Top 4 Best Antivirus for MSPs

As an MSP, selecting the right antivirus solution is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make for your clients’ cybersecurity. With nearly three-quarters of small businesses reporting a cyber attack in 2022, it is essential to be able to provide SMBs with adequate cybersecurity solutions such as antivirus. 

With countless antivirus options on the market, each touting its features and benefits, it can be overwhelming to determine which best fits your unique needs.

This article will discuss the top antivirus solutions tailored for MSPs, providing you with the insights needed to make an informed choice that will keep your clients safe and your business thriving.

Keep reading to learn about the best antiviruses for MSPs, what makes them stand out, and which one is right for you. 

Key Takeaways

• Microsoft Defender for Business offers AI-driven threat detection and affordable plans suitable for SMBs.
• Apple Security provides seamless macOS integration with built-in features like Gatekeeper and FileVault.
• Avast One Platinum combines real-time monitoring, advanced threat detection, and performance optimization in one solution.
• Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium excels with layered protection, including sandboxing and ransomware defense.
• Key considerations for MSPs include scalability, integration with existing tools, and ease of deployment.
• Additional measures like Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and security awareness training enhance overall cybersecurity.
• Guardz combines state-of-the-art antivirus software with comprehensive unified detection and response for complete cybersecurity coverage. 

1. Microsoft Defender for Business

Microsoft Defender for Business is an enterprise-grade, AI-powered security solution tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses (up to 300 users). 

It delivers comprehensive protection against various cyber threats, including ransomware, malware, and phishing attacks. 

With a user-friendly interface and simplified management tools, this solution allows MSPs to effectively secure client environments across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices.

Let’s discuss its key features.

Key Features of Microsoft Defender for Business

Microsoft Defender for Business combines advanced antivirus capabilities with comprehensive endpoint security tools to provide a complete cybersecurity package. 

Below is a detailed look at its key features:

Next-Generation Antivirus Protection

At the heart of Microsoft Defender for Business lies its next-generation antivirus system. It uses AI-driven technology to identify, block, and eliminate known and emerging threats, including zero-day vulnerabilities. 

For MSPs, this means delivering cutting-edge protection to clients, reducing the risk of malware and ransomware attacks across their networks. Some of the essential features here include:

• Real-Time Threat Monitoring: Continuously scans systems for malicious activity and neutralizes threats as they emerge.
• Cloud-Powered Updates: Ensures antivirus definitions and threat intelligence are always up to date without manual intervention.
• Cross-Platform Coverage: Protects devices running Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, making it a versatile option for diverse client environments.

Vulnerability Management

This tool identifies software vulnerabilities and misconfigurations that could expose clients to attacks. MSPs can prioritize these risks and proactively address them to strengthen overall security.

Automated Investigation and Remediation

Automation handles most security incidents, from identification to resolution. This streamlines the remediation process, allowing MSPs to focus on other critical tasks while ensuring rapid threat mitigation.

Simplified Management Console

The centralized management interface offers a unified view of all security incidents, devices, and vulnerabilities. With out-of-the-box policies and wizard-based onboarding, MSPs can quickly deploy and manage security solutions across multiple clients.

Pricing for Microsoft Defender for Business

Microsoft Defender for Business is competitively priced to provide enterprise-grade security at an affordable rate, with two main options being available, as follows:

• Microsoft Defender for Business (Standalone): $3.00 per user per month (billed annually). This plan includes antivirus, endpoint detection and response, vulnerability management, and more for up to 300 users and five devices per user.
• Microsoft 365 Business Premium: $22.00 per user per month (billed annually). This premium package includes Defender for Business plus additional security features, such as:
  • Microsoft Intune for device and app management.
  • Advanced email protection with Microsoft Defender for Office 365 P1.
  • Data protection tools like Microsoft Purview for data loss prevention.

Both plans offer a 30-day free trial, allowing MSPs to evaluate the solution before committing.

Pros and Cons of Microsoft Defender for Business

Microsoft Defender for Business is a great solution for MSPs, and it has several benefits worth mentioning, as well as a couple of drawbacks. 

Pros

• Affordable Pricing: At $3.00 per user per month, it provides enterprise-grade protection at a fraction of the cost of similar solutions.
• Robust Antivirus Capabilities: AI-powered threat detection and cloud-based updates ensure comprehensive protection.
• Easy Management: The simplified console and pre-configured policies make deployment and management straightforward for MSPs.
• Broad Device Support: Covers all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

Cons

• User Limitations: The standalone plan caps users at 300, making it unsuitable for larger organizations.
• Add-On Costs: Server protection and some advanced features require additional fees, which could increase costs for MSPs with extensive server deployments.

Why Microsoft Defender for Business Is an Ideal Antivirus Solution for MSPs

Microsoft Defender for Business is particularly suited for MSPs because it combines powerful antivirus tools with ease of management. 

The advanced antivirus engine ensures clients are protected against the latest threats, while automated features reduce the need for hands-on intervention. With the addition of vulnerability management and endpoint detection, it offers a complete security package for small and medium-sized businesses.

The premium version, available through Microsoft 365 Business Premium, adds email protection, device management, and advanced data security, making it an attractive option for MSPs managing complex client environments. 

For MSPs seeking cost-effective, comprehensive, and scalable cybersecurity solutions, Microsoft Defender for Business is a top-tier choice. 

However, for complete cybersecurity coverage, including premiere detection and response capabilities, Guardz is a fantastic alternative to consider. 

2. Apple Security

Apple Security is a built-in security solution designed to protect macOS environments. It combines advanced antivirus capabilities with a suite of security features tailored to safeguard against malware, ransomware, and phishing threats.

For MSPs, Apple Security offers integration with macOS, user-friendly management, and reliable automatic updates. This makes it an excellent choice for maintaining endpoint security with minimal manual intervention.

Let’s discuss its key features and why it’s an ideal option for MSPs.

Key Features of Apple Security

Apple Security delivers a comprehensive range of antivirus tools and system protections. Below is an in-depth look at its core features:

Gatekeeper

Gatekeeper is Apple’s first line of defense against malware. It ensures that only trusted applications can run on macOS devices. It verifies app authenticity, blocks unauthorized software, and prevents malware installation.

This minimizes infections and reduces support tickets for MSPs, making it ideal for clients frequently downloading apps from diverse sources without disrupting workflows.

XProtect

XProtect, Apple’s built-in antivirus solution, silently scans files and applications against an updated database of known malware. It quarantines threats automatically and notifies users when issues are detected. With real-time detection and background operation, XProtect provides reliable malware protection.

Malware Removal Tool

The Malware Removal Tool scans devices periodically to identify and remove malware that bypasses other defenses. Targeting persistent threats ensures systems remain clean and secure.

Secure Boot and System Integrity Protection (SIP)

Secure Boot verifies that only trusted Apple software runs during startup, while SIP blocks unauthorized modifications to critical system files. These features establish a trusted chain of security, maintaining system stability. For MSPs, they reduce vulnerabilities to malware and ensure secure startup processes across client devices.

FileVault

FileVault encrypts macOS storage volumes to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access, even in theft cases. Its AES encryption and secure remote wipe capabilities reduce data breach risks. For MSPs, it ensures compliance with security policies, making it an essential tool for safeguarding sensitive client information.

Pricing for Apple Security

Apple Security’s built-in features, including Gatekeeper, XProtect, and the Malware Removal Tool, are included with macOS at no additional cost. This makes it a cost-effective antivirus solution for MSPs managing macOS endpoints.

For businesses requiring more advanced capabilities or centralized management, third-party endpoint protection solutions designed for macOS are available, typically priced between $5 and $15 per user per month.

Pros and Cons of Apple Security

Apple Security is a reliable and efficient solution for macOS, but it has certain advantages and limitations worth noting:

Pros

• Seamless Integration: Fully integrated into macOS, ensuring consistent performance and compatibility.
• Automatic Updates: Continuous updates to XProtect and the Malware Removal Tool keep devices protected from emerging threats.
• Unobtrusive Operation: Runs silently in the background, minimizing user disruptions and support requests.
• No Added Cost: Included with macOS, providing significant value for MSPs managing macOS-exclusive environments.

Cons

• Limited Customization: Lacks advanced configuration options available in third-party antivirus solutions.
• Mac-Only Focus: Exclusively designed for macOS, limiting its utility in mixed-OS environments.
• No Centralized Dashboard: MSPs may require additional tools to monitor and manage multiple endpoints effectively.

Why Apple Security Is an Ideal Antivirus Solution for MSPs

Apple Security offers a dependable and cost-efficient antivirus solution for MSPs managing macOS endpoints. Its core antivirus tools provide comprehensive malware protection while operating automatically in the background.

The integration with macOS ensures smooth performance, while advanced features like FileVault and Secure Boot add layers of data security and system integrity. Although it lacks cross-platform capabilities and centralized management, it remains an excellent choice for macOS-exclusive environments.

Let’s examine the key features of AVG Ultimate Antivirus.

3. Avast One Platinum Antivirus Software

Avast One Platinum is a premium antivirus solution that delivers advanced threat detection and protection for individuals and businesses. 

It provides an all-in-one package with antivirus tools, identity theft protection, and performance-enhancing features to safeguard devices and sensitive data. 

For MSPs, Avast One Platinum offers tools like cloud-based analysis and behavior monitoring, making it an excellent choice for effectively and efficiently securing client systems.

Let’s discuss its key features and why it’s a strong choice for MSPs.

Key Features of Avast One Platinum Antivirus Software

Avast One Platinum delivers a comprehensive suite of antivirus tools and additional security features. 

Below is an in-depth look at its core capabilities:

Smart Scan

Smart Scan identifies hidden vulnerabilities by thoroughly scanning devices for malware, outdated software, and weak passwords. It provides actionable insights to fix these issues promptly.

CyberCapture

CyberCapture automatically sends suspicious files to Avast’s cloud for analysis and provides real-time threat detection. It delivers swift responses by creating and distributing cures for detected threats. This feature benefits MSPs by minimizing false positives and ensuring swift remediation of potential risks without manual intervention.

Behavior Shield

Behavior Shield monitors app activity for suspicious behavior, immediately alerting users to potential threats. It provides real-time insights into unusual activity, such as unauthorized file modifications or unexpected connections.

File Shield

File Shield scans files as they are opened or added to a system, preventing malware from infiltrating devices through compromised files. 

This functionality is invaluable for MSPs managing multiple clients, as it ensures real-time file security without disrupting end-user operations.

Rescue Disk

Rescue Disk allows users to boot compromised systems from an external device, such as a USB drive or CD. This isolates and removes deeply embedded malware from a secure environment.

Quarantine

Quarantine isolates potentially harmful files from the operating system and sends them to Avast Threat Labs for further analysis if required. This ensures that malicious files cannot harm the system while they are under investigation.

MSPs benefit from this feature by keeping endpoints secure while retaining the option for deeper threat analysis when needed.

Pricing for Avast One Platinum

Avast One Platinum costs $119.88 for the first year and 299.99 for the following years. 

Pros and Cons of Avast One Platinum Antivirus Software

Avast One Platinum offers a wide range of security features, but there are certain advantages and limitations to consider:

Pros

• Comprehensive Antivirus Tools: Includes advanced features like CyberCapture and Behavior Shield for real-time threat detection.
• Performance and Privacy Enhancements: Provides tools like driver updates, system cleanup, and a secure browser for improved device efficiency.

Cons

• Learning Curve: Some advanced features may require time for MSPs to fully utilize effectively.

Why Avast One Platinum Is an Ideal Antivirus Solution for MSPs

Avast One Platinum is an excellent antivirus solution for MSPs due to its comprehensive security features and ease of management. 

Core antivirus tools like CyberCapture, File Shield, and Behavior Shield provide robust protection against many threats, including ransomware, malware, and phishing.

The inclusion of advanced features, such as Rescue Disk and Quarantine, equips MSPs with tools to address severe infections and perform detailed threat analysis. 

With flexible pricing and cloud-based threat detection, Avast One Platinum is well-suited for MSPs managing diverse client environments.

4. Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution designed for small and medium-sized businesses. 

Known for its highly effective threat prevention and layered protection, it provides advanced antivirus capabilities alongside tools for risk management and ransomware mitigation. 

The platform offers centralized management and automation for MSPs to simplify endpoint security across diverse client environments.

Let’s discuss its key features and why it’s an excellent choice for MSPs.

Key Features of Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium combines powerful antivirus tools with additional security capabilities. Below is a closer look at its core features:

Advanced Threat Prevention

The antivirus functionality at the core of GravityZone uses advanced machine learning, behavior analysis, and integrated sandboxing to detect and block known and zero-day threats.

For MSPs, these capabilities provide robust protection against ransomware, malware, and fileless attacks.

Ransomware Prevention and Mitigation

GravityZone’s ransomware defense includes automated, tamper-proof backups and features like Fileless Attack Defense and Advanced Anti-Exploit.

Fileless Attack Defense

GravityZone detects and blocks fileless malware by analyzing commands, monitoring connections, and protecting running processes. This capability is essential for MSPs managing client systems at risk of advanced, stealthy attacks.

Sandbox Analyzer

Suspicious files are automatically sent to a cloud-based sandbox for pre-execution analysis. The sandbox detonates files in a safe environment to determine their behavior and delivers a verdict. For MSPs, this feature minimizes false positives and ensures only verified files are allowed.

Pricing for Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium costs $814.99 for a one-year subscription and supports up to 10 devices. 

Currently, a special discount reduces the cost to $570.49, with taxes bringing the total to $644.65 annually. This plan covers up to 10 devices, including support for four servers and 15 mailboxes.

For businesses needing protection beyond 100 devices, Bitdefender offers customized pricing options. A free trial is also available, enabling MSPs to assess the platform’s features and suitability for their clients before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium offers advanced protection with some trade-offs. 

Here’s a summary:

Pros

• Comprehensive Antivirus Tools: Machine learning and behavior analysis detect known and emerging threats with high accuracy.
• Layered Protection: Combines multiple technologies like sandboxing, anti-exploit tools, and fileless attack defense for thorough security.
• Centralized Management: Simplified dashboard allows MSPs to manage multiple clients effectively.
• Advanced Forensics: Provides detailed threat insights and visualizations to enhance decision-making.

Cons

• Cost: The pricing may be higher than some competitors for smaller organizations.
• Complex Features: Advanced functionalities may require training or expertise for full utilization.

Why Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium Is an Ideal Antivirus Solution for MSPs

Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security Premium excels as an antivirus solution for MSPs due to its advanced threat prevention capabilities and layered protection. The combination of machine learning, sandboxing, and fileless attack defense ensures robust malware prevention across diverse environments.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Antivirus Solution for an MSP

Selecting the right antivirus solution is critical for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to ensure efficient and robust security for their clients. 

Below are the key considerations to guide your decision-making process:

Scalability and Multi-Tenancy

An antivirus solution must be able to grow alongside your business. Opt for a platform that seamlessly accommodates new clients and endpoints without sacrificing performance or security. Multi-tenancy is another essential feature, as it allows you to manage multiple clients from a single console.

Integration with Existing Tools and Processes

Seamless integration with your existing tech stack is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency. 

The antivirus solution should work harmoniously with your Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) and Professional Services Automation (PSA) tools. 

Look for vendors that offer APIs and pre-built integrations to ensure minimal disruption and a smooth alignment with your current workflows.

Ease of Deployment and Management

Choose an antivirus solution with straightforward deployment processes to minimize downtime and complexity. Also

A user-friendly interface is key to effective security management. Seek solutions with customizable dashboards, granular policy controls, and actionable insights. 

Furthermore, automatic updates ensure your clients are always protected with the latest security features without requiring constant manual oversight. Similarly, automated reporting not only saves time but also keeps stakeholders informed.

Ensuring Optimal Performance and Minimizing False Positives for MSPs

Efficient antivirus management is essential for MSPs to maintain robust security without compromising client operations. 

Here are key strategies to ensure optimal performance and minimize false positives:

Keep Antivirus Definitions Current

Regular updates to antivirus definitions protect clients against the latest threats while reducing false positives caused by outdated signatures. Automate updates to ensure definitions stay current without manual intervention.

Fine-Tune Detection Settings

Tailor detection settings to match each client’s risk profile and operational needs. Adjust heuristic analysis sensitivity and set custom exclusions for trusted applications to minimize false alerts while maintaining strong protection.

Monitor Performance Proactively

Continuously track CPU, memory, and disk usage across endpoints to identify resource-intensive scans or processes that could impact user productivity. Address inefficiencies promptly to keep systems running smoothly.

Schedule Scans Strategically

Configure scans during off-peak hours to minimize disruption. Provide flexible scan options, such as quick, full, or custom scans, to meet diverse client requirements without compromising operations.

Optimize Endpoints

Evaluate and optimize endpoint configurations regularly. Manage startup programs, update drivers, and remove unnecessary software to prevent conflicts and ensure antivirus tools run efficiently.

Use Advanced Threat Defense

Utilize cloud-based reputation services and machine learning to enhance threat detection accuracy. These advanced technologies adapt to emerging threats, reducing dependence on traditional signature-based methods and minimizing false positives.

Additional Security Measures MSPs Should Implement Alongside Antivirus

While antivirus software forms a critical foundation for endpoint protection, it alone cannot address the complexities of cyber threats. To provide comprehensive security for clients, MSPs should implement additional measures that improve protection and demonstrate a commitment to robust cybersecurity practices.

Here are additional security measures to take into account:

Deploy Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions continuously monitor endpoints for suspicious activities, offering real-time visibility into potential threats. 

Unlike traditional antivirus software, EDR can detect advanced, fileless, and zero-day threats that evade signature-based detection. 

By investigating alerts, containing threats, and performing remediation actions, EDR minimizes the impact of security incidents on client operations. This proactive approach ensures threats are addressed before they escalate into major breaches.

Use Web and Email Filtering

Web and email filtering solutions provide an essential layer of protection against malicious websites, phishing attempts, and spam. 

Web filters block access to known harmful sites, enforce content policies, and reduce exposure to inappropriate or dangerous content. Meanwhile, email filters identify and quarantine suspicious messages, preventing phishing attacks and malware distribution through email attachments. 

When combined with antivirus, these tools create a comprehensive defense against common entry points for cyber threats.

Offer Security Awareness Training

Human error remains a leading cause of security breaches, making client education a vital component of any security strategy. 

Regular security awareness training can help clients recognize phishing emails, create strong passwords, and handle sensitive data securely. Educated and vigilant users become an additional line of defense, reducing the likelihood of incidents caused by mistakes.

Guardz: A Comprehensive Antivirus and EDR Solution for MSPs

Guardz offers powerful antivirus capabilities designed for MSPs, providing real-time protection against malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. 

Its centralized management ensures seamless deployment, monitoring, and updates across multiple clients, delivering strong endpoint security without straining resources.

Beyond antivirus, Guardz functions as a comprehensive Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solution, capable of identifying advanced threats such as fileless and zero-day attacks. 

AI-driven analysis and behavioral monitoring allow MSPs to proactively detect, investigate, and remediate potential issues through a unified dashboard, minimizing disruptions to client operations.

Furthermore, Guardz enhances protection with email filtering to guard against phishing, spam, and malicious attachments. 

By combining robust antivirus, advanced EDR, and email security in one platform, Guardz provides MSPs with a streamlined, multi-layered defense to protect small and medium-sized businesses effectively and efficiently.

Final Thoughts on the Best Antivirus for MSP

When choosing the best antivirus solution for MSPs, it’s essential to balance comprehensive protection, ease of management, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Each option discussed offers unique strengths, from Microsoft Defender for Business’s AI-driven threat detection to Bitdefender’s layered security and Apple Security’s seamless macOS integration. 

Meanwhile, solutions like Avast One Platinum and Guardz provide robust multi-layered defenses with advanced features like endpoint detection and real-time monitoring. 

Your choice will depend on your specific client base, the level of customization required, and the need for additional tools like email filtering or centralized management dashboards. 

Overall, Guardz is the option that offers the most protection and ease of use in terms of complete antivirus protection, EDR, and comprehensive cybersecurity for MSPs. 

By implementing a solution that aligns with your MSP’s goals, you can confidently safeguard your clients’ environments against evolving threats while streamlining your operations. Discover how Guardz can transform your cybersecurity approach by visiting Guardz today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can MSPs Handle Antivirus Deployment Across Remote Client Locations?

MSPs can streamline deployment across remote locations by utilizing cloud-based management consoles. These consoles allow centralized policy enforcement, real-time updates, and remote troubleshooting without needing physical access to devices.

What Strategies Can MSPs Use to Demonstrate Value to Their Clients?

MSPs can provide monthly security reports showing threats detected and neutralized, offer periodic cybersecurity health checks, and host workshops or webinars to educate clients on emerging cyber risks and best practices.

Are There Solutions That Combine Antivirus With Patch Management?

Yes, some antivirus platforms integrate patch management features to automatically identify and deploy updates for operating systems and third-party applications, further reducing vulnerabilities in client systems.

What Is the Importance of Multi-Factor Authentication in Addition to Antivirus?

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a critical layer of security, ensuring that even if a device 

is compromised, unauthorized access is still prevented. MSPs can pair MFA with antivirus for stronger endpoint protection.

How Can MSPs Ensure Compliance With Industry-Specific Regulations?

MSPs can choose antivirus solutions that include compliance reporting features tailored to specific industries, such as healthcare or finance, ensuring that client systems meet regulatory requirements like HIPAA or GDPR.