GITNUXBEST LIST

Security

Top 10 Best Endpoint Security Software of 2026

Explore the top 10 best endpoint security software to protect devices. Compare features, read reviews, and secure systems effectively today.

Rajesh Patel

Rajesh Patel

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
Learn more
Endpoint security is a cornerstone of modern cybersecurity, safeguarding critical systems from an ever-expanding array of threats. With diverse tools available, selecting the right solution—one that aligns with specific needs—remains essential for robust defense.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: CrowdStrike Falcon - Cloud-native endpoint detection and response platform using AI for real-time threat prevention and automated response.
  2. 2#2: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint - Integrated enterprise endpoint security with EDR, threat hunting, and automated investigation in Microsoft ecosystems.
  3. 3#3: SentinelOne Singularity - AI-powered autonomous endpoint protection platform that prevents, detects, and rolls back ransomware and advanced threats.
  4. 4#4: Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR - Unified extended detection and response platform correlating endpoint, network, and cloud security data.
  5. 5#5: Trend Micro Apex One - Comprehensive endpoint protection platform with AI-driven threat defense and centralized management.
  6. 6#6: Sophos Intercept X - Next-generation endpoint security using deep learning AI for malware detection and exploit prevention.
  7. 7#7: Bitdefender GravityZone - Cloud-managed endpoint detection and response with machine learning-based prevention and risk analytics.
  8. 8#8: Cisco Secure Endpoint - Cloud-delivered endpoint protection providing advanced malware defense, EDR, and behavioral analysis.
  9. 9#9: McAfee Endpoint Security - AI-powered endpoint protection service integrating antivirus, EDR, and adaptive threat protection.
  10. 10#10: ESET Endpoint Security - Lightweight multilayered endpoint protection with advanced threat detection and ransomware shield.

Tools were evaluated based on advanced threat detection, adaptive response capabilities, integration flexibility, and overall usability, ensuring the list combines innovative performance with practical value.

Comparison Table

Endpoint security software is essential for safeguarding devices in modern digital environments, and selecting the right tool demands an understanding of diverse features and capabilities. This comparison table assesses leading options including CrowdStrike Falcon, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, SentinelOne Singularity, Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR, and Trend Micro Apex One, equipping readers to identify the best fit for their security needs.

Cloud-native endpoint detection and response platform using AI for real-time threat prevention and automated response.

Features
9.9/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
8.8/10

Integrated enterprise endpoint security with EDR, threat hunting, and automated investigation in Microsoft ecosystems.

Features
9.5/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
9.0/10

AI-powered autonomous endpoint protection platform that prevents, detects, and rolls back ransomware and advanced threats.

Features
9.6/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
8.9/10

Unified extended detection and response platform correlating endpoint, network, and cloud security data.

Features
9.7/10
Ease
8.3/10
Value
8.8/10

Comprehensive endpoint protection platform with AI-driven threat defense and centralized management.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
8.4/10

Next-generation endpoint security using deep learning AI for malware detection and exploit prevention.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10

Cloud-managed endpoint detection and response with machine learning-based prevention and risk analytics.

Features
9.0/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10

Cloud-delivered endpoint protection providing advanced malware defense, EDR, and behavioral analysis.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
8.3/10

AI-powered endpoint protection service integrating antivirus, EDR, and adaptive threat protection.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.1/10
Value
7.6/10

Lightweight multilayered endpoint protection with advanced threat detection and ransomware shield.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
8.8/10
Value
8.2/10
1
CrowdStrike Falcon logo

CrowdStrike Falcon

enterprise

Cloud-native endpoint detection and response platform using AI for real-time threat prevention and automated response.

Overall Rating9.7/10
Features
9.9/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Single lightweight agent delivering all security modules without performance impact

CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-native endpoint detection and response (EDR) platform that delivers next-generation antivirus, threat prevention, detection, and response capabilities through a single, lightweight agent. Leveraging AI, machine learning, and behavioral analysis, it identifies and stops sophisticated attacks in real-time across endpoints, workloads, and cloud environments. Falcon also includes managed detection services like Falcon OverWatch for expert threat hunting, making it a comprehensive solution for enterprise security.

Pros

  • Unmatched threat detection accuracy with AI/ML and zero-trust prevention
  • Single lightweight agent simplifies deployment and management across diverse environments
  • Rapid incident response with integrated threat hunting via Falcon OverWatch

Cons

  • High cost may not suit small businesses or budget-constrained organizations
  • Advanced features require expertise for full utilization
  • Cloud dependency could concern highly regulated offline environments

Best For

Large enterprises and organizations requiring top-tier, scalable endpoint protection against advanced persistent threats.

Pricing

Subscription-based with custom quotes; typically $50-150+ per endpoint/year depending on modules and volume.

2
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint logo

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

enterprise

Integrated enterprise endpoint security with EDR, threat hunting, and automated investigation in Microsoft ecosystems.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
9.5/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
9.0/10
Standout Feature

AI-powered behavioral blocking and automated response orchestration across endpoints

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a cloud-delivered endpoint security platform that protects devices across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS with next-generation antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and attack surface reduction rules. It leverages AI-driven behavioral analysis and integrates deeply with the Microsoft 365 security stack for unified threat intelligence and automated response. Designed for enterprises, it helps organizations reduce risk through vulnerability management, secure configuration assessment, and cross-endpoint correlation.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with Microsoft ecosystem (Intune, Azure AD, Sentinel)
  • Advanced EDR with automated investigation and remediation
  • Broad cross-platform support and real-time threat intelligence

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve for non-Microsoft environments
  • Higher costs for full feature set without existing M365 licenses
  • Limited customization compared to some competitors

Best For

Large enterprises and SMBs deeply invested in the Microsoft ecosystem needing scalable, integrated endpoint protection.

Pricing

Subscription-based at ~$5.20/user/month for Plan 2 (EDR); included in Microsoft 365 E5 (~$57/user/month); volume discounts available.

3
SentinelOne Singularity logo

SentinelOne Singularity

enterprise

AI-powered autonomous endpoint protection platform that prevents, detects, and rolls back ransomware and advanced threats.

Overall Rating9.3/10
Features
9.6/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
8.9/10
Standout Feature

Autonomous rollback that instantly reverts endpoints to a clean state post-attack

SentinelOne Singularity is a comprehensive AI-powered endpoint protection platform (EPP/EDR/XDR) designed to detect, prevent, and respond to advanced threats autonomously. It leverages behavioral AI engines for real-time threat hunting, automated remediation, and one-click rollback to restore systems without data loss. The platform provides unified visibility across endpoints, cloud workloads, and identities through its intuitive Storyline interface and Purple AI assistant for accelerated investigations.

Pros

  • Autonomous AI-driven detection and response minimizes alert fatigue
  • One-click rollback restores endpoints to pre-breach state
  • Unified console with Storyline for deep attack chain visualization

Cons

  • Premium pricing may deter smaller organizations
  • Steep learning curve for advanced threat hunting features
  • Higher resource usage on legacy endpoints

Best For

Mid-to-large enterprises needing autonomous, scalable endpoint security with robust XDR capabilities.

Pricing

Tiered per-endpoint annual subscriptions: Control (~$55), Core (~$75), Complete (~$95), with custom enterprise pricing.

4
Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR logo

Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR

enterprise

Unified extended detection and response platform correlating endpoint, network, and cloud security data.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
9.7/10
Ease of Use
8.3/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Precision AI-powered behavioral analytics that correlates endpoint, network, and cloud signals for proactive threat prevention

Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR is a comprehensive Extended Detection and Response (XDR) platform that unifies endpoint protection, behavioral analytics, and threat intelligence to prevent, detect, and respond to sophisticated cyberattacks. It leverages Precision AI and machine learning to analyze endpoint, network, and cloud data in real-time, providing autonomous prevention and remediation capabilities. Ideal for enterprise environments, it integrates seamlessly with Palo Alto's broader security ecosystem for enhanced visibility and faster incident response.

Pros

  • Advanced AI-driven behavioral threat detection catches zero-day attacks effectively
  • Deep integration with network and cloud security for holistic XDR visibility
  • Automated response and investigation workflows reduce mean time to respond

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and complex initial deployment for smaller teams
  • High subscription costs may not suit budget-constrained organizations
  • Resource-intensive agent can impact endpoint performance in some cases

Best For

Large enterprises with mature security operations centers seeking integrated, AI-powered endpoint protection across hybrid environments.

Pricing

Subscription-based per-endpoint pricing starting at ~$60/user/year, with tiers for Advanced and Pro editions; custom quotes for enterprises.

5
Trend Micro Apex One logo

Trend Micro Apex One

enterprise

Comprehensive endpoint protection platform with AI-driven threat defense and centralized management.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
8.4/10
Standout Feature

Virtual Patching, which proactively blocks exploits targeting known vulnerabilities without requiring immediate software updates

Trend Micro Apex One is a comprehensive endpoint protection platform (EPP) designed for enterprises, combining next-generation antivirus (NGAV), endpoint detection and response (EDR), and advanced threat prevention capabilities. It leverages AI-powered behavioral analysis, machine learning, and sandboxing to defend against malware, ransomware, zero-day exploits, and advanced persistent threats. The solution includes centralized management via Apex Central console, vulnerability shielding, application control, and USB device security, making it scalable for large deployments.

Pros

  • Multi-layered defense with AI/ML-driven detection and EDR
  • Virtual patching for rapid vulnerability protection
  • Strong centralized management and scalability for enterprises

Cons

  • Can impact endpoint performance in high-threat environments
  • Complex setup and customization for non-experts
  • Pricing less competitive for small businesses

Best For

Mid-sized to large enterprises needing robust, scalable endpoint security with integrated EDR and vulnerability management.

Pricing

Subscription-based, typically $35-$60 per endpoint/year (varies by features and volume); quote-based for enterprises.

6
Sophos Intercept X logo

Sophos Intercept X

enterprise

Next-generation endpoint security using deep learning AI for malware detection and exploit prevention.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

CryptoGuard behavioral ransomware protection with one-click file recovery

Sophos Intercept X is a next-generation endpoint detection and response (EDR) solution that leverages deep learning AI for real-time malware detection, exploit prevention, and ransomware protection. It defends against advanced threats like fileless attacks, zero-days, and tamper-proof malware through behavioral analysis and CryptoGuard technology. Integrated with Sophos XDR, it provides centralized management and managed detection services for comprehensive endpoint security.

Pros

  • Exceptional AI-driven detection for unknown threats with low false positives
  • Robust ransomware protection including automatic file recovery
  • Seamless integration with Sophos MDR for 24/7 threat hunting

Cons

  • Cloud console can feel cluttered for smaller teams
  • Higher pricing compared to basic AV solutions
  • Occasional performance impact on resource-intensive endpoints

Best For

Mid-sized enterprises seeking advanced EDR with managed services and strong ransomware defense.

Pricing

Starts at ~$28/endpoint/year for Intercept X Advanced; scales to $50+ with MDR and full XDR features (billed annually).

7
Bitdefender GravityZone logo

Bitdefender GravityZone

enterprise

Cloud-managed endpoint detection and response with machine learning-based prevention and risk analytics.

Overall Rating8.5/10
Features
9.0/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

GravityZone Risk Analytics for identifying and remediating risky endpoint configurations and behaviors in real-time

Bitdefender GravityZone is a cloud-based endpoint detection and response (EDR) platform designed for businesses, offering multi-layered protection including antivirus, anti-ransomware, behavioral analysis, and patch management. It provides centralized management through an intuitive console, supporting Windows, macOS, Linux, and virtual environments. The solution excels in risk analytics and network threat defense, making it suitable for mid-sized to enterprise organizations seeking scalable security.

Pros

  • Exceptional malware and ransomware detection with near-perfect lab scores
  • Advanced risk analytics for proactive threat hunting
  • Unified cloud console for easy multi-platform management

Cons

  • Pricing can be steep for small businesses without volume discounts
  • Some performance overhead on lower-end hardware
  • EDR features require additional licensing tiers

Best For

Mid-sized businesses and enterprises needing comprehensive endpoint protection with strong analytics and centralized control.

Pricing

Starts at ~$28/endpoint/year for Elite plan; scales to $50+ for full EDR/enterprise bundles; custom quotes required.

8
Cisco Secure Endpoint logo

Cisco Secure Endpoint

enterprise

Cloud-delivered endpoint protection providing advanced malware defense, EDR, and behavioral analysis.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
8.3/10
Standout Feature

Cisco Talos-powered retrospective detection that identifies and rolls back threats even after initial compromise

Cisco Secure Endpoint is an advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) platform that combines next-generation antivirus (NGAV), behavioral analysis, and machine learning to protect against malware, ransomware, and zero-day threats. Leveraging Cisco Talos threat intelligence, it enables real-time threat detection, automated response, and retrospective analysis via a cloud-managed console. The solution excels in exploit prevention and integrates deeply with Cisco's broader security ecosystem, including SecureX for streamlined operations.

Pros

  • Powered by Cisco Talos for world-class threat intelligence
  • Robust EDR with advanced threat hunting and response
  • Seamless integration with Cisco SecureX and other tools

Cons

  • High pricing unsuitable for SMBs
  • Steep learning curve for non-Cisco admins
  • Agent can consume notable endpoint resources

Best For

Large enterprises with existing Cisco infrastructure needing enterprise-grade EDR and integrated security operations.

Pricing

Subscription-based, starting at ~$45/endpoint/year for essentials, up to $70+ for advanced EDR features; volume discounts available.

9
McAfee Endpoint Security logo

McAfee Endpoint Security

enterprise

AI-powered endpoint protection service integrating antivirus, EDR, and adaptive threat protection.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.1/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Adaptive Threat Protection for real-time behavioral analysis and automated response to zero-day threats

McAfee Endpoint Security is a comprehensive enterprise-grade endpoint protection platform that delivers multi-layered defense including antivirus, anti-malware, firewall, web control, and exploit prevention. It leverages machine learning, behavioral analysis, and signature-based detection to combat advanced persistent threats, ransomware, and zero-day attacks. Centralized management via ePolicy Orchestrator (ePO) or cloud consoles enables efficient deployment and policy enforcement across large networks.

Pros

  • High detection rates in independent tests like AV-Test and MITRE
  • Scalable for large enterprises with robust management tools
  • Integrated exploit prevention and adaptive threat protection

Cons

  • Resource-intensive on lower-end hardware
  • Complex ePO interface requires training
  • Premium pricing without transparent public tiers

Best For

Large enterprises and organizations needing scalable, feature-rich endpoint security with advanced threat intelligence.

Pricing

Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically $60-120 per endpoint/year depending on features, volume, and contract length.

10
ESET Endpoint Security logo

ESET Endpoint Security

enterprise

Lightweight multilayered endpoint protection with advanced threat detection and ransomware shield.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
8.8/10
Value
8.2/10
Standout Feature

LiveGrid cloud-powered threat intelligence for real-time detection of zero-day threats with low false positives

ESET Endpoint Security is a robust endpoint protection platform designed for businesses, offering multi-layered defense against malware, ransomware, exploits, and network attacks. It combines signature-based detection, machine learning, behavioral analysis, and a two-way firewall, with tools for device control and web filtering. Centralized management via ESET PROTECT enables efficient deployment and monitoring across Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices.

Pros

  • Exceptionally lightweight with minimal performance impact
  • High detection rates in independent tests (e.g., AV-Comparatives)
  • Strong multi-platform support and centralized management

Cons

  • Management console has a learning curve for non-experts
  • Limited native EDR/XDR compared to top competitors
  • Advanced modules require higher-tier licensing

Best For

Small to mid-sized businesses needing reliable, low-overhead endpoint security with scalable management.

Pricing

Subscription from ~$35/endpoint/year (1-year); multi-year and volume discounts available; contact sales for enterprises.

Conclusion

The top endpoint security tools reviewed demonstrate exceptional protection capabilities, with CrowdStrike Falcon emerging as the top choice, thanks to its cloud-native design and AI-driven real-time threat prevention and automated response. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint stands out for its seamless integration with enterprise environments, combining EDR, threat hunting, and automated investigation, while SentinelOne Singularity impresses with its autonomous AI that proactively prevents and rolls back ransomware and advanced threats. Each of these top tools offers strong defenses, catering to varied organizational needs.

CrowdStrike Falcon logo
Our Top Pick
CrowdStrike Falcon

Take advantage of CrowdStrike Falcon's leading features and secure your endpoints effectively with a solution built for modern threats.