Email security software protects against phishing, spam, malware. Free options offer basic protection. Paid solutions provide encryption, archiving, threat detection and compliance.
What is email security software and why does your business need it? Email security software protects email accounts, computers, and content against phishing, spam, malware, data loss, and unauthorized access. Free options available (Mailcleaner removes ~95% spam/viruses, Scrollout offers multi-layer security, Promox Mail Gateway, Comodo KoruMail) provide baseline protection. Paid solutions offer superior features: encryption, archiving, data loss prevention, advanced threat detection. Best paid solutions for Microsoft 365: Barracuda Essentials (protects 100,000+ businesses globally, multi-layered defense, high threat accuracy), Avanan (99.2% phishing reduction, ransomware protection), ESET (award-winning, machine learning + human expertise), SpamTitan, Mimecast, IRONSCALES, Menlo Security, Agari, Microsoft Defender for Office 365, Cisco (multi-layered defense against BEC, ransomware). Paid software typically includes multi-layered threat detection, URL defense, automatic email isolation, outbound routing preventing data leakage.
Email security software protects organizations from rising email threats. Phishing, spam, malware attacks exploit email as primary attack vector. Quality email security software provides multi-layered defense preventing threats from reaching inboxes.
This guide explains email security software types, free vs. paid options, best Microsoft 365 solutions, and choosing optimal protection for business needs.
Email security software implements techniques and procedures protecting email accounts, computers, and content against:
Email security software operates as gateway between email sender and recipient. Analyzes incoming/outgoing emails using:
Claim: Removes approximately 95% spam and viruses
Features: Gateway-based inbox protection, free, high-quality, easy installation
Best for: Small organizations, basic spam/malware protection
Features: Multi-layer security, spam traps, sender IP verification, user-friendly interface
Best for: Organizations needing basic layered protection
Claim: Free protection against phishing, trojans, spam, viruses
Method: Mail proxy installed to control all emails from single platform
Best for: User-friendly, simplified email security management
Features: Threat prevention appliance, spam filters, content scanners, prevents suspicious emails from entering network
Best for: Organizations seeking free threat prevention and spam filtering
Free software: Basic protection (spam, common malware), limited features, no encryption/archiving
Paid software: Advanced threat detection, encryption, archiving, data loss prevention, multi-layered defense, expert support
Reality: Free software provides baseline protection. Paid solutions deliver comprehensive security suitable for businesses handling sensitive data.
Scale: Protects 100,000+ businesses globally
Target: SME businesses using Microsoft 365
Features:
Setup: Cloud-based, sits in front of Office 365. All emails scanned and automatically isolated before reaching inboxes.
Features: Full-suite protection for collaborative apps
Threats prevented: Account takeover, ransomware, supply chain attacks, Business Email Compromise (BEC)
Effectiveness: 99.2% reduction in phishing attacks reaching inbox
Technology: In-house developed anti-phishing, anti-spam, host server protection
Approach: Combines machine learning with human expertise
Status: Award-winning platform
Focus: Spam and threat filtering for Microsoft 365
Advantage: Specialized for Office 365 integration
Capabilities: Comprehensive threat protection, archiving, compliance
Target: Enterprise organizations
Focus: AI-powered threat detection and prevention
Approach: Human-in-the-loop security combining AI with analyst expertise
Technology: Cloud-based browser isolation for advanced threat prevention
Focus: Prevents zero-day attacks and advanced malware
Focus: Brand protection and email authentication
Specialty: Prevents domain spoofing and phishing
Advantage: Built-in protection (included with Microsoft 365)
Features: Safe links, safe attachments, anti-phishing, threat intelligence
Limitation: Basic features compared to third-party solutions
Approach: Multi-layered email security
Threats prevented: Business Email Compromise, advanced malware, ransomware, data loss, spam
Free software: Zero cost, basic protection
Paid software: $2–15+ per user monthly, comprehensive protection
Free: Spam, common malware
Paid: Phishing, zero-day exploits, ransomware, BEC, advanced threats
Microsoft 365 users: Prioritize Office 365-optimized solutions
Gmail/other: Verify compatibility before selecting
Regulated industries (healthcare, finance, legal): Require encryption, archiving, compliance features
Standard businesses: May suffice with basic threat protection
Free software: Limited support, self-service
Paid software: Professional support, expert assistance, regular updates
Start by assessing current email threat landscape. What threats most frequently target your organization?
Next, evaluate budget constraints. Can you invest in paid solution or does free software suffice for baseline protection?
Then, review compliance requirements. Does your industry mandate specific security features or certifications?
Finally, test solutions with free trials. Most vendors provide trial periods enabling hands-on evaluation before purchase.
Need help selecting and implementing comprehensive email security software for your organization? Contact AMVIA specialists: 0333 733 8050 (direct to experts, no voicemail) or request consultation. We assess your email security needs, recommend optimal solutions (free vs. paid), implement Microsoft 365-compatible protection, and integrate comprehensive cybersecurity strategies protecting your business from evolving email threats.
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