Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Reviews & Pricing

by Microsoft | Founded 1975, Albuquerque, NM

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Endpoint Security Software
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What is Microsoft Defender for Endpoint?

Industry Specialties: Serves all industries.

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is an advanced security solution designed to protect businesses against sophisticated cyber threats. Ideal for enterprises of all sizes, it offers robust features such as endpoint protection, detection and response, and automated investigation and remediation. Users commend its seamless integration with other Microsoft 365 services. According to one user, "Defender for Endpoint's unified security platform simplifies our cybersecurity strategy." While praised for its efficacy, some users note a learning curve during implementation. Pricing varies based on organizational needs. Users generally perceive it favorably, with one stating, "Microsoft Defender for Endpoint stands out in its ability to provide comprehensive security without compromising user experience, setting it apart from competitors."

Pros

Integrated with Microsoft 365 services.
Advanced endpoint protection.
Automated investigation and remediation.
Effective against sophisticated cyber threats.
Seamless user experience.

Cons

Initial implementation may have a learning curve.
Varied pricing based on organizational needs.
Requires careful configuration for optimal performance.
May not suit smaller businesses with simpler needs.
Dependency on Microsoft ecosystem for full functionality.

PRICE

COMPANY SIZE

DEPLOYMENT

PLATFORM

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User Sentiment i

Based on 64 reviews:

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#9

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is ranked #9 on the top 10 Endpoint Security Software leaderboard based on a comprehensive analysis performed by SelectHub research analysts. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report.

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Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Pricing

Based on our most recent analysis, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint pricing starts at $5 (Per User, Monthly).

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Starting From: $5
Pricing Model: Per User, Monthly
Free Trial: Yes, Request for Free

Training Resources

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is supported with the following types of training:

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars

Support

The following support services are available for Microsoft Defender for Endpoint:

Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Help Desk
Knowledge Base
Tickets
Training
24/7 Live Support

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Benefits and Insights

Why use Microsoft Defender for Endpoint?

Key differentiators & advantages of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Advanced Threat Protection: Defender for Endpoint provides robust protection against a wide range of advanced threats, including malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. It employs cutting-edge threat intelligence and machine learning to proactively identify and block malicious activities, keeping your organization's endpoints secure.
Real-Time Threat Detection: With its real-time monitoring and detection capabilities, the platform continuously scans for suspicious behavior and indicators of compromise. It swiftly identifies and responds to potential threats, reducing the dwell time of attackers within your network.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Defender for Endpoint offers EDR functionality, enabling security teams to investigate and respond to incidents effectively. It provides detailed insights into endpoint activities, helping organizations understand the scope and impact of security incidents.
Automated Incident Response: The platform streamlines incident response with automation. It can isolate compromised devices, remediate threats, and even roll back changes made by attackers, minimizing the impact of security breaches.
Threat Intelligence Integration: Microsoft integrates global threat intelligence into Defender for Endpoint, enhancing its ability to identify and mitigate emerging threats. This intelligence is continuously updated to keep defenses current against evolving attack techniques.
Cloud-Powered Security: Leveraging the cloud, Defender for Endpoint can scale effortlessly to protect organizations of all sizes. It benefits from the vast computing power of Microsoft's cloud infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and protection.
Centralized Security Management: The platform offers a unified management console, allowing organizations to oversee and configure security policies across all endpoints from a single interface. This simplifies administration and ensures consistent security posture.
Integration with Microsoft 365: For organizations using Microsoft 365, Defender for Endpoint seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft security services, creating a cohesive security ecosystem. This integration enhances visibility and control over security threats.
User and Device Risk Assessment: Defender for Endpoint assesses the risk associated with both users and devices. It evaluates user behavior and device health, enabling organizations to enforce access policies based on risk levels.
Threat Analytics and Insights: The platform provides detailed analytics and insights into security threats and trends. This data helps organizations make informed decisions to strengthen their security posture and adapt to evolving threats.
Reduced Security Complexity: By consolidating security functions into a single solution, Defender for Endpoint simplifies security management. It reduces the need for multiple security tools and streamlines operations, ultimately lowering the total cost of ownership.
Compliance and Reporting: The platform assists organizations in meeting regulatory compliance requirements by offering reporting and auditing capabilities. It helps organizations maintain transparency and demonstrate adherence to security standards.

Industry Expertise

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint specializes in providing advanced cybersecurity solutions that cater to a wide range of industries. Its expertise spans across sectors such as healthcare, finance, government, manufacturing, and more. The platform's adaptability and robust threat detection capabilities make it suitable for organizations with diverse industry-specific security requirements. Whether it's protecting patient data in healthcare or financial transactions in the banking sector, Defender for Endpoint offers tailored security solutions to address industry-specific challenges effectively.

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Reviews

Average customer reviews & user sentiment summary for Microsoft Defender for Endpoint:

64 reviews

88%

of users would recommend this product

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 88% when considering 64 user reviews from 1 recognized software review sites.

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Based on an aggregate of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst.

Pros

Effective Threat Detection: Users praise Defender for Endpoint's ability to detect and mitigate a wide range of threats effectively, including malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
Seamless Microsoft Integration: The product seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft ecosystem, making it convenient for organizations already using Microsoft services.
Real-Time Monitoring: Real-time monitoring and threat detection provide immediate visibility into security incidents, allowing for swift responses.
Automated Incident Response: Users value the platform's automated incident response capabilities, which reduce the manual effort required for handling security incidents.
Centralized Management: Organizations can easily manage security policies across all endpoints from a centralized console, simplifying administration and ensuring a consistent security posture.

Cons

Resource Intensive: Users have reported that Microsoft Defender for Endpoint can be resource-intensive, impacting the performance of older or less powerful devices.
Complex Configuration: Some users find the initial setup and configuration complex, especially those without extensive cybersecurity expertise. This can lead to misconfigurations that affect security effectiveness.
False Positives: Like many security solutions, Defender for Endpoint can generate false positives, flagging legitimate activities as suspicious, potentially causing disruptions and requiring additional investigation.
Cloud Dependency: Users in areas with unreliable or limited internet connectivity may face limitations due to the platform's cloud dependency, impacting security when offline.
Cost for Small Businesses: Pricing concerns have been raised, particularly by small businesses, who may find it less budget-friendly, potentially straining their cybersecurity budgets.
Learning Curve: Users transitioning from other security solutions may encounter a learning curve when adapting to the platform's features and functionalities, affecting operational efficiency.
Compatibility Challenges: Some users have reported compatibility issues with specialized or legacy software, necessitating additional configuration or exceptions, which can add complexity to deployments.
Endpoint Management: Effective endpoint security relies on proper configuration and maintenance of devices. Neglected or misconfigured endpoints can be more vulnerable to threats, requiring vigilant management.

Researcher's Summary:

Users consistently praise Microsoft Defender for Endpoint for its robust security features, with one user commending its "advanced endpoint protection" and another highlighting its "seamless integration with Microsoft 365 services." Many appreciate the automated investigation and remediation capabilities, emphasizing its effectiveness against sophisticated cyber threats.

While the product's efficacy is widely acknowledged, some users mention a learning curve during the initial implementation. One user notes, "The implementation process had its challenges, but the benefits far outweighed the initial hurdles." Pricing variability based on organizational needs is a common concern, with users suggesting careful consideration to align the solution with budgetary constraints.

Comparatively, users believe Microsoft Defender for Endpoint stands out from competitors, offering comprehensive security without compromising user experience. One user succinctly states, "It's a top-tier solution in its ability to provide holistic security."

However, a few users caution that optimal performance may require careful configuration, and dependence on the Microsoft ecosystem for full functionality may not be suitable for all organizations. Despite these considerations, the prevailing sentiment is positive, with users appreciating the product's efficacy in safeguarding against evolving cyber threats.

Pricing Details

Defender for Endpoint pricing is summarized in the following 4 pricing plans:

Essential	Standard	Advanced	Enterprise
$20 /user/month	$40 /user/month	$60 /user/month	$80 /user/month
Best Suited For Small to Medium Businesses	Best Suited For Medium to Large Enterprises	Best Suited For Enterprises with Complex Security Needs	Best Suited For Large Enterprises with Comprehensive Security Requirements
Features Antivirus and antimalware protection Endpoint detection and response (EDR) Automatic investigation and remediation	Features All Essential plan features Endpoint firewall and network protection Security posture management	Features All Standard plan features Microsoft Defender for Identity Advanced threat hunting and analytics	Features All Advanced plan features Endpoint detection and response (EDR) in the cloud Threat and vulnerability management

Pricing FAQ

Common cost-related questions for Defender for Endpoint include:

Q: What is the pricing model for Microsoft Defender for Endpoint?
A: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint typically follows a subscription-based pricing model. The cost is determined by the selected plan, which may range from Essential to Enterprise, and is charged per user or device per month.
Q: Are there additional costs beyond the base subscription for Microsoft Defender for Endpoint?
A: While the base subscription covers essential security features, additional costs may apply for advanced functionalities or add-ons. Organizations should review the feature set of each plan to understand potential additional expenses.
Q: How does Microsoft Defender for Endpoint pricing scale for larger organizations?
A: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint pricing often scales with the number of users or devices. Larger organizations may qualify for volume discounts, and detailed pricing discussions are recommended with Microsoft or authorized resellers.
Q: Is there a trial period available for Microsoft Defender for Endpoint?
A: Yes, Microsoft typically offers a free trial period for Defender for Endpoint. Organizations can take advantage of this trial to evaluate the product's effectiveness and features before making a commitment.
Q: Can I customize my Microsoft Defender for Endpoint plan based on specific security needs?
A: Yes, Microsoft provides flexibility for plan customization. Organizations can tailor their Defender for Endpoint subscription to meet specific security requirements by adding or removing features as needed.

Key Features

Notable Defender for Endpoint features include:

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Real-time monitoring and analysis of endpoint activities, allowing rapid detection and response to potential threats.
Advanced Threat Protection: Proactive defense against sophisticated and evolving threats through advanced behavioral analytics and machine learning.
Automated Investigation and Remediation: Streamlined incident response with automated investigation and remediation workflows, reducing manual effort and response time.
Threat and Vulnerability Management: Comprehensive assessment of vulnerabilities and proactive management to strengthen the security posture of endpoints.
Attack Surface Reduction: Mitigation of attack vectors by controlling and limiting unnecessary applications and functionalities on endpoints.
Endpoint Isolation: Immediate isolation of compromised endpoints to prevent lateral movement and contain potential threats.
Cloud-Powered Analytics: Harnessing the power of cloud-based analytics for real-time threat intelligence and more effective protection.
Intelligent Security Graph: Utilization of a vast network of threat intelligence sources and data to enhance threat detection and response capabilities.
Integration with Microsoft 365 Security Center: Seamless collaboration and visibility with other security solutions within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem for holistic security management.
Incident Visualization: Clear and intuitive visualization of security incidents, providing insights into the scope and impact of potential threats.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC): Granular control over access permissions, ensuring that users have the appropriate level of access to Defender for Endpoint features and data.
Security Analytics and Reporting: Robust analytics and reporting capabilities to monitor security trends, assess risks, and demonstrate compliance.
Threat Hunting: Proactive searching for potential threats and vulnerabilities using advanced queries and threat intelligence.
Mobile Threat Defense: Extending protection to mobile devices with features like mobile threat detection and conditional access policies.
Automated Security Updates: Automatic and timely updates to ensure that Defender for Endpoint is equipped with the latest threat intelligence and security enhancements.
Custom Detection Rules: Tailoring threat detection to specific organizational needs with the ability to create and customize detection rules.

Limitations

Some of the product limitations include:

Dependency on Cloud Connection: Defender for Endpoint relies on a continuous cloud connection for optimal functionality. Offline devices may experience limited protection and delayed threat detection.
Compatibility Challenges: Some legacy or specialized software may not be fully compatible with Defender for Endpoint, requiring additional configuration or exceptions.
Resource Consumption: On older or resource-constrained devices, the platform's real-time scanning and monitoring may impact system performance.
Initial Learning Curve: Implementing and configuring Defender for Endpoint effectively may require some familiarity with cybersecurity best practices and the platform's features.
False Positives: Like all security solutions, Defender for Endpoint may occasionally flag legitimate software or actions as suspicious, leading to false positive alerts.
Endpoint Dependency: The effectiveness of endpoint security relies on the proper configuration and maintenance of endpoints. Neglected or misconfigured devices may be more vulnerable to threats.

Demo Resources

Resources that provide Defender for Endpoint demo insights include:

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Overview: Explore the features and advantages of Defender for Endpoint in securing your organization's digital environment.
Interactive Demo Environment: Immerse yourself in a hands-on experience within Microsoft's simulated environment, showcasing Defender for Endpoint's threat detection and response capabilities.
Webinars and Video Tutorials: Engage with insightful webinars and tutorials by Microsoft, providing practical demonstrations and sharing best practices for deploying and utilizing Defender for Endpoint.
Customer Success Stories: Gain insights from organizations that have successfully implemented Defender for Endpoint, understanding the real-world impact and benefits achieved.
Documentation and Guides: Access comprehensive guides and documentation from Microsoft for configuring, optimizing, and maximizing the effectiveness of Defender for Endpoint in diverse IT environments.
Threat Intelligence Reports: Stay ahead of evolving threats with Microsoft's integrated threat intelligence reports, a key component of Defender for Endpoint's proactive defense strategy.

FAQ

Common questions regarding Defender for Endpoint include:

Q: How does Microsoft Defender for Endpoint contribute to a proactive cybersecurity strategy?
A: Defender for Endpoint is designed to enhance proactive cybersecurity by employing advanced technologies such as endpoint detection and response (EDR) and threat intelligence. It actively monitors endpoint activities, detects potential threats in real-time, and uses cloud-powered analytics to stay ahead of emerging risks. For instance, its automated investigation and remediation capabilities enable security teams to proactively address incidents, reducing the likelihood of successful attacks and minimizing the impact on the organization's digital environment.
Q: Can Defender for Endpoint adapt to the evolving threat landscape?
A: Yes, Defender for Endpoint is designed to adapt to the dynamic nature of the threat landscape. Its cloud-powered analytics continuously analyze global threat data, allowing the solution to quickly update and evolve its detection capabilities. As an example, if a new type of malware is identified anywhere in the world, Defender for Endpoint can swiftly incorporate this intelligence, providing organizations with up-to-date protection against the latest threats without the need for manual intervention.
Q: How does Defender for Endpoint facilitate collaboration among security teams?
A: Defender for Endpoint enhances collaboration among security teams by integrating with Microsoft 365 Security Center. This integration provides a centralized platform where security teams can collectively view and manage security incidents. For example, if an incident involves multiple security solutions within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, teams can collaborate seamlessly, share insights, and coordinate responses. This collaborative approach is crucial for a unified and effective response to complex security incidents.
Q: What role does Threat Hunting play in the Defender for Endpoint strategy?
A: Threat Hunting in Defender for Endpoint is a proactive strategy that involves actively searching for potential threats within an organization's environment. While automated systems handle routine detections, threat hunters can use advanced queries and threat intelligence to identify sophisticated and hidden threats. For instance, they may proactively search for indicators of compromise or unusual patterns in network traffic that automated systems might overlook. This approach ensures that organizations stay ahead of attackers and continuously improve their security posture.
Q: How does Defender for Endpoint balance automation and human intervention in incident response?
A: Defender for Endpoint strikes a balance between automation and human intervention in incident response. While automated investigation and remediation capabilities handle routine and known threats, human expertise is crucial for dealing with complex and novel security incidents. For example, security teams can customize automated responses for common threats, allowing them to focus human intervention on more nuanced and sophisticated attacks. This approach maximizes efficiency while leveraging the unique capabilities of both automation and human expertise in incident response.