ESET Endpoint Protection Platform vs Microsoft Forefront [EOL] comparison

ESET and Microsoft are both solutions in the Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) category. Additionally, 91% of ESET users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 85% of Microsoft users who would recommend it.

Comparison Buyer's Guide

Download the report

Executive Summary

We performed a comparison between ESET Endpoint Protection Platform and Microsoft Forefront [EOL] based on real PeerSpot user reviews.

Find out what your peers are saying about Microsoft, SentinelOne, CrowdStrike and others in Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP).

To learn more, read our detailed Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) Report (Updated: July 2026).

Buyer's Guide

Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP)

July 2026

Download the complete report

Helped 908,800 peers since 2012

Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Categories and Ranking

Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Net...

Featured Reviews

ABHISHEK_SINGH

Senior Process Expert at A.P. Moller - Maersk

Gained full visibility and streamlined threat detection through behavior-based insights and AI integration

Initially, we got to have a lot of false positives when we onboarded, but nowadays it's quite smooth. We have fine-tuned our security policies and allowed different levels of policies to get rid of those false positives. Currently, we are getting a fairly good amount of incidents that are not false positives or benign, but actionable items. The process is streamlined. In the initial days, the operations used to get involved in a lot of benign and other activities, but now the process is streamlined. We are leveraging the auto-detection and remediation plans. The operations teams are now more involved in other business roles as well, not just looking into the logs and fetching out what's happening there. They have fixed a lot of things. Initially, they didn't have IAC code drift detection, cloud posture management, or security posture management, but they have those now. They purchased different vendors and did a merger with that. They have now Prisma Cloud that gets integrated and now they are working with Cortex Cloud. Everything that was negative has now been addressed, and the product altogether looks to be in a very better and mature shape now. Currently, it's more or less detecting the workloads with AI-based best practices. Since most organizations are consuming AI agents and other things, we are looking forward to seeing what other feature enhancements Palo Alto can support in that.

Read full review

Marko-Stojanovic

Owner at Online IT

Cloud-based protection has simplified daily client support and keeps threats under control

The problems that we are facing with policy adoption include slow adoption, as it takes more than five minutes to adopt policy on client computers. ESET Network Attack Protection sometimes helps in reducing network-level intrusions, but sometimes it prevents local devices on the network, which are well-known and good devices, from being recognized, treating them as a threat. So it requires more administration than usual. ESET could implement a good solution for remote support in ESET Endpoint Protection Platform for improvement in the future. Since you have the cloud console, ESET could have something similar to AnyDesk or TeamViewer, but from ESET.

Read full review

it_user772620

Systems Consultant at a tech services company with 501-1,000 employees

There is simplicity in the management of the product compared to its competitors

Web proxy services along with the integrated firewall VPN Intrusion prevention Malware inspection URL filtering The simplicity of managing the product compared to its competitors, like BIG-IP F5 and Citrix NetScaler The ease of deploying mobile functionality through the web proxy has…

Read full review

Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Pros

"But overall, when we speak about security and protection, they are one of the top providers."

"Monitoring is most valuable."

"Cortex XDR alerts us on the dashboard when there's a threat, which allows us to restrict that user and helps secure our infrastructure."

"The product has an intuitive dashboard."

"Based on my experience with Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks, I highly recommend it due to its quick response to zero-day attacks and low utilization from end-user devices."

"The policy configuration is great, the granularity of policies that are available is very helpful, it is straightforward to set up, and it has pretty much everything we need and works well within the Palo Alto ecosystem."

"My advice for anybody who is considering Cortex XDR is that it is a complete solution, and has very good features."

"The solution doesn't need a high level of technical training."

More Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks pros

"The primary purpose is to protect computers from viruses and ransomware."

"I rate ESET Endpoint Security eight out of 10 for ease of setup. Setting up ESET can be straightforward or complicated depending on the customer's environment. The deployment time varies, but it's typically around five days. We have a team of four or five people involved in the deployment. Only one person is needed for maintenance. The only maintenance is adjusting the configuration of the dashboard."

"The overall security capability of the product is pretty reliable."

"The deployment and configuration of ESET Endpoint Security and ESET Remote Administrator are really simple, and easy to manage."

"Advanced level endpoint firewall, which helps to block unwanted and malicious traffic."

"The potential threat protection feature is the most valuable. In the event that one of my computers is not on the network and gets a virus, ESET Endpoint Security quickly detects the malware, and in most cases, it removes the virus. It also has the ability to remotely shut down the computer. I like the remote control part the most."

"Endpoint Security currently meets our needs; all of our devices are integrated with the solution, and it is working so well that we renewed the contract for two more years."

"We do not have a domain structure yet but we can manage our client stations via this solution's managing interface, which means that we don't need to have any extra management platforms."

More ESET Endpoint Protection Platform pros

"It has automated the entire user and group management process, thus reducing manual work and help desk cost to a great extent."

"The simplicity of managing the product compared to its competitors, like BIG-IP F5 and Citrix NetScaler, is a valuable feature."

"The snort engine, which is the muscle behind the Sourcefire IPS technology, has always been a joy for me to work with."

"Product has been enough for our customers’ requirements."

"To date we have not had a virus infecting a desktop with Forefront installed - this is the main reason why we will not use another anti-virus solution."

"It cost us approx. US$250k to set up and is roughly US$200 day to day."

"Performance wise, it's one of the most effective anti-virus solutions we have ever used."

"Our ROI is that we can provision users accounts within 30 minutes of them being put into the system."

Cons

"Product might have some bugs."

"A little bit more automation would be nice."

"Dashboards do not allow everyone to see what's happening."

"Technology evolves every day, so it would be nice if it gets more secure. It can also have more integration with other platforms."

"I feel that it should not be a licensed activity because a feature should allow us to see applications running on end devices."

"There is also no recovery feature; if some endpoint is under attack there must be the possibility of recovering it or restoring it to a normal state."

"There's room for improvement with Mac device installations, which can be challenging."

"The setup is quite easy. We had appropriate support from the manager. One thing that was missing was the integration part."

More Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks cons

"The use of SQL Server can be improved. At times, there is a bit of challenge while linking it with the Javascript. ESET Endpoint Security requires modern technology or modern equipment on site. You will find it difficult to use ESET Endpoint Security with dual-core machines. If they can add the cloud management feature to their product, it will be much easier. If you look at this COVID situation that we are in right now, people are working from home, so you need to control the computers wherever you are. For example, if you are using any email setup and you are hosting it on your own, all the email traffic will be going through the same network. You need to protect all of your computers from the attack. It is best if you can do it remotely rather than having an IT person to come onsite to manage all computers and metrics etc, which isn't a smart way to do it."

"While the pricing is good, they could always lower it a bit."

"It is for this reason that I would not recommend ESET on a larger scale."

"I don't know if it's possible but I'm always looking for better protection."

"ESET Endpoint Security does not have application control."

"It's hard to get support for ESET in Hong Kong and China. There's a number to call that goes nowhere. You can upgrade to the premium service, but there are a few restrictions."

"A few times, we have had problems with downloading an agent. We had to try multiple times and multiple uploads."

"They should have better support for different languages and auto-upgrading."

More ESET Endpoint Protection Platform cons

"The product has unfortunately reach its End-Of-Life (EOL) at Microsoft and is now replaced by several products."

"Web user interface from 1990s. Users laugh at it."

"Pretty awful. A large initial investment with something that could have been done by one person full time over six years with less hassle."

"Without a local Windows Update Server, the client seems to update very slowly and may take a lot of time."

"When using Forefront in a domain network, it is quite difficult to create the group policies needed for definition/engine updates using WSUS."

"More out of box connectors and conducting awareness of the product along with more marketing."

"One of the biggest pain points was that username changes were not automated and caused problems."

"I’d personally like to see some additional customization capabilities in the reporting section."

Pricing and Cost Advice

"I am using the Community edition."

"The return on investment is from the user side because we have seen the performance of it increase the delivery time of the product if we are using too many web-based and on-premise applications. In indirect ways, we saw the return of investment in terms of performance and user satisfaction increase."

"It's the most expensive solution, but features-wise, it's quite strong. It's very good for protection, so the results are very good in the case of protection. I would rate it a two out of ten in terms of pricing."

"This is an expensive solution."

"Our customers have expressed that the price is high."

"The pricing is a little bit on the expensive side."

"I don't have any issues with the pricing. We are satisfied with the price."

"It has reasonable pricing for the use cases it provides to the company."

More Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks pricing and cost advice

"At first, we thought it was a bit expensive, but we negotiated a better price."

"As is the general rule with anything, the solution could be cheaper."

"I think it's available for a pretty fair price. If you know how to use it, then it's a very fair price for what you get."

"It is not expensive, but it is also not inexpensive."

"The solution costs around $20 or $30 per user per year."

"This solution is a good value for the money."

"There is a license needed to use this solution and there is an annual subscription. The price is inexpensive."

"The price of the solution is reasonable compared to the other products out there. It is definitely in line with the competition."

More ESET Endpoint Protection Platform pricing and cost advice

Information not available

See which vendors are best for you

Use our free recommendation engine to learn which Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) solutions are best for your needs.

See recommendations

908,800 professionals have used our research since 2012.

Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

Construction Company

13%

Financial Services Firm

10%

Comms Service Provider

10%

Manufacturing Company

10%

Comms Service Provider

14%

Manufacturing Company

10%

Outsourcing Company

Construction Company

No data available

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	46
Midsize Enterprise	21
Large Enterprise	54

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	69
Midsize Enterprise	18
Large Enterprise	21

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	2
Midsize Enterprise	4
Large Enterprise	2

Questions from the Community

Cortex XDR by Palo Alto vs. Sentinel One

Cortex XDR by Palo Alto vs. SentinelOne SentinelOne offers very detailed specifics with regard to risks or attacks. ...

See all answers

Comparing CrowdStrike Falcon to Cortex XDR (Palo Alto)

Cortex XDR by Palo Alto vs. CrowdStrike Falcon Both Cortex XDR and Crowd Strike Falcon offer cloud-based solutions th...

See all answers

How is Cortex XDR compared with Microsoft Defender?

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a cloud-delivered endpoint security solution. The tool reduces the attack surface,...

See all answers

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for ESET LiveGuard Advanced?

The pricing, setup cost, and licensing of ESET Endpoint Protection Platform are good with no issues. The price is ver...

See all answers

What needs improvement with ESET LiveGuard Advanced?

ESET Endpoint Protection Platform could be improved by offering integrations and user-friendly dashboards that could ...

See all answers

What is your primary use case for ESET LiveGuard Advanced?

My main use case for ESET Endpoint Protection Platform is preventing malware and preventing outside attackers. When a...

See all answers

Ask a question

Earn 20 points

Comparisons

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks

Compared 13% of the time

SentinelOne Singularity Endpoint vs Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks

Compared 5% of the time

CrowdStrike Falcon vs Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks

Compared 4% of the time

Cortex XSIAM vs Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks

Compared 3% of the time

Trellix Endpoint Security Platform vs Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks

Compared 3% of the time

More Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks Competitors

Symantec Endpoint Security vs ESET Endpoint Protection Platform

Compared 4% of the time

Fortinet FortiClient vs ESET Endpoint Protection Platform

Compared 4% of the time

WatchGuard EPDR vs ESET Endpoint Protection Platform

Compared 3% of the time

HP Wolf Security vs ESET Endpoint Protection Platform

Compared 3% of the time

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs ESET Endpoint Protection Platform

Compared 3% of the time

More ESET Endpoint Protection Platform Competitors

No data available

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks

August 2026

Download Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks product report

Buyer's Guide

ESET Endpoint Protection Platform

August 2026

ESET Endpoint Protection Platform report

Download ESET Endpoint Protection Platform product report

Buyer's Guide

Universal Access Gateways

August 2026

Download Microsoft Forefront [EOL] product report

Also Known As

Cyvera, Cortex XDR, Palo Alto Networks Traps

Smart Security, ESET PROTECT Advanced, ESET LiveGuard Advanced, ESET PROTECT Platform

MS Forefront [EOL]

Overview

Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks provides advanced threat detection with AI-driven endpoint protection and seamless integration, ensuring multi-layered security and automatic threat response.

Cortex XDR is designed to safeguard endpoints against malware and suspicious activities. It offers advanced threat detection and response capabilities using behavioral analysis, AI, and machine learning. It seamlessly integrates with security infrastructures, providing endpoint security, firewall integration, and enhanced visibility in both cloud-based and on-premises environments.

What are the key features of Cortex XDR?

Advanced Threat Detection: Uses AI and machine learning for proactive threat identification.
Multi-layered Security: Combines various security measures for comprehensive protection.
Endpoint Protection: Safeguards against malware and exploits.
Behavioral Analysis: Monitors suspicious activity for early detection.
Automatic Threat Response: Automates responses to neutralize threats.

What benefits should users expect?

Ease of Use: Simplifies security management with intuitive design.
Resource Efficiency: Minimizes impact on system resources.
Integration Capabilities: Works well with existing security setups.
Reduced Analyst Workload: Automates processes to decrease manual intervention.

Organizations in diverse sectors deploy Cortex XDR to protect against malware, leveraging its advanced threat detection capabilities. Its integration with existing security infrastructures appeals to those seeking comprehensive protection in both cloud and on-premises environments, providing enhanced visibility and threat intelligence.

Palo Alto Networks

ESET Endpoint Protection Platform offers comprehensive security with minimal CPU and RAM impact, effective malware protection, and seamless updates, making it ideal for organizations needing reliable digital security.

ESET Endpoint Protection Platform is highly regarded for its effective ThreatSense technology, advanced firewall, and central control capabilities. Users benefit from its lightweight design and efficient notification system, enjoying customizable management through its management console. Despite its strengths, there are opportunities to enhance malware repair, update processes, and AI integration. The platform's compatibility across operating systems and integration with systems like ESET PROTECT allows organizations to effectively secure endpoints and servers against threats like malware, viruses, and ransomware.

What are the key features of ESET Endpoint Protection Platform?

Minimal CPU and RAM Impact: Designed for efficient use of resources.
ThreatSense Technology: Provides reliable threat detection and response.
Advanced Firewall: Offers enhanced network security.
Central Control: Allows for organized management from a single point.
Cloud Integration: Seamlessly integrates with cloud services for expanded functionality.

What benefits should users look for in reviews?

Reliable Malware Protection: Ensures effective defense against diverse threats.
Seamless Updates: Facilitates stress-free upgrading to maintain security.
Lightweight and Efficient: Provides strong security without compromising system performance.
Customizable Management: Allows for tailored security management to suit specific needs.
Affordable Pricing: Offers value-driven pricing without compromising on protection quality.

Organizations deploy ESET Endpoint Protection Platform to safeguard laptops, desktops, and servers from cyber threats. Its use extends to antivirus protection, firewall configuration, and network monitoring. Companies often integrate it with ESET PROTECT and Apache HTTP Proxy for optimized management and updates, making it a versatile choice in industries requiring robust endpoint security.

ESET

Our agile methodology and our integration expertise brings you the best catalyst to craft solutions of exceptional quality and distinctive success.

Microsoft

Sample Customers

CBI Health Group, University Honda, VakifBank

ERSTE Group Bank, Miller Solutions, Wesleyan University, The Hospital Center of Luxembourg, Deer Valley USD, SPAR, Industrial Federal Credit Union, Honda, City Hall of Palmela, Hays CISD, Lester B Pearson School Board

EUROVIA CS, a. s., King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Public Education Devel, Bank Alfalah Ltd., CLEAResult, St. Lucie County Public Schools, Wiltshire Council

Buyer's Guide

Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP)

July 2026

Download Free Report

Find out what your peers are saying about Microsoft, SentinelOne, CrowdStrike and others in Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP). Updated: July 2026.

DOWNLOAD NOW

908,800 professionals have used our research since 2012.

See our list of best Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) vendors.

We monitor all Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) reviews to prevent fraudulent reviews and keep review quality high. We do not post reviews by company employees or direct competitors. We validate each review for authenticity via cross-reference with LinkedIn, and personal follow-up with the reviewer when necessary.