TL;DR:
SME context (Quebec, Law 25): cyber threats also hit small organisations; beyond “blocking viruses”, a defence‑in‑depth strategy (updates, backups, MFA, training) is essential.
Myth: “antivirus is obsolete” – false. It is not sufficient by itself, but remains an essential building block in a defence‑in‑depth approach.
Antivirus vs antimalware: today the distinction is mostly marketing. Good products cover viruses, trojans, ransomware and spyware.
Firewall ≠ antivirus: a firewall filters network traffic; it does not replace file/process analysis. Built‑in protections are useful but limited.
macOS / Linux “invincible”: false. They are less targeted than Windows, but still attacked (credential theft, phishing, trojans, crypto‑miners).
Practical selection criteria:
- Detection (including zero‑day) and low false positives
- Ease of use for non‑technicians
- Performance impact (especially on older PCs)
- Fleet management (console, policies, deployment, reports)
- French/English support and compliance/audit (Law 25)
Windows (up to 4 options):
- Microsoft Defender: excellent free base, integrated with Windows/AD/Intune; advanced centralisation via optional Defender for Endpoint.
- Bitdefender: very high level; GravityZone is a major advantage for centralised multi‑OS management.
- Malwarebytes: great as an “emergency” tool (free on demand) or as simple protection (Premium).
- Avast: good engine even in the free version, but more marketing (upsells) and caution required regarding privacy.
macOS (up to 4 options):
- Intego: very Mac‑first, simple, lightweight; limited centralisation.
- Bitdefender: ultra complete + anti‑ransomware options; centralisable (GravityZone/Central).
- Avast (free): solid protection at zero cost, some solicitations.
- Sophos Home: convenient web console approach for a few devices (check licence terms depending on context).
Linux (up to 4 options):
- ClamAV: useful for scanning files/mail/servers, but less “proactive” on its own.
- Sophos or ESET: relevant when you need real‑time protection + console + reports (servers/sensitive data).
- Comodo: free but maintenance/compatibility uncertain → avoid for critical systems.
Simple rule: as soon as you have more than “a few machines”, the management console (reports + alerts) becomes almost mandatory.
Antimalware solutions for Windows, macOS and Linux: comparative analysis and advice for Quebec SMEs
Introduction
Quebec small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) face growing digital threats, even while budgets and IT staff are limited. Choosing the right antimalware is therefore strategic.
This article offers an in‑depth, educational and accessible analysis of the main free and paid antimalware solutions for Windows, macOS and Linux.
Finally, we will debunk several misconceptions: the idea that antivirus is “useless” or “outdated”, the belief that macOS and Linux are safe by default, and the confusion between antivirus and antimalware.
Note that throughout the article, we use the terms antivirus, antimalware or security solution interchangeably because current products generally combine all these features.
Antivirus in 2025: outdated tool or still indispensable?
A common refrain is that “traditional” antivirus is useless against modern threats such as phishing or supply‑chain attacks.
In fact, contemporary antivirus software no longer relies solely on known signature detection. They incorporate machine learning, behavioural analysis, heuristics, and cloud‑based reputation services.
Moreover, in the era of regulatory compliance, an effective antivirus is also a governance tool. Law 25 requires organisations to demonstrate that they have taken reasonable measures to protect personal data.
Therefore it’s time to move beyond the “antivirus yes or no” debate. The reality is that antivirus alone is not enough, but it is the first layer of a broader defence‑in‑depth.
However, it is true that no solution guarantees 100% protection, and sophisticated threats will eventually find a way to bypass protections. Hence the importance of additional measures (updates, backups, awareness, MFA, segmentation).
Antivirus, antimalware: is there a difference?
The terms antivirus and antimalware are often used interchangeably, which can be confusing. Historically, antivirus targeted viruses, whereas antimalware targeted a broader range of malicious software.
In practice, a good antivirus is an antimalware – and vice versa. The distinction is mainly marketing or semantic.
Why then two terms? In the 2000s, some vendors wanted to stand out by pointing out that “viruses” were only one category of threat. They marketed “antispyware” or “antimalware” to highlight broader detection.
For a normal user or a non‑technical manager, what matters is that the chosen solution covers all common and emerging threats.
Firewall and built‑in protections: what do they really protect against?
Another common idea: “I don’t need additional antivirus because I already have a firewall and the built‑in protections of Windows/macOS/Android.”
These built‑in protections are an appreciated first line of defence, but they have significant limitations. A firewall filters network traffic but does not inspect file behaviour in real time. The same goes for built‑in OS protections.
Regarding built‑in OS security mechanisms, their main pitfall is that they often rely on whitelists of known safe software. New or tampered programmes may slip through.
On Windows, Microsoft Defender is recognised today as an effective antivirus, often well ranked in tests and deeply integrated. But for comprehensive protection, complementary solutions may still be advisable.
In summary, a firewall and native Windows/macOS protections are necessary but not sufficient. The firewall plays a preventive role, while antivirus analyses file and process behaviour. Both are complementary.
Are macOS and Linux immune to viruses?
It is often heard that Apple Macs are naturally immune to viruses and that Linux, used mainly on servers, is unhackable.
Case of macOS
The myth of macOS absolute security may have had some truth 20 years ago when very few malware targeted Apple. But the landscape has changed.
Apple integrates protections (XProtect, Gatekeeper, etc.) that block many known malware, but new variants and social‑engineering attacks circumvent these defences.
Independent tests confirm that Mac antivirus software bring real added value: in a May 2025 test, Intego, Bitdefender and others detected threats that Apple’s XProtect did not.
Case of Linux
Linux occupies a special place. It is widely used on servers and infrastructure, and less on desktops. Historically, many Linux users dispensed with antivirus, considering risk negligible if the system was up‑to‑date.
However, targeted attacks on Linux exist (SSH brute force, rootkits, crypto‑miners). Moreover, Linux servers often serve as vectors of infection for Windows or Mac machines (hosting malicious files).
There are solutions and they will be discussed later. Remember that no system is invulnerable. Linux benefits from its diversity and security model, but remain vigilant.
Having clarified these context points, let’s now move on to a concrete comparison of available antimalware solutions on each platform.
Comparison of antimalware solutions for Windows
Windows being the most widespread system in business, the range of security solutions is also the widest. We will analyse the most relevant ones for SMEs.
Microsoft Defender (Windows Security)
Microsoft Defender (officially Windows Security on Windows 10/11) is Microsoft’s native solution. Free and integrated, it activates automatically when no other antivirus is installed.
In terms of ease of use, Defender is much appreciated by non‑technicians: the interface (built into the Settings app) is straightforward and mostly automatic.
Where Microsoft Defender stands out for SMEs is in centralised management within a Microsoft ecosystem: integration with Active Directory, Intune and the Defender for Endpoint console allows unified policies and reporting.
In short, Microsoft Defender is a solid base: zero cost, detection among the best, no installation complexity, moderate resources. For a simple environment, it may suffice; for larger organisations, complement it with a console and extra layers.
Bitdefender (Antivirus Plus, Internet Security, Total Security)
Bitdefender is a well‑known security vendor whose Windows products consistently rank among the best in independent tests.
For detection rates, Bitdefender approaches excellence: independent labs regularly assign it near‑perfect scores for blocking viruses, trojans and ransomware.
In terms of ease of use, Bitdefender offers a French interface, modern and fairly intuitive. Installation is quick, and the default settings are sensible.
Performance‑wise, the Bitdefender engine is known to be lightweight in the background, thanks to optimised scanning and scanning in the cloud.
For enterprise fleet management, Bitdefender offers a dedicated solution called GravityZone. GravityZone is a cloud or on‑premises console that centralises deployment, policies, and reporting across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
In terms of support and local compliance, Bitdefender is an international company well established in Canada, offering bilingual support and assistance for Quebec’s regulatory framework (Law 25).
In summary, Bitdefender for Windows is a high‑end antimalware: top detection, satisfactory daily use and remote management through GravityZone. It suits SMEs seeking a professional solution.
Malwarebytes (Free & Premium)
Malwarebytes occupies a special place in the Windows security landscape. Historically launched as a free anti‑malware tool focusing on adware and PUPs, it has evolved into a full antivirus.
In terms of threat detection, Malwarebytes has a solid reputation for catching potentially unwanted programmes, trojans, and zero‑day threats thanks to advanced heuristics. However, some tests find it less effective against traditional viruses than competitors.
Malwarebytes’ great strength is its simplicity. The French interface is extremely minimalist and user‑friendly. There are few options, so it’s ideal for users who want a “set and forget” solution.
On performance, Malwarebytes is also lightweight. The programme has been optimised not to slow down the machine: according to AV‑Test, it earns 5/6 for performance impact.
For centralised management and enterprise features, Malwarebytes offers a cloud console called Malwarebytes Nebula (paid). For small teams, this provides policy and alert management comparable to more advanced suites.
Bilingual support for Malwarebytes is provided through a French interface and documentation. The website has a comprehensive knowledge base and forums; paid customers have access to priority support (in English primarily).
In summary, Malwarebytes is an excellent tool to strengthen the security of a Windows PC. In free mode, it serves as an occasional scanner or last resort; in Premium, it becomes a simple real‑time protection. Combined with Microsoft Defender, it provides a robust duo.
Avast (Free Antivirus & Avast One)
Avast is one of the best‑known names among the general public for free antivirus. Founded in the Czech Republic, Avast offers a free version supplemented by paid bundles (Avast One).
In terms of malware detection, Avast Free uses exactly the same antivirus engine as the paid versions. This engine is regularly rated excellent in independent tests, although sometimes behind Bitdefender in zero‑day detection.
Regarding ease of use, Avast provides a modern interface with tile‑based navigation, making it easy to access key functions. The setup wizard guides the user step by step.
Performance-wise, Avast is in the upper average: it has a slightly noticeable impact during heavy actions (copies or installations) but remains light in daily use.
From a central management perspective, the consumer Avast Free version doesn’t offer anything for administrators. Each instance is autonomous. However, Avast Business or Avast One for Business includes a centralised console (paid).
Concerning compliance and Law 25, because Avast is an international player, it does not provide a priori guarantees about data residence in Quebec. Use with caution if data sovereignty is critical.
In short, Avast Free Antivirus provides top‑tier antivirus protection at no cost, making it appealing for budget‑constrained SMEs. But one must accept advertising and less clear compliance.
Comparison table – Windows solutions (summary)
Solution (Windows)
Offering
Detection rate
Ease of use
Performance impact
Central management
Support (FR/EN)
Microsoft Defender
Free (built‑in)
Excellent (≈100% in recent tests)
Very simple (integrated into Windows, auto‑active)
Low impact (6/6 perf.)
Yes (via AD, Intune, Defender Endpoint)
Yes (Windows in French, Microsoft support)
Bitdefender
Commercial (trial available)
Excellent (100% in AV‑Test tests)
High (clear interface, advanced options)
Light to moderate (5.5/6 perf.)
Yes (GravityZone console for SMEs)
Yes (French interface, bilingual support)
Malwarebytes
Free (scanner) or Premium
Very good (≈99%, very reactive to new threats)
Very simple (stripped‑down interface, no complex configs)
Low impact (lightweight in the background)
Yes (Nebula console for businesses)
French interface (support mainly EN)
Avast
Free (Free) or Premium
Excellent (100% common malware)
High (modern interface, watch the ads)
Light (5.5/6 perf., a few minor slowdowns)
Yes (Avast Business Hub optional)
Yes (FR interface, FR support limited without subscription)
Notes: All these solutions offer real‑time protection against viruses, trojans, ransomware and other threats. Microsoft...
Comparison of antimalware solutions for macOS
The Mac world has fewer security solutions than Windows, but there are still excellent tools. SMEs that rely heavily on Mac must not neglect security.
Intego Mac Internet Security X9
Intego is a publisher long focused on the Apple ecosystem. Its flagship product, Intego Mac Internet Security X9, is a suite combining VirusBarrier and NetBarrier.
In terms of detection capabilities, Intego has shown solid efficiency even though, in recent tests, it ranks slightly behind Bitdefender and Sophos on Mac malware.
Intego’s strength is its seamless integration with macOS and simplicity. The software is designed “Mac‑first”: quick installation, intuitive interface and features tailored to Apple user habits.
Performance-wise, Intego is highly optimised for Mac. AV‑Test awarded it 6/6 on system impact, meaning it has no noticeable slowdown.
Ease of management in a professional environment is an aspect to consider. Intego, being a consumer Mac‑only solution, does not offer a centralised console. For 5–10 Macs, manual management is doable; beyond that, things get complicated.
In terms of support and localisation, Intego is one of the few antivirus vendors whose website and documentation are natively in French (thanks to its founder’s French roots).
In conclusion, Intego Mac Internet Security X9 is often considered the best “100% Mac” option. For an SME whose fleet is almost exclusively Mac and has no need for centralised management, Intego can be a very good choice.
Sophos Home (Mac edition)
Sophos Home is a special product in this list: it is a free offer (with optional Premium) aimed at home users, but it shares the same detection engine as Sophos’s enterprise products.
In terms of detection, Sophos benefits from the expertise of SophosLabs that track malware and exploits daily. One can count on detection of both Mac and Windows threats, plus zero‑day via behaviour analysis.
The user experience of Sophos Home is a little different from others: it uses a web console for management. After installation on the Mac, you control it from the sophos.com account, where you can monitor multiple devices.
On performance, Sophos Home is relatively unobtrusive but consumes slightly more resources than some Mac competitors due to its multiple scanning modules.
For SME management, Sophos Home already has the beginnings of a cloud console, which is an advantage for controlling 5–10 machines from a single interface. Beyond that, one may need to upgrade to Sophos Central.
Bilingual support is provided via the Sophos Home website (French FAQ, chatbot, etc.). Premium users have access to 24/7 support in English; French support depends on regional partners.
In conclusion, Sophos Home for Mac is an excellent way to obtain enterprise‑level security for free or at low cost. Its management via web console and cross‑platform detection are strong points for small organisations.
Avast Security (for Mac)
Avast Security for Mac is the macOS version of Avast antivirus. As on Windows, Avast offers a free version complemented by paid options (Premium Security).
From a malware detection standpoint, Avast on Mac benefits from the same shared engine as on Windows, adapted to detect Mac threats. It is regularly well‑rated by independent tests.
On user friendliness, Avast Security Mac has been praised for its simplicity, making it suitable for non‑technicians on Mac.
In terms of performance, as mentioned in the Windows section, Avast is fairly optimised but has a slight impact due to its numerous modules (web shield, email shield, etc.).
From the perspective of management for a business, Avast on Mac is an autonomous consumer product. For a very small number of Macs, it can be used individually. For a fleet, one must subscribe to Avast Business to get a console.
French support is another advantage of Avast: the Mac interface is localised in French, the knowledge base on the website has FR pages, and paying customers have access to FR‑speaking support agents.
In conclusion, Avast Security on Mac provides robust protection with no fees, making it an interesting solution for SMEs whose Mac fleet is modest and budgets limited. But one must accept the marketing elements and lower guarantees of sovereignty.
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is the macOS version of Bitdefender, whose merits we have already praised on Windows. Bitdefender on Mac leverages the same detection engine and user experience philosophy.
On threat detection, Bitdefender for Mac is among the best, often tied for number one. In an AV‑Comparatives test in early 2025, it detected all Mac threats and 99% of cross‑platform threats.
The interface and user experience of Bitdefender Mac are very polished. The current version 10.x features a dashboard with quick status, scanning, update and safe browser modules.
Performance‑wise, Bitdefender for Mac is also very lightweight in the background. AV‑Comparatives found no perceivable slowdown, thanks to scanning in the cloud and optimised processes.
In terms of centralised management for business, Bitdefender for Mac integrates into GravityZone, just like the Windows version. So an SME can manage its Mac and Windows fleet in one console, and unify policies.
Bitdefender support is available in French (website, local documentation, and technical support accessible during working hours), as well as in English 24/7 via global centres.
In short, Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac is arguably the most complete security suite on Mac in 2025. It combines excellent detection, an intuitive interface, minimal performance impact, and centralised management features.
Comparative table – macOS solutions
Solution (macOS)
Offering
Detection rate
Ease of use
Performance impact
Enterprise management
FR support
Intego VirusBarrier
Commercial (Mac only)
Very good (~97% Mac malware, 0 false positives)
Excellent (100% Mac, simple interface)
Very low (6/6 performance)
No native centralised console (local Mac management only)
Yes (native FR documentation and support)
Sophos Home (Mac)
Free (3 devices) or Premium (10)
Excellent (≈99% in SE Labs tests)
Very simple (minimal client + web console)
Light to moderate (a few extra processes)
Sophos Home cloud console (personal/very small business use), otherwise paid Sophos Central
French interface, support available in FR
Avast Security Mac
Free (Premium optional)
Excellent (100% Mac malware)
High (modern UI, some upgrade offers)
Light (no notable impact)
Yes if Business version (Avast Business console); otherwise no (free)
Yes (FR UI, FR support for paying customers)
Bitdefender Antivirus Mac
Commercial (often part of multi‑OS licence)
Excellent (~99–100% threats blocked)
High (elegant UI, feature rich)
Very low (no notable slowdown)
Yes (GravityZone or Bitdefender Central console)
Yes (FR available on website and support)
Remarks: On macOS, most third‑party solutions offer far superior protection to the integrated defences (XProtect, Gatekeeper). According to AV‑Test/AV‑Comparatives 2025, the Mac antivirus leaders are Bitdefender, Sophos, and Intego. Avast is solid but more marketing‑oriented; its data collection must be read carefully.
Comparison of antimalware solutions for Linux
The security of Linux systems in SMEs is often neglected, sometimes out of overconfidence. Even though Linux is less targeted than Windows, it is not immune and can be a vector for attacks.
ClamAV
ClamAV is probably the best known Linux antivirus because it is open source and free. It is included in the repositories of many distributions.
The main advantage of ClamAV is that it is free and open source, with an active community maintaining virus signatures. ClamAV is primarily a scanning engine; to add real‑time protection (ClamAV daemon or third‑party front‑ends), one must configure additional modules.
In terms of use, ClamAV is rustic but reliable. On a server, it is often used to scan incoming emails (via ClamAV‑Milter), file shares, or as a backup scanner on a workstation alongside a Windows antivirus to catch Windows malware.
ClamAV doesn’t really have a multi‑system administration console, apart from third‑party tools that can aggregate logs. In an SME, management remains manual (scripted).
In terms of support, since ClamAV is an open source project under Cisco/Talos, one finds documentation online (mostly in English) and community forums. There is no official support outside of the enterprise version (Immunet).
To conclude on ClamAV, one can say that it provides a basic free coverage on Linux. It is valuable for scanning files and mail servers, but it should be supplemented by additional measures for real‑time protection in production.
Sophos Antivirus for Linux
Sophos Antivirus for Linux (call it SAV Linux) is the solution offered by Sophos to protect Linux systems, mainly servers. The software is now commercial; the free version has been discontinued.
In terms of detection, Sophos for Linux uses the same analysis engine as on Windows/Mac. It is therefore very effective against known threats and uses behaviour analysis for zero‑days.
For use, Sophos Linux operates primarily as a background service. It offers real‑time protection (if configured) and command‑line scanning. Administrators manage it via the Sophos Central console (paid).
Centralised management is the strong point of Sophos Linux when used via Sophos Central. All events (malware detection, policy changes) are visible and actionable from the console, enabling unified control across Windows, Mac and Linux machines.
In terms of support, Sophos provides documentation and assistance in French to its enterprise customers (via partners or regional offices).
For Law 25 and compliance, Sophos on Linux allows you to demonstrate that even Linux environments are professionally protected. Logging and reporting help satisfy auditors.
In summary, Sophos Antivirus for Linux is a solid choice for companies seeking homogeneous security across all their systems, with real‑time protection and professional management. The cost may be justified for sensitive environments.
ESET NOD32 Antivirus Linux
ESET NOD32 Antivirus for Linux is the offering from ESET (the Slovak publisher known for NOD32 on Windows) for Linux desktops and servers.
In terms of detection, ESET is traditionally one of the best antivirus engines, with an excellent balance between detection rates and false positives. On Linux, it effectively blocks Windows malware.
The use of ESET on Linux depends on the version. The product ESET NOD32 Antivirus 4 for Linux Desktop (last released for Ubuntu 16.04) has not been updated for years. More recently, ESET Endpoint Antivirus for Linux offers a command‑line interface and a unified agent for the ESET PROTECT console.
Centralised management with ESET is done via ESET PROTECT (web console on‑prem or in the cloud). If an SME uses ESET for Windows/Mac, it can also manage Linux endpoints in the same console.
ESET support is available in French via its network of partners, including in Quebec. The localised interface of ESET (if one has the right version) helps non‑English speakers.
Regarding compliance and Law 25, ESET on Linux provides the level of reporting expected from a business‑grade solution. However, some Linux versions of ESET remain less advanced than the Windows/Mac suite.
In sum, ESET on Linux is a very solid option for SMEs that value reliability and lightness. Compared to Sophos, ESET has a slightly lighter agent and may be more affordable, but its Linux offering evolves more slowly.
Comodo Antivirus for Linux
Comodo Antivirus for Linux (CAVL) is a free solution offered by the vendor Comodo (recently renamed Xcitium for the enterprise branch).
Comodo Antivirus for Linux has the advantage of being free for commercial use (to be verified according to the latest licences), but its maintenance has slowed down in recent years and it may not support the latest distributions.
As far as detection capabilities are concerned, Comodo uses its own engine (that of Comodo Internet Security) adapted to Linux. This engine is reasonably effective on Windows viruses but we lack recent independent tests on Linux malware.
Ease of use of Comodo Linux is good when it works: the interface is similar to a classic antivirus, simple to understand. Installation may require manual interventions depending on the distribution.
Performance-wise, Comodo is reasonably light as long as it works correctly on the distribution. Older reports mentioned some bugs causing crashes or CPU spikes.
Central management for Comodo existed via Comodo Endpoint Security Manager (for paying/enterprise clients). But for the free version, there is no console; you must manage each host separately.
Support for Comodo for the free Linux version mainly depends on the community (Comodo forums). There is no official support without paying. Documentation is in English.
Overall, Comodo Antivirus for Linux could have been a good surprise (free, user interface, fairly complete) but the fact that it is no longer maintained, the absence of professional support and the uncertain detection on recent threats make it less recommendable.
Comparative table – Linux solutions
Solution (Linux)
Offering
Detection rate
Usage and interface
Performance impact
Centralised management
Support
ClamAV
Free (open source)
Basic (≈60% common malware detected, depends on signatures)
Command line (third‑party GUIs), manual configuration
Moderate (heavy scans, no real‑time by default)
None (no native console, logs only)
Community (English documentation)
Sophos AV for Linux
Commercial (no more free version)
High (Sophos Intercept X engine, close to 100% known threats)
Service + CLI (no GUI, admin via Sophos Central web console)
Low to moderate (low impact, configurable)
Yes (Sophos Central manages Linux, AD/MDM integration)
Yes (professional French support via Sophos)
ESET NOD32/Linux
Commercial (per endpoint/server licence)
High (ESET NOD32 engine, top on Windows viruses, very good on Linux threats)
GUI available for desktop (depending on version) + CLI, easy for admins
Very light (very optimised, low consumption)
Yes (ESET PROTECT console for mixed fleet)
Yes (support via French partners)
Comodo AV for Linux
Free (but no longer maintained)
Average (good on known Windows viruses, unknown on recent threats)
GUI available, fairly user friendly (if system compatibility)
Light (some reported bugs)
Limited (enterprise console existed, not for free version)
Community (product abandoned)
In summary: For Linux, the choice depends on usage. ClamAV is a must‑have free tool for scanning files/mail servers, but it does not replace real‑time protection. Sophos and ESET offer professional products with consoles but at a cost. Comodo is no longer maintained and should be avoided.
Debunking myths in cybersecurity (recap)
After this technical overview, it is appropriate to highlight some myths already discussed, to clarify the security strategy for SMEs.
- “Antivirus are useless or obsolete” – False. Yes, antivirus alone is not enough, and security must be multi‑layered. But modern antivirus remain indispensable.
- Antivirus vs. antimalware: this is not a real debate. Today, what matters is that the chosen solution covers all threats (viruses, trojans, ransomware, PUPs) and is updated.
- Firewall and built‑in protections: necessary but insufficient. A network firewall (hardware or software) is essential for segmentation. But only an endpoint antivirus can inspect processes, attachments and behaviour.
- macOS and Linux are not invincible. As seen, macOS is increasingly targeted, particularly by data‑stealing malware. Linux is less targeted but can serve as a vector or be targeted itself.
Ultimately, an SME’s IT security relies on a coherent set of tools AND good human practices. The antimalware is a brick among others; one must add backups, patches, strong authentication, segmentation, and staff awareness.
Recommendations by company profile
Each company has different needs and constraints. Here are some typical scenarios and our tailored recommendations for SMEs.
Small SME without dedicated IT department
Profile: small company (a few employees, up to about 15–20 devices), with no dedicated network administrator. The infrastructure may be simple: Windows PCs, a few Macs, a router, maybe a NAS.
Objective: obtain decent protection without adding complexity or high recurring costs. The priority here is simplicity and minimal management.
Recommendations:
- Windows: Rely on Microsoft Defender, which is already present on Windows 10/11 and free. Ensure that Windows Update is enabled, and schedule periodic full scans.
- macOS: If the company has a few Macs and does not want to buy licences, choose Avast Security for Mac (free) or Sophos Home (free up to 3 devices) for basic protection. For better privacy, consider Intego or Bitdefender.
- Linux: Many small structures do not use Linux except perhaps a NAS or a router. If a NAS (e.g. Synology) is used, enable the vendor’s built‑in antivirus or install ClamAV. For a Linux desktop, a quick manual scan occasionally is sufficient.
- Implementation and follow‑up: Without an IT team, automate as much as possible. Use the auto‑update capabilities of the solutions (Defender, Sophos Home, Avast) and schedule weekly or monthly scans. Document credentials (e.g. email and password for Sophos Home).
- Support and language: Favour solutions with a French interface to avoid manipulation errors. Defender is in French by default. Sophos Home and Avast have FR interfaces; Intego also. Avoid tools with only English interfaces.
This approach prioritises zero or minimal cost, and simplicity (no complex console). Its limitations: no centralised view, less granular control and slower incident response.
SME with developed IT infrastructure
Profile: medium‑sized company (20, 50, 100 devices or more), with possibly a small IT service or at least a system administrator. Infrastructure can include a domain controller, Windows and Mac clients, maybe a few Linux servers, and remote workers.
Objective: a centralised, effective and manageable security solution across the entire fleet, providing reports and rapid response.
Recommendations:
- Adopt an enterprise security suite that supports multiple platforms. In this segment, key players include: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Bitdefender GravityZone, Sophos Intercept X, ESET Endpoint Security.
- If the SME is already subscribed to Microsoft 365 and uses Azure AD/Intune, enabling Microsoft Defender for Endpoint may be very relevant. It integrates seamlessly, centralises alerts and uses Microsoft’s threat intelligence.
- If one prefers a third‑party vendor, Bitdefender GravityZone is an excellent choice for an SME. One can opt for GravityZone Business Security Premium (server and workstation licence), or Cloud Security for MSPs if you are a service provider.
- Sophos Intercept X with Sophos Central would suit an SME that wants simplicity of management and advanced features (their deep learning and anti‑exploit modules are recognised).
- ESET PROTECT/ESET Endpoint Security is also very relevant for SMEs: ESET has a reputation for reliability and discretion, and the console is neat. Their multipack licences cover Windows, macOS, Linux and Android.
- Centralise management and reporting. Whatever suite is chosen, the goal is to have a single control panel. The IT service can thus monitor all machines, push updates, respond to alerts and produce compliance reports.
- Active Directory integration: If the SME uses Active Directory, choose a solution that integrates. For example, Bitdefender GravityZone and Sophos Central can sync with AD to assign policies based on OU. ESET and Defender for Endpoint also have connectors.
- Managing Macs and Linux in this context: For Macs, ensure the chosen suite has a good Mac agent. Microsoft, Bitdefender, Sophos and ESET all have one. You will need to deploy via MDM or a script. For Linux servers, choose a suite that includes server protection (often a separate licence or add‑on).
- For Macs, ensure the chosen suite has a quality Mac agent. Microsoft, Bitdefender, Sophos, ESET – all have them. It will require using an MDM tool or a script for deployment and monitoring.
- For Linux (servers), choose a suite that includes server protection. Often, this is a separate licence or an add‑on. For example, Bitdefender GravityZone offers modules for file servers, mail servers, and VMs; Sophos Central has Intercept X for Server; ESET has File Security for Linux.
- A key point: remember to configure appropriate exclusions on servers to avoid conflicts (e.g. exclude database data files or VM images). Without proper exclusions, antivirus may slow down or corrupt critical services.
- Multi‑layer approach: For a larger structure, you can go beyond endpoint antivirus. Consider endpoint detection & response (EDR), email security gateways, secure web gateways, and vulnerability management. Combining layers reduces risk.
- Maintenance and testing: With a centralised console, the IT service can perform regular tests. For example: trigger an EICAR test file to verify detection and alerting; test ransomware detection in a controlled environment; ensure updates propagate properly.
- Support & updates: Make sure to subscribe to vendor support or a local reseller. In the event of a problem (critical false positive stopping business processes) you need quick contact. Also ensure that subscription covers updates for new OS versions.
To summarise for this profile: we recommend a unified professional solution, even if it costs a few thousand dollars per year. The investment is justified by time savings, better protection, and regulatory compliance. Combining Microsoft (if you are in their ecosystem) with third‑party solutions is also possible.
Sources and bibliography
- AV‑TEST – Antivirus evaluations (2024–2025): Results of independent tests on Windows 11, Windows 10, macOS and Linux, including performance and detection scores.
- AV‑Comparatives – Reports 2024–2025: Comparative and in‑depth analyses, including the “Mac Security Test & Review 2025”.
- Securité Québec – Article “Antivirus in 2025 and Law 25” (Nov. 2024): Explains the crucial role of antimalware in regulatory compliance for Quebec organisations.
- Groupe SL – “Cybersécurité PME : 10 common pitfalls” (2025): Highlights Law 25 obligations and practical advice for SMEs.
- Splunk Blog – “How Good is ClamAV at Detecting Malware?” (Nov. 2022): Technical study on ClamAV’s effectiveness and limitations.
- TechRadar Pro – “Sophos Home Premium Review” (2024): Review of Sophos Home, mentioning SE Labs results and user experience.
- Macworld – “Best Mac Antivirus 2025” (Feb. 2025): Comparison of Mac antivirus solutions with mention of Intego scores (5/6 for protection).
- Manjaro Forum – “ClamAV, ESET or Sophos?” (2022): Discussion among Linux users confirming that ClamAV detects only viruses known by signature, not targeted threats.
- FindMySoft & SafetyDetectives – Reviews 2024–2025: Various articles (e.g. “Intego Review 2024”, “Comodo Antivirus 2025 Review”) that list pros and cons of each solution.
- Official vendor documentation: Manuals and knowledge bases from Microsoft, Bitdefender, Sophos, ESET for configuration in 2025 and 2026. Always refer to the latest versions to remain compliant (Law 25, HIPAA, GDPR, SOC 2).