Quick Overview
- 1#1: CrowdStrike Falcon - Cloud-native endpoint detection and response platform providing AI-powered protection for Windows and Linux servers.
- 2#2: Sophos Intercept X for Server - Advanced antivirus with deep learning exploit prevention and ransomware protection for servers.
- 3#3: SentinelOne Singularity - Autonomous AI-driven endpoint protection platform with rollback capabilities for servers.
- 4#4: Bitdefender GravityZone - Risk analytics-based security platform delivering layered protection for physical and virtual servers.
- 5#5: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint - Integrated endpoint detection and response solution for Windows Servers with cloud management.
- 6#6: ESET Server Security - Lightweight antivirus with advanced threat detection optimized for Windows and Linux servers.
- 7#7: Trend Micro Deep Security - Comprehensive workload protection with anti-malware, vulnerability shielding, and compliance for servers.
- 8#8: Kaspersky Endpoint Security - Multi-layered security solution protecting servers from viruses, ransomware, and targeted attacks.
- 9#9: Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection - Real-time malware prevention and remediation platform designed for server environments.
- 10#10: ClamAV - Open-source antivirus toolkit for scanning and detecting malware on Unix-like servers.
Tools were ranked based on threat detection efficacy, advanced features like ransomware protection or AI-driven automation, ease of deployment and management, and overall value for both small and enterprise environments.
Comparison Table
Server antivirus software is vital for protecting critical infrastructure, and this comparison table evaluates leading tools—CrowdStrike Falcon, Sophos Intercept X for Server, SentinelOne Singularity, Bitdefender GravityZone, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, and more—to help users assess their options. Readers will discover key features, performance traits, and suitability for varied server setups, guiding informed security decisions.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CrowdStrike Falcon Cloud-native endpoint detection and response platform providing AI-powered protection for Windows and Linux servers. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Sophos Intercept X for Server Advanced antivirus with deep learning exploit prevention and ransomware protection for servers. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | SentinelOne Singularity Autonomous AI-driven endpoint protection platform with rollback capabilities for servers. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 4 | Bitdefender GravityZone Risk analytics-based security platform delivering layered protection for physical and virtual servers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Integrated endpoint detection and response solution for Windows Servers with cloud management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | ESET Server Security Lightweight antivirus with advanced threat detection optimized for Windows and Linux servers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Trend Micro Deep Security Comprehensive workload protection with anti-malware, vulnerability shielding, and compliance for servers. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Kaspersky Endpoint Security Multi-layered security solution protecting servers from viruses, ransomware, and targeted attacks. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection Real-time malware prevention and remediation platform designed for server environments. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | ClamAV Open-source antivirus toolkit for scanning and detecting malware on Unix-like servers. | other | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 5.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
Cloud-native endpoint detection and response platform providing AI-powered protection for Windows and Linux servers.
Advanced antivirus with deep learning exploit prevention and ransomware protection for servers.
Autonomous AI-driven endpoint protection platform with rollback capabilities for servers.
Risk analytics-based security platform delivering layered protection for physical and virtual servers.
Integrated endpoint detection and response solution for Windows Servers with cloud management.
Lightweight antivirus with advanced threat detection optimized for Windows and Linux servers.
Comprehensive workload protection with anti-malware, vulnerability shielding, and compliance for servers.
Multi-layered security solution protecting servers from viruses, ransomware, and targeted attacks.
Real-time malware prevention and remediation platform designed for server environments.
Open-source antivirus toolkit for scanning and detecting malware on Unix-like servers.
CrowdStrike Falcon
enterpriseCloud-native endpoint detection and response platform providing AI-powered protection for Windows and Linux servers.
AI-powered behavioral prevention engine that stops never-before-seen attacks without signatures or updates
CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-native endpoint detection and response (EDR) platform that delivers next-generation antivirus protection specifically tailored for servers, using AI-driven behavioral analysis to prevent, detect, and respond to sophisticated threats in real-time. It deploys a lightweight agent that monitors server workloads across Windows, Linux, and other environments, providing unified visibility and automated remediation without heavy resource overhead. As a leader in independent tests like MITRE ATT&CK Evaluations, it excels in stopping advanced persistent threats (APTs) that traditional signature-based AV misses.
Pros
- Unmatched threat prevention with 99%+ detection rates in real-world evaluations
- Ultra-lightweight agent with minimal CPU/memory impact on production servers
- Seamless cloud management console for centralized visibility and rapid incident response
Cons
- Premium pricing that may be prohibitive for small businesses
- Relies on constant internet connectivity for full cloud analytics
- Complex advanced features require training for optimal use
Best For
Large enterprises and mission-critical server environments needing elite, proactive protection against zero-day and ransomware threats.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$60 per endpoint/year for core AV/EDR modules; enterprise bundles and custom quotes for full platform exceed $100/endpoint/year.
Sophos Intercept X for Server
enterpriseAdvanced antivirus with deep learning exploit prevention and ransomware protection for servers.
Server Protection with integrated exploit prevention and AI-driven deep learning for proactive threat blocking
Sophos Intercept X for Server is a next-generation antivirus solution tailored for Windows, Linux, and cloud servers, providing multi-layered protection against malware, ransomware, exploits, and zero-day threats. It leverages deep learning AI, behavioral analysis, and exploit prevention technologies to deliver real-time threat detection and response with minimal performance impact. Managed through the intuitive Sophos Central cloud console, it supports physical, virtual, and hybrid environments for comprehensive server security.
Pros
- Advanced deep learning and behavioral detection for zero-day threats
- CryptoGuard ransomware protection with rollback capabilities
- Low resource usage optimized for server workloads
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be higher for smaller deployments
- Full features require Sophos Central subscription
- Patch assessment tool needs manual configuration for best results
Best For
Enterprises and mid-sized organizations managing critical servers in hybrid environments needing robust, low-impact threat prevention.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $55-70 per protected server per year (volume discounts and quotes available).
SentinelOne Singularity
enterpriseAutonomous AI-driven endpoint protection platform with rollback capabilities for servers.
Patented Storyline technology for interactive behavioral analysis and autonomous rollback to pre-attack states
SentinelOne Singularity is an AI-powered extended detection and response (XDR) platform that delivers advanced antivirus, endpoint detection, and automated threat response specifically optimized for servers across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments. It leverages behavioral AI and machine learning to detect zero-day threats, ransomware, and sophisticated attacks without relying on traditional signatures. The platform provides deep visibility through its patented Storyline technology, enabling rapid investigation and autonomous remediation on Windows, Linux, and Unix servers.
Pros
- AI-driven behavioral detection with high accuracy and low false positives
- Autonomous remediation and rollback capabilities for minimal downtime
- Unified management console with strong multi-OS server support
Cons
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for advanced threat hunting features
- Agent can be resource-intensive on legacy servers
Best For
Enterprises with complex server infrastructures needing autonomous, AI-powered threat protection and response.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at ~$60/endpoint/year for core features, scaling to $100+ for full XDR tiers with custom enterprise pricing.
Bitdefender GravityZone
enterpriseRisk analytics-based security platform delivering layered protection for physical and virtual servers.
GravityZone Risk Management with continuous endpoint risk scoring and automated remediation
Bitdefender GravityZone is a cloud-managed enterprise security platform that delivers advanced antivirus and endpoint protection specifically tailored for servers in physical, virtual, and cloud environments. It provides real-time malware scanning, ransomware remediation, vulnerability assessments, and patch management through a unified console. The solution excels in multi-platform support, including Windows and Linux servers, with machine learning-driven threat detection for proactive defense.
Pros
- Top-rated malware detection with near-perfect lab scores
- Minimal performance overhead on servers due to lightweight agents
- Centralized cloud console for scalable management across hybrid environments
Cons
- Higher pricing requires custom quotes and may not suit small businesses
- Advanced configuration can have a learning curve for non-experts
- Some premium features like full EDR need additional licensing
Best For
Medium to large enterprises managing complex server fleets in hybrid or multi-cloud setups requiring robust, low-impact protection.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting around $30-70 per device/year, depending on plan, volume, and add-ons; free trial available.
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
enterpriseIntegrated endpoint detection and response solution for Windows Servers with cloud management.
Cloud-native behavioral blocking and automated response with global Microsoft threat intelligence
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is an enterprise-grade endpoint detection and response (EDR) solution with built-in antivirus capabilities tailored for servers, including Windows Server, Linux, and cloud instances. It delivers real-time malware protection, behavioral analysis, cloud-delivered updates, and advanced threat hunting using AI-driven Microsoft threat intelligence. The platform integrates deeply with Microsoft ecosystems like Azure, Microsoft 365, and Intune for centralized management and automated response.
Pros
- Superior detection rates with top scores in AV-TEST and MITRE evaluations
- Seamless integration with Microsoft Azure and 365 for unified security operations
- Advanced EDR with automated investigation and server-specific attack surface reduction
Cons
- Higher licensing costs for full EDR features, especially outside bundled plans
- Optimal performance requires Microsoft ecosystem familiarity and may have overhead on older servers
- Limited customization compared to some third-party AV specialists
Best For
Large enterprises with Microsoft-centric infrastructure seeking integrated server protection and EDR.
Pricing
Priced at ~$5.20/device/month for Plan 1 (basic AV/EDR); Plan 2 (~$2.50+ additional) or bundled in Microsoft 365 E5 (~$57/user/month); server licensing varies by volume.
ESET Server Security
enterpriseLightweight antivirus with advanced threat detection optimized for Windows and Linux servers.
Idle-state scanning that automatically scans only when servers are idle, ensuring zero performance disruption during peak loads
ESET Server Security is a lightweight antivirus solution designed specifically for Windows and Linux servers, providing real-time protection against malware, ransomware, exploits, and rootkits. It features advanced scanning technologies like multi-threaded heuristic analysis and idle-state scanning to minimize performance impact on critical server environments. The software integrates seamlessly with ESET PROTECT for centralized management, policy deployment, and reporting across enterprise networks.
Pros
- Exceptionally low CPU and memory usage, ideal for resource-constrained servers
- High malware detection rates with low false positives
- Strong centralized management via ESET PROTECT platform
Cons
- Limited built-in EDR capabilities compared to top competitors
- Pricing scales up quickly for large deployments
- Web console lacks some advanced customization options
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses and IT admins managing Windows/Linux file, mail, or database servers who need reliable, low-overhead protection.
Pricing
Subscription model starting at ~$55 per server/year (1-year term), with volume discounts and multi-year options reducing costs to ~$40/server/year.
Trend Micro Deep Security
enterpriseComprehensive workload protection with anti-malware, vulnerability shielding, and compliance for servers.
Single lightweight agent delivering unified antivirus, intrusion prevention, firewall, and integrity monitoring across physical, virtual, and cloud workloads
Trend Micro Deep Security is a robust security platform tailored for protecting servers, virtual machines, and cloud workloads against malware, exploits, and advanced threats. It combines real-time antivirus and anti-malware scanning with intrusion prevention, firewall, integrity monitoring, and vulnerability management in a single agent-based or agentless deployment. Managed via a centralized console, it excels in hybrid and multi-cloud environments, providing scalable protection for enterprise infrastructures.
Pros
- Comprehensive multi-layered protection including AV, IPS, firewall, and vulnerability scanning
- Strong support for cloud (AWS, Azure, GCP), virtualization, and containers
- Centralized management console with scalability for large deployments
Cons
- Resource-intensive agent can impact server performance
- Complex setup and configuration requires expertise
- Enterprise pricing may be steep for smaller organizations
Best For
Large enterprises with complex hybrid or multi-cloud server environments needing integrated, scalable security.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise subscriptions, typically $50-$120 per protected server/VM annually depending on modules and volume.
Kaspersky Endpoint Security
enterpriseMulti-layered security solution protecting servers from viruses, ransomware, and targeted attacks.
File Rollback technology that automatically restores encrypted files affected by ransomware
Kaspersky Endpoint Security is a robust antivirus solution tailored for protecting servers against malware, ransomware, and advanced persistent threats. It provides real-time scanning, behavioral detection, vulnerability assessments, and centralized management via Kaspersky Security Center, supporting Windows Server, Linux, and virtual environments. Designed for enterprise use, it minimizes performance impact while offering features like file encryption rollback and adaptive anomaly control.
Pros
- Exceptional malware detection rates consistently topping independent tests
- Low resource usage ideal for server environments
- Advanced ransomware protection with file rollback capabilities
Cons
- Complex initial setup and policy configuration
- Higher licensing costs for smaller deployments
- Geopolitical concerns impacting trust in some regions
Best For
Medium to large enterprises requiring high-performance, feature-rich server protection with strong threat intelligence.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at ~$60 per server/year for basic protection, with enterprise bundles and volume discounts available.
Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection
enterpriseReal-time malware prevention and remediation platform designed for server environments.
Ransomware rollback that restores files to pre-attack state
Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection is a cloud-managed cybersecurity solution that provides real-time malware detection, ransomware protection, and exploit mitigation for endpoints including Windows and Linux servers. It uses a lightweight agent with advanced remediation tools and integrates with the Nebula console for centralized management and reporting. While effective against known and zero-day threats, it focuses more on traditional antivirus capabilities rather than full-spectrum EDR for complex server environments.
Pros
- Superior malware and ransomware detection rates
- Low system resource usage ideal for servers
- Intuitive Nebula cloud console for easy deployment
Cons
- Limited advanced behavioral analysis and EDR for servers
- Fewer integrations with enterprise server tools
- Higher pricing without tiered server-specific plans
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking simple, reliable antivirus protection for Windows servers without needing full XDR features.
Pricing
Starts at $69.49 per endpoint/year (1-year term, min 5 licenses); multi-year discounts available
ClamAV
otherOpen-source antivirus toolkit for scanning and detecting malware on Unix-like servers.
Scalable clamd daemon enabling efficient, multi-threaded scanning across large server file systems and email streams
ClamAV is a free, open-source antivirus engine designed for detecting trojans, viruses, malware, and other threats, primarily targeting Unix-like server environments. It offers a command-line scanner (clamscan), a multi-threaded daemon (clamd) for on-demand and on-access scanning, and freshclam for signature database updates. Commonly integrated with mail servers like Postfix and Amavis for email scanning, it provides lightweight protection suitable for servers without heavy resource demands.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Lightweight daemon ideal for resource-constrained servers
- Excellent integration with Linux mail servers and scripts
- Frequent community-driven signature updates
Cons
- Command-line only with no native GUI, steep learning curve
- Limited real-time protection; primarily on-demand scanning
- Detection rates lag behind commercial antivirus solutions
- Relies on community support without official enterprise assistance
Best For
Linux server administrators on a tight budget needing basic, scriptable malware scanning for files and emails.
Pricing
Free (open-source); optional donations for development support.
Conclusion
Server antivirus tools vary in focus, with CrowdStrike Falcon leading as the top choice—offering cloud-native, AI-powered protection for Windows and Linux servers. Sophos Intercept X for Server follows, excelling in deep learning exploit prevention and ransomware defense, while SentinelOne Singularity stands out with autonomous AI and rollback capabilities, making it a strong pick for rapid recovery. Each of the top three provides unique strengths, suiting different operational needs but all delivering exceptional security.
When securing your servers, prioritize evaluation based on your specific environment—size, workload, and threat priorities—but for comprehensive, cutting-edge protection, begin with CrowdStrike Falcon.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison