Buying guide · Endpoint security

Endpoint security tools for Canadian small & mid-sized businesses

Keep malware, ransomware, and other threats off your business devices. These endpoint security tools help Canadian SMBs protect laptops, desktops, and servers without needing a full in-house security team.

Everything we recommend

If your staff work on multiple devices and you’re worried about infections, suspicious downloads, or ransomware, start with one of these tools. Then scroll down for deeper breakdowns.

We may earn a small commission if you sign up with any of these tools and services, at no extra cost to you. We only feature tools that are appropriate for Canadian businesses like yours.

Top pick

Avast Business Security

Best for: Best for Canadian small businesses seeking straightforward, scalable endpoint security

Why we like it: User-friendly management console for easy oversight

Avast Business Security offers comprehensive endpoint protection designed for small and mid-sized businesses. It provides strong malware detection and a user-friendly management console, helping reduce security risks with minimal IT overhead.

Visit Avast Business Security’s website
Runner-up

Bitdefender Small Business Security

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking scalable, all-in-one endpoint security

Why we like it: Centralised management console simplifies security oversight

Bitdefender Small Business Security offers layered protection against malware, ransomware, and other threats. It is often chosen for its centralised management console and minimal impact on device performance, helping businesses maintain productivity while reducing security risks.

Visit Bitdefender Small Business Security’s website
Also great

ESET PROTECT

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, multi-device security management

Why we like it: Centralised management for multiple device types

ESET PROTECT offers endpoint security designed for small and mid-sized businesses, focusing on reliable malware detection and easy centralised control. It supports multiple device types and provides tools to reduce security risks while maintaining productivity.

Visit ESET PROTECT’s website

Who this is for

Endpoint security tools like these are a good fit if:

  • Your business relies on laptops, desktops, or servers and a single infected device could disrupt work, expose data, or damage your reputation.
  • Your team works from different locations—in the office, at home, or on the road—and you want consistent protection no matter where they connect from.
  • You’re seeing more phishing emails, strange links, or risky downloads and want an extra layer of defence beyond basic antivirus.
  • You don’t have a dedicated security team but still need clear alerts, simple policies, and protection that’s manageable for a small IT team—or a single MSP.
  • You’d like better visibility into what’s happening on endpoints so you can spot issues early and respond quickly when something looks off.

If this sounds like your situation, the endpoint security tools below are practical, SMB-friendly options that help you reduce risk without slowing your team down.

Top pick

Avast Business Security

Best for: Best for Canadian small businesses seeking straightforward, scalable endpoint security

Reliable endpoint protection with easy management for SMBs

Avast Business Security is commonly used by SMBs to protect their devices from malware and cyber threats. It offers a simple interface that helps business owners and managers oversee security without needing deep technical expertise.

Many customers appreciate its balance of effective protection and ease of use, making it suitable for teams with limited IT resources.

A solid default if you just want a reliable, business-ready option.

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Runner-up

Bitdefender Small Business Security

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking scalable, all-in-one endpoint security

Comprehensive endpoint protection with easy management for SMBs

Bitdefender Small Business Security provides Canadian small and mid-sized businesses with reliable endpoint protection that is easy to manage. It helps protect devices from malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats while allowing IT administrators to oversee security settings from a single console.

This tool is designed to run quietly in the background, minimising disruptions to daily work and supporting business continuity.

Great if you want similar benefits with a slightly different feature mix.

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Also great

ESET PROTECT

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, multi-device security management

Comprehensive endpoint protection with centralised management

ESET PROTECT helps SMBs manage endpoint security across various devices from a single console. It is commonly used to protect against malware and other cyber threats while simplifying day-to-day security administration. Many customers appreciate its balance of strong protection and manageable complexity.

Worth a look if the top two don’t quite fit how your team works.

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Detailed breakdowns

If you’re comparing endpoint security tools, these breakdowns highlight where each product shines—whether that’s malware detection, ransomware protection, centralized management, or ease of use for growing Canadian businesses.

Avast Business Security

Our top pick

Reliable endpoint protection with easy management for SMBs

Best for: Best for Canadian small businesses seeking straightforward, scalable endpoint security

Why teams choose it: User-friendly management console for easy oversight

Avast Business Security is often chosen by small and mid-sized Canadian businesses looking for dependable endpoint protection that is easy to deploy and manage. It covers essential security needs such as malware detection, ransomware protection, and web threat blocking.

This tool is typically used in environments where IT staff may be limited or where business owners prefer a straightforward security solution without complex configurations. The management console allows for centralized control of multiple devices, which helps maintain consistent protection across the organisation.

While Avast Business Security provides solid baseline protection, it may not include some advanced features found in higher-tier products, such as extensive threat hunting or integrated compliance reporting. It is well suited for businesses prioritizing reliable, day-to-day endpoint defence with predictable costs and minimal administrative burden.

Overall, it is a practical choice for Canadian SMBs that want to reduce cybersecurity risks while keeping management simple and accessible.

Where this tool fits best

  • User-friendly management console for easy oversight
  • Effective malware and ransomware protection
  • Scalable for growing small and mid-sized businesses

Things to keep in mind

  • May lack advanced threat hunting features
  • Limited compliance reporting capabilities
  • Some features require higher-tier plans
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for Canadian small businesses seeking straightforward, scalable endpoint security

Explore plans

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Bitdefender Small Business Security

Runner-up

Comprehensive endpoint protection with easy management for SMBs

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking scalable, all-in-one endpoint security

Why teams choose it: Centralised management console simplifies security oversight

Many Canadian SMBs use Bitdefender Small Business Security to protect their endpoints, including desktops, laptops, and servers, from a wide range of cyber threats. It is commonly deployed in environments where businesses want a straightforward, centralised way to manage security without requiring extensive IT expertise.

The solution offers features such as real-time threat detection, ransomware protection, and web filtering, which help reduce the risk of data breaches and downtime. Its management console allows business owners or IT providers to monitor security status and apply updates remotely, which supports consistent protection across all devices.

While Bitdefender is well-suited for businesses that need a balance of strong security and ease of use, it may be more than what very small teams require or those with highly specialised security needs. It is often positioned as a scalable option that can grow with a business, making it a practical choice for SMBs planning to expand their IT infrastructure.

Where this tool fits best

  • Centralised management console simplifies security oversight
  • Strong protection against malware and ransomware threats
  • Minimal impact on device performance during operation

Things to keep in mind

  • May offer more features than very small teams require
  • Some advanced settings may require IT knowledge to configure
  • Pricing can be higher than basic endpoint protection options
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking scalable, all-in-one endpoint security

Explore plans

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ESET PROTECT

Also great

Comprehensive endpoint protection with centralised management

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, multi-device security management

Why teams choose it: Centralised management for multiple device types

ESET PROTECT is often chosen by Canadian small and mid-sized businesses that require a unified approach to endpoint security. It supports Windows, macOS, and Linux devices, making it suitable for organisations with diverse technology environments. The platform provides real-time threat detection and automated responses to reduce risk without heavy manual intervention.

Typical users benefit from its centralised management console, which allows IT teams or service providers to deploy updates, monitor security status, and enforce policies across all endpoints. This helps maintain consistent protection and reduces the administrative burden on smaller IT teams.

While ESET PROTECT offers robust features, it may be more complex than basic antivirus solutions, so it suits businesses ready to invest some time in setup and ongoing management. It is often positioned as a scalable solution that can grow with a business, supporting additional devices and security layers as needed.

Where this tool fits best

  • Centralised management for multiple device types
  • Strong malware detection and threat prevention
  • Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints

Things to keep in mind

  • Setup and management may require some IT knowledge
  • More complex than basic antivirus tools
  • Pricing can be higher than entry-level options
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, multi-device security management

Explore plans

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Heimdal Threat Prevention

Proactive endpoint protection with automated threat blocking

Best for: Best for SMBs seeking automated, layered endpoint security with minimal manual oversight.

Why teams choose it: Automated blocking of malware and exploits

Heimdal Threat Prevention is designed for SMBs that want to enhance their endpoint security with automated threat detection and prevention. It focuses on stopping attacks before they can execute, using multiple layers such as malware blocking, exploit prevention, and network traffic filtering.

Many Canadian small businesses use it alongside traditional antivirus software to add an extra layer of defence without requiring extensive IT resources. Its automation helps reduce the time spent on manual threat management, which can be valuable for teams without dedicated security staff.

While it offers strong proactive protection, it may not replace full endpoint protection suites that include broader features like device control or advanced threat hunting. It suits businesses that prioritise ease of use and risk reduction through automation rather than deep customisation.

Overall, Heimdal Threat Prevention is a practical choice for SMBs aiming to reduce cyber risk with a tool that works quietly in the background, helping maintain business continuity and reduce potential downtime from security incidents.

Where this tool fits best

  • Automated blocking of malware and exploits
  • Works alongside existing antivirus software
  • Reduces manual security management effort

Things to keep in mind

  • May lack some advanced endpoint management features
  • Not a full antivirus replacement
  • Less suited for businesses needing deep customisation
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for SMBs seeking automated, layered endpoint security with minimal manual oversight.

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Kaspersky Small Office Security

Comprehensive endpoint protection tailored for small office needs

Best for: Best for small Canadian offices seeking straightforward, all-in-one endpoint security

Why teams choose it: Simple setup and management for non-technical users

Kaspersky Small Office Security is commonly used by small Canadian businesses that need reliable endpoint protection without the complexity of enterprise-grade tools. It covers essential security needs such as malware detection, ransomware protection, and safe online browsing, making it suitable for offices with limited IT resources.

The tool is often appreciated for its straightforward installation and user-friendly interface, which allows business owners or managers to oversee security without deep technical knowledge. It supports multiple devices, including Windows and Mac, which is helpful for mixed-device environments.

While it offers solid protection and ease of use, it may not have the advanced management features or integrations that larger or more security-focused teams require. Businesses with more complex IT environments or compliance needs might consider other options with more granular controls.

Overall, Kaspersky Small Office Security is a practical choice for small offices prioritizing dependable endpoint security with predictable costs and minimal administrative overhead.

Where this tool fits best

  • Simple setup and management for non-technical users
  • Protects multiple devices including Windows and Mac
  • Includes ransomware and malware protection

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced management features for larger teams
  • Fewer integration options compared to enterprise solutions
  • May lack some compliance-specific tools
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for small Canadian offices seeking straightforward, all-in-one endpoint security

Explore plans

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Malwarebytes for Business

Reliable endpoint protection with easy threat detection and removal

Best for: Best for SMBs seeking straightforward malware defence with quick remediation tools.

Why teams choose it: Effective malware detection and removal

Malwarebytes for Business is often chosen by SMBs that want effective malware detection and removal without complicated management. It focuses on identifying threats quickly and cleaning infected devices to reduce downtime and maintain business continuity.

This tool is well suited for teams that need reliable endpoint protection but may not have dedicated IT security staff. Its straightforward interface and automated features help simplify security tasks.

While it provides strong malware defence, it may not include some advanced features found in more comprehensive endpoint security suites. SMBs looking for layered protection with integrated firewall or device control might consider additional tools.

Overall, Malwarebytes for Business is a practical choice for Canadian SMBs prioritizing ease of use, quick remediation, and consistent malware protection to support daily operations.

Where this tool fits best

  • Effective malware detection and removal
  • User-friendly management console
  • Automated scanning reduces manual effort

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced endpoint security features
  • May require additional tools for full protection
  • Less suited for highly regulated industries
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for SMBs seeking straightforward malware defence with quick remediation tools.

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Panda Endpoint Protection (WatchGuard)

Reliable endpoint protection with flexible management for SMBs

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking adaptable endpoint security with cloud and on-premises options

Why teams choose it: Flexible cloud and on-premises deployment options

Panda Endpoint Protection (WatchGuard) is commonly used by small and mid-sized Canadian businesses looking for a flexible endpoint security solution. It supports both cloud and on-premises management, which can suit teams with varying IT infrastructure preferences. This flexibility allows businesses to choose the deployment model that best fits their operational needs and compliance requirements.

The tool offers a range of security features including malware detection, ransomware protection, and device control. It is often positioned as a reliable option for businesses that want to reduce risk without adding complexity to their IT management. Its interface is designed to be accessible for non-technical users, which can help SMBs manage security more easily.

While Panda Endpoint Protection provides solid protection and deployment flexibility, it may require some initial setup and configuration to align with specific business workflows. It is well suited for SMBs that have some IT support or are working with managed IT providers. For businesses seeking a straightforward, cloud-only solution, other options might be simpler, but Panda's hybrid approach offers more control for those who need it.

Where this tool fits best

  • Flexible cloud and on-premises deployment options
  • User-friendly interface suitable for SMBs
  • Comprehensive malware and ransomware protection

Things to keep in mind

  • Initial setup may require IT support
  • Hybrid deployment can be more complex than cloud-only solutions
  • Less focused on zero-touch management compared to some competitors
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking adaptable endpoint security with cloud and on-premises options

Explore plans

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Sophos Intercept X

Comprehensive endpoint protection with advanced threat prevention

Best for: Best for SMBs needing layered malware defence with ransomware protection

Why teams choose it: Advanced ransomware and exploit prevention features

Sophos Intercept X is commonly used by small and mid-sized businesses looking for a robust endpoint security solution that goes beyond basic antivirus. It integrates multiple layers of protection, including deep learning AI, exploit prevention, and anti-ransomware technology, to reduce the risk of costly security incidents.

SMBs often deploy it to safeguard Windows and Mac devices, benefiting from its ability to detect both known and emerging threats. The solution is typically managed through a cloud-based console, which simplifies day-to-day administration and monitoring for teams without dedicated IT security staff.

While it offers strong protection features, some smaller businesses may find the range of options and settings more complex than simpler antivirus tools. It is well suited for organizations that want proactive threat prevention and are prepared to invest some time in setup and management to achieve better security outcomes.

Where this tool fits best

  • Advanced ransomware and exploit prevention features
  • Uses deep learning to detect unknown threats
  • Cloud-based management console for easier administration

Things to keep in mind

  • May require some IT knowledge to configure optimally
  • Pricing can be higher than basic antivirus solutions
  • Feature set may be more than needed for very small teams
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for SMBs needing layered malware defence with ransomware protection

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Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security

Comprehensive endpoint protection with simplified management for SMBs

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking integrated antivirus and ransomware defence with easy setup

Why teams choose it: Strong antivirus and ransomware protection

Many Canadian small and mid-sized businesses use Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security to safeguard their endpoints against common cyber threats such as viruses, ransomware, and phishing attacks. It is often positioned as a solution that combines strong protection with a management interface designed for non-technical users, making it easier for SMBs without dedicated IT staff to maintain security.

The tool typically supports Windows and Mac devices and includes features like real-time threat scanning and automatic updates, which help reduce the risk of infections and data loss. Its centralised management console allows business owners or managers to monitor security status and apply policies across multiple devices, contributing to consistent protection.

While it offers solid baseline protection and straightforward administration, businesses with more complex IT environments or advanced security needs might find it less customizable than some competitors. It is best suited for SMBs prioritizing reliable endpoint defence with minimal setup and ongoing management effort.

Where this tool fits best

  • Strong antivirus and ransomware protection
  • User-friendly management console for SMBs
  • Supports both Windows and Mac devices

Things to keep in mind

  • Less customizable for complex IT environments
  • May lack advanced features for larger businesses
  • Primarily focused on endpoint protection only
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking integrated antivirus and ransomware defence with easy setup

Explore plans

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VIPRE Endpoint Cloud

Reliable endpoint protection with cloud-based management and threat detection

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking straightforward cloud-managed endpoint security

Why teams choose it: Cloud-based management simplifies endpoint security

VIPRE Endpoint Cloud is designed for small and mid-sized businesses that want effective endpoint security without complex infrastructure. It offers cloud-based management, allowing business owners or IT staff to monitor and control security settings from a single dashboard. This can reduce the time spent on manual updates and patching.

The tool provides malware detection, ransomware protection, and web filtering features that help reduce risk and maintain productivity. It supports both Windows and Mac devices, making it suitable for mixed environments common in SMBs.

While VIPRE Endpoint Cloud is often praised for its ease of use and predictable pricing, it may not have as many advanced features as some higher-tier competitors. It is best suited for businesses that prioritise straightforward, reliable protection and want to avoid complex configurations or large IT teams.

Overall, it fits well for Canadian SMBs looking for a balance between security effectiveness and manageable administration, especially those using cloud services and remote work setups.

Where this tool fits best

  • Cloud-based management simplifies endpoint security
  • Supports both Windows and Mac devices
  • Includes ransomware protection and web filtering

Things to keep in mind

  • Fewer advanced features compared to some competitors
  • May require some IT familiarity for optimal setup
  • Limited integrations with other IT management tools
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking straightforward cloud-managed endpoint security

Explore plans

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Webroot Business Endpoint Protection

Reliable endpoint protection with cloud-based threat detection

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking lightweight, cloud-managed endpoint security

Why teams choose it: Cloud-based management simplifies updates and monitoring

Webroot Business Endpoint Protection is commonly used by small and mid-sized Canadian businesses looking for a cloud-based security solution that is easy to deploy and manage. Its lightweight agent performs fast scans and updates in real time, which helps reduce disruptions to employee productivity.

The tool is often chosen for its simplicity and minimal resource usage, making it a good fit for teams without dedicated IT staff or those who want to avoid complex configurations. It provides essential protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing threats.

While it covers core endpoint security needs effectively, it may not offer as many advanced features or integrations as some other solutions in this space. Businesses with more complex security requirements or larger IT teams might consider more comprehensive platforms.

Overall, Webroot is positioned as a practical choice for SMBs prioritizing ease of use, reliable threat detection, and cloud-based management without heavy system demands.

Where this tool fits best

  • Cloud-based management simplifies updates and monitoring
  • Fast scans with minimal impact on device performance
  • Effective protection against malware and ransomware

Things to keep in mind

  • Fewer advanced features compared to some competitors
  • Limited integration options for complex IT environments
  • May not suit businesses needing extensive customisation
Cybersecurity

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking lightweight, cloud-managed endpoint security

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