- NIST CSF: Detect, Respond
- Starting price: From $59.99 per endpoint per year

#### Our take

CrowdStrike Falcon uses one light sensor on Windows, macOS and Linux and runs its analysis in the cloud. It combines next-gen antivirus with EDR and looks for attacker behavior, so it can catch attacks that use no files. Charlotte AI helps triage detections and suggest next steps. It connects to Zscaler, Netskope, Cloudflare One, Okta, Ping Identity, Proofpoint, Mimecast and Corelight.

It earns its place because behavior-based detection and deep investigation sit on one sensor, and the same Falcon platform extends to SIEM data and threat intelligence when you are ready. Its size fit runs from SMB to enterprise, but it fits best where a security team will use that investigation depth. Weigh how much of the wider Falcon platform you plan to adopt, since its value grows with each module you connect.

#### CrowdStrike Agentic Endpoint Security main features

- AI-powered endpoint protection with 100% protection scores in MITRE ATT&CK 2025 evaluations
- Single lightweight sensor deployment across all major operating systems
- Charlotte AI for automated detection triage, investigation, and response
- CrowdStrike Signal self-learning AI for detecting unknown threats and early-stage activity
- Advanced EDR with adversary-driven detections and context-rich alerts
- Cross-domain attack visibility through unified Falcon platform integration
- 10GB/day third-party data ingest via Falcon Next-Gen SIEM
- Indicators of attack (IOA) methodology for identifying malware-free attacks

#### CrowdStrike Agentic Endpoint Security main integrations

Cloudflare One, Menlo Security, Netskope, Skyhigh Security, Zscaler Internet Access, Corelight, ExtraHop Reveal(x) 360, Vectra, Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance, Fortinet FortiGate, Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall, ForgeRock, Okta, Ping Identity, Cisco Secure Email Gateway, Microsoft Graph, Mimecast, Proofpoint

#### What customers say

Sentiment: 75% positive · 25% mixed · 0% negative (from first-hand public reviews and comments, 2026).
Most praised: Speed, Reports.
Most criticized: Price, Missing features.

CrowdStrike's endpoint agent is known for staying out of the way, so users don't notice it and rollouts across a whole company go quickly. Security staff value how much detail it records, which makes it easy to dig into what a process did during an investigation. The catch is cost, because it's expensive and many advanced features are sold as add-ons, so the bill grows as you turn more on. Some teams also say the first setup and policy tuning take training to get right.

#### Before you buy

Where it is strong:

- Light agent that users do not notice
- Prevention and EDR in one sensor
- Wide set of connections to network and identity products

Ask in the demo:

- List which modules you need and price them all
- Ask how Charlotte AI is licensed
- Test detection tuning on your own environment

### 2. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

**[Microsoft](https://mandos.io/data/companies/microsoft?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos)**. Multiplatform endpoint security with detection and response capabilities

Redmond, United States · Founded 1975 · Public company · Momentum 59/100 (Mandos)

Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001, FedRAMP, PCI DSS, HIPAA

**Best for:** Teams already running Microsoft 365

Product page: https://cybersectools.com/tools/microsoft-defender-for-endpoint

#### At a glance

- Vendor: Microsoft
- Headquarters: Redmond, United States
- Founded: 1975
- Ownership: Public company (MSFT)
- Deployment: Cloud
- Company size: SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
- NIST CSF: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond
- Pricing: Contact sales

#### Our take

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint covers Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android with antivirus, EDR, vulnerability management, device control and web filtering. Its automatic attack disruption can isolate devices to stop ransomware from spreading. It also includes deception techniques and sandbox analysis, and it connects to Splunk, IBM QRadar, Elastic Security, ServiceNow and Zscaler.

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.

#### Microsoft Defender for Endpoint main features

- Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
- Automatic attack disruption for ransomware
- Exposure management
- Network detection and response
- Threat and vulnerability management
- Device control and endpoint firewall
- Web filtering and application control
- Deception techniques

#### Microsoft Defender for Endpoint main integrations

Splunk, IBM QRadar SIEM, ArcSight, Elastic Security, Splunk SOAR, ServiceNow Security Incident Response, Cortex XSOAR (Demisto), Swimlane, Rapid7 InsightConnect, ThreatConnect, MISP, AttackIQ, SafeBreach, Cymulate, XM Cyber, Skybox Security, Vectra NDR, Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager, Zscaler Internet Access, Zimperium Mobile Threat Defense, HYAS Protect, Silverfort, Vulcan Cyber, ServiceNow Vulnerability Response, Morphisec

#### What customers say

Sentiment: 67% positive · 28% mixed · 5% negative (from first-hand public reviews and comments, 2025 to 2026).
Most praised: Integrations, Reports, Ease of use.
Most criticized: Missing features, Setup.

Defender for Endpoint makes the most sense for companies that already run on Microsoft, because it plugs into Microsoft 365, Intune and Entra and puts alerts for every device in one portal. Customers find it easy to roll out and manage day to day, but deeper setup is another story, since policies are spread across several Microsoft portals and complex setups take real expertise. Some also say the licensing costs a lot for what they get, and that support can be slow to grasp urgent problems.

#### Before you buy

Where it is strong:

- Built into the Microsoft security stack
- Automatic isolation to stop ransomware spreading
- May come with licenses you already hold

Ask in the demo:

- Check which plan your Microsoft licenses include
- Test coverage on your Linux and Mac devices
- Ask who will own tuning across the different portals

### 3. Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR

**[Palo Alto Networks](https://mandos.io/data/companies/palo-alto-networks?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos)**. AI-driven XDR platform for endpoint security with threat prevention and detection

Santa Clara, United States · Founded 2005 · Public company · Momentum 85/100 (Mandos)

Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001, FedRAMP, PCI DSS, HIPAA

**Best for:** Security teams joining endpoint, network and identity alerts

Product page: https://cybersectools.com/tools/palo-alto-networks-cortex-xdr

#### At a glance

- Vendor: Palo Alto Networks
- Headquarters: Santa Clara, United States
- Founded: 2005
- Ownership: Public company (PANW)
- Deployment: Cloud
- Company size: Mid-Market, Enterprise
- NIST CSF: Detect, Respond
- Pricing: Contact sales

#### Our take

Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR combines endpoint protection with detection and response across endpoint, network, identity and cloud data. It stores everything in one data lake, groups related alerts into one incident and builds a timeline of what happened. Its prevention engine includes anti-ransomware and anti-tampering protection, and it can remediate threats automatically. It connects to Okta, Microsoft 365, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform, Zscaler, Check Point Firewall and Workday.

This is the pick when you want the endpoint to be one source in a wider detection program. Its size fit is mid-market and enterprise, and it is the base for Cortex XSIAM if you later want a full SOC platform. That breadth suits a staffed SOC, so if you have one or two analysts, ask how much of it you would run.

#### Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR main features

- AI-driven threat prevention and detection with 99% prevention rate in AV Comparatives EPR Test
- 100% detection accuracy in MITRE ATT&CK Evaluations Round 6 with no delays or configuration changes
- Single data lake architecture for unified security operations and analytics
- Native integration with Unit 42 MDR for 24/7 proactive threat hunting and monitoring
- Automated threat remediation and incident response capabilities
- Anti-tampering protection certified by AV-Comparatives
- EDR detection validation with real-time behavioral analysis
- AAA-rated ransomware protection with 100% prevention in SE Labs testing

#### Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR main integrations

Okta, Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, OneLogin, PingOne for Enterprise, AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, Google Kubernetes Engine, Check Point Firewall, Cisco ASA, Fortinet FortiGate, Zscaler Internet Access, Zscaler Private Access, Corelight Zeek, Box, Dropbox, Workday, Forcepoint DLP, BeyondTrust Privilege Management Cloud, Elastic Filebeat

#### What customers say

Sentiment: 46% positive · 27% mixed · 27% negative (from first-hand public reviews and comments, 2025 to 2026).
Most praised: Reports.
Most criticized: Ease of use, Price.

Cortex XDR pulls alerts from endpoints, network, cloud and identity into one incident, so analysts can follow a whole attack in one view, and customers report a shorter path from detection to containment. That said, the console and its query language take real training before they pay off, and some users fight false alerts, including blocks on software they wrote themselves, which eats analyst time.

#### Before you buy

Where it is strong:

- Groups related alerts into one incident with a timeline
- Endpoint, network and identity data in one place
- Automated remediation

Ask in the demo:

- Price the full feature set you need, not the entry tier
- Plan training time for the console and query language
- Ask which data sources need extra licenses

### 4. Sophos EDR

**[Sophos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/sophos?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos)**. Endpoint detection and response that finds and stops human-led attacks.

Abingdon, United Kingdom · Founded 1985 · $60M raised · Momentum 43/100 (Mandos)

Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001, ISO 27017, ISO 27018, PCI DSS, HIPAA

**Best for:** Mid-sized teams wanting one cloud console

Product page: https://cybersectools.com/tools/sophos-intercept-x

#### At a glance

- Vendor: Sophos
- Headquarters: Abingdon, United Kingdom
- Founded: 1985
- Deployment: Hybrid
- Company size: SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
- NIST CSF: Protect, Detect, Respond
- Pricing: Contact sales

#### Our take

Sophos EDR ranks detections with AI, so analysts see the most urgent ones first. It writes case summaries, explains suspicious commands and maps detections to MITRE ATT&CK, and it can respond on its own while analysts can also act by hand. One agent covers Windows, macOS and Linux and includes Sophos Endpoint, the company's protection against ransomware.

It earns its place because detection and response come in the same agent as prevention, so teams that already run Sophos Endpoint can turn on EDR from the Sophos console without a new agent. That suits teams that want one console for endpoints and other Sophos products. Only one integration is listed, so check how it will feed your SIEM if you run one.

#### Sophos EDR main features

- AI-prioritized detections
- AI case summaries for investigations
- AI search and AI command analysis
- Automated responses to attacks
- Hands-on analyst response actions
- Detections mapped to MITRE ATT&CK
- Real-time device insights
- Device exposure view

#### Sophos EDR main integrations

Microsoft Defender

#### What customers say

Sentiment: 53% positive · 22% mixed · 25% negative (from first-hand public reviews and comments, 2024 to 2026).
Most praised: Speed.
Most criticized: Speed, Support.

Sophos Intercept X stops malware early and puts device, web and app controls in the same agent, so teams can block USB drives and risky sites without a second product. The catch is speed on some PCs, because the file scanner can push CPU use high, and the fixes have come from updates and tuning. Support also gets mixed marks, with some customers finding replies slow.

#### Before you buy

Where it is strong:

- AI-ranked detections and case summaries
- One agent that includes Sophos Endpoint
- Works alongside other Sophos products

Ask in the demo:

- Test processor and memory use on developer machines and servers
- Ask about support response times in your region
- Check which features each license tier includes

**Alternatives to each solution on this list**

The closest Endpoint Security alternatives for every pick, matched on features and integrations.

[See Endpoint Security alternatives →](https://cybersectools.com/alternatives)

### 5. TrendAI Vision One Endpoint Security

**[Trend Micro](https://mandos.io/data/companies/trend-micro?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos)**. Endpoint security platform with EDR/XDR, threat detection, and risk mgmt

Tokyo, Japan · Founded 1988 · Public company · Momentum 51/100 (Mandos)

Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001, ISO 27017, FedRAMP, PCI DSS

**Best for:** Companies with servers, legacy and mixed systems

Product page: https://cybersectools.com/tools/trend-micro-trend-vision-onetm-endpoint-security

#### At a glance

- Vendor: Trend Micro
- Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
- Founded: 1988
- Ownership: Public company (4704)
- Deployment: Hybrid
- Company size: SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
- NIST CSF: Identify, Detect, Respond
- Pricing: Contact sales

#### Our take

TrendAI Vision One Endpoint Security, from Trend Micro, protects endpoints, servers, IoT devices and older systems with detection and response, virtual patching and automated playbooks. It is part of the wider Vision One platform, which also pulls in email, cloud and network data for XDR, and it gives one view of assets and exposure.

It earns a place for virtual patching, which shields systems you cannot update quickly, so it suits companies with legacy servers or IBM Power systems in the mix. It runs as a hybrid deployment, and its size fit runs from SMB to enterprise. Ask how much of the Vision One platform you need to license to get the XDR view, since the endpoint is one part of it.

#### TrendAI Vision One Endpoint Security main features

- Native EDR and XDR capabilities
- Multi-layer threat detection across endpoints, servers, email, cloud, and networks
- Automated incident response
- Centralized visibility and management console
- AI-driven threat detection algorithms
- Virtual patching
- Coverage for servers, IoT devices, and legacy systems
- Automated security playbooks

#### TrendAI Vision One Endpoint Security main integrations

IBM Power

#### Before you buy

Where it is strong:

- Virtual patching for systems you cannot update fast
- Covers servers, IoT and legacy systems
- Part of a wider XDR platform

Ask in the demo:

- Ask how the move to the TrendAI name affects contracts
- List which Vision One modules you need
- Test virtual patching on a legacy server

### 6. Fortinet FortiClient

**[Fortinet](https://mandos.io/data/companies/fortinet?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos)**. Unified endpoint agent providing ZTNA, VPN, EPP, and fabric integration

Sunnyvale, United States · Founded 2000 · Public company · Momentum 75/100 (Mandos)

Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001, FedRAMP, PCI DSS, HIPAA

**Best for:** Companies already running Fortinet firewalls

Product page: https://cybersectools.com/tools/fortinet-forticlient

#### At a glance

- Vendor: Fortinet
- Headquarters: Sunnyvale, United States
- Founded: 2000
- Ownership: Public company (FTNT)
- Deployment: Hybrid
- Company size: SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
- NIST CSF: Protect, Detect
- Pricing: Contact sales

#### Our take

Fortinet FortiClient is one agent for endpoint protection, VPN and zero trust access. It includes AI-based antivirus, application firewall, USB device control, web filtering, CASB and vulnerability scanning with automated patching, and it can quarantine a device. It is managed through EMS or FortiClient Cloud and connects to Microsoft Active Directory, Google Workspace, Infoblox and ChromeOS.

It earns its place because Fortinet firewalls use its device data to enforce access rules, so one agent handles endpoint protection and access control at once. If you already run FortiGate, that can replace a separate VPN client and endpoint agent. If you do not, weigh it against focused endpoint suites, because much of its value depends on the firewall side.

#### Fortinet FortiClient main features

- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
- VPN-encrypted tunnels
- URL filtering
- Cloud access security broker (CASB)
- AI-based next-generation antivirus
- Endpoint quarantine
- Application firewall
- USB device control

#### Fortinet FortiClient main integrations

Microsoft Active Directory, Google Workspace, AppNeta, CrowdStrike, D3 Security, Idaptive, Infoblox, Active Directory, ChromeOS

#### What customers say

FortiClient puts VPN, zero trust access and endpoint protection in one agent, and customers say it works best as part of a wider Fortinet setup that gives IT central control over devices. They find it easy to install and use, and mostly reliable for day-to-day remote work. The catch is the connection itself, because VPN tunnels sometimes drop or fail to connect, which leaves remote staff cut off until they get back on.

#### Before you buy

Where it is strong:

- One agent for protection, VPN and zero trust access
- Vulnerability scanning with automated patching
- Ties in with Fortinet firewalls

Ask in the demo:

- Confirm which features need Fortinet firewalls
- Test VPN stability for remote staff
- Ask whether EDR needs a separate product

### 7. ESET PROTECT

**[ESET](https://mandos.io/data/companies/eset?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos)**. Cloud-managed endpoint protection, detection and response for businesses

Bratislava, Slovakia · Founded 1987 · Momentum 56/100 (Mandos)

Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001

**Best for:** Smaller teams wanting a light agent

Product page: https://cybersectools.com/tools/eset-business-security

#### At a glance

- Vendor: ESET
- Headquarters: Bratislava, Slovakia
- Founded: 1987
- Deployment: Hybrid
- Company size: Startup, SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
- NIST CSF: Protect, Detect
- Pricing: Contact sales

#### Our take

ESET PROTECT combines endpoint protection with extended detection and response, threat hunting, root cause analysis and detection rules mapped to MITRE ATT&CK. It adds patch management, device control and the LiveGuard cloud sandbox. It runs from one console in the cloud or on premises and connects to Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Entra ID, AWS, ConnectWise Automate, Datto RMM, NinjaOne and Kaseya VSA.

Its place on the list comes from fit with smaller IT teams, because it plugs into the RMM platforms that IT staff and service providers already use. Its size fit runs from startups to enterprise, and you can keep the console on premises if your policy needs that. Check which add-ons you need, since encryption and multi-factor authentication come separately.

#### ESET PROTECT main features

- Cloud console for endpoints, servers and mobiles
- Extended detection and response
- 24/7 managed detection and response option
- Threat hunting across events and alarms
- Search for 30+ indicators of compromise
- Root cause analysis with process trees
- Detection rules mapped to MITRE ATT&CK
- Vulnerability and patch management

#### ESET PROTECT main integrations

Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Microsoft Azure, AWS, Google Cloud Platform, Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft Active Directory, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet FortiGate, ConnectWise Automate, Datto RMM, N-able N-central, N-able RMM, NinjaOne, Kaseya VSA, ATERA, SolarWinds

#### What customers say

Sentiment: 75% positive · 25% mixed · 0% negative (from first-hand public reviews and comments, 2025 to 2026).
Most praised: Support, Speed, Stability.
Most criticized: Missing features, Integrations.

ESET's reputation here is a light, stable agent, so protection runs without slowing computers down or causing trouble. Customers manage it from one central console, and several also use ESET's managed detection and response service and praise the support team for quick, helpful answers. Reviewers on tighter budgets see it as good value too.

#### Before you buy

Where it is strong:

- Light agent that keeps computers fast
- Patch management and encryption in one platform
- Cloud or on-premises management

Ask in the demo:

- Ask which tier includes EDR features
- Check API options if you automate with scripts
- Compare tiers against your device count

## How they fit your cybersecurity program (NIST CSF)

NIST CSF 2.0 has six functions: Govern, Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond and Recover. The grid shows which functions each pick maps to in our record, so you can see where a solution sits in your program and what it leaves to other controls.

All 7 solutions map to Detect. 2 of 7 map to Identify. 4 of 7 map to Protect. 5 of 7 map to Respond. None map to Govern or Recover.

| Solution | Govern | Identify | Protect | Detect | Respond | Recover |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| All solutions on this list | 0 of 7 | 2 of 7 | 4 of 7 | 7 of 7 | 5 of 7 | 0 of 7 |
| CrowdStrike Agentic Endpoint Security | – | – | – | 2 of 2 (Continuous Monitoring, Adverse Event Analysis) | 2 of 4 (Incident Analysis, Incident Mitigation) | – |
| Microsoft Defender for Endpoint | – | 1 of 3 (Risk Assessment) | 1 of 5 (Platform Security) | 2 of 2 (Continuous Monitoring, Adverse Event Analysis) | 2 of 4 (Incident Analysis, Incident Mitigation) | – |
| Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR | – | – | – | 2 of 2 (Continuous Monitoring, Adverse Event Analysis) | 2 of 4 (Incident Analysis, Incident Mitigation) | – |
| Sophos EDR | – | – | 1 of 5 (Platform Security) | 2 of 2 (Continuous Monitoring, Adverse Event Analysis) | 3 of 4 (Incident Management, Incident Analysis, Incident Mitigation) | – |
| TrendAI Vision One Endpoint Security | – | 2 of 3 (Asset Management, Risk Assessment) | – | 2 of 2 (Continuous Monitoring, Adverse Event Analysis) | 2 of 4 (Incident Management, Incident Mitigation) | – |
| Fortinet FortiClient | – | – | 4 of 5 (Identity Management, Authentication, and Access Control, Data Security, Platform Security, Technology Infrastructure Resilience) | 2 of 2 (Continuous Monitoring, Adverse Event Analysis) | – | – |
| ESET PROTECT | – | – | 1 of 5 (Platform Security) | 1 of 2 (Continuous Monitoring) | – | – |

Each cell shows how many of the function's NIST CSF 2.0 categories the solution maps to, with the category names.

A product helps you reach these outcomes, but it does not make you compliant on its own. Your people and processes do the rest.

## CISO checklist for selecting an Endpoint Security product

Work through these steps in order to go from device risk to a contract you can defend.

1. **Count your devices by operating system.** Coverage and price depend on Windows, macOS and Linux numbers.
2. **Check what your current licenses already include.** You may already own capable endpoint protection.
3. **Decide whether you need endpoint only or XDR.** XDR adds data sources and cost.
4. **Run a pilot on busy laptops and servers.** Agent performance is a common complaint.
5. **Test ransomware rollback on a lab machine.** Recovery matters most during a real attack.
6. **Decide who will review alerts every day.** Detection needs someone watching, or a managed service.
7. **Confirm how alerts reach your SIEM and ticketing.** Alerts only help if the right people see them.
8. **Check support for your oldest systems.** Legacy servers are often left uncovered.
9. **Price every module or tier your use cases need.** Advanced features are often sold separately.

**Compare Endpoint Security solutions side by side**

Features, integrations, NIST coverage and deployment for every Endpoint Security solution we list, in one table.

[Compare Endpoint Security solutions →](https://cybersectools.com/compare)

## Other solutions we considered for this shortlist

We looked at 93 products for this list. These did not make the 7 above but are worth a look for the right team.

1. [Mobile Endpoint Security](https://cybersectools.com/tools/mobile-endpoint-security) · Lookout
   Real-time MTD platform protecting iOS, Android & ChromeOS from mobile threats.
2. [Push Security Browser Extension](https://cybersectools.com/tools/push-security-browser-extension) · Push Security
   Browser security for the AI era.
3. [XFA Device Security](https://cybersectools.com/tools/xfa-device-security) · XFA
   BYOD device security: secure managed, personal and contractor devices.
4. [Ping Browser](https://cybersectools.com/tools/ping-browser)
   Chromium-based enterprise browser replacing VDI for secure SaaS access on any device.
5. [IonX Verisys FIM](https://cybersectools.com/tools/ionx-verisys-fim) · IONX Solutions
   File integrity monitoring for Windows, Linux & network devices
6. [Deceptive Bytes Ransomware Defense](https://cybersectools.com/tools/deceptive-bytes-ransomware-defense) · Deceptive Bytes
   Deception-based endpoint agent preventing ransomware & malware pre-execution.
7. [DataSecure RDR](https://cybersectools.com/tools/datasecure-rdr) · Cortex Security S.A.
   AI-powered ransomware detection & response agent with pre-execution blocking.
8. [EasyControl Platform](https://cybersectools.com/tools/easycontrol-platform) · EasyControl
   Unified MDM platform for multi-platform enterprise & dedicated device fleet mgmt.

Explore all Endpoint Security solutions: https://cybersectools.com/categories/endpoint-security

## Conclusion

Start with your stack and your team. If you run Microsoft 365, Defender for Endpoint may already be in your license. If you want a light agent with deep investigation detail, CrowdStrike is the long-time leader, and Cortex XDR suits teams that want endpoint, network and identity alerts in one place.

Sophos and ESET keep management simple for smaller teams, and TrendAI Vision One helps companies with servers that cannot be patched quickly. FortiClient fits companies that already run Fortinet firewalls. For products focused only on detection and response, see our EDR shortlist.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference between endpoint security, EDR and XDR?

Endpoint security is the broad category that protects devices. EDR adds recording, detection and response on the device. XDR adds data from network, identity, email and cloud so you can follow an attack across them.

### Is antivirus still enough?

Not on its own. Many attacks now use stolen logins and built-in system programs that antivirus does not flag, so you also need detection and response.

### Will an endpoint agent slow down my computers?

It can. Several products here get complaints about processor and memory use on some machines, so test the agent on busy laptops and servers before you roll it out.

### Do I need the same vendor for endpoint and firewall?

No, but it can help. Products such as FortiClient and Sophos share data with their own firewalls, which makes some access rules easier.

### Can endpoint security recover files after ransomware?

Some products can roll back encrypted files. Ask each vendor how rollback works and how far back it reaches.

### What about my Linux servers and Macs?

Every product here supports Windows, macOS and Linux, but depth differs by system. Ask for the feature list per operating system and test on your own servers.

## Sources

These are the pages we reviewed for each pick: the vendor's own product page and website, its market data on Mandos, and every review page we read for customer feedback.

1. **CrowdStrike Agentic Endpoint Security** · CrowdStrike: [Product page](https://www.crowdstrike.com/en-us/platform/endpoint-security/) · [CrowdStrike website](https://www.crowdstrike.com/) · [Market data on Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/crowdstrike?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md-sources&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos) · [G2](https://www.g2.com/products/crowdstrike-falcon-endpoint-protection-platform/reviews) · [Gartner Peer Insights](https://www.gartner.com/reviews/product/crowdstrike-falcon) · [PeerSpot](https://www.peerspot.com/products/crowdstrike-falcon-reviews) · [Reddit: any experience on crowdstrike by falcon](https://www.reddit.com/r/sysadmin/comments/n9w05b/any_experience_on_crowdstrike_by_falcon/) · [Reddit: crowdstrike endpoint security](https://www.reddit.com/r/crowdstrike/comments/vxyj14/crowdstrike_endpoint_security/)
2. **Microsoft Defender for Endpoint** · Microsoft: [Product page](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business/endpoint-security/microsoft-defender-endpoint/) · [Microsoft website](https://www.microsoft.com/) · [Market data on Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/microsoft?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md-sources&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos) · [G2](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-defender-for-endpoint/reviews) · [Gartner Peer Insights](https://www.gartner.com/reviews/product/microsoft-defender-for-endpoint) · [PeerSpot](https://www.peerspot.com/products/microsoft-defender-for-endpoint-reviews) · [Reddit: what do you think microsoft defender for endpoint](https://www.reddit.com/r/AskNetsec/comments/11ovlwn/what_do_you_think_microsoft_defender_for_endpoint/) · [Reddit: microsoft defender for endpoint vs windows](https://www.reddit.com/r/DefenderATP/comments/193lavv/microsoft_defender_for_endpoint_vs_windows/) · [Reddit: is defender really a top endpoint security](https://www.reddit.com/r/sysadmin/comments/1et30rx/is_defender_really_a_top_endpoint_security/) · [Reddit: microsoft defender for endpoint](https://www.reddit.com/r/Intune/comments/1etes13/microsoft_defender_for_endpoint/) · [Reddit: how you guys implement defender for endpoint](https://www.reddit.com/r/DefenderATP/comments/1fkfoun/how_you_guys_implement_defender_for_endpoint/)
3. **Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR** · Palo Alto Networks: [Product page](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr/) · [Palo Alto Networks website](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/) · [Market data on Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/palo-alto-networks?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md-sources&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos) · [Gartner Peer Insights](https://www.gartner.com/reviews/product/cortex-xdr) · [Reddit: cortex xdr vs others](https://www.reddit.com/r/cybersecurity/comments/1j7l3i4/cortex_xdr_vs_others/) · [Reddit: should i use palo altos cortex offerings or look](https://www.reddit.com/r/paloaltonetworks/comments/191zj2u/should_i_use_palo_altos_cortex_offerings_or_look/) · [G2](https://www.g2.com/products/palo-alto-networks-cortex-xdr/reviews)
4. **Sophos EDR** · Sophos: [Product page](https://www.sophos.com/en-us/products/endpoint-security/edr) · [Sophos website](https://www.sophos.com/) · [Market data on Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/sophos?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md-sources&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos) · [G2: sophos sophos intercept x](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-sophos-intercept-x/reviews) · [PeerSpot](https://www.peerspot.com/products/sophos-endpoint-reviews) · [Reddit: sophos endpoint significant performance issues](https://www.reddit.com/r/sophos/comments/1h74v3u/sophos_endpoint_significant_performance_issues/) · [Reddit: sophos defender for endpoint](https://www.reddit.com/r/cybersecurity/comments/1kz1w76/sophos_defender_for_endpoint/) · [G2: sophos endpoint](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-endpoint/reviews) · [Reddit: does sophos intercept x include endpoint firewall](https://www.reddit.com/r/sophos/comments/18sqk7o/does_sophos_intercept_x_include_endpoint_firewall/)
5. **TrendAI Vision One Endpoint Security** · Trend Micro: [Product page](https://www.trendaisecurity.com/en-us/platform/endpoint-security) · [Trend Micro website](https://www.trendmicro.com/) · [Market data on Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/trend-micro?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md-sources&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos) · [G2](https://www.g2.com/products/trendai-vision-one-endpoint-security/reviews) · [Gartner Peer Insights](https://www.gartner.com/reviews/product/trendai-vision-one-endpoint-security)
6. **Fortinet FortiClient** · Fortinet: [Product page](https://www.fortinet.com/products/endpoint-security/forticlient/) · [Fortinet website](https://www.fortinet.com/) · [Market data on Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/fortinet?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md-sources&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos) · [G2](https://www.g2.com/products/forticlient/reviews) · [Gartner Peer Insights](https://www.gartner.com/reviews/product/forticlient)
7. **ESET PROTECT** · ESET: [Product page](https://www.eset.com/us/business/protect-platform/) · [ESET website](https://www.eset.com/) · [Market data on Mandos](https://mandos.io/data/companies/eset?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md-sources&utm_campaign=explore-in-mandos) · [Gartner Peer Insights](https://www.gartner.com/reviews/product/eset-protect-platform) · [PeerSpot](https://www.peerspot.com/products/eset-endpoint-protection-platform-reviews) · [Reddit: bitdefender gravityzone business security or eset](https://www.reddit.com/r/antivirus/comments/1iyjo7y/bitdefender_gravityzone_business_security_or_eset/) · [Reddit: does a small business need sentinelone eset](https://www.reddit.com/r/cybersecurity/comments/1rqr90x/does_a_small_business_need_sentinelone_eset/) · [G2](https://www.g2.com/products/eset-protect/reviews) · [Reddit: eset av v eset business solutio](https://www.reddit.com/r/antivirus/comments/1be5qt5/eset_av_v_eset_business_solutio/) · [Reddit: eset small business security query](https://www.reddit.com/r/eset/comments/1uwxyp4/eset_small_business_security_query/)

---

For AI agents: every CybersecTools shortlist is listed at https://cybersectools.com/shortlists.md.

More on the vendors on this list: funding, momentum, hiring and news, plus the full product and company record, are available through the Mandos MCP Server (paid plans), which connects to AI assistants: https://mandos.io/mcp?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=shortlist-md