Executive SummaryUpdated on Nov 2, 2025
Symantec Endpoint Encryption and McAfee Complete Data Protection both compete in the realm of enterprise-level data security solutions. McAfee appears to have a slight edge due to its flexibility in data classification and robust ePolicy Orchestrator management.
Features: Symantec Endpoint Encryption integrates seamlessly with other Symantec products, focusing heavily on encryption. It has a centralized management console noted for its scalability and ease of use. McAfee Complete Data Protection offers strong data loss prevention and encryption with a comprehensive set of tools. Its standout feature is the ePolicy Orchestrator, which allows for robust centralized management. Symantec is favored for its enterprise-wide control, while McAfee provides depth in data classification and adaptability.
Room for Improvement: Symantec users have indicated a need for improved integration with non-Symantec products, better technical support responsiveness, and simplified remote deployment. McAfee faces challenges of being resource-intensive and having a steep learning curve due to complex configuration. Improved navigation and enhanced cloud integration are also desired by users.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Symantec primarily relies on on-premises deployment, with moderate readiness for hybrid cloud environments. Customer service feedback is mixed, with some noting a decline post-Broadcom acquisition, although others find support satisfactory. McAfee provides supportive hybrid and cloud-ready options and generally receives reliable ratings for its technical support, although some users report delays.
Pricing and ROI: Symantec's pricing is generally viewed as high, although it is seen as justified by the suite of features offered, which is competitive for large enterprises. McAfee is considered reasonably priced compared to competitors, but its cloud pricing can be confusing. Users find both products enhance productivity and data protection, contributing to a positive ROI, with Symantec perceived as more costly but feature-rich and McAfee offering more competitive pricing with a comprehensive protection package.
