Cylance Smart vs Emsisoft

Cylance was founded in 2012 in Irvine, California, focusing on using artificial intelligence to prevent cybersecurity threats proactively. While their early success was rooted in enterprise solutions, they expanded into the consumer space in 2018 with Cylance Smart Antivirus—a lightweight, AI-based security tool designed to stop threats before they could run. Their antivirus software didn’t rely on traditional signature updates or scheduled scans. Instead, it analyzed behavior in real time and blocked suspicious files. Users could manage multiple devices through a centralized, cloud-based dashboard. They positioned their service as a minimal-intervention alternative for individuals and families seeking quiet, background protection. However, third-party testing was limited. The one major AV-Test evaluation in 2020 gave them strong performance marks but below-average protection results. They also lacked standard features found in broader security suites, such as VPNs or password managers. BlackBerry acquired Cylance Smart Antivirus in 2019 and gradually phased out their home antivirus. Arctic Wolf's acquisition of the company's enterprise solution led to their complete discontinuation by 2024. What did they bring to the table—and what can today’s users learn from their short-lived approach to home cybersecurity?

Founded in 2003 and headquartered in New Zealand, Emsisoft is a cybersecurity provider known for developing lightweight, high-performance anti-malware tools for Windows users. Their software uses a dual-engine scanner to detect and remove a wide range of threats, including viruses, ransomware, spyware, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). Emsisoft’s products include real-time protection layers, behavior-based threat detection, remote management, and tools like an Emergency Kit maker for cleaning infected systems. Features such as RDP attack monitoring, scheduled scans, and MITRE ATT&CK mapping are designed to meet both personal and business security needs. Plans are divided into three tiers: Anti-Malware Home, Business Security, and Enterprise Security + EDR. Users praise the platform for its fast performance, intuitive design, and responsive support, though some note limited macOS/Linux compatibility and no browser cleaner.