Crowdstrike Alternatives
With Crowdstrike proving that it should NOT be used, here are some alternatives for MSPs and Enterprise users.
Why move from Crowdstrike
- Kernel Panics on RHEL systems June 2024 https://access.redhat.com/solutions/7068083
- Global Outage on Windows Systems July 2024
- Failure to follow client staging options. (Many MSPs reported that Crowdstrike failed to honor N-1 update policy and pushed updates anyways)
- Crowdstrike June 2024 update caused 100% CPU spikes on single core. https://www.thestack.technology/crowdstrike-bug-maxes-out-100-of-cpu-requires-windows-reboots/
- CEO used to be McAfee CTO during global outage in 2010 McAfee update that deleted svchost file and caused BSODs. https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/defective-mcafee-once-caused-worldwide-meltdown-of-windows-xp-pcs/story
Residential Users
In 2024, just use Windows Defender at this point. There is no reason to pay for an antivirus or security software for a home user in a non-managed scenario.
MSP / Enterprise Users
The list of Crowdstrike Alternatives
1. Huntress
Huntress is a unique managed security software in that it does NOT use its own antivirus. They use Windows Defender and have a robust reporting system. Most MSPs and technicians I talk to this is the pick for them. Pricing on this starts around $5 a seat per month and drops to about $2-3 a seat per month with 500+ users.
2. Blackpoint Security
Blackpoint is the runner-up but also has a good track record in the MSP space. I personally have never dealt with them, but heard good things.
3. SentinelOne Security
Probably the cheapest on this list, but also has a decent track record. I personally don’t like the client because it is heavy and the reporting is too noisy. However, it does give good protection.
The Others
BitDefender, Webroot, and other popular AV name brands are NOT suitable in my opinion for use in a large environment.