Why is Antivirus Protection Important?

July 24, 2024


Small businesses are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals due to perceived weaker security defenses.  Malware and ransomware can compromise sensitive customer data, financial records, and even bank accounts.  An effective antivirus solution will detect and block these threats before they infiltrate your computer systems and network thereby preventing data breaches and financial losses.

Cyberattacks can also cause significant downtime, disrupting business operations.  This can mean hours, days, or even weeks of lost sales and a tarnished reputation.  Antivirus software helps ensure that systems remain operational by preventing infections that can cause crashes and slowdowns.

Businesses that take credit cards are also required to comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) which requires robust antivirus software be installed.

What Antivirus Solution Should You Choose?

DilSe.IT recommends and installs the ESET antivirus and mobile device management platform for our clients.  Compared to other solutions, ESET stands out as a practical and effective choice for small businesses.  ESET is easy to use, offers comprehensive protection features, and cross-platform support across Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS devices.  The lightweight ESET client does not impact system performance like other antivirus products.

ESET also provides a centralized management console that is used by the DilSe.IT Support Desk to detect and resolve threats.  Alerts are automatically generated and prioritized based on severity and impact.

ESET Dashboard

The ESET Host-based Intrusion Protection System (HIPS) effectively blocks ransomware and in-memory attacks.  Sandboxing provides behavioral analysis and zero-day threat detection.  In most cases, malicious files or code are automatically quarantined and cleaned with no user involvement.

What About Mobile Devices?

ESET Mobile Device Management (MDM) offers mobile threat defense, Web protection, plus full application control and advanced anti-theft protection.  A stolen device can be locked remotely, wiped completely, and the alarm can be activated to potentially thwart the theft.

Zebra handheld in-use at an Ace Hardware store

How Does ESET Compare To CaptureClient?

Epicor recommends the SonicWall CaptureClient antivirus product to Ace Hardware stores.  CaptureClient is a good antivirus solution that offers advanced threat detection and real-time mitigation. 

However, the ESET solution provided by DilSe.IT has several important advantages over CaptureClient:

  • ESET has centralized monitoring and management by the DilSe.IT Support Desk
  • CaptureClient is usually only installed on computers running Epicor Eagle leaving other computers vulnerable
  • In addition to computers, ESET also protects and manages Zebras and other mobile devices
  • ESET will not impact computer performance which can sometimes happen with CaptureClient
  • ESET is designed specifically for small businesses whereas CaptureClient was designed for large enterprises

Epicor advises Ace stores to keep CaptureClient installed to ensure they have an antivirus solution in place.  Antivirus is crucial for maintaining end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for PCI compliance. However, ESET offers superior protection for the reasons listed above, and is be fully supported and maintained by DilSe.IT. Our Ace clients can be confident in experiencing enhanced security with ESET compared to CaptureClient.

Comprehensive Cybersecurity Solutions

The DilSe.IT Protect Suite delivers a comprehensive cyber security solution for Ace Hardware stores, retailers, restaurants, and office environments.  These solutions include perimeter security for the network, endpoint security for desktops and laptops, mobile device management and mobile security, plus capabilities for scanning, monitoring, alerting, automatic quarantining, and cleaning.

A good antivirus solution is essential for protecting sensitive data, maintaining business continuity, safeguarding customer trust, complying with legal regulations, providing versatile device protection, offering a cost-effective security solution, and simplifying IT management. These benefits are vital for small businesses to thrive in a secure and trusted environment.

To learn more about protecting your business from cyber threats, please reach-out via our Contact page.