Best Palo Alto Alternatives for SMB Endpoint Security
Palo Alto's Cortex XDR is designed for large enterprises, leaving SMBs overpaying for complexity they don't need. We ranked the best endpoint security alternatives specifically for small and midsize businesses seeking simpler, more affordable protection.
What we looked at
Ease of Management
How simple the solution is to deploy, configure, and manage day-to-day for IT generalists rather than security specialists.
SMB Pricing
Cost per endpoint for organizations with 50-500 devices, including any minimum seat requirements or mandatory add-ons.
Built-In Services
Availability of managed detection and response services included in the base price rather than as expensive add-ons.
Protection Quality
Detection effectiveness against real-world threats targeting SMBs including ransomware, phishing, and business email compromise.
Scalability
Ability to grow with the organization from 50 endpoints to 500+ without requiring platform changes or complex migrations.
The picks
Sophos Intercept X delivers enterprise-grade deep learning protection with an SMB-friendly console and pricing. Built-in MDR, ransomware protection, and Synchronized Security with Sophos firewalls provide comprehensive coverage without requiring a dedicated security team.
Endpoint protection with deep learning AI and synchronized security ecosystem
Bitdefender GravityZone Small Business Security combines top-tier detection rates with simple deployment and management. Its lightweight agent doesn't slow down endpoints, and transparent pricing means no surprise costs.
Unified endpoint security with top-rated protection efficacy and low performance impact
SentinelOne Singularity Core offers autonomous endpoint protection that handles threats without manual intervention—perfect for SMBs without security analysts. The single-agent approach simplifies management.
AI-powered autonomous endpoint protection with one-click remediation
ESET PROTECT provides solid endpoint protection at the lowest per-endpoint cost. Its lightweight agent, low false-positive rate, and simple cloud console make it ideal for budget-conscious small businesses.
Lightweight multilayered endpoint security with 30+ years of threat research
Microsoft Defender for Business (included in Microsoft 365 Business Premium) gives SMBs enterprise EDR capabilities at no additional cost. If you're already paying for M365, this is the most cost-effective option.
Enterprise endpoint protection deeply integrated with Microsoft 365 security stack