FortiClient vs Microsoft Defender for Business
FortiClient
fortinet.comMicrosoft Defender for Business
microsoft.comSide by side
| Figure | FortiClient | Microsoft Defender for Business |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | $0.25/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 4 | 4 |
| Spec score · Endpoint Security Software | 8.6 (#1) | 8.5 (#4) |
| Spec score · Mobile Threat Defense Software | 8.6 (#2) | 8.4 (#4) |
| Spec score · Antivirus software | 8.9 (#10) | 9.0 (#7) |
| Spec score · Business VPN Software | 8.7 (#15) | 8.1 (#40) |
| Spec score · Endpoint Protection Platforms | 8.4 (#5) | 8.5 (#4) |
| Spec score · Computer Security | 8.6 (#7) | 8.5 (#8) |
| Spec score · Zero Trust Network Access Software | 8.5 (#10) | 8.5 (#11) |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Headquarters | Sunnyvale, California, United States | Redmond, Washington, United States |
| Integrations | The product page describes integrations with Fortinet Security Fabric, FortiGate, FortiSandbox, FortiSIEM, FortiAuthenticator, Active Directory, and Google G Suite Admin Console. | The product integrates with Microsoft 365 Lighthouse and can work with remote monitoring and management tools and professional services automation software. |
| Management | FortiClient is centrally managed by FortiClient EMS, and the product page also lists FortiClient Cloud as a central management option. | Administrators use the Microsoft Defender portal to configure the product, monitor devices and detections, view policies, and manage security recommendations. |
| Protection scope | complete security | complete security |
| Purpose | FortiClient is a modular endpoint agent for protection, compliance, and secure access that communicates with the Fortinet Security Fabric. | Microsoft Defender for Business is an endpoint security solution for small and medium-sized businesses with up to 300 users that helps protect devices from ransomware, malware, phishing, and other threats. |
| Ransomware protection | Yes | Yes |
| Support | FortiCare offers 24x7 support options, and FortiClient services include endpoint onboarding, provisioning, Security Fabric setup, vulnerability monitoring, and endpoint security monitoring. | Microsoft's Defender for Business documentation provides a guide for getting help or contacting support. |
| Supported platforms | Windows,macOS,Linux,iOS,Android | Windows,macOS,iOS,Android |
Plans
FortiClient
- FortiClient VPN-onlyFree
- FortiClient EPP/APT EditionPriced on request
- FortiClient Standalone EditionPriced on request
- FortiClient ZTNA EditionPriced on request
Microsoft Defender for Business
- Microsoft Defender for Business$3 a month
- Microsoft Entra Internet Access$5 a month
- Microsoft Entra Suite$12 a month
- Microsoft Defender for Business$3 a year
In their own words
FortiClient
FortiClient has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.
Microsoft Defender for Business
Microsoft Defender for Business has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.