OpenSSH vs Symantec Endpoint Protection: What are the differences?

Introduction

OpenSSH and Symantec Endpoint Protection are two different software solutions that serve distinct purposes in the field of computer security. Understanding the key differences between them is crucial for making informed decisions about the security of computer systems.

1. OpenSSH: OpenSSH is an open-source cryptographic software suite that provides secure communication and remote login capabilities over a network. It is primarily used for encrypting network connections and enabling secure remote administration of systems. OpenSSH ensures confidentiality, integrity, and authentication, allowing users to securely access remote systems over the internet.

2. Symantec Endpoint Protection: On the other hand, Symantec Endpoint Protection is a commercial, enterprise-level antivirus and security software solution. It provides a multi-layered defense against various forms of malware, including viruses, worms, trojans, and ransomware. Symantec Endpoint Protection aims to protect systems from external threats by utilizing techniques such as behavioral analysis, network protection, and advanced machine learning algorithms.

3. Architecture and Purpose: OpenSSH is primarily focused on secure remote access and is commonly used in server environments for remote administration purposes. It enables secure file transfers, tunneling, and secure communication protocols like SSH (Secure Shell). On the other hand, Symantec Endpoint Protection is designed to protect endpoints, such as laptops, desktops, and servers, from a wide range of threats, including malware and network-based attacks.

4. Licensing: OpenSSH is distributed under an open-source license and is freely available, allowing users to modify and distribute the software. Symantec Endpoint Protection, being a commercial product, requires a paid license for its usage. The licensing terms and costs may vary depending on the number of endpoints and the specific features required.

5. Scalability and Enterprise Support: OpenSSH is highly scalable and widely adopted in enterprise environments for secure remote administration. It is well-documented and has a large user community providing support and regular updates. Additionally, many Linux and Unix distributions come prepackaged with OpenSSH. In contrast, Symantec Endpoint Protection is designed for enterprise-grade deployments and provides centralized management and reporting capabilities. It offers dedicated technical support and enterprise-specific features to meet the requirements of large-scale deployments.

6. Focus on Different Aspects of Security: While OpenSSH primarily focuses on secure remote access and data encryption, Symantec Endpoint Protection encompasses a broader spectrum of security solutions. It includes features like antivirus, firewall, intrusion prevention system (IPS), and device control. Symantec Endpoint Protection offers a comprehensive security suite that safeguards endpoints from multiple attack vectors.

In summary, OpenSSH is primarily a secure remote administration tool, focusing on remote login and file transfers with a focus on encryption and authentication. Symantec Endpoint Protection, in contrast, is a commercial endpoint security software that provides multi-layered protection against various forms of malware and network-based threats.