ESET vs Palo Alto Networks: MDR Comparison 2026
Detailed comparison of ESET and Palo Alto Networks managed detection and response services. Compare response capabilities, SLA, coverage, integrations, and compliance.
Winner by Category
Response Level
Tie
Same level
SLA Speed
Palo Alto Networks
Faster response time
Coverage Breadth
Palo Alto Networks
6 vs 5 surfaces
Integrations
ESET
More integration options
Criteria
Strong SMB-focused MDR built on 30+ years of threat research, with fast 20-minute response times and accessible 25-device minimum. Best for organizations already in or willing to adopt the ESET ecosystem.
Response Type
Active Remediation
Active Remediation
Approval Policy
Configurable
N/A
Auto-Isolate
✓
✗
Kill Process
✓
✗
IR Included
✓ Included
Separate
Response SLA
20m
Not disclosed
24/7 Coverage
✓ Yes
✓ Yes
Channels
EmailPortalPhone
N/A
Data Access
Dashboards
N/A
Model
Per-seat/device, custom-quoted; available as add-on to ESET PROTECT Enterprise or Elite tiers. MSP pricing with daily billing or monthly invoicing.
Not published
Price Range
Custom-quoted based on environment and device count; volume discounts available
Not published
Minimum Seats
25
N/A
Threat Hunting
✓ Included
N/A
Overall
Positive
N/A
Summary
Recognized as Market Leader and Product Leader in MDR by KuppingerCole 2024. Praised for fast 20-minute response times, strong threat intelligence from 30+ years of research, and good SMB accessibility. Criticized for UI/UX issues and the ESET console interface being unintuitive for US users.
N/A
ESET vs Palo Alto Networks: Which Should You Choose?
Choose ESET if:
- You need active remediation
- 20m response time meets your needs
- You prefer platform native solutions
- Your org size: SMB / Mid-market / Enterprise
Choose Palo Alto Networks if:
- You need active remediation
- Not disclosed response time meets your needs
- You prefer platform native solutions
- Your org size: Mid-market / Enterprise
FAQ
What's the main difference between ESET and Palo Alto Networks?
Key differences: response model (Active Remediation vs Active Remediation), SLA (20m vs Not disclosed), and approach (Platform Native vs Platform Native).