In the current digital age, cyber threats are more advanced than ever before, and endpoint protection is an essential requirement for businesses and individuals. From malware, ransomware, phishing, and zero-day exploits, cyber attackers are always looking for new methods to breach systems.
An Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) is a type of cybersecurity software that safeguards endpoint devices—computers, servers, and mobile devices—from contemporary cyber threats.
In contrast to conventional antivirus solutions, EPPs leverage cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, behavior analysis, and real-time threat intelligence to identify and block attacks before they can execute.
Most contemporary EPPs also incorporate firewall management, device control, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) functionality, offering total protection for enterprises and individuals alike.
In this blog, we will discuss the 10 top endpoint protection platforms to assist you in selecting the best solution to protect your network and data from constantly changing cyber threats.
Why Do You Need Endpoint Protection Platforms?
Cyber attacks are becoming smarter by the day, and your ordinary antivirus program simply isn’t enough anymore. Here’s why you need Endpoint Protection Platforms:
- Keeping One Step Ahead of Shifting Threats – Cybercrooks continually find new means to get in, but EPPs employ AI, machine learning, and in-the-moment threat detection to block attacks before they have the chance to inflict any harm.
- Total Security – Unlike minimal antivirus software, EPPs come loaded with firewall protection, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and threat removal automatically, providing you with complete protection rather than a band-aid.
- Securing Remote Work – With that many workers out of the office and on the move, endpoints are now the front line in cybersecurity. EPPs prevent attacks on laptops, mobile, and cloud infrastructures so your staff can work anywhere without exposing your data to threats. Here’s why you need them:
- Meeting Compliance Standards – If your company handles sensitive information, chances are you must comply with security standards such as GDPR or HIPAA. EPPs assist with encryption, audit logs, and deep security controls, ensuring compliance is less of a headache and staying out of trouble with the law.
- Preventing Expensive Downtime – A cyberattack can bring your systems down, steal your information, and cost you a small fortune. EPPs actively detect and block threats, avoiding downtime and saving you time and money.
List of 10 Best Endpoint Protection Platforms
1. Trellix Endpoint Security
Trellix Endpoint Security is a cutting-edge cybersecurity tool that aims to safeguard endpoints from emerging threats like malware, ransomware, and zero-day threats. The product uses powerful AI-based threat detection, behavior monitoring, and machine learning to find and block security threats in real time.
Trellix offers proactive threat intelligence combined with endpoint detection and response (EDR) capabilities that enable organizations to effectively detect, investigate, and respond to cybersecurity threats. It also offers unified management for security teams to automate reactions to potential attacks as well as simplify workflows.
Trellix Endpoint Security is designed around being flexible and boosts an organization’s overall cybersecurity stance to make it a trusted option for enterprises looking for effective endpoint protection.
Services offered:
- Advanced Threat Protection
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
- AI-Driven Threat Intelligence
- Behavioral and Machine Learning-Based Analysis
- Ransomware and Malware Protection
- Real-Time Threat Detection and Mitigation
- Centralized Security Management
- Automated Incident Response
- Zero-Day Attack Prevention
- Cloud and On-Premises Deployment Options
Pricing: contact them for pricing of these plans;
- Protect – Basic security with Next-Gen AV, web/device control, firewall, and adaptive threat protection.
- Protect+ – Includes everything in Protect plus application control, Trellix Insights, and Threat Intelligence Exchange (TIE).
- Protect+ with EDR – Adds Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR), endpoint forensics, and 30 days of data retention.
- Enterprise – Includes all features with 90 days of data retention, threat hunting, and Trellix Wise
Website: https://www.trellix.com/products/endpoint-security/
2. ESET
ESET provides various protection plans that are aimed at delivering an all-around cybersecurity solution for personal and business use. ESET’s multi-layered security is comprised of functionalities such as real-time threat detection, anti-phishing tools, firewall, parental control, ransomware shield, and sophisticated machine learning-based security.
Various protection plans from ESET suit various user requirements, ranging from basic antivirus protection to complete internet security and top-notch security suites. They guarantee safe online purchases, identity safety, and safe surfing while keeping the system running smoothly with little overhead. ESET also offers multi-device protection for Windows, macOS, Android, and Linux, making it a great all-around option for cybersecurity requirements.
Services offered:
- Antivirus and Antispyware Protection
- Real-time Threat Detection
- Advanced Machine Learning Security
- Firewall and Network Protection
- Anti-Phishing and Identity Protection
- Ransomware Shield
- Banking & Payment Protection
- Parental Controls
- Multi-Device Security (Windows, macOS, Android, Linux)
- Webcam and Privacy Protection
- Secure Online Shopping and Transactions
- Password Manager
- Data Encryption for Sensitive Files
- Anti-Theft and Device Tracking
- Minimal System Impact and Performance Optimization
Pricing:
- ESET HOME SECURITY ESSENTIAL – ₹1,752 (₹2,190 before discount); includes real-time antivirus, safe banking, firewall, and smart home protection.
- ESET HOME SECURITY PREMIUM – ₹1,553.99 (₹2,589.99 before discount); adds password manager, encryption, and advanced file security.
- ESET HOME SECURITY ULTIMATE – ₹3,234 (₹5,390 before discount); includes unlimited VPN (not in India), enhanced privacy, and identity protection.
Website: https://www.eset.com/in/protection-plans-action/
3. Check Point Harmony Endpoint
Check Point Harmony Endpoint is a next-generation security solution that is specifically built to protect endpoints from cyber attacks like ransomware, phishing, malware, and zero-day attacks.
It offers real-time threat prevention, which ensures that devices are protected from advanced cyberattacks. With anti-ransomware, behavioral analysis, forensics, and automated threat detection capabilities, Harmony Endpoint offers strong security without affecting system performance.
It seamlessly integrates with Check Point’s unified security architecture, providing centralized management, rapid threat remediation, and extensive visibility into security incidents. Organizations use Harmony Endpoint to take advantage of compliance, remote workforce protection, and proactive threat mitigation, making it the perfect solution for organizations of all sizes.
Services offered:
- Real-Time Threat Prevention
- Anti-Ransomware Protection
- Behavioral Analysis & Threat Hunting
- Phishing & Malware Protection
- Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
- Automated Threat Remediation
- Centralized Security Management
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Compliance & Policy Enforcement
- Secure Remote Workforce Protection
Pricing: contact them for pricing of these plans;
- Basic: Provides essential endpoint management and access control features.​
- Advanced: Includes all Basic features plus advanced threat prevention capabilities like anti-ransomware, anti-bot, anti-exploit, anti-malware, behavioral guard, and threat intelligence integration.​
- Complete: Builds upon the Advanced package by adding sandboxing technologies such as threat emulation and threat extraction, enhancing protection against advanced threats.​
- Elite: Offers the most comprehensive protection, incorporating all features from the Complete package along with data protection measures like full disk encryption and removable media encryption.
Website: https://www.checkpoint.com/harmony/endpoint/
4. CrowdStrike Falcon Platform
The CrowdStrike Falcon Platform is a cloud-native cybersecurity platform that uses AI-driven threat detection, real-time response, and proactive threat hunting to defend organizations against cyber attacks. It is developed on a single lightweight agent that offers full endpoint protection, identity threat defense, cloud security, and threat intelligence without affecting system performance.
With features such as next-generation antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), extended detection and response (XDR), and proactive threat intelligence, the Falcon Platform enables organizations to remain one step ahead of complex cyberattacks. It integrates with zero trust security architectures with ease, offering visibility and control on endpoints, workloads, identities, and data.
Services offered:
- Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV)
- Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
- Extended Detection & Response (XDR)
- Threat Intelligence
- Identity Threat Protection
- Cloud Security
- Threat Hunting
- Zero Trust Security
- IT Hygiene & Asset Management
- Managed Detection & Response (MDR)
Pricing:
- Falcon Go – $59.99/device/year; includes next-gen antivirus, device control, mobile protection, and express support.
- Falcon Pro – $99.99/device/year; adds firewall management to all Go features.
- Falcon Enterprise – $184.99/device/year; includes everything in Pro plus endpoint detection and response (EDR) and threat hunting.
Website: https://www.crowdstrike.com/platform/
5. Sophos Endpoint Protection
Sophos Endpoint Protection is a robust cybersecurity product that is designed to safeguard organizations from malware, ransomware, exploits, and other sophisticated cyber threats.
It is fueled by AI-powered threat detection, real-time behavioral monitoring, and deep learning technology, which provides advanced defense against known and unknown threats.
With functionalities such as next-gen antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), extended detection and response (XDR), and anti-ransomware protection, it provides multi-layered security for endpoints. Also, cloud-based centralized management through Sophos Central allows IT administrators to track, manage, and react to security incidents effectively.
Services offered:
- Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV)
- Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
- Extended Detection & Response (XDR)
- Anti-Ransomware Protection
- AI-powered threat Detection
- Behavioral Analysis & Deep Learning
- Web & Application Control
- Centralized Cloud-Based Management
- Automated Threat Response
- Device & Network Exploit Prevention
Pricing: Customized pricing
Website: Sophos Endpoint powered by Intercept X
6. Broadcom Carbon Black Endpoint Protection
Broadcom Carbon Black Endpoint Protection is a next-generation cybersecurity product intended to protect organizations from malware, ransomware, and sophisticated cyber threats. By leveraging AI-driven behavioral analytics, real-time threat intelligence, and machine learning, it actively identifies and blocks attacks before they do any damage.
With capabilities such as next-gen antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), extended detection and response (XDR), and automated threat prevention, Carbon Black offers complete endpoint security without affecting system performance. Its cloud-native design provides smooth integration, enabling companies to track and respond to threats efficiently.
Services offered:
- Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV)
- Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
- Extended Detection & Response (XDR)
- Behavioral Analytics & Threat Hunting
- AI-Powered Threat Detection
- Ransomware & Malware Protection
- Cloud-Native Security Architecture
- Automated Threat Prevention & Response
- Forensic Analysis & Incident Investigation
- Centralized Security Management
Pricing: Customized pricing
Website: https://www.broadcom.com/products/carbon-black/threat-prevention/endpoint-protection
7. Cisco Secure Endpoint
Cisco Secure Endpoint is a cutting-edge cybersecurity platform that safeguards organizations against malware, ransomware, phishing, and advanced cyberattacks. With AI-powered threat detection, real-time monitoring, and automated response, it ensures enterprise-grade endpoint security without performance degradation.
Based on next-gen antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), extended detection and response (XDR), and integrated threat intelligence, Cisco Secure Endpoint provides proactive protection against known and emerging threats. Its cloud-native design guarantees effortless scalability, unified management, and quick threat containment on all endpoints.
Services offered:
- Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV)
- Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
- Extended Detection & Response (XDR)
- AI-Powered Threat Detection
- Behavioral Analytics & Threat Intelligence
- Ransomware & Malware Protection
- Automated Threat Response & Remediation
- Cloud-Native Security Architecture
- Centralized Security Management
- Integration with Cisco Security Ecosystem
Pricing: contact them for pricing of these plans;
- Essentials – Offers threat prevention powered by Cisco Talos, blocking threats globally and enabling one-click isolation of infected hosts.
- Advantage – Includes advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) with simplified security investigations and access to malware analysis and threat intelligence.
- Premier – Provides proactive threat hunting by Cisco’s security experts, delivering high-fidelity alerts and remediation recommendations.
Website: https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/products/security/endpoint-security/secure-endpoint/index.html
8. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is an endpoint security solution that secures organizations from cyber attacks, ransomware, malware, and advanced attacks.
Employing AI-driven threat detection, behavioral monitoring, and real-time threat visibility enables businesses to identify, investigate, and respond to security threats in an efficient manner. The solution encompasses next-gen antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), extended detection and response (XDR), and automated threat remediation, which provides an active security stance.
With zero-trust integration, cloud-based security management, and effortless compatibility with Microsoft 365 security solutions, Defender for Endpoint provides enterprise-level security across Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.
Services offered:
- Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV)
- Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
- Extended Detection & Response (XDR)
- Threat Intelligence & Behavioral Analytics
- Automated Threat Investigation & Remediation
- Ransomware & Malware Protection
- Vulnerability Management & Attack Surface Reduction
- Cloud-Based Security & Zero Trust Integration
- Automated Attack Disruption
- Seamless Integration with Microsoft Security Tools
Pricing: contact them for pricing of these plans;
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoint P1 – Included with Microsoft 365 E3 – Provides foundational security with next-gen antimalware, attack surface reduction, device control, firewall, and web protection.
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoint P2 – Included with Microsoft 365 E5 – Includes everything in P1 plus endpoint detection and response (EDR), automated investigation, threat intelligence, and vulnerability management
Website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business/endpoint-security/microsoft-defender-endpoint
9. Trend Micro Endpoint Security
Trend Micro Endpoint Security is a robust cybersecurity offering that protects enterprises against malware, ransomware, phishing, and sophisticated cyberattacks. It incorporates AI-powered threat detection, behavior-based protection, and automated response to block security breaches.
Offering next-gen antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), extended detection and response (XDR), application control, vulnerability protection, and cloud-based protection, it offers strong protection to endpoints on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android devices.
Trend Micro’s Zero Trust security strategy, threat intelligence in real-time, and cloud integration make it easy for businesses to detect, investigate, and respond to cyber threats in advance.
Services offered:
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
- Extended Detection and Response (XDR)
- Application Control and Vulnerability Protection
- Behavior-Based Ransomware Protection
- Web Security and URL Filtering
- Cloud-Based Threat Intelligence
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Zero Trust Security Integration
- AI-Powered Threat Detection
- Automated Patch Management
- Compliance and Regulatory Support
- Device Control (USB & Peripheral Protection)
- Network Attack Protection
- Email and Phishing Protection
Pricing: Customized pricing
Website: https://www.trendmicro.com/en_us/business/products/endpoint-security.html
10. Arctic Wolf Cylance
Arctic Wolf Cylance uses AI and machine learning to provide smart endpoint security technologies that prevent attacks in advance from occurring. Targeted at ensuring businesses are defended against malware, ransomware, and zero-days, Cylance works through a predictive manner, blocking the threat before they can execute an attack.
Operating with a small agent and a cloud-based environment, it continuously monitors threats, offers automated responses, and natively integrates into security operations.
Through the integration of AI-powered prevention and 24/7 managed detection and response (MDR) services, Arctic Wolf Cylance assists organizations in fortifying their cybersecurity stance while decreasing complexity and operational burden.
Services offered:
- AI-Powered Threat Prevention
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
- Next-Generation Antivirus (NGAV)
- Malware and Ransomware Protection
- Zero-Day Threat Prevention
- Managed Detection and Response (MDR)
- Cloud-Based Threat Intelligence
- Behavioral Threat Analysis
- Automated Incident Response
- Security Operations Integration
Pricing: contact them
Website: https://arcticwolf.com/cylance/
How to Choose the Right Endpoint Protection Platform?
Choosing the right Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) may seem daunting, but it’s one of the most significant choices for securing your business from cyber threats such as malware, ransomware, and phishing. So let’s walk through this step by step in a manner that really does make sense.
1. Define Your Security Requirements
Take some time to look at what your business actually needs before you jump into comparing costs and features.
- How many devices must you safeguard? (Laptops, servers, mobile devices, IoT devices?)
- Do you have any industry requirements you must abide by (such as HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI DSS)?
- What type of threats worry you most? (Phishing, ransomware, insider threats?)
Having these answers will keep you from overspending on features you don’t require—or worse, from ending up with a solution that doesn’t completely secure you.
2. Seek Out Essential Security Features
All good EPPs must include the fundamentals, but some have additional layers of security. What to expect:
a. Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV)
You can’t just rely on traditional antivirus anymore. Next-gen antivirus leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to catch known and unknown threats, safeguarding your endpoints against new types of cyberattacks.
b. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
This is more than just blocking threats—it watches for device activity in the moment so you can catch and respond to sophisticated attacks before they can harm.
c. Behavior-Based Threat Detection
Rather than basing detection on a database of known malware, this approach examines patterns of behavior to detect suspicious activity—even if it’s an entirely new attack nobody has ever encountered.
d. Ransomware Protection
With ransomware becoming more common, seek out an EPP that can identify and block ransomware in real-time and (where possible) automatically restore encrypted files to their unencrypted form.
e. Web Filtering & URL Protection
Phishing remains the largest of all cyber menaces. An effective EPP ought to be able to deny access to offending sites and prevent workers from opening threatening links.
f. Device Control & USB Security
If staff members can plug in USB drives or attach external devices, that is a risk potential. An EPP with device control allows you to have control over USB access and keep malware from entering.
g. Firewall & Network Protection
Your devices may be safe, but cybercriminals can attempt to find their way in through your network. A good firewall and network protection will keep suspicious traffic and unauthorized entry at bay.
h. Patch Management
One of the easiest ways hackers get in? Outdated software. A good EPP should automatically update and patch vulnerabilities before cybercriminals can exploit them.
i. Zero Trust Architecture
“Zero Trust” means no device or user gets access to your system without being verified first. It’s a must-have for organizations handling sensitive data.
3. Cloud-Based vs. On-Premises: Which One Is Right for You?
You’ll need to decide between cloud-based and on-premises endpoint protection.
- Cloud-Based EPP – Easier to implement and manage, plays well with remote teams, and doesn’t need on-premises hardware.
- On-Premises EPP – Greater control over your security policies, typically used by industries with rigorous data privacy regulations.
If your team is remote or you need a solution that easily scales, cloud-based is the solution. If you’re handling sensitive, regulated data, you may prefer an on-premises solution.
4. Select an EPP That's Simple to Manage
A great security solution is not worth it if it’s hard to manage. Look for:
- A centralized platform that lets you track all the devices.
- Automated updates to free up your IT team’s time.
- Integration with other tools such as SIEM, SOC, or threat intelligence solutions.
If security management is a part-time job, then a managed detection and response (MDR) solution may be the way to go—where experts watch for threats on your behalf.
5. Performance Counts: Don't Slow Down Your Endpoints
Security software can be so resource-intensive that it slows down your endpoints, frustrating your users. Monitor how much CPU and memory the solution takes, and whether it has the ability to perform light scanning that won’t interfere with regular work.
6. Beyond Detection: How Quick To Respond?
Identifying a cyber threat is one thing—how fast does the system react is the real question.
- Automated threat remediation that acts without human intervention is what you should look for.
- Some solutions provide threat intelligence, providing you with information on emerging attacks.
- Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services can offer 24/7 expert assistance to scan and contain threats before they spread.
7. Remain Compliant with Industry Regulations
If your organization must comply with HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS, or similar policies, ensure that the EPP has:
- Audit logs and compliance check reporting capabilities.
- Encryption for data and controls on access for sensitive data protection.
- Incident response functionality for rapid handling of security incidents.
8. Pricing & Licensing: What's the Best Deal
Not all EPPs have the same business model. Some bill per device, and some bill per user (which could be more financially efficient if you have multiple devices per user).
- Basic versus premium plans – Do you necessarily need the sophisticated features, or will a mid-range plan do?
- Add-ons at extra cost – Some companies charge extra for EDR, MDR, or enhanced analytics.
- Free trials and refunds – Testing before you buy can save you cash and frustration.
9. Vendor Reputation & Customer Support
Even the finest software can get stuck, so strong customer support is important. Before you make a decision:
- Check reviews from other businesses in your industry.
- Check for third-party test results (from companies such as AV-TEST or MITRE).
- See if the vendor offers 24/7 support by phone, email, or chat.
A vendor providing frequent updates and threat intelligence reports is a benefit, as cyber threats change quickly.
Conclusion
As cyber threats continue to evolve, selecting the right Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) is essential for the protection of your business. The products identified in this list provide a combination of next-generation threat detection, real-time response, and proactive defense to protect your endpoints. From AI-driven security, automated remediation, or effortless integration, there’s a platform with the capabilities you’re looking for.
Investing in the appropriate EPP not only provides better security but also improves the efficiency of operations by reducing risk and downtime. Ultimately, good endpoint protection is the key to being ahead of the game in today’s ever-changing digital environment.
FAQs
What makes an EPP different from typical antivirus programs?
Whereas the typical antivirus program is signature-based, the EPP relies on AI, machine learning, and behavior-based analysis to find and block attacks before they produce any damage.
Is it possible for endpoint protection platforms to mitigate ransomware attacks?
Yes, many contemporary EPPs provide protection against ransomware by tracking anomalous file encryption behavior and halting evil processes before execution.
Do I require an endpoint protection platform if I have a firewall already?
Yes! A firewall guards network traffic, while an EPP safeguards individual devices against malware, phishing, and unauthorized access—adding an additional layer of defense.
Is cloud-based endpoint protection superior to on-premise?
Cloud solutions provide quicker updates, improved scalability, and remote administration, so they are the best for organizations with dispersed workers. On-premises, though, could be best suited to sectors where there are high data security mandates.
Can endpoint protection platforms benefit small businesses?
Yes! Threats are common across all types of businesses. A quality EPP will benefit small businesses in guarding confidential data, stopping breaches, and reducing downtime.
