# Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Software Pricing, Alternatives & More 2026 | Capterra > With the help of Capterra, learn about Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Software - reviews, pricing plans, popular comparisons to other Endpoint Protection products and more. Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/219686/Microsoft-Defender-for-Endpoint --- # Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Software Review 2026: Features, Integrations, Pros & Cons Last updated on March 15, 2026 Provider data verified by our Software Research team, and reviews moderated by our Reviews Verification team. Independent research methodology Capterra’s researchers use a mix of verified reviews, independent research and objective methodologies to bring you selection and ranking information you can trust. While we may earn a referral fee when you visit a provider through our links or speak to an advisor, this has no influence on our research or methodology. 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[Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/resources/how-we-ensure-transparency/) [Description](#description)[Use cases](#use-cases)[Alternatives](#alternatives)[Features](#features)[Pricing](#pricing)[Support](#support)[Reviews](#reviews) Microsoft Defender for Endpoint ## What is Microsoft Defender for Endpoint? Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a complete endpoint security solution that delivers preventative protection, post-breach detection, automated investigation, and response. With Defender for Endpoint, you have: -Agentless, cloud powered - No additional deployment or infrastructure. No delays or update compatibility issues. Always up to date. -Unparalleled optics - Built on the industry’s deepest insight into Windows threats and shared signals across devices, identities, and information. ## What is Microsoft Defender for Endpoint used for? [Endpoint Protection](https://www.capterra.com/endpoint-protection-software/)[Endpoint Detection and Response](https://www.capterra.com/endpoint-detection-and-response-software/) Top alternative Featured Overall rating Based on 17 user reviews Reviews sentiment Positive \- Neutral \- Negative \- Contact vendor for pricing Free trial available Capterra Shortlist charts the highest-rated and most popular products... Our "Best of" badge program showcases products with the highest ratings... Our "Best of" badge program showcases products with the highest ratings... Do you work for Microsoft Defender for Endpoint?[Manage this product listing](https://digitalmarkets.gartner.com/get-listed/claim-bx?url=http://www.microsoft.com&name=Microsoft Defender for Endpoint) ## Compare with a popular alternative Capterra selects software alternatives based on relevant features, verified user reviews and user interactions. Placement may be influenced by client status. ### Microsoft Defender for Endpoint 4.6 (17) VS. [4.5 (37)](https://www.capterra.com/p/209028/Jamf-Protect/reviews/) Starting Price Contact vendor Starting Price $5 Flat Rate, Per Month Free Trial Free Version Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version Ease Of Use 4.6 (17) Ease Of Use 4.1 (37) Value For Money 4.6 (14) Value For Money 4.4 (31) Customer Service 4.1 (13) Customer Service 4.5 (32) ## Microsoft Defender for Endpoint alternatives [4.6 (1,632)](https://www.capterra.com/p/170018/ManageEngine-Desktop-Central/reviews/) Starting price $795.00 Per User, Per Month Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 97% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars Highest Rated [4.9 (480)](https://www.capterra.com/p/181954/Iru/reviews/) Starting price Contact vendor for pricing Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 99% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars [SentinelOne](https://www.capterra.com/p/152564/Endpoint-Protection-Platform/) [4.8 (112)](https://www.capterra.com/p/152564/Endpoint-Protection-Platform/reviews/) Starting price $179.99 Per User, Per Month Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 97% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/152564/Endpoint-Protection-Platform/) [Microsoft Defender XDR](https://www.capterra.com/p/219687/Microsoft-365-Defender/) [4.5 (61)](https://www.capterra.com/p/219687/Microsoft-365-Defender/reviews/) Starting price Contact vendor for pricing Pricing Options Free Trial Free Version User Rating 93% of reviewers rated it above 4 stars [Learn More](https://www.capterra.com/p/219687/Microsoft-365-Defender/) [View all alternatives](https://www.capterra.com/p/219686/Microsoft-Defender-for-Endpoint/alternatives/) ## Features Features with the highest number of reviews are displayed first. Those that have no reviews appear next, sorted alphabetically. Real-Time Monitoring 4.7 (15) 46.67% of 15 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Active monitoring of systems, applications, or networks Alerts/Escalation 4.6 (14) 35.71% of 14 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important System alerts about the need to escalate an issue or request Risk Analysis 4.7 (13) 23.08% of 13 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Analyze potential risks across the organization Data Visualization 4.4 (12) 33.33% of 12 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Graphical representation of data Incident Management 4.5 (12) 33.33% of 12 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Manage and track all disruptions and incidents Alerts/Notifications 4.9 (9) 44.44% of 9 reviewers that rated this feature as important or highly important Alerts or notifications of various types such as pop-up messages, sounds, banners, or badges Microsoft Defender for Endpoint 15 features Dashboard to view the status of ongoing processes, identify current incidents and track past activities Track and document all activities across devices, networks, and other systems System alerts about the need to escalate an issue or request Alerts or notifications of various types such as pop-up messages, sounds, banners, or badges Application programming interface that allows for integration with other systems/databases Track and analyse user behavior within a system or network Graphical representation of data Track status, assign actions, and control access to systems for devices within the organization Manage and track all disruptions and incidents Observe and track the demand, usage, progress or quality of a system, product, or user Active monitoring of systems, applications, or networks View and track pertinent metrics to find patterns and gain insights from data Analyze potential risks across the organization Set up connections to third-party platforms to improve business processes Discover patch statuses and vulnerabilities Features 4.5 (17) 4.5 Based on 17 reviews ## Pricing Value for money 4.6 (14) ### Starting price Contact vendor for pricing Free trial available [View all Pricing Plans](https://www.capterra.com/p/219686/Microsoft-Defender-for-Endpoint/pricing/) Value for money 4.6 (14) 4.6 Based on 14 reviews ## Support, customer service and training options Customer Service 4.1 (13) Support - Email/Help Desk - FAQs/Forum - Knowledge Base - Phone Support - 24/7 (Live rep) - Chat Training - In Person - Live Online - Webinars - Documentation - Videos Deployment - Web - Android - iPhone/iPad Typical users - Freelancers - Small businesses - Mid size businesses - Enterprises Customer Service 4.1 (13) 4.1 Based on 13 reviews ## User reviews Overall rating 4.6 Based on 17 reviews Filter by rating 5(12) 4(4) 3(1) 2(0) 1(0) Mentioned topic Sorted by most recent SW Steve W. BTS Systesm Administrator Entertainment ### "A Great Set It And Forget It Product That Protects Your Workplace" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 December 4, 2024 Pros We moved from WEBROOT, which was awful and filled with issues. Defender did what Webroot does X10 and was so much easier to install and maintain. It also synchronizes with our Office Environment, making it easy to view alerts and maintain any issues that arise. Cons Very little. Works great as a set it and forget it product that will alert you when issues arise. Switched from [OpenText Core Endpoint Protection​](https://www.capterra.com/p/166552/Webroot-SecureAnywhere-Endpoint-Protection/) Webroot had been our choice for years but they had many issues in the last year with them. I had an open ticket for over six months that no one could help me resolve. They esentially gave up and tried to argue it was my problem, and essentially pushed me to their competition as they didnt want to deal with the inherent issues with their software. Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. FA Fabrizio A. Technician Information Technology and Services ### "It's not the Defender you find on Windows 10, it's more!" 4.0 Overall Rating 4.0 4.0 Ease of Use 4.0 4.0 Features 4.0 4.0 Customer Service 0.0 0.0 Likelihood to Recommend 7/10 June 12, 2024 I like Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. It offers the security I need: antivirus, antimalware, antiransomware, it has firewall features and also check the websites. If you have 365 you should think about installing it (there is a free trial). Pros Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a complete security solution for protecting your computers (not only windows OS, but also Mac and Linux for example), it's more than an antivirus, as it keeps you protected from threats such as ransomware and other kind of malware. USB devices and websites (reputation/category) are also checked . The installation is simple and it does not slow your computer. Cons Obviously it's not free, and you can choose actually between two plans Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. Constantin A. Developer Computer Software ### "Microsoft-Defender\_Review" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 4.0 4.0 Customer Service 0.0 0.0 Likelihood to Recommend 9/10 October 23, 2023 Pros It is quite effective and protects you from any potential threats. With this solution, your online data are secured Cons The only problem I have encountered till now is that there several false positives. Apart from this, the remaining is perfect Switched from [Google Docs](https://www.capterra.com/p/160756/Google-Docs/) [Google Drive](https://www.capterra.com/p/161425/Drive/) [Google Maps](https://www.capterra.com/p/227511/Google-Maps/) Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. JM James M. Content Writer and Editor Information Technology and Services ### "Has many security layers to protects computer and data from threats" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 4.0 4.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 September 26, 2023 We had been using third-party antivirus until we installed Windows 10. Microsoft Defender actively protects our computers from malware, phishing and virus using multiple approaches. When downloading files from online sources or your email, it scans it fast and sends warnings if it is a potential threat. However, it is only available for people who want to use Windows 10 and excludes devices with other operating systems or older Windows. Pros Microsoft Defender is integrated with Windows 10, ensuring maximum protection without performance issues. Unlike third-party anti-viruses, which often require more resources, Microsoft Defender is pre-installed in Windows. It has many security features, from real-time device monitoring to active scans before downloads and behavioral analysis to protect devices from malware. The default settings provide sufficient protection to guarantee safety and peace of mind. So you might not need to keep customizing the security features. Cons People using older versions of Windows or other operating systems cannot enjoy the benefits of Microsoft Defender. It does not update as regularly as other antivirus from third-party vendors. It usually updates occasionally with Windows, which might create a loophole for emerging malware or other threats. It lacks advanced security features such as VPN, password manager, or dedicated firewall. However, it has adequate features to guarantee security. Switched from [Norton AntiVirus](https://www.capterra.com/p/648/Norton-Security/) [Bitdefender Antivirus Plus](https://www.capterra.com/p/266585/Bitdefender-Antivirus-Plus/) Review source Incentivized review: software users are invited to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive for their time and effort. All incentivized reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. CK Carol K. Web Designer and Content Writer Information Technology and Services ### "Effective and Quiet Security Tool" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 4.0 4.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 9/10 September 24, 2023 Pros Microsoft Defender users many approaches to achieve the overall endpoint security. It monitors the computer throughout and displays an alert to caution you against potential threat. There is never compatibility issues with Windows since it comes with Windows 10 as the standard security solution. You can find blog posts and videos about troubleshooting Microsoft Defender if you encounter problems. Cons It does not work on other devices such as mobile phones, tablets, or computers using macOS, iOS, and Android. This might scare away potential customers who want to apply the same security level across different devices. It is relatively expensive because it comes with Windows as a package and so you cannot enjoy it as a stand-alone program. Switched from [Bitdefender Antivirus Plus](https://www.capterra.com/p/266585/Bitdefender-Antivirus-Plus/) Reliability Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. GS George S. Receptionist/ Accounts Clerk Information Technology and Services ### "Microsoft Defender Review" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 4.0 4.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 9/10 September 14, 2023 Microsoft Defender functions efficiently on Windows devices and rarely misbehaves. It updates as you update Windows keeping your system safe from threats. It has proactive potential threat detection that gives us some peace of mind. It rarely sends false alerts. Pros I like Microsoft Defender because it is from a reliable vendor and works conveniently with Windows. It has a reliable threat detection system that keeps your devices safe even when browsing online. You can use it to analyze threats and make security policies that prevent future occurrences of the threats. Cons A company with devices running on different operating systems may increase the risks since Microsoft Defender can only work on Windows. This might push such businesses to look for alternative security solutions. Switched from [Bitdefender Antivirus Plus](https://www.capterra.com/p/266585/Bitdefender-Antivirus-Plus/) Cost Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. SC Steven C. Web Designer and Content Writer Information Technology and Services ### "Microsoft Defender Offers Reliable Protection and Seamless Performance" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 4.0 4.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 9/10 September 11, 2023 Microsoft Defender proves to be effective and reliable because it is quick to detect and remove potential threats. It protects your computer and data from malicious software and keeps it safe even when browsing. It functions seamlessly with Windows and has low effect on computer performance. However, it lacks sophisticated protection features such as VPN and password vault, which might come in handy. It only works on devices with Windows. Pros I like Microsoft Defender because it comes with Windows 10 by default. It integrates well with Windows and does not take too much resources or cause performance challenges. It protects the computer from threats or attacks from malicious programs or online sources. It rarely sends notifications or alerts, which reduces distractions when working. Cons Changing security settings is somewhat complicated especially for someone who is unfamiliar with Endpoint security programs. It would be better if they considered adding a VPN for safer browsing. Devices with other operating systems cannot use Microsoft Defender, which is a risk factor bearing in mind that one vulnerable device exposes the entire company to higher risk of attacks. Switched from [Bitdefender Antivirus Plus](https://www.capterra.com/p/266585/Bitdefender-Antivirus-Plus/) Cost Review source Incentivized review: software users are invited to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive for their time and effort. All incentivized reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. SK Sylvia K. Web Designer/ Web Developer Information Technology and Services ### "Reliable real-time protection against computer system threats" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 5.0 5.0 Likelihood to Recommend 10/10 September 4, 2023 Microsoft Defender provides real time monitoring to detect and prevent attacks from various sources. It runs efficiently without slowing down the computer and seems to work better in the background since it is from Microsoft, the same vendor behind Windows. With Microsoft Defender, we are assured that the data from clients is safe from intruders or hackers and the sailing is smooth. Pros It is very compatible with Windows and does not cause compatibility issues or slow down the system. It is from Microsoft, one of the market leaders so it is quite easy to get help from the vendor as well as users. It works silently and sends accurate alerts when necessary. Like most programs from Microsoft, it is efficient, reliable, and easy to use. Cons It is rather too simple compared to other security tools from other developers. But it serves our needs and offers real-time protection we need. Besides, the weight and reliability of Microsoft and their products is convincing enough to make us believe it is one of the best in its category. Despite being effective, it is strange that some people don't actually know about it like they do similar tools from other relatively smaller vendors. Switched from [Bitdefender Antivirus Plus](https://www.capterra.com/p/266585/Bitdefender-Antivirus-Plus/) The management believed Microsoft Defender is better in terms of reliability especially since it is from Microsoft Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. Rachel L C. Digital News Coordinator Information Services ### "My Honest Microsoft Defender Review" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 4.0 4.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 9/10 September 3, 2023 Microsoft Defender is a reliable real-time protection against known and emerging threats. It is easy to set up and integrates well with Windows devices because it is from the same developer. It rarely gives false alerts or slows down the device. You can quickly get a solution for every problem with Microsoft Defender because it has many users. Pros I like Microsoft Defender because of its ability to detect and respond to threats in real-time. It updates regularly and automatically, which gives us peace of mind that our devices are safe from viruses, ransomware, malware etc. It rarely creates unnecessary alerts or warnings but works silently in the background. Cons It is designed for Windows by Microsoft, which means you cannot use it on devices with other operating systems. It does not have advanced functions such as controlling what websites employees can access. Review source Incentivized review: software users are invited to submit an honest review and offered a nominal incentive for their time and effort. All incentivized reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. KK Kennedy K. Content Writer Information Technology and Services ### "Reliable Tool for Comprehensive Realtime Protection" 5.0 Overall Rating 5.0 5.0 Ease of Use 5.0 5.0 Features 5.0 5.0 Customer Service 4.0 4.0 Likelihood to Recommend 9/10 August 26, 2023 Our experience with Microsoft Defender has been positive. We have not experienced security attacks on our systems ever since. There are many sources of helpful information to help you if you are stuck. We can trust Microsoft to provide one of the reliable security tool. Pros Microsoft Defender works silently in the background without sending too many alerts, which often cause distractions. It offers holistic protection from a range of threats, including phishing attacks. The intuitive management console makes it easy to manage security settings, monitor potential threats, and get real-time reports. Microsoft Defender is developed by a tech giant, which gives assurance that it is reliable. Cons Only those using Windows devices can enjoy the benefits of Microsoft Defender. Managing the advanced settings and customization options is confusing and overwhelming for starters, indicating a steep learning curve. Switched from [Bitdefender Antivirus Plus](https://www.capterra.com/p/266585/Bitdefender-Antivirus-Plus/) Microsoft Defender offers better protection and is from a reliable developer. Review source Non-incentivized review: any software user can leave a review for any product listed on our site. All submitted reviews are subject to our verification process prior to publication. [View all Reviews](https://www.capterra.com/p/219686/Microsoft-Defender-for-Endpoint/reviews/) ## Top-rated software of 2026 ### Fill out the form and we'll send a list of the top-rated software based on real user reviews directly to your inbox. Popular comparisons [ManageEngine Endpoint Central vs Microsoft Defender for Endpoint](https://www.capterra.com/compare/170018-219686/ManageEngine-Desktop-Central-vs-Microsoft-Defender-for-Endpoint) [Jamf Protect vs Microsoft Defender for Endpoint](https://www.capterra.com/compare/209028-219686/Jamf-Protect-vs-Microsoft-Defender-for-Endpoint)  Independent research methodology Capterra's researchers use a mix of verified reviews, independent research and objective methodologies to bring you selection and ranking information you can trust. While we may earn a referral fee when you visit a provider through our links or speak to an advisor, this has no influence on our research or methodology. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/resources/proprietary-data-research/) How Capterra verifies reviews Capterra carefully verified over 2.5 million+ reviews to bring you authentic software experiences from real users. Our human moderators verify that reviewers are real people and that reviews are authentic. They use leading tech to analyze text quality and to detect plagiarism and generative AI. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/resources/how-we-verify-reviews/) How Capterra ensures transparency Capterra lists all providers across its website—not just those that pay us—so that users can make informed purchase decisions. Capterra is free for users. Software providers pay us for sponsored profiles to receive web traffic and sales opportunities. Sponsored profiles include a link-out icon that takes users to the provider's website. [Learn more](https://www.capterra.com/resources/how-we-ensure-transparency/)