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Key criteria
Threat detection, anti-phishing, performance impact, centralized management, cost per device.
Why these criteria? In a small business, the main risk isn't just the classic virus: it's also fraudulent emails, malicious links, and human error. A good antivirus must therefore protect without slowing down workstations or complicating management.
ðĄïļ The benchmark
Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security
$132.99 US (1 year / 5 devices on promo; $189.99 US on renewal)
Ideal for: the SMB that wants the best detection on the market, managed simply.
Strengths: top scores in independent tests, cloud management console, Windows/Mac/Linux protection, anti-ransomware recovery
Watch out: per-device pricing that climbs with your team; feature-rich console with a small learning curve
See the Bitdefender GravityZone Business Security offer
ð The simple one
Norton Small Business
$79.99 CA (6 devices, 1st year; $124.99 CA on renewal)
Ideal for: the micro-business with no IT person that wants protection that installs itself.
Strengths: ultra-simple deployment, cloud backup included, 60-day money-back guarantee, official pricing in CA$
Watch out: sometimes pushy marketing notifications; price goes up from year 2
See the Norton Small Business offer
ðŠķ The lightweight
ESET Small Business Security
$199.99 US (1 year / 5 devices on promo; renewal based on your configuration)
Ideal for: older PCs or teams that want an antivirus that slows nothing down.
Strengths: very light on resources, intuitive web console, server protection included, unlimited VPN included
Watch out: prices not publicly listed (quote based on your devices); less known to the general public
See the ESET Small Business Security offer
ðĄ Prices verified in October 2026 on the official sites â promos change often, so always check the final price before ordering, especially the renewal rate.
Recommendation
My pick: Bitdefender GravityZone â the best detection on the market with a real business console, at a reasonable per-device price.
Frictionless alternative: Norton Small Business, with official Canadian-dollar pricing and setup in a few clicks.
In all cases, protect all devices, not just desktop PCs.
Validate your choice with a 15-min audit