
Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions have become the cornerstone of modern cybersecurity strategies. As organizations navigate the complexities of remote work, hybrid cloud infrastructures and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, choosing the right EDR solution is more critical than ever.
Why EDR will be more critical than ever in 2026
The cybersecurity landscape has fundamentally changed. Traditional antivirus solutions that rely on signature-based detection are no longer sufficient to protect against modern threats. Here's why EDR has become essential:
Remote work has expanded the attack surface: With employees working from home, coffee shops and distributed offices, the traditional network perimeter has dissolved. Each endpoint represents a potential entry point for attackers, making comprehensive endpoint visibility and protection paramount.
Sophisticated threats are evolving: Cybercriminals are deploying advanced persistent threats (APTs), fileless malware, ransomware and zero-day exploits that bypass conventional security measures. EDR solutions use behavioral analysis and machine learning to detect these sophisticated attacks that traditional antivirus misses.
Hybrid cloud complexity demands advanced monitoring: As organizations adopt multi-cloud and hybrid infrastructures, maintaining visibility across all endpoints—whether on-premises, in the cloud or on mobile devices—requires advanced EDR capabilities that can provide unified monitoring and response.
Rapid response is essential: Data breaches are extremely expensive, with every minute of delay increasing potential damage. EDR solutions provide the real-time detection and automated response capabilities needed to contain threats before they spread.
Compliance requirements are stricter: Regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2 and industry-specific standards require organizations to demonstrate robust endpoint security monitoring and incident response capabilities, making EDR solutions essential for compliance.
Top EDR solutions for 2026: comprehensive comparison
After analyzing industry reports, user reviews from G2 and PeerSpot, and expert evaluations, we've curated this list of the top 10 EDR solutions that excel in 2025.
1. Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud — #1 leader in G2 for EDR
G2 ranking: No. 1 in Fall 2025 EDR Grid Report Best for: Integrated backup and endpoint security, MSPs and businesses seeking all-in-one cyber protection
Overview: Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud stands out as the only solution that truly integrates endpoint detection and response with backup, disaster recovery, patch management and advanced anti-malware in a single platform. This unified approach eliminates the complexity of managing multiple point solutions while ensuring business continuity alongside threat protection.
Key features:
- AI-powered threat detection with behavioral analysis for advanced threat prevention
- Automated ransomware detection with file rollback capabilities to restore encrypted data
- Integrated backup and disaster recovery for comprehensive business continuity
- Lightweight agent with minimal performance impact on endpoints
- Advanced patch management to close vulnerabilities before exploitation
- Native integration across endpoints, servers, cloud workloads and Microsoft 365
- Cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, Linux and mobile devices
- MITRE ATT&CK framework visibility for complete attack chain analysis
Strengths:
- Ranked #1 by verified G2 users with 95% likelihood to recommend
- 97% of users believe the platform is headed in the right direction
- All-in-one platform reduces tool sprawl and simplifies IT operations
- Perfect protection rate in AVLabs Advanced Malware Test (100%)
- SE Labs AAA Award for XDR capabilities with 100% detection accuracy
- Leader in multiple G2 categories including Cloud Security, Endpoint Protection and Email Security
- Champion status in Info-Tech SoftwareReviews reports
- Leader in Frost & Sullivan's Frost Radar Endpoint Security 2025 report
Considerations:
- Initial configuration may require time investment for optimal customization
- Some users report a learning curve for administrators new to the platform
- Feature-rich interface may feel overwhelming initially for small teams
Ideal use case: Organizations and managed service providers (MSPs) seeking an integrated cyber protection solution that combines EDR, backup and management capabilities without the complexity of multiple vendors. Perfect for businesses that prioritize both security and business continuity.
Why Acronis is #1: G2, one of the most credible sources for software reviews based on verified user feedback, has recognized Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud as the top EDR solution. This isn't marketing hype—it's driven by thousands of real customer experiences. The platform's unique integration of security and data protection addresses the fundamental challenge that most organizations face: managing too many disparate security tools while maintaining operational efficiency.
2. CrowdStrike Falcon —Cloud-native EDR
Best for: Large enterprises requiring comprehensive protection with minimal infrastructure overhead, advanced threat hunting
Overview: CrowdStrike Falcon has consistently set the industry standard for cloud-native EDR with its lightweight agent, AI-powered threat detection and global threat intelligence. The platform's Threat Graph technology processes trillions of events weekly, providing unmatched visibility into attack campaigns.
Key features:
- Cloud-native architecture eliminates infrastructure requirements
- Lightweight agent with virtually no performance impact
- Real-time threat intelligence from 230+ tracked adversary groups
Strengths:
- Highly scalable from small businesses (Falcon Go) to global enterprises
- Intuitive user interface with powerful analytics
- Strong community and extensive documentation
Considerations:
- Premium pricing that may be challenging for budget-conscious organizations
- Advanced features require higher-tier packages
- Some users report alert tuning is needed to reduce false positives
Ideal use case: Medium to large enterprises with dedicated security teams requiring cutting-edge threat detection and hunting capabilities, organizations that prioritize performance and scalability.
3. SentinelOne Singularity — Autonomous AI-powered security
Best for: Organizations seeking fully autonomous security operations with minimal human intervention, AI-driven detection
Overview: SentinelOne has gained significant traction with its autonomous EDR capabilities that use behavioral AI to prevent, detect and respond to threats without requiring constant human oversight. The Singularity platform unifies EDR, XDR and threat hunting in a single solution.
Key features:
- Autonomous threat detection and response using patented Storyline technology
- Real-time visibility across endpoints, cloud workloads and identities
- Storyline Active Response (STAR) for custom detection rules
Strengths:
- Reduces need for human intervention through automation
- Detection accuracy with low false positive rates
- User-friendly console praised by G2 reviewers
Considerations:
- May require adjustment period for teams accustomed to traditional EDR workflows
- Advanced XDR features require higher-tier packages
- Some users note occasional agent update challenges
Ideal use case: Organizations with limited security staff that need powerful, autonomous protection, businesses seeking to consolidate security vendors, companies prioritizing AI-driven automation.
4. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint — Native Microsoft integration
Best for: Organizations heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem, Windows-centric environments
Overview: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint offers deep integration with the Microsoft security stack, leveraging the company's vast global telemetry to detect sophisticated threats. For organizations already using Microsoft 365, it provides seamless protection with centralized management.
Key features:
- Attack surface reduction with application control and exploit protection
- Automated investigation and remediation
- Advanced threat analytics powered by Microsoft's global threat intelligence
Strengths:
- Cost-effective when bundled with Microsoft 365 E5
- Minimal additional infrastructure requirements
- Strong behavioral analytics and threat detection
Considerations:
- Best suited for Microsoft-centric environments
- Support for non-Windows platforms is less mature
- May require E5 licensing for full EDR capabilities
- Interface can be complex for new users
- Some features require additional Microsoft security products
Ideal use case: Organizations with existing Microsoft 365 investments, Windows-heavy environments, enterprises seeking unified Microsoft security management, businesses wanting cost-effective EDR bundled with productivity tools.
5. Sophos Intercept X — Comprehensive threat defense
Best for: Organizations seeking strong ransomware protection, businesses needing easy-to-manage security
Overview: Sophos Intercept X combines deep learning AI, exploit prevention and EDR capabilities in a solution that's both powerful and easy to administer. The platform's CryptoGuard technology specifically targets ransomware with behavioral detection.
Key features:
- Deep learning neural network for advanced threat detection
- CryptoGuard ransomware-specific behavioral detection with rollback
- Exploit prevention blocking techniques used in file-less attacks
Strengths:
- User-friendly centralized management console
- Strong detection with low false positive rates
- Good for organizations with limited security expertise
Considerations:
- Full XDR features require additional investment
- Some advanced features may require higher-tier packages
- Occasional performance impact reported on older systems
Ideal use case: Small to medium businesses seeking comprehensive protection with easy management, organizations particularly concerned about ransomware, businesses wanting synchronized security across endpoints and network.
6. Trend Micro Vision One — Unified XDR platform
Best for: Organizations needing comprehensive XDR across endpoints, email, servers, cloud and network
Overview: Trend Micro Vision One extends beyond traditional EDR to provide a unified XDR platform that correlates data across the entire IT environment. The solution is ideal for organizations seeking vendor consolidation and centralized threat visibility.
Key features:
- Extended detection and response across endpoints, email, network, cloud and servers
- Global threat intelligence from Trend Micro's extensive research network
- Automated investigation with Attack Surface Risk Management
Strengths:
- Comprehensive visibility across entire digital estate
- Strong threat intelligence from established security vendor
- Effective correlation of threats across multiple data sources
Considerations:
- Full XDR experience requires adoption of multiple Trend Micro products
- Console may be less intuitive than newer competitors
- Can be more expensive than EDR-only solutions
- Integration with non-Trend Micro tools may require additional effort
Ideal use case: Large organizations seeking comprehensive XDR coverage, enterprises wanting to consolidate security vendors, businesses with complex hybrid cloud environments.
7. Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR — Integrated security platform
Best for: Organizations with Palo Alto Networks infrastructure, businesses seeking integrated network and endpoint security
Overview: Cortex XDR combines endpoint, network and cloud data to provide comprehensive threat detection and response. The platform's strength lies in correlating diverse data sources to identify sophisticated attacks that might evade single-point detection.
Key features:
- Data correlation from endpoints, networks and cloud environments
- Behavioral threat protection using machine learning
- Automated root cause analysis
Strengths:
- Integration with Palo Alto Networks ecosystem
- Strong data correlation capabilities across multiple sources
- Good for organizations consolidating on Palo Alto Networks
Considerations:
- Highest value for organizations already using Palo Alto Networks products
- Can be complex to configure and optimize
- Premium pricing tier
- May require specialized expertise to maximize effectiveness
Ideal use case: Enterprises with existing Palo Alto Networks infrastructure, organizations seeking unified network and endpoint security, businesses prioritizing advanced threat correlation.
8. Cynet 360 — All-in-one autonomous breach protection
Best for: Organizations seeking automated threat discovery, small to medium businesses needing comprehensive security
Overview: Cynet 360 provides an all-in-one cybersecurity platform that combines EDR, deception technology, network analytics and 24/7 MDR services. The platform emphasizes automation to reduce the burden on security teams.
Key features:
- Unified platform covering endpoint, network, user and files
- Automated threat discovery and remediation
- Deception technology to detect lateral movement
Strengths:
- All-in-one approach simplifies security management
- Good value with included MDR services
- Rapid deployment and configuration
Considerations:
- May lack some advanced features of specialized solutions
- Smaller vendor compared to enterprise-focused competitors
- Limited advanced customization options
- Less extensive third-party integration ecosystem
Ideal use case: Small to medium businesses with limited security staff, organizations seeking comprehensive protection without complexity, companies wanting included MDR without additional cost.
9. VMware Carbon Black — Cloud-native endpoint protection
Best for: Cloud-native environments, organizations requiring detailed forensic capabilities
Overview: VMware Carbon Black Endpoint provides advanced threat detection and response specifically designed for cloud environments. The solution offers robust threat hunting and detailed incident investigation capabilities.
Key features:
- Continuous endpoint monitoring and recording
- Advanced malware protection with next-gen AV
- Streaming prevention and EDR in real-time
Strengths:
- Good forensic and investigation capabilities
- Strong cloud-native security
- Good integration with VMware ecosystem
Considerations:
- Pricing information requires custom quotes
- Can be complex for organizations new to advanced EDR
- Best value for VMware-centric environments
- Learning curve for maximizing platform capabilities
Ideal use case: Organizations with cloud-native applications, VMware infrastructure environments, businesses requiring extensive forensic capabilities, enterprises with dedicated security analysts.
10. Cisco Secure Endpoint — Network-integrated security
Best for: Organizations with Cisco networking infrastructure, businesses prioritizing retrospective security
Overview: Cisco Secure Endpoint (formerly AMP for Endpoints) leverages Cisco's extensive global threat intelligence and integrates seamlessly with Cisco networking and security products. The platform's retrospective security capability can identify threats that were initially missed.
Key features:
- Retrospective security to detect previously missed threats
- Integration with Cisco Talos threat intelligence
- Automated outbreak control and containment
Strengths:
- Unique retrospective analysis capabilities
- Integration with Cisco security fabric
- Leverages Cisco's extensive global threat intelligence
Considerations:
- Maximum value for Cisco-centric environments
- Can be complex without Cisco ecosystem
- Requires integration effort for non-Cisco tools
- Pricing may be premium for standalone deployment
Ideal use case: Organizations with existing Cisco networking and security infrastructure, enterprises seeking integrated network and endpoint security, businesses wanting retrospective threat analysis.
EDR comparison matrix
Standout features to prioritize
When evaluating EDR solutions, focus on these critical capabilities:
AI and machine learning powered threat detection
Modern EDR solutions must go beyond signature-based detection. Look for platforms that use:
- Behavioral analysis to identify anomalous activity patterns
- Machine learning models trained on billions of security events
- Real-time threat intelligence integration from global sources
- Predictive analytics to identify threats before they execute
The best EDR solutions learn from every threat they encounter, continuously improving detection accuracy while reducing false positives.
Automated response and remediation
Speed is critical in threat response. Essential automation features include:
- Automatic threat containment to isolate infected endpoints
- Quarantine capabilities for suspicious files and processes
- Network segmentation to prevent lateral movement
- Customizable playbooks for consistent response workflows
- One-click remediation for common threat scenarios
Solutions like Acronis and SentinelOne offer ransomware rollback capabilities, allowing you to restore encrypted files to pre-attack states within minutes.
Rollback capabilities for ransomware
Ransomware remains one of the most damaging threats. The best EDR solutions offer:
- Real-time detection of encryption behavior
- Automatic file backup before remediation actions
- One-click rollback to restore encrypted data
- Protected backup storage separate from production endpoints
Cross-platform support
Modern organizations use diverse device ecosystems. Your EDR must protect:
- Windows servers and workstations (still the most common attack target)
- macOS devices (increasingly targeted as adoption grows)
- Linux servers (critical for cloud and infrastructure protection)
- Mobile devices (iOS and Android endpoints)
- Cloud workloads (containers, virtual machines, serverless)
- IoT devices (especially in industrial and healthcare settings)
Lightweight agent footprint
EDR agents must provide comprehensive security without impacting:
- System performance (CPU and memory usage under 5%)
- Network bandwidth (efficient data transmission)
- User productivity (minimal interruption to workflows)
- Battery life (critical for mobile devices)
Acronis and CrowdStrike are particularly noted for lightweight agents that have negligible performance impact.
Integration with broader security ecosystems
No security solution operates in isolation. Essential integrations include:
- SIEM platforms (Splunk, QRadar, Azure Sentinel) for centralized logging
- SOAR tools (Cortex XSOAR, Swimlane) for orchestrated response
- Threat intelligence feeds (for contextual threat information)
- ITSM platforms (ServiceNow) for incident management
- Cloud security tools (CASB, CSPM) for unified cloud protection
- Email security gateways for coordinated defense
Advanced threat hunting capabilities
For organizations with security operations centers, look for:
- Query languages for searching historical endpoint data
- Threat hunting workbenches with visual investigation tools
- MITRE ATT&CK framework mapping for attack technique visibility
- Custom detection rules to identify organization-specific threats
- Managed threat hunting services for 24/7 expert analysis
Pricing and cost considerations
EDR pricing varies significantly based on several factors:
Pricing models
Per-endpoint pricing: Most common model charging monthly or annual fees per protected device. Typical ranges:
- Basic EDR: $20-40 per endpoint per year
- Mid-tier EDR: $60-120 per endpoint per year
- Enterprise EDR with XDR: $150-250 per endpoint per year
Tiered packages: Vendors offer multiple tiers with increasing capabilities:
- Basic tier: Core detection and response
- Standard tier: Enhanced features and integrations
- Advanced tier: XDR, threat hunting and managed services
Volume discounts: Pricing decreases with scale:
- 1-99 endpoints: Highest per-unit cost
- 100-999 endpoints: 10-20% discount
- 1,000+ endpoints: 20-40% discount
- Enterprise (5,000+): Custom pricing with significant discounts
Hidden costs to consider
Beyond license costs, factor in:
- Implementation and deployment services
- Training for security and IT teams
- Integration with existing security tools
- Managed service fees (MDR typically adds 30-50%)
- Storage costs for long-term forensic data retention
- Professional services for tuning and optimization
Best value solutions by business size
Small business (under 100 endpoints):
- Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud: Best value with integrated backup
- Cynet 360: Includes MDR at no extra cost
- Microsoft Defender: Cost-effective if already using Microsoft 365
Medium business (100-1,000 endpoints):
- Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud: All-in-one platform reduces total cost of ownership
- SentinelOne: Capabilities at competitive pricing
- Sophos Intercept X: Protection with manageable costs
Enterprise (1,000+ endpoints):
- Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud: Integrated approach reduces complexity and cost
- CrowdStrike Falcon: Capabilities at premium pricing
- Microsoft Defender: Volume licensing makes this cost-effective for Microsoft shops
Why G2 recognition matters: Acronis as #1
When selecting an EDR solution, independent validation from verified users provides the most reliable insights. G2 stands out as one of the most credible sources for software reviews because:
- Verified buyers only: Reviews come from actual users who have implemented and used the platforms
- Transparent methodology: Rankings based on satisfaction scores and market presence
- No paid placement: Vendors cannot buy their way to the top of rankings
- Regular updates: Quarterly reports reflect current user experiences
Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud's #1 ranking in the G2 Fall 2025 EDR Report is backed by impressive statistics:
- 95% of users are likely to recommend the platform
- 97% believe the solution is headed in the right direction
- 100% of reviewers rated it 4 or 5 stars
- G2 Score of 89 with near-perfect Satisfaction Score of 99
This isn't just an EDR win. Acronis achieved Leader status in multiple G2 categories:
- #1 in Cloud Security (second consecutive year)
- #1 in SaaS Backup (third consecutive year)
- #1 in Server Backup (third consecutive year)
- Leader in Endpoint Protection Platforms
- Leader in Cloud Email Security
What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is the consistent theme in customer feedback: organizations value security solutions that deliver powerful protection without adding complexity. Acronis achieves this by integrating EDR with backup, disaster recovery and management in a single platform.
Beyond G2, Acronis has earned extensive third-party validation:
- SE Labs AAA Award for XDR (100% detection accuracy, 98% total accuracy)
- AV-TEST Top Product Award (multiple evaluations throughout 2025)
- Perfect protection rate in AVLabs Advanced Malware Test (100%)
- Frost & Sullivan Leader in Frost Radar Endpoint Security 2025
- Canalys Champion in Cybersecurity Leadership Matrix
Selecting the right EDR solution for your organization
Key questions to ask vendors
- What is your detection rate for zero-day threats?
- How do you minimize false positives?
- What is the average time from detection to containment?
- Do you offer ransomware rollback capabilities?
- What is the agent's performance impact on endpoints?
- How does your solution integrate with our existing security stack?
- What training and support do you provide?
- Can you provide references from similar organizations in our industry?
- What are the total costs including implementation and management?
- How do you handle updates without disrupting operations?
Implementation best practices
Phase 1: Planning (2-4 weeks)
- Conduct thorough endpoint inventory
- Define detection and response playbooks
- Establish baseline performance metrics
- Plan integration with existing tools
Phase 2: Pilot deployment (2-4 weeks)
- Deploy to limited test group
- Validate detection capabilities
- Test automated response workflows
- Gather user feedback on performance impact
Phase 3: Full deployment (4-12 weeks)
- Roll out in phases by department or location
- Monitor for issues and optimize configurations
- Train security and IT teams
- Document processes and procedures
Phase 4: Optimization (ongoing)
- Tune detection rules to reduce false positives
- Update response playbooks based on incidents
- Regular threat hunting exercises
- Quarterly reviews of effectiveness metrics
Special considerations: EDR for OT environments
Industrial control systems and operational technology environments require specialized EDR considerations:
Unique OT challenges
- Legacy systems: Many ICS devices run outdated operating systems that can't support traditional agents
- Uptime requirements: Production systems cannot tolerate disruptions for security updates
- Air-gapped networks: Limited connectivity complicates cloud-based solutions
- Protocol differences: Industrial protocols (Modbus, Profinet, OPC) require specialized monitoring
OT-specific EDR features
- Passive monitoring: Network-based detection that doesn't impact endpoints
- OT protocol awareness: Understanding industrial communication patterns
- Asset discovery: Automated identification of ICS devices
- Change detection: Alerting on unauthorized configuration modifications
- Safety system protection: Ensuring security measures don't compromise safety functions
Recommended solutions for OT
- Acronis Cyber Protect for OT: Cross-platform support including specialized OT protection considerations, offers rapid recovery option that does not require IT intervention
- TXOne Networks: Purpose-built for operational technology
- Claroty: Specialized ICS security platform
- Dragos: Industrial cybersecurity focus
- Nozomi Networks: OT and IoT security
The future of EDR: Trends for 2026 and beyond
Shift to XDR
Extended Detection and Response (XDR) correlates data across endpoints, networks, cloud, email and more for comprehensive visibility. Leading vendors are evolving from point EDR to integrated XDR platforms.
AI-driven autonomous operations
Machine learning is enabling fully autonomous detection and response, reducing reliance on human analysts for routine threats. Acronis and SentinelOne are leading this trend.
Zero Trust integration
EDR solutions are becoming core components of Zero Trust architectures, providing continuous verification and micro-segmentation capabilities.
Cloud-native architectures
The industry is moving away from on-premises management consoles toward cloud-native SaaS platforms that reduce infrastructure overhead and improve scalability.
Managed services growth
As the cybersecurity skills gap widens, more organizations are adopting Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services where vendors provide 24/7 monitoring and response.
Take the next step: Protect your endpoints with industry-leading EDR
The cost of a security breach far exceeds the investment in robust EDR protection. Implementing effective endpoint detection and response is not optional. It's essential for business survival.
Why Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud stands out:
As the #1 EDR solution according to G2 verified user reviews, Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud delivers what organizations need most: powerful protection without complexity. By integrating endpoint security, backup, disaster recovery and management in a single platform, Acronis eliminates the tool sprawl that plagues most organizations while ensuring business continuity alongside threat protection.
Ready to experience the #1 EDR solution?
Don't wait for a breach to discover the value of comprehensive endpoint protection. Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud offers:
✓ 30-day free trial with full features ✓ No credit card required to start ✓ Expert consultation to assess your needs ✓ Seamless migration from existing solutions ✓ 24/7 support from cybersecurity experts
About Acronis
A Swiss company founded in Singapore in 2003, Acronis has 15 offices worldwide and employees in 50+ countries. Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud is available in 26 languages in 150 countries and is used by over 21,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.



