ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced

Basic Information

• Model: ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced (part of the ESET PROTECT suite)
• Version: Continuously updated components; no single version number for the suite.
• Release Date: Not applicable as it is a continuously evolving suite of products.
• Minimum Requirements:
  • Processor: 1 GHz or higher (Intel or AMD x86/x64, ARM64-based)
  • RAM: 0.3 GB free system memory (minimum), 1 GB for Windows Server, 1 GB for macOS. Recommended 1 GB for optimal performance.
  • Storage: 1 GB free disk space (minimum), 350 MB for ESET Endpoint Antivirus.
  • Display: Minimum 1024x768 resolution.
  • Internet Connection: Required for activation and regular updates.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
• Latest Stable Version: ESET products are subject to continuous updates. Users should consult official ESET resources for the latest stable versions of individual components.
• End of Support Date: Varies by operating system and product version. For 32-bit Windows 10, EOL for compatible ESET business products (v12.1) is September 30, 2028. For 64-bit Windows 10, EOL for compatible ESET business products (versions released in 2026) is 2029. Module updates cease after a product reaches its End of Life date.
• End of Life Date: See End of Support Date. ESET provides an EOL policy, and products reaching EOL will no longer receive module updates, technical support, or security and stability updates.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Module updates cease once a product version reaches its End of Life date.
• License Type: Subscription license (e.g., 1, 2, or 3 years), volume licensing available.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-based or on-premises management console (ESET PROTECT).

Technical Requirements

• RAM: 0.3 GB free system memory (minimum), 1 GB for Windows Server and macOS. More RAM is recommended for optimal performance, especially in resource-intensive environments.
• Processor: Intel or AMD x86/x64 processor, 1 GHz or higher. ARM64-based processors, 1 GHz or higher, are also supported.
• Storage: 1 GB free disk space for installation and operation. Additional space is needed for updates, backups, logs, and quarantine.
• Display: Minimum resolution of 1024x768.
• Ports: Internet connectivity is essential for product activation, updates, and cloud-based features.
• Operating System: Compatible with various versions of Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Specific version compatibility is detailed in ESET's support policies.

Analysis of Technical Requirements: ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced is designed to be a lightweight solution, requiring relatively modest system resources. This allows for effective protection without significantly impacting the performance of modern and even older hardware. The broad processor support, including ARM64, ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices. The minimal RAM and storage requirements make it suitable for diverse enterprise environments.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced is a bundle of continuously updated security products. Users should refer to ESET's official download center for the latest versions of individual components like ESET Endpoint Security for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
• OS Support: Comprehensive support for Windows (including Windows 10 and 11), macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Specific versions are covered by ESET's operating system support policy.
• End of Support Date: ESET maintains an End of Life (EOL) policy. For business products, support for 32-bit Windows 10 will end by September 30, 2028, and for 64-bit Windows 10 by 2029. EOL means no further module updates, technical support, or security updates.
• Localization: The management console is available in 23 languages.
• Available Drivers: As a software solution, ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced relies on the underlying operating system and its drivers. No specific proprietary drivers are typically required beyond standard system components.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced offers robust cross-platform compatibility, making it a versatile solution for heterogeneous IT environments. The availability of a management console in multiple languages enhances usability for global enterprises. ESET's transparent EOL policy helps organizations plan upgrades, though it emphasizes the need to keep products updated to maintain cutting-edge protection and support.

Security Status

• Security Features: Multi-layered protection against various threats, including ransomware, fileless malware, and zero-day attacks. Key features include Web Control, Firewall, Anti-Spam, Full Disk Encryption, Cloud Sandbox for proactive threat analysis, Advanced Memory Scanner, Network Attack Protection, Botnet Protection, Anti-Phishing, and Device Control. It leverages Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) for advanced threat detection. The suite also provides asset management, endpoint vulnerability assessments, application control, auditing, logging, monitoring, automated playbooks, remote manual action, and deception technology. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is also supported.
• Known Vulnerabilities: ESET continuously researches and updates its products to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities. No specific unpatched critical vulnerabilities are publicly highlighted as persistent issues for the current versions.
• Blacklist Status: Not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
• Certifications: ESET is positioned as a challenger in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms.
• Encryption Support: Includes Full Disk Encryption (FDE) for Windows and macOS machines, allowing encryption of system disks, partitions, or entire devices. It supports 256-bit AES encryption.
• Authentication Methods: Supports Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to protect against weak passwords and unauthorized access.
• General Recommendations: ESET strongly recommends keeping the operating system and ESET products continuously updated to ensure the highest level of protection against evolving threats.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced provides a robust, multi-layered security framework designed to protect against a wide array of modern cyber threats. Its combination of traditional antivirus capabilities with advanced features like cloud sandboxing, full disk encryption, and AI-driven detection offers comprehensive defense. The focus on proactive threat prevention and the inclusion of management tools for vulnerability assessment and response contribute to a strong overall security posture.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Consistently achieves high results in malware effectiveness tests. ESET received the highest score in SE Labs tests in Q1 2020 and was recognized for peak excellence in usability in AV Test annual results. It also achieved the highest final score in the latest VBSpam test.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Known for its lightweight client and minimal impact on system resources, even on older hardware. It generally does not slow down the system. Scan speeds are often reported as impressive.
• Power Consumption: While not explicitly detailed, its lightweight design and minimal system resource usage imply lower power consumption compared to more resource-intensive security solutions.
• Carbon Footprint: Not explicitly mentioned in available data.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Positioned as a challenger in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms. It is noted for its strong threat detection capabilities compared to other Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced demonstrates strong performance, characterized by high detection rates and a minimal impact on system resources. Its consistent positive results in independent benchmarks underscore its effectiveness in malware protection. The lightweight nature of the client contributes to efficient operation across diverse hardware, making it a suitable choice for organizations prioritizing both security and system performance.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback generally highlight several strengths of ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced. Users frequently praise its lightweight nature, noting that it does not significantly slow down systems, even on older hardware. The solution is often described as reliable, providing strong threat detection with a low false-positive rate. Many appreciate the ease of remote management through its centralized console, which offers good visibility and control over endpoints. Specific features like advanced multi-layered protection, phishing protection, secure browser, and brute force attack protection are also well-regarded. Cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile devices is a significant advantage for varied environments. Customer support is often cited as helpful.

However, some weaknesses are also noted. Initial setup and configuration can be perceived as complex or requiring a learning curve, particularly when setting up policies. The user interface, while functional, is sometimes described as slow or overly complicated. While generally lightweight, some users have reported a potential decrease in device performance after implementation, especially on systems with high performance needs or older hardware. There have been past mentions of difficulty with compressed files, though ESET continuously updates its detection capabilities. Some users also feel it could benefit from more integrated features with other security tools like firewalls and network security devices.

Recommended use cases include businesses needing scalable endpoint protection, organizations with hybrid working environments, and those prioritizing a balance of performance, accuracy, and comprehensive threat detection across various endpoints (computers, mobile devices, servers).

Summary

ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced is a comprehensive, multi-layered cybersecurity solution designed for enterprise asset management, offering robust protection across diverse operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It is part of the ESET PROTECT suite, managed through either a cloud-based or on-premises console, providing flexibility in deployment.

Strengths: The asset's primary strengths lie in its powerful, multi-layered threat detection capabilities, effectively combating ransomware, fileless malware, and zero-day threats through advanced techniques like AI, machine learning, and cloud sandboxing. It is consistently recognized for high malware effectiveness in benchmarks and maintains a reputation as a lightweight client with minimal impact on system performance, even on older hardware. The inclusion of Full Disk Encryption and Multi-Factor Authentication enhances data security and access control. Its cross-platform compatibility and centralized management simplify security administration for varied IT environments.

Weaknesses: Perceived weaknesses include a potentially complex initial setup and management interface for new users, and some reports of minor performance degradation on specific older systems. While offering extensive features, some users desire deeper integration with other network security tools.

Recommendations: ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced is highly recommended for organizations seeking a balanced, high-performance endpoint security solution with extensive cross-platform support and flexible management options. It is particularly well-suited for businesses that prioritize minimal system impact alongside robust, proactive threat defense. Users should commit to regular updates of both the operating system and ESET products to ensure continuous, optimal protection. Organizations should also leverage the available training and documentation to master the management console for efficient policy configuration.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.