Top 9 Business Antivirus Software for Your Cybersecurity Needs in 2024

December 24, 2024

In 2023, experts found that 3 out of 4 businesses in the U.S. were at risk of a serious cyberattack. 

That’s a huge number, and it shows how common these threats are now. For any business, a cyberattack can mean losing important data, losing money, or hurting your reputation.

That’s why having the right tools, like antivirus software, is so important. It helps protect your data, keep your business running smoothly, and stay safe from online threats. 

Let’s break down how business antivirus software can protect you and explore some of the best options for 2024.

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Why you need a business antivirus

Do businesses need antivirus solutions?

The short answer is yes. Antivirus software is essential for small businesses, regardless of size, to protect against a variety of cyber threats. Here’s why:

Protecting business data and devices

Business antivirus software is designed to safeguard sensitive data, including customer information, financial records, and intellectual property. Malware attacks and viruses can corrupt or steal this data, leading to significant financial losses and reputational damage. 

For instance, ransomware attacks lock your business data and demand payment for its release. One of the best antivirus software benefits is that it provides ransomware protection, ensuring your critical business information remains secure.

Defending against advanced cyber threats

Modern antivirus programs go beyond detecting and removing traditional viruses. They offer comprehensive protection against spyware, phishing attacks, and zero-day exploits. 

With features like real-time antivirus protection and endpoint protection, businesses can defend their networks and devices from evolving cyber threats.

What can antivirus for business detect on your systems?

Below are some of the most critical threats that business antivirus software can detect and eliminate. 

Malware

Malware is an umbrella term for malicious software, including viruses, worms, and Trojans. Business antivirus software identifies and removes these harmful programs before they can infiltrate your network. 

For example, Bitdefender Antivirus uses real-time scanning and machine learning to detect malware quickly, which is one of the top antivirus software benefits.

Ransomware

Ransomware encrypts your business data and demands payment for its release. 

Advanced business antivirus solutions like Norton Small Business provide dedicated ransomware protection, ensuring critical files are backed up and shielded from unauthorized encryption attempts.

Spyware and Keyloggers

Spyware secretly monitors your activities, while keyloggers record your keystrokes to steal passwords and sensitive information. 

Antivirus software designed for small businesses detects and blocks these threats to protect financial and personal data.

Phishing attacks

Many business antivirus solutions now include phishing protection, which prevents employees from falling victim to fraudulent emails designed to steal login credentials or deliver malicious payloads. 

Tools like Avast Ultimate Business Security flag suspicious links and websites in real-time.

Zero-day threats

Zero-day threats exploit vulnerabilities that developers have not yet patched. The best business antivirus software uses next-generation technology, such as behavioral analysis and machine learning, to identify these emerging risks.

What to look for in an antivirus for small businesses

Cybersecurity features to look for in the best antivirus protection

When selecting an antivirus solution, it’s essential to prioritize the features that align with your business needs. Here’s what to consider among all the best benefits of antivirus software. 

Real-time protection

Real-time antivirus protection ensures threats are detected and neutralized as they occur. This is especially important for businesses handling sensitive customer data.

Endpoint protection

With remote work on the rise, endpoint protection is crucial for securing devices like laptops and smartphones connected to your business network. Solutions like Norton Small Business and Bitdefender excel in this area.

Ransomware protection

Look for business antivirus software with specific features designed to combat ransomware, such as data encryption monitoring and automatic backups.

VPN integration

A built-in VPN can protect your business by encrypting internet traffic, which is especially useful for remote teams or businesses handling sensitive transactions.

Cloud management

Cloud-based management tools allow business owners to monitor and control business antivirus solutions across multiple devices from a centralized dashboard.

Scalability

Choose antivirus software that can grow with your business. Whether you’re a small startup or a midsize company, scalability ensures the solution remains effective as your needs evolve — which is among the top antivirus software benefits.

Top business antivirus software in 2024

9 best business antivirus software in 2024

Choosing the right antivirus software for your business can feel overwhelming, given the vast number of options available. Here are nine of the best business antivirus solutions for 2024, along with their features, pros, and cons:

1. Norton Small Business

Norton Small Business offers comprehensive protection against malware, viruses, and ransomware. Its easy-to-use interface and excellent customer support make it a top choice for small business owners as an antivirus.

  • Pros: Includes VPN and identity theft protection; excellent malware detection rates.
  • Cons: Can be expensive for larger teams.

2. Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security

This software is known for its robust endpoint protection and advanced features, such as anti-ransomware and behavioral monitoring.

  • Pros: Lightweight, fast, and highly customizable.
  • Cons: Requires technical knowledge for full setup.

3. Avast Ultimate Business Security

A versatile option that combines business antivirus, VPN, and ransomware protection in one package, making it ideal for businesses looking for the best antivirus software benefits.

  • Pros: Affordable plans; user-friendly interface.
  • Cons: Some advanced features are only available in premium versions.

4. Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business

Kaspersky offers a high level of protection against malware and ransomware, along with robust management tools for business networks.

  • Pros: Strong threat detection; scalable for businesses of all sizes.
  • Cons: Recent controversies about data privacy.

5. McAfee Endpoint Security

Known for its consistent performance, McAfee delivers enterprise-level security features for small and midsize businesses looking for the best antivirus solutions. 

  • Pros: Excellent centralized management; extensive threat intelligence database.
  • Cons: Can slow down older systems.

6. Sophos Intercept X for Business

Sophos provides AI-driven malware detection and robust encryption tools for added security.

  • Pros: Top-tier ransomware protection; cloud-based management.
  • Cons: Limited features in lower-tier plans.

7. Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security

This software offers a streamlined solution for businesses, with specific tools for protecting cloud apps like Microsoft 365.

  • Pros: Easy to deploy; includes anti-phishing tools.
  • Cons: Less effective for advanced, persistent threats.

8. ESET Endpoint Security

ESET stands out for its minimal system impact and customizable security options tailored to small business needs.

  • Pros: Lightweight; strong phishing and spyware protection.
  • Cons: The interface may be less intuitive for beginners.

9. Panda Endpoint Protection

Panda offers affordable plans with features like real-time monitoring, VPN, and endpoint security for small businesses.

  • Pros: Budget-friendly; effective ransomware defense.
  • Cons: Limited customer support options.

Top 7 benefits of antivirus software for businesses

Antivirus software offers businesses an essential line of defense against evolving cyber threats. From securing sensitive data to ensuring seamless operations, here are the top benefits of using business antivirus solutions:

1. Comprehensive malware protection

Business antivirus software is designed to detect and remove a wide range of malware, including viruses, Trojans, worms, and spyware. 

Solutions like Bitdefender Antivirus provide robust malware protection by scanning files, emails, and downloads for malicious activity. This ensures that sensitive business data remains secure and operational downtime is minimized.

2. Ransomware defense

Modern antivirus programs include ransomware protection to safeguard businesses from one of the most devastating cyber threats. 

Features like file encryption monitoring and automatic data backups ensure that data can be recovered without paying a ransom, even if an attack occurs. 

For instance, Norton Small Business excels in offering multiple layers of protection against ransomware.

3. Endpoint security for remote workforce

With the rise of remote work, securing multiple devices connected to a business network is critical. 

Antivirus solutions for small businesses often include endpoint protection that defends laptops, mobile devices, and other remote systems from cyber threats. 

This feature ensures businesses can operate securely, even in a decentralized work environment.

4. Real-time threat detection

Antivirus software provides real-time antivirus protection, meaning threats are detected and neutralized as they emerge. This is probably one of the most important benefits of antivirus software. 

This proactive approach is essential for businesses that rely heavily on online transactions, cloud services, and email communication. 

Tools like Avast Ultimate Business Security specialize in stopping attacks before they infiltrate your systems.

5. Data and identity theft protection

Businesses handle a vast amount of sensitive information, from customer details to financial records. 

Antivirus programs help prevent identity theft and unauthorized access to this data through encryption, firewalls, and secure VPNs. 

The integration of tools like Norton Secure VPN adds an extra layer of security for business transactions.

6. Improved productivity

Malware infections can slow down devices and disrupt workflows, leading to reduced productivity. 

By using the best business antivirus software, companies can keep their systems running smoothly, ensuring employees can focus on their tasks without interruptions caused by cyber threats.

7. Regulatory compliance

For industries that handle sensitive data, such as healthcare or finance, maintaining regulatory compliance is a must. 

Business antivirus solutions often come with features designed to meet compliance standards, such as encrypted storage and secure access controls, reducing the risk of fines and legal complications.

Common practices to prevent viruses on your business system

While antivirus software provides robust protection for small businesses, implementing best practices is equally important in keeping your business systems virus-free. Here are actionable steps every business should take:

  • Regular software updates: Ensure operating systems, antivirus programs, and other software are updated regularly to fix vulnerabilities.
  • Employee training: Educate staff about phishing emails, suspicious links, and safe browsing habits.
  • Strong password policies: Use complex passwords and implement two-factor authentication across all systems.
  • Restrict access: Limit user access to sensitive data and systems to only those who need it.
  • Backup data frequently: Keep regular backups of critical business data to mitigate ransomware risks.
  • Secure networks: Use firewalls, VPNs, and endpoint protection to safeguard your business network.
  • Conduct routine security audits: Periodically review your security measures to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Combining these practices with the best antivirus software for businesses creates a multi-layered defense system that significantly reduces the likelihood of a cyberattack.

Protect your business today with AlwaysOnIT

Cybersecurity threats are growing more sophisticated by the day. Don’t let your business become another statistic. 

With AlwaysOnIT, you gain access to cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions and expert support to keep your operations safe and secure. 

Contact us today to learn how we can help you protect your business and ensure your systems are equipped with the top benefits of antivirus software. 

Let us simplify cybersecurity so you can focus on what truly matters—growing your business.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best antivirus software for small businesses in 2024?

The best antivirus software for small businesses in 2024 includes solutions like Norton Small Business, Bitdefender Antivirus, and Avast Ultimate Business Security. 

These options provide comprehensive antivirus protection, including features like ransomware protection, VPN integration, and real-time antivirus to safeguard against malware and viruses. 

Each of these solutions is specifically designed for small business environments with advanced endpoint protection and business security features.

Why do small businesses need business antivirus software?

Companies need business antivirus software to protect them against cyber threats such as malware, ransomware, and data breaches. 

A reliable antivirus solution not only defends your business network but also ensures your business data is secure. 

With threats constantly evolving, antivirus software helps business owners maintain business security and focus on their operations without the risk of cyberattacks.

What are the key features of the best business antivirus software?

The best business antivirus software includes features like real-time antivirus protection, ransomware protection, identity theft protection, and software updater tools. 

Solutions like Norton Antivirus and Bitdefender Antivirus offer security features tailored to business needs. These features protect business devices, secure mobile devices, and provide endpoint protection, ensuring layers of protection for your business from viruses and other threats.

Can I use free antivirus software for my small business?

While free antivirus software may provide basic protection, it often lacks the advanced antivirus features and protection against malware needed for businesses. 

Consumer antivirus software is typically not sufficient for safeguarding business devices or addressing business security solutions. 

Small business antivirus software, such as Norton Small Business or Avast Ultimate Business Security, offers the robust security software required to meet business needs.

How does antivirus software protect my business from ransomware and other cyber threats?

Modern antivirus software offers specialized ransomware protection, malware protection, and next-generation antivirus technology to detect and neutralize threats before they infiltrate your systems. 

Tools like antivirus software for 2024 include business antivirus solutions with protection features like encryption monitoring, secure backups, and VPN integration. 

These security solutions are designed to help businesses defend against cybersecurity risks effectively.

How do I choose the best antivirus software for my business?

To choose the best antivirus software, consider factors like business needs, scalability, and the specific security features offered. Look for solutions that provide business antivirus protection, endpoint protection, and advanced tools such as software updater and identity theft protection. 

Norton Antivirus, Bitdefender Antivirus, and award-winning antivirus programs are excellent options that deliver reliable antivirus protection for small businesses.

What antivirus software is designed for small businesses with premium features?

Solutions like Norton Small Business, Bitdefender Antivirus, and Avast Ultimate Business Security are designed for small businesses with premium business features. 

These programs include real-time antivirus, antivirus app capabilities, and advanced business antivirus software tools to keep your business secure. Their business plans are tailored to provide protection and security for both business owners and midsize businesses.