Home > Endpoint Security Software > Microsoft Defender for Endpoint > Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs Sophos Endpoint

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs Sophos Endpoint

Last Updated: November 18th, 2024

Our analysts compared Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs Sophos Endpoint based on data from our 400+ point analysis of Endpoint Security Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Overview Pricing Benefits & Features Analyst Ratings Comparison Charts User Ratings Analyst Summary Screenshots

Get Free Demo Demo Request Pricing Pricing

Product Basics

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.

Sophos Endpoint is a comprehensive security software designed to protect devices against a wide range of cyber threats. It's particularly well-suited for businesses of all sizes that are looking to safeguard their digital environments. One of the key benefits of Sophos Endpoint is its ability to provide real-time protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing attempts, ensuring that an organization's data remains secure. Users appreciate its user-friendly interface and the depth of security features it offers, such as device control and application lockdown. When compared to similar products in the market, Sophos Endpoint stands out for its integration capabilities, allowing for seamless protection across multiple devices and platforms. Pricing considerations for Sophos Endpoint typically involve a subscription model, where costs are determined based on the number of devices protected. This flexible pricing structure makes it accessible for businesses with varying security needs and budgets.

$5/User, Monthly

Free Trial is available →

Get a free price quote

Tailored to your specific needs

$28/User, Monthly

Free Trial is available →

Get a free price quote

Tailored to your specific needs

Small

Medium

Large

Small

Medium

Large

Windows

Mac

Linux

Android

Chromebook

Windows

Mac

Linux

Android

Chromebook

Cloud

On-Premise

Mobile

Cloud

On-Premise

Mobile

Product Assistance

Documentation

In Person

Live Online

Videos

Webinars

Documentation

In Person

Live Online

Videos

Webinars

Phone

Chat

FAQ

Forum

Knowledge Base

24/7 Live Support

Phone

Chat

FAQ

Forum

Knowledge Base

24/7 Live Support

Product Insights

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.

Protect All Your Devices: Sophos Endpoint Protection works across a vast range of devices and deployment schemas. Businesses can keep their assets safe — from cellphone to workstation and beyond.
Flexible Deployment: Users can deploy on-premise or in the cloud, enabling flexible deployments for all business needs.
Save Money: Malware and ransomware cost businesses thousands of dollars annually. Deploying endpoint software can help mitigate threats and save users money. Accenture reports that a cyber attack can cost a company $2.4 billion on average, which Sophos mitigates by deploying preemptive defense tactics.
Top-rated Malware Detection: The product has received numerous awards from Gartner, Av-test.org, SE Labs and more. Users will receive a product that has won a Tech Innovator award from CRN, based on the uniqueness of their suite of features, which preemptively target malware, and offer superior device and policy management.

Antivirus and antimalware protection
Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
Automatic investigation and remediation

Web Control: Category-based web filtering can be enforced on both on and off corporate-controlled networks.
Device Controlled: Removable media and portable devices are managed under the Sophos system. System administrators can also remotely manage mobile devices.
Data Control: Users can prevent major losses of data by utilizing the prebuilt rules built into the product. Custom rules can also be set to enhance data-loss prevention.
Automatically Removes Other Software: This software will automatically detect and then safely remove third-party endpoint software, such as the endpoint system you used previously, preventing overlapping software and false-positives.
Behavioral Analytics: Sophos determines suspicious behavior that can skirt underneath traditional malware detectors, keeping users safe from newer threats.

Product Ranking

#52

among all
Endpoint Security Software

#7

among all
Endpoint Security Software

Find out who the leaders are

Analyst Rating Summary

we're gathering data

100

we're gathering data

Show More Show More

Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Sophos Endpoint

+ Add Product + Add Product

90%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

100%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

93%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

92%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

89%

11%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

33%

67%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

44%

22%

34%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

100%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

Analyst Ratings for Technical Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

100%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

73%

27%

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

we're gathering data

N/A

User Sentiment Summary

88%

of users 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.

86%

of users recommend this product

Sophos Endpoint has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 86% when considering 435 user reviews from 5 recognized software review sites.

n/a

4.4 (1)

n/a

4.0 (114)

n/a

4.5 (168)

n/a

4.3 (105)

4.4 (64)

4.4 (47)

Awards

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

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.

Threat Analysis: It provides in-depth analysis of current and detected threats, as noted by more than 80% of reviewers who mention threat analysis.

Easy Configuration: All the reviewers who specify configuration note that it is easy to configure on top of existing products.

Zero-Day Threats: It is signature-free, which easily detects zero-day threats, as stated by around 70% of reviewers who refer to zero-day attacks.

Cloud Console: Its cloud-based console makes it easy to deploy and manage, as observed by 100% of the users who specify cloud console.

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.

Resource-Intensive: Around 60% of reviewers who mention resource utilization report that it is resource-intensive and uses a large amount of memory.

False Positives: It reports false positives during web filtering, as observed by all the users who note false positive detection.

Slow Performance: All the users who refer to speed state that it slows down the performance of devices.

Uninstall: The process of uninstalling this software is tedious, as noted by the reviewers who specify uninstallation.

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.

Sophos Endpoint Protection provides its users with AI-Powered deep learning malware detection capabilities to protect against advanced threats. It’s designed for small to large-sized organizations. It is a user-friendly solution that is easy to configure and protects against zero-day threats. Many reviewers have noted that it consumes a large number of system resources and affects the performance of devices. It can also distract users with false-positive detections. However, Sophos does offer an easily manageable cloud-based console to its users. It is a versatile tool for companies that need to protect multiple endpoint devices with a quick ROI.

Screenshots

Top Alternatives in Endpoint Security Software

Bitdefender GravityZone

Blackberry Cyber Suite

Carbon Black Cloud

Cisco Secure Endpoint

Cortex XDR

CrowdStrike Falcon

ESET PROTECT MDR

Kaspersky Endpoint Security For Business

Malwarebytes EDR

Sophos Intercept X

Symantec Endpoint Security Complete

Trellix XDR

Trend Micro Vision One

Compare other software products using the SelectHub platform

FAQ

How can I do a in-depth comparison of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint and Sophos Endpoint? Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

What are the top-rated propducts for Endpoint Security Software? Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

Which Endpoint Security Software is rated the highest by users? Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

Is there a requirement template for Endpoint Security Software? Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum.

WE DISTILL IT INTO REAL REQUIREMENTS, COMPARISON REPORTS, PRICE GUIDES and more...

SelectHub Products Reporting and Analytics

Build Your Requirements

SelectHub Products Cost and Pricing Guide

Get Your Free Comparison Report

Table settings

Expand all details

Expand all scores

Collapsed view

Priority order