ESET PROTECT vs KnowBe4: Complete Comparison (2026)
In comparing ESET PROTECT and KnowBe4 in 2026, ESET PROTECT is the stronger choice for smbs wanting lightweight, effective endpoint security with central management due to lightweight with low system impact. KnowBe4 excels for companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks with best-in-class phishing simulations. ESET PROTECT offers Endpoint protection, Cloud sandbox, Full disk encryption starting at $21/device/yr. KnowBe4 provides Phishing simulations, Security training, Compliance training from $18/user/yr. For teams prioritizing value, ESET PROTECT delivers a hiltonsoftware Score of 74/100. ESET PROTECT and KnowBe4 compete in the cybersecurity segment of the SaaS market, where cloud-native solutions, API integrations, and workflow automation drive enterprise and SMB adoption. Other leading cybersecurity tools include Okta, 1Password, Cloudflare. ESET PROTECT serves 400K+ orgs users globally (founded 1992) while KnowBe4 reports 65K+ orgs active users (founded 2010).
ESET PROTECT vs KnowBe4 at a Glance
What are the main differences between ESET PROTECT and KnowBe4?
ESET PROTECT and KnowBe4 differ across ease of use, features, value, support, integrations, scalability, and learning curve. ESET PROTECT leads in 4 of 7 categories.
What are the pros and cons of ESET PROTECT vs KnowBe4?
Which is better, ESET PROTECT or KnowBe4?
After evaluating ESET PROTECT and KnowBe4 across features, pricing, integrations, and user satisfaction, ESET PROTECT earns a higher hiltonsoftware Score of 74/100 versus KnowBe4 at 71/100. ESET PROTECT stands out for "lightweight with low system impact" and "excellent detection rates". KnowBe4 delivers competitive advantages in "best-in-class phishing simulations", making KnowBe4 a viable alternative.
Neither ESET PROTECT nor KnowBe4 offers a free plan. ESET PROTECT starts at $21/device/yr and KnowBe4 at $18/user/yr.
Bottom line: Choose ESET PROTECT for smbs wanting lightweight, effective endpoint security with central management. Choose KnowBe4 for companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks. Both ESET PROTECT and KnowBe4 are established cybersecurity platforms.
SMBs wanting lightweight, effective endpoint security with central management.
Companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks.
ESET PROTECT vs KnowBe4: Frequently Asked Questions
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Reviewed by Elena Kowalski, Security & Enterprise Editor. Last updated: 2026-04-24. Pricing verified: March 2026.
Read our scoring methodology to understand how the hiltonsoftware Score is calculated.