Cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s a critical layer of business protection. But with so many tools on the market, it’s easy to confuse similar-sounding solutions. One common area of confusion is the difference between endpoint security and antivirus software.

Although both aim to protect systems from threats like malware and ransomware, they serve very different roles in a business IT environment. If you're managing a modern workplace or working with an MSP like BIT365, understanding these differences can help you make more informed security decisions.

What is Antivirus?

Antivirus software is a legacy security solution that primarily protects against known viruses and malware. It works by scanning files and programs on a device—typically a PC or laptop—and comparing them against a database of known threats.

Key Features of Antivirus Software:

• Signature-based detection
• Scheduled and real-time scanning
• Basic malware removal
• Quarantine of suspicious files
• Simple interface, often targeted at consumers or small office use

Antivirus is ideal for individual devices and small environments, but as businesses scale and threats evolve, antivirus alone becomes insufficient.

What is Endpoint Security?

Endpoint security is a more comprehensive, enterprise-level solution designed to protect an entire network of endpoints—devices like laptops, desktops, mobile devices, and servers.

Rather than just scanning for viruses, endpoint security takes a multi-layered approach that includes behavioural analysis, data loss prevention, encryption, and policy enforcement. Managed endpoint detection and response (EDR) platforms like Huntress — which BIT365 provides—fall under this category.

Key Features of Endpoint Security:

• Real-time threat detection and response
• Behavioural analysis (to catch zero-day threats)
• Device management and access control
• Integration with other security tools (firewalls, SIEM, etc.)
• Centralised dashboard for visibility and control
• Remote isolation of infected devices
• Policy enforcement across an organisation

The Core Differences: Antivirus vs Endpoint Security

Antivirus and endpoint security might sound similar, but they’re quite different in how they protect your business. Antivirus software is designed to protect a single device — like your personal computer — by detecting and removing known viruses. It typically works by scanning files and programs and comparing them against a list of known threats. It’s simple, straightforward, and often used at home or in very small businesses.

Endpoint security, on the other hand, is built for businesses that need to protect multiple devices across a network — including laptops, desktops, servers, and even smartphones. It offers a more advanced, layered defence. Instead of just looking for known viruses, it uses smart behaviour-based tools to catch suspicious activity, even if it’s never been seen before. It also allows IT teams to monitor all devices from a central dashboard, apply security policies, and respond quickly if something goes wrong.

In short, antivirus is basic protection for individual devices, while endpoint security is a business-grade solution that protects your entire IT environment. If your business relies on more than just one or two computers, endpoint security is the safer, more reliable choice.

Why Businesses Need Endpoint Security

Today’s threat landscape is more advanced than ever. Cybercriminals don’t just use viruses — they use fileless malware, phishing attacks, and social engineering tactics to gain access to your systems. Relying on antivirus software alone leaves critical gaps. Many insurers now require strong endpoint security to approve policies. Learn why cybersecurity insurance matters.

With remote work, cloud computing, and mobile device usage growing, organisations need a security strategy that:

• Covers every endpoint
• Responds in real time
• Prevents lateral movement within networks

Solutions like Huntress EDR or Sophos MDR, which are part of BIT365’s cybersecurity stack, provide exactly that level of advanced protection.

When Should You Upgrade?

If your business is still relying solely on traditional antivirus, it’s time to upgrade when:

• You have more than 5–10 employees or devices
• You manage sensitive customer or financial data
• You need to meet compliance standards
• Your workforce includes remote users or BYOD devices
• You’ve experienced a breach or near-miss

BIT365’s Approach to Endpoint Protection

At BIT365, we don’t just install software—we implement end-to-end security frameworks tailored to your business. Using advanced tools like Huntress Managed EDR, Avanan email security, and Microsoft 365 conditional access policies, we help secure your digital operations while maintaining performance and compliance.

✅ Quick Summary:

• Antivirus = basic, device-level protection
• Endpoint Security = comprehensive, multi-device, enterprise-grade protection
• Businesses should choose endpoint security to stay secure against modern threats
• BIT365 offers fully managed endpoint security services for Australian businesses

Need a health check on your current security setup? We’re here to help.

While antivirus software is still useful for basic protection, it’s no longer enough for modern businesses. Endpoint security offers layered, intelligent, and scalable protection that evolves with today’s threats.

If you're unsure where your current security stands, talk to the team at BIT365. We'll help you assess your risk and implement a tailored endpoint security solution that keeps your business safe and compliant.