With the globe little short of a network of networks, the volume and sophistication of cyber threats targeting server environments have escalated dramatically. Read on for essential hints to find the right server security software that fits your organization's specific requirements. From basics about current cyber threats and solutions and most importantly a summary concerning our top 10 products, this is our 2024 pick of the best server security software.

What is Server Security Software?

Server security software encompasses a range of tools designed to protect servers from cyber threats, unauthorized access, and data breaches. This type of software is crucial for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of data stored on servers, which often include sensitive information critical to the operations of a business.

Effective server security software not only detects and mitigates incoming threats but also monitors and manages server resources to prevent potential vulnerabilities. These solutions are essential in creating a robust defence mechanism against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, ensuring that business systems remain unaffected and operational.

Description of Common Types of Security Threats

1. Malware including viruses, worms and Trojans, is software which can disrupt or take control of systems.
2. Ransomware Malicious software that encrypts files on a device and demands payment to unlock them.
3. Phishing Attacks Deceptive attempts to steal sensitive information like usernames, passwords and credit card details by pretending to be a trustworthy entity.
4. Spyware Software that enables a user to obtain covert information about another's computer activities by transmitting data covertly from their hard drive.
5. Rootkits Software tools that enable unauthorized access to a computer system while actively hiding their presence.
6. SQL Injection Attacks Malicious code injection into SQL queries to manipulate database servers.
7. Botnet Attacks Networks of private computers infected with malicious software and controlled as a group without the owners' knowledge.
8. Zero-Day Exploits Attacks that occur on the same day a weakness is discovered in software, before the creator has an opportunity to create a patch to fix it.

Examples of Concerns Raised by Particular Infrastructures or in Particular Industries

The digital transformation across various industries has brought about specific security concerns for different infrastructures. For instance, the healthcare sector is increasingly targeted by ransomware attacks due to the critical nature of its data, where beyond data privacy issues, system downtime can have life-or-death consequences. Another example is how financial services face a high risk from phishing and other sophisticated scams aimed at credential theft and financial gain. On the other hand, retail environments are particularly vulnerable at the point of sale, where attackers can steal credit card information. Government entities, by contrast, are frequent targets for espionage, requiring highly secure networks to protect sensitive citizen data. Finally, in education fields, schools and universities must protect against data breaches while balancing open access for academic purposes.

These are merely a handful of non-specific ways infrastructures and sectors are under pressure from cyber threats. Nevertheless, software tools are available to fend off these dangers, hence our article.

Most Common Types of Solutions and Products Addressing These Issues

In response to the challenges outlined above, comprehensive security solutions have been developed to protect server infrastructures across industries. These solutions are designed to provide robust protection against a broad spectrum of threats. Some target specific threats, others cover a diversity of fronts, and some are general use tools while others cater to the unique needs of identified sectors.

Below are a few examples of types of protection software:

1. Antivirus/Anti-malware Software Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, spyware, and other malicious software.
2. Firewalls Monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
3. VPN (Virtual Private Networks) Ensures secure and private communications over the internet by encrypting connections.
4. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)/Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) Detects and blocks potential threats in real-time.
5. Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP) Security solutions that protect corporate networks when accessed via remote devices such as laptops or other wireless and mobile devices.
6. Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Provides real-time analysis of security alerts generated by applications and network hardware.
7. Data Encryption Protects data integrity by encoding information, only allowing access to those who have the encryption key.
8. Patch Management Ensures systems are up-to-date with the latest security patches to minimise vulnerabilities.
9. Privileged Access Management (PAM) Controls the access given to users and accounts, especially those with special access privileges.
10. Security Awareness Training Educates employees about the importance of security and how to avoid phishing and other cyber threats.

This tour of some basic definitions and background information on several cyber threats and potential protections sets the stage for a detailed exploration of our pick of the best server security software in 2024. Follows the details of each of those we have earmarked for their critical role in protecting data against cyber threats. Our aim is to guide readers through choosing the right server security solution.

Ready to secure your server infrastructure? Let’s dive into the best solutions available today.

The 10 Best Server Security Software

The current cyber security landscape offers diverse possibilities to protect against a growing array of sophisticated cyberthreats. From traditional antivirus software to advanced multi-layered defence systems, the tools listed below represent the pinnacle of server security technology. This selection has been designed to suit tech-savvy IT professionals, managed service providers and Microsoft IT resellers, and has been picked from a broader range of products. Each solution provides unique features that cater to different aspects of server security, thus ensuring that businesses can effectively defend their critical infrastructure from emerging cyber threats.

1. RDS-Tools Advanced Security — Best for Comprehensive Server Protection

Designed for environments demanding stringent security measures, RDS-Tools Advanced Security stands out as a premier choice due to its robust 360° action. This tool is engineered to safeguard servers by addressing a broad spectrum of vulnerabilities with powerful, user-centric controls. Its smart learning of user habits helps detect potential threats earlier than ever and its quarantine capacity can confine a threatened area to stop progression.

Features & Integrations:

• Hacker IP Protection: Guards against unauthorized access and attacks with dynamic IP blocking. Added to Global IP Management, this is one of the most powerful aspects of Advanced Security.
• Brute Force Defender: This proactive feature prevents attackers from repeated password attempts.
• Ransomware Protection: Ensures data remains safe from encryption-based attacks by providing timely backups and alerts.
• Homeland Protection: Simple effective geo-fencing.
• Essentials Edition includes Brute force defender, IP management, Homeland and working hours protection.
• Ultimate edition includes all features from the Essentials edition + Ransomware protection, Endpoint protection, Permissions and Access policies management.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  
  • Offers a comprehensive protection suite of security tools tailored for Windows servers.
  • Cost-effective in comparison to other market options.
  • Its easy integration with existing systems makes it a great tool to save time as well as money while increasing workforce efficiency.
  • Readily contact sales or support for options tailored to organisational needs and server configurations.
  • No limit set on the number of endpoints.
• Cons:
  • Some advanced features may require a steeper learning curve for new users.
  • Hacker IP Protection and Ransomware Protection are available in Ultimate.

Pricing:

Licensing is per server rather than per device connecting. From $180 “for life” per server for the Essentials and $300 for the all-round Ultimate edition, these permanent licenses are a forward-looking investment. Included in the price of your permanent licence, you also benefit from ongoing updates and support meaning your protection is always up-to-date.

2. Bitdefender Total Security — Best for Multi-Platform Coverage

Bitdefender Total Security is highly acclaimed for its extensive coverage across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. This makes it ideal for businesses operating in a mixed-device environment, providing seamless security management across all devices.

Features & Integrations:

• Multi-layer Ransomware Protection: Uses multiple technologies to recognise behavioural threats and block ransomware.
• Advanced Threat Defense: Employs innovative techniques to detect new and unknown threats in real time.
• VPN Included: Enhances online privacy and secures internet connections, which is vital for remote access scenarios.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  
  • Excellent malware detection rates supported by independent labs.
  • Includes performance optimization tools.
• Cons:
  • Some users report the VPN feature can slow down the connection speeds slightly.
  • Price per device makes cost shoot up rapidly for larger infrastructures.

Pricing:

Starts at $155.48 per year for a minimum of five devices, yearly subscription increments with extra devices. Bitdefender also has flexible pricing for larger enterprise environments.

3. Kaspersky Endpoint Security — Best for Medium-Sized Businesses

Kaspersky Endpoint Security is renowned for its robust protection capabilities, particularly suited for small to medium-sized enterprises looking to secure their server environments against a wide array of cyber threats. This software combines performance and security to provide efficient protection without compromising system speed.

Features & Integrations:

• Behavioral Analysis: Uses advanced heuristics to detect and block unusual activity, preventing zero-day attacks.
• Endpoint Control: Tools to manage application and device controls, enhancing internal security policies.
• Cloud-Enabled Protection: Leverages cloud intelligence to provide real-time updates on emerging threats.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  • Strong reputation for malware detection and elimination;
  • Offers a comprehensive security management console.
• Cons:
  • Occasionally, the system scans can be resource-intensive, potentially slowing down older or less powerful machines.

Pricing:

Pricing is tier-based and dependent on the number of endpoints. Prices start at approximately £30 per endpoint/year.

4. Sophos Intercept X — Best for Artificial Intelligence and Exploit Prevention

Sophos Intercept X is at the forefront of endpoint security with its utilisation of artificial intelligence and exploit prevention technology to provide top-tier protection. It is particularly well-suited for businesses that require proactive security measures to shield against sophisticated cyberattacks.

Features & Integrations:

• Deep Learning Technology: Analyzes files in milliseconds, detecting and blocking never-before-seen malware before it executes.
• Exploit Prevention: Stops attackers from taking advantage of known vulnerabilities in protected servers and applications.
• Active Adversary Mitigations: Provides specific defenses against hacking techniques used in targeted attacks.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  • Exceptional exploit prevention.
  • Straightforward management through an intuitive interface.
• Cons:
  • Pricing can be on the higher side compared to other solutions, especially for smaller businesses.

Pricing:

Pricing varies based on the scale of deployment and additional feature requirements and is quoted by Sophos sales teams on demand. There are no price lists readily available online but typically starts around £45 per endpoint/year for small businesses of average size.

5. Trend Micro Deep Security — Best for Cloud and Data Centre Protection

Trend Micro Deep Security is tailored for businesses operating in cloud environments and data centres, offering a comprehensive suite of security capabilities designed to protect servers from threats both external and internal. It is particularly aimed at securing virtual, cloud and physical servers with minimal impact on performance.

Features & Integrations:

• Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Automatically shields servers from vulnerabilities, including zero-day threats, by shielding known and unknown vulnerabilities.
• Anti-Malware with Web Reputation: Uses real-time web reputation to block access to malicious websites and scans files and memory for malware.
• Log Inspection: Enhances compliance and security by capturing and analysing log entries for security events.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  • Extensive security capabilities tailored for complex server environments.
  • Excellent for hybrid cloud setups.
• Cons:
  • Configuration and management can be complex without specialised IT knowledge.

Pricing:

Prices are not listed as Trend Micro uses a quote-based pricing model which varies depending on the specific needs and the number of server instances. In their cloud-provision simulator, prices are indexed on a wide number of variables including endpoints, file storage, containers, workload and more.

6. ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced — Best for Multi-Layered Protection

ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced offers a layered approach to security, combining robust malware defenses with custom options for enhanced control over network security. It is well-suited for companies seeking flexible solutions for active threat prevention, detection and response, especially across diverse device landscapes.

Features & Integrations:

• Network Attack Protection: Adds an extra layer of security to prevent network exploits.
• Multi-Platform Support: Provides comprehensive protection for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Ransomware Shield: Employs behaviour-based detection to block ransomware and secure data.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  • Highly configurable settings and strong performance in independent tests.
• Cons:
  • User interface could be more intuitive, and initial setup requires technical know-how.

Pricing:

ESET offers tier-based pricing starting around £55 per endpoint for one year starting from a minimum of 5 endpoints. Discounts are available for longer terms.

7. Syxsense Cortex — Best for Ease of Use

Syxsense Cortex stands out for its user-friendly interface and robust endpoint management capabilities, making it a great choice for businesses prioritising ease of use without sacrificing security depth. It offers comprehensive patch management and security vulnerability scanning, all managed from a single console.

Features & Integrations:

• Real-Time Monitoring: Track and manage device health and security status in real-time.
• Patch Management: Automated patch deployment ensures that all devices are protected against the latest threats without manual intervention.
• Customizable Reporting: Allows users to create detailed reports for compliance and auditing purposes.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  • Intuitive user interface; robust integration options.
  • Powerful automation capabilities.
• Cons:
  • Pricing information is not transparent and must be obtained through a quote.
  • Might be more feature-rich than smaller companies require.

Pricing:

Prices are quoted upon request. As some peers above, quotes will vary based on the number of endpoints and the specific features required. Some resellers display estimates showing a product on the high end of the price scale encountered so far. Nonetheless, this is a very proactive product worth investigating.

8. Webroot Secure Anywhere Business Endpoint Protection — Best for Lightweight Installation

Webroot SecureAnywhere Business Endpoint Protection is celebrated for its quick installation and minimal system impact. It is therefore ideal for businesses seeking unobtrusive yet effective security solutions. Additionally, it uses cloud-based analytics and machine learning to protect against threats in real time.

Features & Integrations:

• Real-Time Phishing Protection: Uses advanced machine learning to identify and block phishing sites.
• Outbound Firewall: Monitors data sent from the device to the network, blocking harmful traffic.
• Identity and Privacy Shield: Protects users from identity theft and keeps private information secure.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  
  • Extremely lightweight on resources; rapid scans and updates.
  • Effective against a wide range of malware.
• Cons:
  • Less comprehensive in features compared to larger, more integrated solutions.

Pricing:

Webroot offers competitive pricing, starting at approximately £180 per year for a minimum of 5 endpoints, which means around £36 per user per year as a base price.

9. Norton 360 Deluxe — Best for Full-Featured VPN and Identity Theft Protection

Norton 360 Deluxe combines traditional malware protection with advanced privacy features. Consequently, it is a top pick for businesses that prioritise both security and data privacy. Its comprehensive approach includes identity theft protection to safeguard user information actively.

Features & Integrations:

• Dark Web Monitoring: Proactively monitors the dark web for signs of personal data exposure.
• Cloud Backup: Offers automatic backup of critical data, which is essential for disaster recovery plans.
• Full-Featured VPN: Provides unlimited VPN access with no bandwidth restrictions to enhance network security.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  
  • One of the longest-standing and most respected anti-virus software products on the market.
  • Strong integration of security with privacy tools.
  • Hailed for its excellent support and user-friendly interface.
  • Complete range of options including VPN included in the highest annual subscription.
• Cons:
  
  • Protects endpoints but is not specifically servers.
  • Higher cost compared to some competitors.
  • Some features like parental control are limited on macOS.

Pricing:

Annual subscription starts from $59.99 per device with options for multiple device coverage up to 10 devices but not obviously scalable for corporate.

10. F-Secure Protection Service for Business — Best for Mobile and Remote Workforces

F-Secure Protection Service for Business is designed specifically for small to medium-sized businesses requiring strong security without impeding mobility. It is an excellent choice for companies with remote or mobile workforces needing robust protection against evolving threats.

Features & Integrations:

• Patch Management: Keeps software up to date and secures against vulnerabilities.
• Mobile Device Management: Extends security features to mobile devices, ensuring data protection on the go.
• Security Cloud: Leverages cloud-based threat intelligence for improved detection and faster response times.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros:
  • Strong protection with minimal impact on device performance.
  • Intuitive management portal.
• Cons:
  • Limited customization options which may not meet the needs of larger enterprises.

Pricing:

Pricing is subscription-based, typically starting from £53.95 per user per year, with variable pricing based on the number of devices and length of subscription.

Summary Of The Best Server Security Software

Being equipped to make informed decisions aligned with your business’ specific security requirements and business objectives can save time, money and IT trouble. Hopefully, these detailed profiles contribute to your clearer understanding of the different server security software solutions available. Note the highlights concerning each server security software in the summary table below: columns include specific protection for servers, trial period lengths and prices.

Summary TABLE "10 Best Server Security Software for 2024"

Screenshot of Summary table for 10 Best Server Security Software for 2024 Should you wish the text it contains, you will find it at the end of the article.

The Best Team-mates of Robust Server Security Software

These products offer various levels of server protection, from endpoint security to specific server-only features, ensuring that servers are shielded from a range of cyber threats. This article has been dedicated to looking at important factors to keep in mind as you test and find server security software. Now, for a reminder:

Robust passwords and multi-factor authentication are our best friends facing many threats as well as being wary of emails, even in-house, due to the risk they can transit.

Both of these require raised awareness within each company and team. It might even prove paramount to train staff specifically. Some businesses even run “fake phishing campaigns” to show colleagues how easily we can let our guard down on such matters, even as IT professionals.

Nonetheless, solid credentials and careful habits in place, implementing strong server security will definitely play its part.

Conclusion on 10 Best Server Security Software for 2024 & What's Next?

What more to say? Re-iterate the great importance of robust server security using tools such as RDS Tools Advanced Security Point out that considerations for scalability, ease of use and compliance support will often remain central to your final decision. And note that Spring means Spring-cleaning, a timely reminder to re-evaluate our current server security measures and consider the need to upgrade to more comprehensive solutions and any other actions necessary.

To wrap up on the matter of cyber-security for IT infrastructures and servers and endpoints, it seems fitting to thank Mikko Hypponen, renowned cybersecurity expert, for his simple road-map. To the question, “So what can we do?”, his response is to encourage each of us to remember the following and tick this list:

You can't hide.

• You need to patch better.

• You need to authenticate better.

• You need to test your backups.

• You need to think about platforms.

You need visibility in your network.

• You need to manage your exposure.

You can't manage what you can't measure.

And he concludes: "Cybercrime is organised crime, and fighting crime is nothing new. Even if you're a victim you can rebuild and recover."

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Text from Summary TABLE "10 Best Server Security Software for 2024":

Tool

Best For

Server Protection

Free Trial

Price

RDS Tools Advanced Security

Comprehensive Server Protection

all-round server protection with learning period

15 days

From £180 for Essentials, £300 for Ultimate per server

Bitdefender Total Security

Multi-Platform Coverage

Includes server protection.

30 days

Starts at $155.48/yr for 5 devices

Kaspersky Endpoint Security

Small to Medium-Sized Businesses

SMB server environments

30 days

Approx. £30 per endpoint/year

Sophos Intercept X

Artificial Intelligence and Exploit Prevention

server protection with advanced AI and exploit prevention technologies

30 days

Quote-based pricing (Starts around £45 per endpoint/year)

Trend Micro Deep Security

Cloud and Data Centre Protection

Designed for cloud and data centre security, including server environments.

30 days

Quote-based pricing

ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced

Multi-Layered Protection

multi-layered protection that includes server security

30 days

From £55 per endpoint/year

Syxsense Cortex

Ease of Use

comprehensive patch management and security vulnerability scanning for servers

14 days

Quote-based pricing

Webroot SecureAnywhere Business

Lightweight Installation

endpoints only

14 days

Approx. £180 per year for 5 endpoints

Norton 360 Deluxe

Full-Featured VPN and Identity Theft Protection

-

7 days

From £59.99/yr per device

F-Secure Protection Service for Business

Mobile and Remote Workforces

endpoints only

30 days

Starts from $53.95 per user/year

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