As the holiday season descends and yet another fiscal year comes to a close, companies of all sizes and descriptions across the world will be reviewing their needs for the coming year, finalizing their 2025 budgets, and taking preliminary steps to strengthen their upcoming strategic priorities. One area that invariably will receive more attention than in past years is cybersecurity.
Since the onset of the digital era, cybersecurity has become an increasingly important component of business operations. Whether guarding confidential data or shielding systems from increasingly sophisticated malware, an effective cybersecurity infrastructure has become essential to ensuring business continuity and public trust. Now, as 2024 winds down, it is an area that small and medium-sized organizations and mega-corporations alike can no longer afford to ignore—and those businesses who choose to do so at their own peril.
With that thought in mind, it’s also important to note that selecting the right cybersecurity software tools can make a big difference in safeguarding a company’s digital assets. There are a rainbow of brand names and programs to choose from, and they are not all created equal. With such a wide range of options available, it can be a bit daunting finding the right fit.
Enter Michael Rustom, an IT consultant based in Toronto, veteran of the cybersecurity landscape, and the founder and proprietor of Michael Rustom Inc. Over the course of his career, he has become a trusted voice in helping businesses navigate the complex world of digital security. “Choosing the right cybersecurity software is not just about features,” Rustom explains. “It’s about understanding your specific risks and building a solution tailored to your business.”
To help guide businesses in selecting the best cybersecurity software for 2025, Michael has reviewed four of the leading software solutions on the market. Each option comes with its own set of strengths and weaknesses, making it important to carefully consider which solution best fits the specific needs of your organization.
Bitdefender Total Security
Bitdefender has long been recognized for its excellent protection against a wide range of digital threats, including malware, ransomware, and phishing attempts. The software includes real-time protection, a VPN, and tools for safeguarding sensitive data. “Bitdefender offers one of the most comprehensive, all-in-one solutions for both personal and business use,” says Michael Rustom. “Its user-friendly interface and low impact on system performance make it an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes. However, its VPN has data limits with the basic plan, which may be restrictive for companies that use a large amount of data.”
Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 Deluxe is known for its strong protection against malware and identity theft. It includes a secure VPN, a password manager, and even dark web monitoring, making it a well-rounded option for businesses that put a premium on both security and privacy. “Norton 360 is a solid all-around security suite. It has an outstanding track record,” Rustom states. “Its features are great for businesses that handle sensitive customer data. But the cost can be a bit high for small businesses, and some users report that it can be somewhat resource-heavy on devices.”
McAfee Total Protection
McAfee is a popular choice for businesses seeking an affordable yet effective cybersecurity solution. It provides malware protection, a firewall, and a secure VPN, along with identity theft protection and password management. “McAfee is a strong contender when it comes to cybersecurity software, especially for small-to-medium-sized businesses on a budget,” Rustom explains. “It offers good value with its range of features, including its VPN and password manager. That said, its malware detection rates aren’t as consistently high as some other programs, which can be a concern for companies operating in high-risk industries.”
Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR
Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR is an enterprise-level solution designed for advanced threat detection and response. It uses AI-driven analytics to identify threats and automate responses, making it ideal for larger businesses with complex security needs. “For large organizations, I tend to endorse Cortex XDR because it provides dependable and cutting-edge protection. Its advanced machine learning and cloud-based services help detect and neutralize digital threats faster than its competition. However, it’s not the most cost-effective choice for smaller companies, and it requires highly specialized expertise to set up and maintain. This one is for the big fish.”
As businesses continue to grapple with increasing cybersecurity risks, it’s clear that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Organizations must consider factors such as their size, industry, and budget to determine which software best aligns with their unique security needs and challenges. As Michael Rustom says, “With the turning of the calendar, companies have an opportunity to honestly evaluate and address their cybersecurity needs. The right software not only keeps hackers at bay, it also helps to create a safe environment where businesses can focus their attention on innovation and growth, firm in the knowledge that their systems, customer data, and proprietary information are as protected as possible.”
