Tips for Choosing the Best Anti-virus for Business
In business, you want to ensure you are protected. Imagine a scenario where you are hacked and sensitive business information and customer files are leaked into the ether. It could be catastrophic to your brand and your future prospects. We can tell you now that using anti-virus that “came with your computer” is not the right approach. Anti-virus for business is essential to your safety and the safety of your customers and employees.
While the free anti-virus software may be good for the at-home user – it is not ideal for business. The free version doesn’t have the technology required to protect against the latest threats in cyberspace. Also, you’re not allowed to use one license for four PCs. This is against the terms of trade and another example of why you need specific anti-virus for business.
Choosing the right anti-virus software is essential, and much thought should go into the process. We have collated seven key points to help you with your search. Read these, and you will have success in what you choose.
Does it do its job protecting your system?
This is why you get an anti-virus for business and is the most important thing you need to consider. The possible threats these days and intelligent and constantly changing. It would help if you had an anti-virus that can keep up with technology and hackers’ tricks. We recommend checking if the software has application classification, USB controls, web filtering, and can block unknown threats. You could also ask the vendor the following:
> How are you protecting businesses against the latest threats?
> Does it have application whitelisting?
Check your computer system
When most anti-virus software only supports one computer system – it’s crucial to understand if you are using Microsoft Windows or Apple MacBook, or Both? Knowing whether your computer is compatible with the anti-virus is an excellent step to take. We advise checking with the software vendor before you make a decision.
How your IT is set up matters
Set up matters. You need to analyse whether you have multiple locations or if all devices are in one place. Ask the following questions:
> How are the sites connected?
> Do you need central management?
All of this will impact the software required for your business. In the past, anti-virus was set up at your office, but nowadays, many companies use cloud computing and no longer need an onsite version. An anti-virus that supports this means wherever your systems are, they will get the software updates and excellent protection. For this reason, Software As A Service Anti-Virus is usually the gold standard. We have outlined a few of our favourites:
> Crowdstrike
> Panda AD360
> CarbonBlack
> SentinelOne
Is the package bundled?
Different software has various other features that could be beneficial to your business. These include:
> USB controls
> Web filtering
> Email scanning
> Patch management
> Forensics
> Remote login
It may be a smart move to consolidate these requirements. This will save your business money and time.
For example, if you are using emails, you must keep emails clean with scanning or patch management to keep your systems up to date. At the same time, remote login tools allow users to access the system from anywhere in the world. Whether you are already using Mimecast, Everycloud, or Teamviewer – ask the anti-virus provider what is best for you.
How does it perform on a PC?
Anti-virus for business is often complex and can make a computer run slower than usual. Imagine working on something important, and your computer starts running at the speed of an IT device from the 90s. You would dread any update. This is because they need lots of resources to run or scan the PC. You can check the performance of the anti-virus by reading reviews. A good place to start is Gartner Peer Insights. Some vendors also provide a 30-day trial, so take advantage of that option if it’s available.
What is the cost?
After all, you are running a business, so it makes sense that cost is on the list of important things to consider. More expensive doesn’t always mean better. When looking for anti-virus software and analysing what works for your business, you should ask the following:
> How much is it costing?
> Can I pay an annual subscription cost to make it cheaper?
> Can I benefit from a multi-year purchase?
> Is there a buyback deal on the current business software?
> Does additional support cost extra, or is it included in the service?
Check if there is ongoing support
Having an ongoing support system is crucial for the success of some businesses. You should ask who will provide this once the software is set up – and if you have to pay for it or not.
Without an IT team, the vendor may need to manage custom policy configurations or troubleshoot any issues. You may also need 24/7 support at weird hours of the day. Make sure this support is actually available before ordering the anti-virus for business.
The above steps should set you on the right path to choosing an anti-virus that suits your business needs. You want something that not only protects you but is cost-efficient and has all the necessary support. You also want to check compatibility and take advantage of bundling features on offer.
Deciding what anti-virus software to use is an integral part of your business. However, it is perhaps not the part that excites you most and gets you out of bed in the morning.
If you are on the hunt for a quality anti-virus for business, then we can help. Reach out to us today, and we can discuss your specific needs. We can provide all the necessary information to make an informed choice that you are happy with.
Comments are closed.