Antivirus solutions remain a cornerstone of cybersecurity for organisations in the private and public sectors. However, as cyber threats grow in sophistication, choosing the right antivirus supplier is more critical than ever. From integration capabilities to cost-effectiveness, there are several factors senior cybersecurity professionals attending the Cyber Secure Forum are considering when evaluating antivirus suppliers...
1. Understand Your Organisation’s Needs
Start by assessing your organisation’s specific security requirements. Are you protecting a hybrid workforce, safeguarding sensitive customer data, or securing critical infrastructure? Organisations with complex environments, such as those using cloud services or operating across multiple sites, require scalable solutions that cater to diverse endpoints.
Determine the level of protection needed, such as defence against ransomware, zero-day attacks, or advanced persistent threats (APTs). These insights will guide your evaluation process and help you select a solution tailored to your needs.
2. Look for Comprehensive Features
Modern antivirus solutions go beyond traditional malware detection. Look for suppliers offering:
- Real-time threat detection and response: The ability to identify and neutralise threats as they occur.
- AI and machine learning capabilities: Advanced tools that analyse behavioural patterns to detect unknown threats.
- Cloud-based management: Centralised dashboards that allow remote monitoring and updates for distributed teams.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Enhanced visibility into endpoint activity to prevent breaches and reduce response times.
Ensure the solution covers all critical platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices, to provide comprehensive protection across your network.
3. Prioritise Integration and Usability
Antivirus solutions should integrate seamlessly with your existing systems, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools. Suppliers that offer APIs for easy integration reduce complexity and enhance overall cybersecurity posture.
Usability is also key. The solution should feature an intuitive interface, enabling IT teams to manage threats efficiently without requiring extensive training.
4. Evaluate Vendor Support and Reputation
A strong support system is essential. Choose a supplier with a proven track record of reliability, prompt customer service, and regular updates to address emerging threats. Request case studies and testimonials from similar organisations to validate their expertise.
5. Balance Cost and Value
While cost is an important factor, focus on the total value the solution brings. A robust antivirus system reduces the risk of costly breaches, downtime, and regulatory fines, providing a strong return on investment. Suppliers offering flexible pricing models, such as subscriptions, can help you manage budgets effectively.
Conclusion
Selecting the right antivirus supplier is a critical decision for UK organisations. By focusing on features, integration, support, and cost-effectiveness, senior cybersecurity professionals can ensure their networks remain protected against evolving threats. A trusted partner will not only deliver robust security but also empower organisations to respond proactively to the dynamic cybersecurity landscape.
Are you searching for Anti-Virus solutions for your organisation? The Cyber Secure Forum can help!
Photo by Fatos Bytyqi on Unsplash
