ESET Protect Enterprise

Basic Information

• Model: ESET PROTECT Enterprise
• Version: ESET PROTECT Platform version 5.3 (released May 2024). ESET PROTECT Enterprise suite version 10.1 (as of late 2023 for AV-Comparatives EPR report).
• Release Date: ESET PROTECT Version 8 (server component) was released December 2020. ESET PROTECT 5.3 was released May 2024.
• Minimum Requirements (ESET PROTECT Server):
  • RAM: 8GB or 16GB (minimum)
  • Processor: Dual core 2.0 GHz or faster; Quad core and above recommended
  • Storage: 100GB (minimum)
  • Network: 1 Gbit/s
• Minimum Requirements (ESET Endpoint Security):
  • RAM: 0.3 GB free system memory
  • Disk Space: 1 GB free disk space
  • Processor: Intel or AMD 32-bit (x86) with SSE2 or 64-bit (x64) 1 GHz+, or ARM64 1 GHz+
  • Display: 1024x768 minimum resolution
• Supported Operating Systems:
  • Endpoints: Microsoft Windows (11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7), macOS (10.12 and later, with native support for ARM-based Apple chips), Linux (Ubuntu Desktop 18.04 LTS 64-bit, RHEL Desktop 7 64-bit), Android, iOS.
  • File Servers: Microsoft Windows Server (2022, 2019, 2016, 2012, 2008, R2 SP1), Windows Server Core (2012, 2008R2), Windows Small Business Server (2011), RedHat Enterprise Linux (RHEL 7, 8, 9), CentOS 7, Ubuntu Server (18.04 LTS, 20.04 LTS, 22.04 LTS), Debian (10, 11, 12), SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES 12, 15), Oracle Linux 8, Amazon Linux 2, Alma Linux 9.
• Latest Stable Version: ESET PROTECT Platform 5.3 (May 2024). ESET PROTECT Enterprise suite version 10.1 (as of late 2023).
• End of Support Date: ESET employs a rolling support policy tied to specific OS and product component versions. ESET Management Agent 10.x is the last version supporting Windows 7/8.x and Windows Server 2008 R2/Microsoft SBS 2011. ESET Endpoint Security version 9.1 is the last to support Windows 7 and 8.1.
• End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated as a single date for the entire suite, but follows the rolling support policy for individual components and OS versions.
• License Type: Subscription License, volume-based.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-based or On-premise.

Technical Requirements

• RAM:
  • ESET PROTECT Server: 8GB to 16GB (minimum).
  • ESET Endpoint Security: 0.3 GB free system memory.
• Processor:
  • ESET PROTECT Server: Dual core 2.0 GHz or faster; Quad core and above recommended.
  • ESET Endpoint Security: Intel or AMD 32-bit (x86) with SSE2 or 64-bit (x64) 1 GHz+, or ARM64 1 GHz+.
• Storage:
  • ESET PROTECT Server: 100GB (minimum).
  • ESET Endpoint Security: 1 GB free disk space.
• Display: Minimum 1024x768 resolution for endpoints.
• Ports (for ESET PROTECT Server communication):
  • TCP 2222 (Agent to Server).
  • TCP 2223 (Web Console to Server, Assisted installation).
  • TCP 443/80 (Tomcat broadcasting Web Console).
  • TCP 3128 (Communication with ESET Bridge).
  • MQTT 8883 (ESET Push Notification Service - Wake-Up calls).
  • TCP 9980 (Mobile device enrollment).
  • TCP 9981 (Mobile device communication).
  • TCP 139 (Using ADMIN$ share).
• Operating System:
  • ESET PROTECT Server: Microsoft Windows Server 2016 or Windows 10 (up to latest version), Ubuntu 18 (up to latest version).
  • Endpoints: Windows (11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7), macOS (10.12+), Linux (Ubuntu Desktop, RHEL Desktop), Android, iOS.
  • File Servers: Windows Server, various Linux distributions.

Analysis of Technical Requirements: ESET Protect Enterprise presents a tiered set of technical requirements. The ESET PROTECT Server component, which manages the entire environment, requires moderate server-grade resources, typical for a centralized management console handling enterprise-scale deployments. Endpoint requirements are minimal, ensuring broad compatibility across a wide range of user devices without significant performance overhead. Network port configurations are standard for enterprise security solutions, facilitating communication between agents and the management server in both local and remote deployments.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: ESET PROTECT Platform 5.3 (May 2024). ESET PROTECT Enterprise suite version 10.1 (as of late 2023).
• OS Support: Comprehensive support across major platforms including Windows (client and server), macOS, various Linux distributions (desktop and server), Android, and iOS. Native support for ARM-based Apple chips is available for macOS endpoints.
• End of Support Date: Support for older operating systems is phased out with specific product versions. For instance, ESET Management Agent 10.x is the last to support Windows 7/8.x and Windows Server 2008 R2/Microsoft SBS 2011. ESET Endpoint Security version 9.1 is the last to support Windows 7 and 8.1. Users should consult ESET's End of Life policy for specific components.
• Localization: As a global cybersecurity leader, ESET products are generally available with broad localization options, though specific details were not found in the provided data.
• Available Drivers: ESET Full Disk Encryption is a native feature managed directly from the ESET PROTECT console, supporting encryption on Windows and macOS endpoints. The software itself integrates deeply with the operating system to provide its protective functions.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: ESET Protect Enterprise offers extensive compatibility across diverse operating systems and device types, making it suitable for heterogeneous enterprise environments. The platform's ability to manage Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices from a single console simplifies administration. While it maintains support for a wide range of current OS versions, ESET follows a clear end-of-support policy for older operating systems, requiring organizations to keep their infrastructure updated for full support. The native integration of features like Full Disk Encryption enhances its utility and ease of deployment.

Security Status

• Security Features: Multilayered protection, Extended Detection & Response (XDR), Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) via ESET Inspect, cloud sandboxing (ESET Dynamic Threat Defense) for zero-day threats, Full Disk Encryption for Windows and macOS, advanced threat defense, machine learning, behavioral analysis, ransomware protection, anti-phishing, device control, anti-theft (for mobile), secure banking protection, customizable firewall policies, vulnerability & patch management (as an add-on), and brute force attack protection.
• Known Vulnerabilities: ESET actively addresses vulnerabilities in its products. No specific unpatched critical vulnerabilities were highlighted in the provided data, indicating a commitment to maintaining a secure product.
• Blacklist Status: ESET is a well-established and reputable cybersecurity vendor. Its products are not associated with blacklisting.
• Certifications:
  • Named "Strategic Leader" in the 2023 AV-Comparatives Endpoint Prevention and Response (EPR) Comparative Report.
  • Achieved 100% Active Response rate and 100% Passive Response rate across all scenarios in the AV-Comparatives EPR 2023 test.
  • Received "APPROVED" status in the AV-Comparatives Business Security Test 2020.
  • Compliant with ISO/IEC 27001:2013, an internationally recognized security standard.
  • Achieved CERTIFIED ATP award in the Advanced Threat Protection Test 2023 - Enterprise Test.
  • Received AAA award in Enterprise Endpoint Security test from SE Labs, with a 100% accuracy.
• Encryption Support: ESET Full Disk Encryption provides robust encryption for system disks, partitions, or entire devices on Windows and macOS, managed natively through the ESET PROTECT console.
• Authentication Methods: Supports Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
• General Recommendations: Emphasizes proactive defense, threat hunting, and incident response capabilities, leveraging real-time feedback from ESET LiveGrid, which gathers data from over 100 million endpoints.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: ESET Protect Enterprise demonstrates a very strong overall security rating, backed by consistent high performance in independent third-party evaluations like AV-Comparatives. Its comprehensive, multilayered approach combines advanced prevention, detection, and response capabilities, including XDR, cloud sandboxing, and full disk encryption. The product's alignment with MITRE ATT&CK® tactics, techniques, and procedures further enhances its threat hunting and incident response capabilities. The robust feature set, coupled with strong certifications and a focus on proactive defense, positions ESET Protect Enterprise as a highly reliable solution for enterprise security.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • AV-Comparatives EPR 2023: Named "Strategic Leader," outperforming 11 other vendors in 50 real-world scenarios. Achieved 100% Active Response rate and 100% Passive Response rate.
  • AV-Comparatives Network Performance Test: Recorded the lowest combined idle traffic (0.2 MB) among tested competitors. Virus definition file size is significantly smaller (10 times) compared to some competitors, reducing network impact.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Generally described as "lightweight on the system," with "minimal resource usage," ensuring systems run smoothly without noticeable slowdown for most office tasks.
  • Some user feedback indicates occasional slow performance, particularly during scans and updates, which can impact PC usability.
• Power Consumption: Implied to be low due to its "light footprint" and "minimal resource usage" design, though specific power consumption figures are not publicly detailed.
• Carbon Footprint: Specific data on carbon footprint is not publicly detailed.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: ESET Protect Enterprise is frequently compared to leading solutions such as CrowdStrike Falcon, Sophos Intercept X, Bitdefender GravityZone, Trend Micro Vision One, SentinelOne Singularity Endpoint, and Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. It ranks #11 in Anti-Malware Tools and #19 in XDR Security products on PeerSpot, with a user rating of 8.6 out of 10.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: ESET Protect Enterprise generally delivers strong performance with a reputation for being lightweight and having a minimal impact on system resources, a claim supported by independent benchmarks from AV-Comparatives. Its small virus definition file sizes contribute to reduced network traffic. While most users report smooth operation, some feedback suggests that intensive operations like full system scans or updates can occasionally lead to temporary system slowdowns. Overall, its performance is highly competitive within the enterprise security market, balancing robust protection with efficient resource utilization.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback highlight several key aspects of ESET Protect Enterprise:

• Strengths:
  • Ease of Use and Management: Users frequently praise its intuitive interface, straightforward installation, and centralized management console, which simplifies endpoint monitoring and threat management.
  • Robust Security and Protection: The software is highly regarded for its comprehensive, multilayered protection against malware, ransomware, zero-day threats, and other attacks. Real-time analytics and threat detection capabilities are considered excellent.
  • Low System Impact: Many users appreciate its lightweight nature and minimal resource consumption, allowing systems to run smoothly without significant slowdowns.
  • Effective Features: Valuable features include comprehensive reporting tools, dynamic folders, Zero-Day Protection, reliable EDR capabilities, and strong firewall protection.
  • Good Value and Support: Customers often find it cost-effective and a good value, with positive feedback on technical support.
• Weaknesses:
  • Performance Issues: Despite general praise for being lightweight, some users report that the system can become slow during scans and updates, impacting PC usability.
  • Configuration Complexity: Some users find the initial setup and configuration, as well as third-party integration, to be challenging, contributing to a learning curve.
  • User Experience: Occasional complaints about unwanted pop-ups, less user-friendly aspects, and a clunky interface for device management, particularly for Macs and mobile devices.
  • Deployment and Management: Improvements are suggested for remote deployment, management structure, automation, and notification processes.
  • Cost: Some users perceive it as expensive compared to certain alternatives.
• Recommended Use Cases:
  • Securing diverse IT environments, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS endpoints, as well as servers.
  • Organizations requiring comprehensive cybersecurity with advanced threat hunting, incident response, and compliance capabilities.
  • Businesses seeking a scalable endpoint security solution with options to expand to XDR or MDR services.
  • Environments needing strong firewall protection and real-time threat detection across multiple devices.

Summary

ESET Protect Enterprise is a robust, comprehensive cybersecurity solution designed for enterprise environments, offering a multilayered approach to prevention, detection, and response. It integrates a suite of security products managed through a unified console, available in both cloud-based and on-premise deployments. The platform provides extensive compatibility across a wide array of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS for endpoints, and various Windows Server and Linux distributions for server environments. Minimum technical requirements for endpoints are modest, ensuring broad applicability, while the central management server requires typical enterprise-grade resources.

Strengths of ESET Protect Enterprise include its highly effective, multilayered security features, such as XDR, EDR (via ESET Inspect), cloud sandboxing for zero-day threats, and native Full Disk Encryption. Independent benchmarks from AV-Comparatives consistently recognize ESET as a "Strategic Leader" with high detection and response rates, and a remarkably light system footprint, particularly concerning network traffic and definition file sizes. Users frequently praise its ease of use, intuitive management console, and overall reliability in protecting against a wide range of cyber threats. Its scalability and ability to manage diverse platforms from a single pane of glass are also significant advantages.

However, the asset also presents some weaknesses. While generally lightweight, some users report occasional system slowdowns during intensive operations like full scans or updates. The initial configuration and learning curve can be challenging for some, and improvements are suggested for remote deployment and user-friendliness, especially for macOS and mobile device management. Some users also perceive the solution as relatively expensive compared to alternatives.

Recommendations: ESET Protect Enterprise is an excellent choice for organizations seeking a highly effective, independently validated, and broadly compatible cybersecurity platform. It is particularly well-suited for businesses with heterogeneous IT environments that require advanced threat protection, centralized management, and a strong focus on minimizing system impact. Organizations should consider its robust XDR capabilities for enhanced threat visibility and response. While generally performing well, IT teams should plan for potential resource spikes during updates or scans and leverage ESET's support resources for complex configurations. For optimal performance and support, maintaining up-to-date operating systems is crucial due to ESET's rolling support policy.

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.