Endpoint Detection and Response are cybersecurity tools that monitor computers, laptops, and mobile devices within a business. The best endpoint detection and response software continuously monitors activity, identifies anything unusual, and alerts users if something suspicious occurs. UK businesses today face more digital risks than ever before. Remote work, cloud tools, and online payments have increased connectivity, but also vulnerability.
Traditional antivirus software is no longer enough because cybercriminals now use smarter, more complex methods to break in. The best endpoint detection and response software protects devices by monitoring and responding to threats in real time.
Top Endpoint Detection and Response Tools
The best EDR protects businesses from a wide range of cyber risks. It can detect malware and ransomware that try to damage or lock files. Moreover, it protects against types of phishing attacks and suspicious downloads that could compromise devices.
EDR also monitors for unauthorised access, unusual file or program activity, and insider threats, helping prevent data breaches and theft. It can detect zero-day attacks and block attempts to exploit device or network vulnerabilities. It also detects hidden malware and persistent threats, helping businesses respond before severe damage. Let’s look into the top-rated EDR software and how it will work with businesses.
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Microsoft Defender is one of the best free antivirus for a laptop, ensuring users' laptops remain safe from various phishing attacks. Endpoint is a top choice for businesses using Microsoft 365, Azure AD, and Intune. It integrates easily with these tools, requiring no complex setups or extra software. For security teams, it offers great visibility across devices, applications, and networks, helping identify outdated software, misconfigurations, and other potential risks.
Microsoft Windows Defender uses AI and behavioural analysis to quickly detect malware, ransomware, phishing, and advanced attacks. Its automated response features can stop threats before they cause severe damage. Many users appreciate how it makes security management smoother, especially in large Windows environments.
Microsoft Defender, also known as Microsoft Antivirus, counts as the best free antivirus for windows 11.
Here are some of the amazing features of Microsoft Defender, the best free EDR tool:
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Real-time threat detection
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AI and behavioural analysis
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Automated response
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Threat & Vulnerability Management
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Centralised dashboard
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Customizable Security Policies
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Scalable Plans
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Pricing Plans:
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Plan |
Price |
|---|---|
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Microsoft Defender for Business (for small/midsize businesses) |
£2.30 / user/month (in the UK, annual‑payment model) |
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Microsoft Defender Suite (full security / XDR bundle for enterprises) — add‑on to MS 365 E3/E5 |
£9.20 / user/month (paid yearly) |
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Standalone EDR / full EDR (for larger firms, via Defender Suite or higher-tier license) |
Bundled within the above plans (Suite / Enterprise plans), pricing depends on the enterprise agreement. |
Pricing plan for better understanding:
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The Defender for Business plan provides a solid baseline in EDR/endpoint security for small to medium businesses.
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The Defender Suite includes advanced features like full EDR/XDR, identity protection, and compliance tools for larger organisations.
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For servers or complex setups, licensing may vary per device or server, with extra add-ons required.
Pros and Cons
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Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
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Easy integration with Microsoft tools |
Complicated for new users |
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Fast threat detection |
Interface can be less intrusive |
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Excellent visibility across endpoints |
Extra efforts for non-window devices |
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Strong Windows support |
Sophos Intercept X
Sophos Intercept X is the best endpoint security solution as it has autonomous, AI-driven endpoint protection. It has a strong, reliable EDR solution known for its ransomware protection and proactive threat detection. It combines signature-based scanning with AI-driven analysis to detect known and new threats.
One standout feature of this endpoint detection and response software is CryptoGuard, which monitors suspicious file encryption in real time and stops ransomware such as LockBit and Ryuk before they can lock users' files. It also has a rollback feature that can undo any malicious encryption, adding an extra layer of protection.
Sophos is the best AI-powered antivirus, integrating deep learning with traditional security techniques to deliver intelligent, proactive protection.
Here are some of the features of the best endpoint detection and response tool:
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Ransomware protection
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Layered threat detection
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Threat Hunting & XDR Capabilities
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Web & Application Protection
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AI-Driven Behavioural Analysis
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Cross-Platform Support
Pricing plans of Sophos Intercept X:
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Plan |
Price |
Features |
|---|---|---|
|
Intercept X Essentials |
£52.50 |
Intercept X Essentials is the basic endpoint protection for desktops and laptops. It is Ideal for small businesses or teams needing core threat detection. |
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Intercept X Endpoint Advanced |
£68.25 |
Intercept X Endpoint Advanced adds ransomware protection and AI-driven threat detection, making it ideal for medium- to large-sized businesses. |
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Intercept X Advanced with XDR |
£87.45 |
Intercept X Advanced with XDR offers full EDR/XDR, proactive threat hunting, and visibility across all endpoints and networks. |
Pros and Cons:
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Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
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Strong ransomware protection |
Can slow down older devices |
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Cloud-based management |
Setup can take effort |
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Proven EDR protection |
Less optimal on non-Windows |
ESET Protect
ESET PROTECT is one of the best antivirus software for windows, as it is very light on your computer, so it won’t slow systems down. It is a trusted endpoint security solution from a well-known cybersecurity brand. It’s designed to keep computers, laptops, servers, and mobile devices safe from malware, ransomware, and unauthorised access. Its real-time protection uses multiple layers, behavioural detection, ransomware mitigation, and cloud analysis to stop known and new threats.
A major advantage of ESET PROTECT is its centralised management console. From a single dashboard, IT teams can monitor vulnerabilities, manage updates, enforce policies, and generate automated reports. It simplifies multi-device security management and supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices, though Linux support could be improved.
Here are some of the features of the best EDR Software:
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Multi-Layered Security
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Centralised Management Console
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Multi-Platform Support
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Automated Reporting
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Identity & Anti-Theft Protection
Pricing plans of ESET Protect:
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Price |
Plan |
Features |
|---|---|---|
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ESET PROTECT Entry (basic endpoint + server security) |
£160.10 / year |
An entry-level plan is enough if you only need basic endpoint and server protection for a small number of devices. |
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ESET PROTECT Advanced |
£207.80 / year |
Advanced and Complete plans include disk encryption, cloud app protection, and patch management, making them ideal for mid-sized businesses |
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ESET PROTECT Complete |
£217.50 / year |
Pros and Cons
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Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
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Strong threat detection |
Setup can be complex |
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Multi-platform support |
Some features need higher-tier plans |
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Lightweight |
Occasional false positives |
Bitdefender GravityZone
Bitdefender explained that Bitdefender GravityZone is a robust endpoint protection for businesses from malware, ransomware, phishing, and other cyber threats. It combines advanced technologies to detect and block both known and emerging threats before they can cause damage.
Bitdefender GravityZon is the best online antivirus, offering AI-backed threat detection and more. It is perfect for MSPs and hybrid environments. It is also ranked among the best antivirus solutions for enterprises due to its robust security features.
GravityZone includes firewall, device control, patch management, and ransomware protection, making it ideal for medium- to large-sized businesses. It has relatively lightweight performance, meaning it doesn’t slow down day-to-day work while providing strong, multi-layered protection.
Here are some of the features of the best EDR tool:
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Firewall Protection
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Device Control
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Multi-Platform Support
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Lightweight & Optimised Performance
Pricing Plan of Bitdefender GravityZone:
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Plan |
Price |
|---|---|
|
GravityZone Business Security (per user, small volume) |
£37.20/user/year for 5–14 users |
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Business Security (medium volume) |
£31.24/user/year for 25–49 users |
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Business Security (larger volume) |
£27.63/user/year for 50–99 users |
Here is a clearer pricing plan
Bitdefender GravityZone
Boost your threat detection and response. Try Bitdefender GravityZone, a leading EDR solution for UK users.
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Per-user/year cost drops as the number of devices increases.
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Monthly 5-device plans are pricier per device than yearly bulk licenses.
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On-premises, cloud-MSP, and volume options are available based on business size.
Pros and Cons
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Pros |
Cons |
|---|---|
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Strong protection |
Small plans cost more |
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Multi-layered AI security |
Some features need a higher-tier plan |
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Advanced features. |
Occasional false positives. |
FAQs
What Are Edr Solutions?
EDR solutions are security tools that monitor, detect, and respond to threats on computers, laptops, and other endpoints in real time.
How Does Edr Integrate with Other Cybersecurity Tools?
EDR integrates by sharing threat data and alerts with other security tools, such as firewalls, SIEMs, and antivirus systems, to provide coordinated protection.
Do Small Businesses Need Edr Solutions?
Yes, small businesses need EDR because it protects against malware, ransomware, and advanced threats that traditional antivirus software may miss.
Choosing the best endpoint detection and response (EDR) software from the List of top EDR tools is essential for UK businesses to stay protected against modern cyber threats. EDR solutions offer real-time monitoring, threat detection, and centralised management to protect devices, networks, and data. These top anti-malware tools ensure comprehensive protection against modern digital dangers.
By choosing the best endpoint detection and response software solution for your business size and needs, users can minimise risks, improve security, and maintain smooth, secure operations in today’s digital environment, moving beyond traditional antivirus to advanced, proactive threat protection. All the above-mentioned top EDR software are the best AI security tools as they are smart enough to detect and resolve any known issues. Moreover, they are considered the best SaaS security tools, too, because these tools strengthen endpoint security.
Choosing the best antivirus for small businesses, businesses can stay protected against modern cyber threats.
Stay tuned to the Virtual Codes Vaults to know more information about the Endpoint Detection and Response Software.
