Antivirus (AV) vs Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): What’s the Real Difference?

planettechsg
Oct 24
2 min read

In today’s world, cyber threats evolve faster than ever. For many small and mid-sized businesses, the first line of defense has always been Antivirus (AV) — but as attackers get smarter, traditional AV alone may no longer be enough.

So, what’s the difference between Antivirus (AV) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) — and which one does your business really need? Let’s break it down.

What is Antivirus (AV)?

Antivirus has been around for decades. Its main job is to detect and remove known malware — like viruses, worms, and trojans — before they harm your system. AV works by using signature-based detection, meaning it scans your files for code that matches a known threat.

If it finds a match, it quarantines or deletes the file.

In short:

Protects against known threats
Uses a signature or database of malicious code
Provides basic protection for personal or small-scale use

But here’s the catch — modern cyberattacks are rarely “known.” Attackers use new techniques every day that traditional antivirus software may not recognize.

What is Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)?

EDR takes endpoint protection to the next level. Instead of just looking for known viruses, it monitors behavior and patterns to detect suspicious activity in real-time.

EDR can:

✅ Detect unknown or zero-day threats

✅ Record activity for investigation and forensics

✅ Automate responses like isolating infected devices

✅ Provide detailed visibility into what happened and how

Imagine having not just a guard at your door (Antivirus), but also a security camera system, an alarm, and an investigator who analyzes incidents — that’s EDR.

AV vs EDR: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Antivirus (AV)	Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)
Threat Detection	Known threats (signatures)	Known + unknown (behavior-based)
Response Capability	Limited	Automated and manual response options
Visibility	Basic	Full endpoint visibility & forensics
Proactive Monitoring	No	Yes, continuous monitoring
Ideal For	Home or small-scale users	Businesses with sensitive data or compliance needs

So, Do You Still Need Antivirus?

Yes — but it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Think of EDR as an upgrade, not a replacement. In fact, most EDR solutions include next-gen antivirus as part of their system.

With EDR, your business gets:

Stronger protection against ransomware
Faster detection and response time
Better insight into how attacks happen
Peace of mind knowing you’re protected 24/7

Final Thoughts.........

Cyber threats today are more sophisticated than ever — phishing attacks, ransomware, insider threats, and zero-day exploits are just a few examples. If your business relies on traditional antivirus alone, it’s like locking your door but leaving the windows open.

Investing in EDR protection gives you proactive defense, visibility, and control — something every modern business needs to stay safe.

Need help choosing or deploying the right protection for your business?

At Planet Tech, we help businesses strengthen their cybersecurity with enterprise-grade EDR and managed protection.

Email: info@planettech.sg

Call: +65 6929 6324

Content brought to you by:

Marlon Vega

Tech Support