Top Computer Cyber Security Solutions Comparison

By Lucy Chen | Published: 2023-10-27 | Category: Computer Cyber Security

About Computer Cyber Security

Computer cyber security software encompasses tools designed to protect computer systems, networks, and data from theft, damage, unauthorized access, or attack. These solutions range from individual antivirus programs to comprehensive enterprise security platforms.

Scoring Criteria

  • Protection Effectiveness
  • Performance Impact
  • Feature Set
  • Usability
  • Value

The Best Computer Cyber Security

Unified Security Platform X #10

Unified Security Platform X

By Palo Alto Networks

A leading platform integrating network security (NGFW), endpoint protection (Cortex XDR), and cloud security (Prisma).

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Hardware Appliance, Virtual Appliance, Cloud, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

Best For: Network Security, Endpoint Detection and Response (XDR), Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM), Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

Key Features

  • Strata NGFW: Industry-leading Next-Generation Firewalls.
  • Cortex XDR: Extended Detection and Response platform unifying endpoint, network, and cloud data. (Integrated Data Analysis)
  • Prisma Cloud: Comprehensive cloud native security platform.
  • GlobalProtect: VPN and Secure Access solution.

Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.8
Performance Impact 8.2
Protection Effectiveness 9.6
Usability 8.4
Value 8.0

Pricing

Platform Component Subscription

$80.00 / Per User/Device/Asset/Year (Varies)

  • Specific product features (e.g., Cortex XDR Agent)

Limitations: Requires multiple subscriptions for full platform benefits

Enterprise Agreement

$200.00 / Per User/Year (Volume dependent)

  • Bundled access to multiple platform components
  • Integrated management
  • Premium services

Limitations: High entry cost

Pros

  • + Best-in-class NGFW capabilities
  • + Powerful and comprehensive XDR platform
  • + Strong cloud security offerings
  • + Well-integrated platform vision

Cons

  • - Very high cost
  • - Complexity requires skilled personnel
  • - Can be resource-intensive
  • - Integration between acquired products still evolving in some areas

Verdict

"A premium, highly capable security platform for large enterprises prioritizing best-of-breed protection across network, endpoint, and cloud, willing to invest significantly."
SecureAnywhere Antivirus #9

SecureAnywhere Antivirus

By WebDefense Inc.

An extremely lightweight, cloud-based antivirus that installs quickly and uses minimal system resources.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Windows, macOS

Best For: Lightweight Antivirus, Fast Scanning, Protection for Older Systems

Key Features

  • Cloud-Based Detection: Offloads most detection processing to the cloud. (Minimal System Footprint)
  • Identity Shield: Protects against keyloggers and screen scrapers targeting sensitive data.
  • Real-time Anti-Phishing: Blocks malicious websites instantly.
  • Firewall Monitor: Works alongside the Windows Firewall to monitor network connections.

Scorecard (Overall: 9.0 / 10.0)

Feature Set 8.2
Performance Impact 9.8
Protection Effectiveness 8.8
Usability 9.2
Value 8.9

Pricing

Antivirus

$29.99 / Annual (1 Device)

  • Core Antivirus
  • Anti-Phishing
  • Firewall Monitor

Limitations: No identity protection extras

Internet Security Plus

$44.99 / Annual (3 Devices)

  • Antivirus features
  • Password Manager
  • Mobile Security Apps
Internet Security Complete

$59.99 / Annual (5 Devices)

  • Plus features
  • System Optimizer
  • Secure File Deletion

Pros

  • + Incredibly small footprint and fast scans
  • + Very easy to install and use
  • + Good phishing protection
  • + Identity Shield is a unique feature

Cons

  • - Relies heavily on cloud connection for detection
  • - Protection scores sometimes lag top competitors
  • - Interface feels basic

Verdict

"An excellent option for users prioritizing system performance and seeking basic, effective cloud-based protection."
Infinity Security Architecture #8

Infinity Security Architecture

By CheckSec Systems

A consolidated security architecture spanning network, cloud, mobile, and endpoint security.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Hardware Appliance, Virtual Appliance, Cloud, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

Best For: Consolidated Security Management, Zero Trust Architecture, Cloud Security, Advanced Threat Prevention, Mobile Security

Key Features

  • ThreatCloud Intelligence: Real-time threat intelligence sourced globally.
  • Quantum Network Security: High-performance NGFWs and threat prevention. (Scalable Performance)
  • CloudGuard Security: Comprehensive security for public and private clouds.
  • Harmony Endpoint & Mobile: Unified endpoint and mobile device protection.

Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.7
Performance Impact 8.4
Protection Effectiveness 9.5
Usability 8.3
Value 8.2

Pricing

Component Subscription

$70.00 / Per User/Device/Asset/Year (Varies)

  • Specific product features (e.g., Harmony Endpoint)

Limitations: Requires multiple subscriptions for broad coverage

Infinity Total Protection (UTP)

$150.00 / Per User/Year (Enterprise Agreement)

  • All-inclusive access to network, cloud, mobile, endpoint security products and services
  • Centralized management
  • Premium support

Pros

  • + Extremely broad and deep security portfolio
  • + Strong threat intelligence integration
  • + Powerful network security components
  • + Consolidated architecture vision

Cons

  • - Can be very complex to implement and manage
  • - High cost, especially for full Infinity UTP
  • - Interface consistency varies across products
  • - Resource intensive on some components

Verdict

"A top-tier, comprehensive security architecture for large organizations seeking consolidated security across diverse environments, but requires significant investment and expertise."
Apex One Security #7

Apex One Security

By Apex Micro

An enterprise-focused endpoint security solution offering threat protection, detection, and response across various platforms.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux (via agent)

Best For: Enterprise Endpoint Security, Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Security, Threat Detection and Response, Application Control

Key Features

  • Behavioral Analysis: Monitors application behavior to detect malicious activity.
  • Vulnerability Protection: Virtual patching shields known vulnerabilities before official patches are applied.
  • Integrated EDR/XDR: Offers Endpoint Detection and Response, extensible to XDR (Extended Detection and Response).
  • Application Control: Prevents unauthorized applications from running.

Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.0
Performance Impact 8.6
Protection Effectiveness 9.1
Usability 8.5
Value 8.6

Pricing

Apex One SaaS

$55.00 / Per User/Year

  • NGAV
  • Behavioral Analysis
  • Device Control
  • Vulnerability Protection
  • Basic Application Control

Limitations: EDR requires add-on, Limited data retention

Apex One with XDR

$90.00 / Per User/Year

  • All SaaS features
  • Integrated EDR/XDR capabilities
  • Threat Investigation Tools
  • Extended Data Retention

Pros

  • + Strong vulnerability shielding feature
  • + Good behavioral detection
  • + Well-integrated EDR/XDR options
  • + Mature enterprise solution

Cons

  • - Interface feels slightly dated compared to some rivals
  • - Can require careful tuning to minimize false positives
  • - Performance impact noticeable under heavy load

Verdict

"A reliable and feature-rich endpoint security choice for enterprises, particularly strong in vulnerability protection."
Central Security Platform #6

Central Security Platform

By Synack Systems

A unified security platform offering endpoint, server, mobile, and network protection managed from a single cloud console.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Cloud

Best For: Unified Threat Management (UTM), Endpoint Security, Server Security, Mobile Device Management (MDM), Encryption

Key Features

  • Synchronized Security: Allows endpoint and network components (firewall) to share threat information and coordinate responses. (Automated Isolation)
  • Intercept X Endpoint: Advanced endpoint protection with anti-ransomware and exploit prevention.
  • Cloud Optix: Cloud security posture management (CSPM) features.
  • Central Management Console: Single pane of glass for managing all security products.

Scorecard (Overall: 9.0 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.4
Performance Impact 8.7
Protection Effectiveness 9.3
Usability 9.0
Value 8.7

Pricing

Endpoint Advanced

$50.00 / Per User/Year

  • Intercept X
  • Device Control
  • Web Control

Limitations: No EDR features, Basic server protection

Endpoint Advanced with EDR

$80.00 / Per User/Year

  • Endpoint Advanced features
  • EDR Tools
  • Threat Analysis
Full Platform Bundle

$120.00 / Per User/Year

  • Endpoint with EDR
  • Server Protection
  • Mobile Security
  • Encryption
  • Phishing Simulation

Pros

  • + Unified management console is excellent
  • + Synchronized security concept is powerful
  • + Broad range of security products
  • + Strong anti-ransomware capabilities

Cons

  • - Can become expensive as more modules are added
  • - Some modules feel less mature than others
  • - Initial setup can involve multiple components

Verdict

"A comprehensive and well-integrated security ecosystem, especially beneficial for organizations invested in multiple Synack products."
Guardian Antivirus Plus #5

Guardian Antivirus Plus

By Guardian Labs

A solid antivirus product focusing on core malware protection with minimal system impact.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Windows, macOS

Best For: Basic Malware Protection, Phishing Protection, Safe Browsing

Key Features

  • Antivirus Engine: Detects and removes viruses, trojans, worms, and spyware.
  • Anti-Phishing: Blocks fraudulent websites attempting to steal credentials.
  • Vulnerability Scanner: Identifies outdated software and missing security patches.
  • Rescue Environment: Tool for cleaning heavily infected systems.

Scorecard (Overall: 9.0 / 10.0)

Feature Set 8.0
Performance Impact 9.5
Protection Effectiveness 9.2
Usability 9.4
Value 9.0

Pricing

Antivirus Plus

$39.99 / Annual (1 Device)

  • Antivirus Engine
  • Anti-Phishing
  • Limited VPN

Limitations: Single device only, No firewall or parental controls

Internet Security

$59.99 / Annual (3 Devices)

  • Antivirus Plus features
  • Firewall
  • Anti-Spam
  • Webcam Protection
  • Parental Controls

Pros

  • + Excellent malware detection scores
  • + Very light on system resources
  • + Simple and intuitive interface
  • + Affordable pricing

Cons

  • - Fewer extra features compared to competitors
  • - Basic tier is quite limited
  • - Occasional false positives reported

Verdict

"A great choice for users prioritizing effective, no-frills malware protection with minimal performance slowdown."
NetWall Security Fabric #4

NetWall Security Fabric

By NetWall Systems

A broad portfolio of integrated network security appliances and services, including next-generation firewalls (NGFWs).

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Hardware Appliance, Virtual Appliance, Cloud

Best For: Network Segmentation, Perimeter Security, VPN Gateway, Threat Prevention, SD-WAN

Key Features

  • Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW): Provides deep packet inspection, application control, and intrusion prevention. (High Throughput)
  • Integrated Security Services: Includes web filtering, antivirus, sandboxing, and anti-spam.
  • Security Fabric Integration: Allows seamless operation and policy enforcement across different NetWall products.
  • Secure SD-WAN: Combines networking and security functions for distributed enterprises.

Scorecard (Overall: 9.0 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.6
Performance Impact 8.8
Protection Effectiveness 9.4
Usability 8.7
Value 8.5

Pricing

Appliance + Basic Bundle

$1500.00 / Hardware + Annual Subscription (Varies by model)

  • NGFW
  • IPS
  • Application Control
  • Basic Support

Limitations: Limited threat intelligence, No sandboxing

Appliance + Enterprise Bundle

$3000.00 / Hardware + Annual Subscription (Varies by model)

  • Basic Bundle features
  • Advanced Threat Protection
  • Sandboxing
  • Web Filtering
  • Anti-spam
  • Enhanced Support

Pros

  • + Broad, integrated security portfolio
  • + High-performance hardware options
  • + Strong NGFW capabilities
  • + Mature SD-WAN features

Cons

  • - Complexity increases with more features enabled
  • - Subscription costs can add up significantly
  • - Requires network expertise for optimal configuration

Verdict

"A powerful network security solution for organizations needing robust perimeter defense and integrated security services."
ThreatDefend Endpoint #3

ThreatDefend Endpoint

By ThreatDefend Inc.

Cloud-native endpoint protection platform (EPP) focused on autonomous prevention, detection, and response using AI.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Cloud Workloads

Best For: Advanced Endpoint Protection, Automated Incident Response, Cloud Security, Compliance

Key Features

  • AI-Powered Prevention: Uses static and behavioral AI engines to block threats pre-execution.
  • Automated EDR: Automates threat detection, investigation, and remediation actions.
  • Device Control: Manages USB and peripheral device usage.
  • Threat Intelligence Feed: Integrates global threat data for proactive defense.

Scorecard (Overall: 9.0 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.0
Performance Impact 9.2
Protection Effectiveness 9.7
Usability 8.5
Value 8.8

Pricing

Core

$55.00 / Per Endpoint/Year

  • AI Prevention
  • Basic EDR
  • Device Control

Limitations: Limited automation, Standard support

Control

$75.00 / Per Endpoint/Year

  • Core features
  • Advanced EDR
  • Firewall Control
  • Threat Hunting Tools
Complete

$100.00 / Per Endpoint/Year

  • Control features
  • Full Automation
  • Forensics Tools
  • Premium Support

Pros

  • + Outstanding prevention capabilities
  • + Highly automated response actions
  • + Low performance overhead
  • + Strong cloud workload support

Cons

  • - Management console can be complex for beginners
  • - Steeper learning curve for advanced features
  • - Pricing is at the higher end

Verdict

"A leading AI-driven endpoint security solution, particularly strong for organizations prioritizing automation and prevention."
CyberGuard Total Security #2

CyberGuard Total Security

By CyberGuard Solutions

A feature-rich security suite for consumers and small businesses, offering protection against malware, ransomware, phishing, and network threats.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS

Best For: Personal Device Protection, Family Safety, Small Business Antivirus, Identity Protection

Key Features

  • Real-time Malware Protection: Constantly scans for and blocks viruses, spyware, and ransomware.
  • VPN Service: Includes a virtual private network for secure browsing. (Included (Limited/Unlimited based on tier))
  • Password Manager: Securely stores and generates passwords.
  • Parental Controls: Tools for managing children's online activity.

Scorecard (Overall: 9.3 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.2
Performance Impact 9.0
Protection Effectiveness 9.5
Usability 9.5
Value 9.3

Pricing

Standard Security

$49.99 / Annual (3 Devices)

  • Malware Protection
  • Basic Firewall
  • Limited VPN

Limitations: No password manager, Limited device count

Total Security

$89.99 / Annual (10 Devices)

  • All Standard features
  • Unlimited VPN
  • Password Manager
  • Parental Controls
  • Identity Theft Monitoring (Region specific)

Pros

  • + Excellent malware protection scores
  • + Very user-friendly interface
  • + Comprehensive feature set in top tiers
  • + Minimal performance impact

Cons

  • - Upselling within the application can be intrusive
  • - VPN speed varies
  • - Some advanced features require separate setup

Verdict

"A top-tier choice for home users and small businesses seeking comprehensive, easy-to-use protection with lots of extras."
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Endpoint Security Suite Pro #1

Endpoint Security Suite Pro

By SecureTech Global

A comprehensive endpoint security solution offering advanced threat detection, prevention, and response capabilities for businesses.

Platforms & Use Cases

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux

Best For: Enterprise Endpoint Protection, Threat Hunting, Incident Response, Data Loss Prevention

Key Features

  • Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV): Utilizes machine learning and behavioral analysis to detect known and unknown malware. (High Efficacy)
  • Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Provides visibility into endpoint activity and tools for investigating and remediating threats.
  • Managed Threat Hunting: Optional service with security experts actively searching for threats within the environment.
  • Firewall & Intrusion Prevention: Network-level protection integrated at the endpoint.

Scorecard (Overall: 9.1 / 10.0)

Feature Set 9.5
Performance Impact 8.5
Protection Effectiveness 9.8
Usability 8.8
Value 9.0

Pricing

Business Pro

$60.00 / Per Endpoint/Year

  • NGAV
  • Basic EDR
  • Firewall
  • Web Filtering

Limitations: Limited reporting, No managed hunting

Enterprise Elite

$95.00 / Per Endpoint/Year

  • Full NGAV & EDR
  • Advanced Reporting
  • Threat Intelligence Integration
  • Optional Managed Hunting

Pros

  • + Excellent threat detection rates
  • + Comprehensive EDR features
  • + Scalable for large organizations
  • + Good integration options

Cons

  • - Can be complex to configure initially
  • - Higher resource consumption compared to basic AV
  • - Premium features increase cost significantly

Verdict

"An industry-leading endpoint security platform ideal for organizations needing robust protection and deep visibility."
Lucy Chen

Written By

Lucy Chen

Staff Writer, Lifestyle & Home

Final Thoughts

The cyber security landscape offers a wide range of solutions, from lightweight consumer antivirus to complex, integrated enterprise platforms. Top contenders like SecureTech, CyberGuard, and ThreatDefend demonstrate excellent protection effectiveness and robust feature sets, albeit with different target audiences and complexity levels. Network security leaders like NetWall and Palo Alto Networks provide powerful perimeter and cloud defenses, while specialists like WebDefense focus on minimal performance impact.

🏆 Best Overall Endpoint Security Suite Pro
💲 Best Value CyberGuard Total Security
✨ [ThreatDefend Endpoint] Best for organizations prioritizing AI-driven autonomous prevention and response.