Top 10 Free Cyber Security Tools for SMBs in 2024

Introduction

With the frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks continuing to rise, it’s essential for business owners, IT professionals, and tech leaders to ensure they have the right people, processes and technology in place to secure sensitive data and critical operations.

According to a recent report by Cybersecurity Ventures, global cybercrime costs are expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion in 2015. This sizeable increase highlights the growing importance of robust cyber security measures for all businesses.

While it’s easy as a technology leader to get drawn into spending significant money on the latest cyber security tools, there are many free cyber security tools which, when combined with robust processes and skilled people, can be just as effective.

This post will guide you through some of the best free cyber security tools available in 2024 to enhance your business’s security posture.

Are they really free?

You get what you pay for, right? Possibly, but in many cases, no!

However, when considering whether to pursue the use of a free cyber security tool, it’s essential to understand the different types available and why they are being offered for free. Each type not surprisingly has its own benefits and risks, which make them suitable for various scenarios, but not for others.

In general there are three main types of free tool: open source, freemium and Government backed. Let’s take a look at each.

Open Source Free Cyber Security Tools

Open source cyber security tools are typically developed and maintained by a community of developers and are available for free. The source code for these tools is open for anyone to use, inspect, modify and enhance (or corrupt!).

People build these tools for various reasons, including the belief in open collaboration and the shared goal of improving cyber security. Many open source developers are motivated by the desire to improve security for everyone, not just those who can afford expensive paid solutions.

The collaborative nature of open source projects allows for continuous improvement and rapid response to emerging threats, as multiple contributors can identify and address issues more quickly than a single entity. They also allow for organisations to modify and adapt the tools to meet their specific needs.

On the flip side, using open source tools to provide essential cyber security controls does come with some notable risks.

Firstly, open source tools can be quite complex to setup and use. You’ll need to leverage a skilled member of your existing IT team, or ask for help from an external cyber security team. But it can be well-worth the effort.

More importantly, any use of open source tools needs to consider the risk of vulnerabilities being introduced into the software. Given that anyone can update open source software, it is possible for malicious code to be introduced, which then needs to be detected and removed by the rest of the community. For example, the OpenSSL Heartbleed vulnerability in 2014 was a result of a flaw in an open source encryption library, which went unnoticed for several years before being detected.

Freemium Free Cyber Security Tools

There are variety of premium cyber security tools that offer free (freemium) versions of the same platform, which can be an excellent solution for start-ups and SMBs operating on tight budgets. These free versions are typically designed to provide essential features and functionality to smaller teams or individual users, serving as a gateway to the more comprehensive paid versions.

Freemium cyber security tools, like their paid-version older siblings, are generally designed to be user-friendly, easy to deploy and accessible even to those without extensive technical expertise. This ease of use allows small businesses and start-ups to implement essential security measures quickly and efficiently. Additionally, Freemium tools typically come with access to professional support and resources, providing valuable assistance and guidance that can help users maximise the tool’s effectiveness.

Despite their advantages, freemium cyber security tools also come with some drawbacks. One of the main limitations is the restricted functionality of the free version, which might not cover all the security needs of a business and can quickly become a frustration. While the basic version can be sufficient for initial use, advanced features necessary for comprehensive protection often require a paid subscription.

Despite these limitations, the free versions of these tools can provide substantial value, especially for organisations just starting out or those with limited budgets.

Government Backed Free Cyber Security Tools

These tools are developed and provided by government agencies (such as the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre or the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) with the aim of enhancing the cyber security posture of businesses and individuals.

Governments have a vested interest in the overall cyber security of their nation’s businesses and infrastructure. By providing free high-quality cyber security resources, they aim to protect sensitive information, prevent cyber-attacks, and maintain the economic stability of SMBs.

Best Free Cyber Security Tools for SMBs in 2024

1. KeePass (Open Source)

What is it: A Password Manager

Website: https://keepass.info/

Overview

KeePass is a free, open-source password manager that helps you store and manage your passwords securely (paid popular versions of similar tools include LastPass and 1Password). It allows you to organise your passwords in a database, which is locked with a master key or key file. The databases are encrypted using the best and most secure encryption algorithms currently known (AES-256, ChaCha20, etc.).

Key Features

• Strong encryption (AES-256, ChaCha20)
• Easy management
• Generates secure complex passwords
• Plugins and extensions for added functionality

Usage and Installation

KeePass is available for Windows, and via unofficial ports other operating systems including MacOS and Linux. Installation is straightforward: download the installer from the KeePass website, run the installer, and follow the instructions. After installation, you can create a new password database and start adding your passwords.

Pros

• Free and open-source
• Highly secure encryption methods
• Cross-platform support through unofficial ports
• Customisable with plugins
• Easy migration and sharing of passwords

Cons

• User interface can be less intuitive for beginners
• No native cloud synchronisation (requires plugins or third-party solutions)
• Limited mobile app functionality

Ideal For

KeePass is ideal for SMBs and individuals seeking a secure and customisable password management solution. It is particularly suited for users who prefer open-source software and have the technical ability to manage their own password databases. Its strong encryption and flexibility make it a great choice for securing sensitive information.

2. AVG Antivirus Free (Freemium)

What is it: Antivirus Software

Website: AVG Antivirus Free

Overview

AVG Antivirus Free is a freemium antivirus solution designed to protect your devices (Windows/Mac/Mobile) against viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, and other nasty online threats. It provides real-time security updates, scans for both malware and performance issues, and even catches malicious downloads before they reach your PC.

Key Features

• Real-time protection against viruses and malware
• Scans web, email, and downloaded files
• Automatic updates to combat the latest threats
• Performance scan to improve PC speed
• Simple and intuitive user interface

Usage and Installation

To install AVG Antivirus Free, visit the AVG website and download the installer. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. Once installed, AVG will automatically start protecting your computer/mobile and performing regular scans.

Pros

• Free version offers robust basic protection
• Regular automatic updates
• User-friendly interface
• Scans for both security and performance issues
• Additional features available in the paid version

Cons

• Free version includes advertisements for the paid version
• Some features (e.g. secure VPN) are restricted to the paid version
• Can be resource-intensive on older systems

Ideal For

AVG Antivirus Free is ideal for SMBs and individuals looking for a reliable and easy-to-use antivirus solution without any cost. It offers comprehensive protection against common threats and ensures that your systems are safeguarded. This tool is especially useful for those who need basic antivirus capabilities and are willing to consider upgrading for advanced features.

3. OpenVAS (Open Source)

What is it: A vulnerability scanner

Website: OpenVAS

Overview

OpenVAS (Open Vulnerability Assessment System) is a full-featured vulnerability scanner capable of identifying security issues in systems and networks. It is part of the Greenbone Vulnerability Management (GVM) solution and provides comprehensive scanning capabilities along with detailed reporting and remediation suggestions.

Key Features

• Extensive vulnerability scanning
• Regular updates with new vulnerability tests
• Detailed reports with remediation advice
• Supports large-scale network scanning
• Open-source and free to use

Usage and Installation

OpenVAS can be installed on various Linux distributions. Installation involves adding the Greenbone repository, installing the necessary packages, and configuring the scanner. Detailed installation instructions are available on the Greenbone website. Once installed, users can configure and run scans via the web-based interface.

Pros

• Comprehensive vulnerability detection
• Regularly updated tests
• Detailed and actionable reports
• Scalable for different network sizes
• Open-source and community-supported

Cons

• Installation and configuration can be complex
• Requires regular updates for optimal performance
• High resource usage during extensive scans

Ideal For

OpenVAS is ideal for SMBs with internal IT staff capable of managing and interpreting vulnerability scans. It suits businesses looking for a robust, scalable solution to identify and mitigate security risks. OpenVAS is particularly beneficial for those who prefer open-source tools and need a comprehensive vulnerability management system.

4. Have I Been Pwned? (Freemium)

What is it: A password breach checker

Website: Have I Been Pwned?

Overview

Have I Been Pwned? is a free online service that allows users to check if their personal information has been compromised in a data breach. By entering an email address, users can see if their credentials have been exposed and receive details about the breaches involved. The service also offers notifications for future breaches involving the user’s email address.

Key Features

• Search for compromised email addresses
• Details of known data breaches
• Notification service for new breaches
• Integration with popular password managers
• API for developers

Usage and Installation

Using Have I Been Pwned? is simple and does not require any installation. Visit the website, enter your email address in the search bar, and click “pwned?” to check if your email has been compromised. To receive notifications about future breaches, you can subscribe by providing your email address.

Pros

• Provides detailed breach information
• Easy-to-use interface
• Notification service for new breaches
• Trusted and widely used

Cons

• Freemium version is limited to checking domains with up to 10 email addresses
• Relies on publicly available breach data
• No remediation advice provided

Ideal For

Have I Been Pwned? is ideal for individuals and SMBs who want a quick and easy way to check if their email addresses have been compromised in data breaches. It is particularly useful for monitoring the exposure of sensitive information and staying informed about new breaches. This service is suitable for those who want to take proactive steps in safeguarding their online accounts without needing technical expertise.

5. GoPhish (Open Source)

What is it: A phishing training tool

Website: GoPhish

Overview

GoPhish is an open-source phishing simulation tool designed to help organisations conduct and manage phishing campaigns. It allows users to create and launch targeted phishing emails to test the security awareness of employees and provides detailed reports on campaign performance and user responses.

Key Features

• Easy-to-use web interface
• Customisable email templates and landing pages
• Real-time reporting and analytics
• User and group management
• API for integration with other systems

Usage and Installation

GoPhish can be installed on various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. To get started, download the appropriate version from the GoPhish website, extract the files, and run the executable. Detailed installation and setup instructions are available in the GoPhish documentation.

Pros

• Open-source and free to use
• Highly customisable phishing simulations
• Real-time tracking and reporting
• Supports multiple operating systems
• Active community and documentation

Cons

• Requires technical knowledge for setup and management
• No built-in training content for users
• Potential for misuse if not ethically managed

Ideal For

GoPhish is ideal for SMBs and larger organisations looking to improve their employees’ security awareness through phishing simulations. It is particularly beneficial for IT and security teams who have the technical skills to set up and manage the tool. GoPhish is suitable for organisations that need a flexible and cost-effective solution to conduct regular phishing awareness training and measure its effectiveness.

6. CyberAware (Government Backed)

What is it: Cyber Security Awareness Training

Website: CyberAware

Overview

CyberAware is a UK government initiative that provides free cybersecurity training and resources to help small businesses and individuals improve their cybersecurity practices. The training focuses on essential cybersecurity measures, including password management, software updates, and identifying phishing scams.

Key Features

• Free online training modules
• Practical cybersecurity tips and advice
• Resources for small businesses and individuals
• Regularly updated content
• Easy-to-follow guides and checklists

Usage and Installation

CyberAware is accessible online and requires no installation. Visit the CyberAware website and explore the available training modules and resources. The website provides a variety of materials, including guides, videos, and checklists, to help users implement effective cybersecurity practices.

Pros

• Free and easily accessible
• Practical and relevant advice
• Regular updates and new content
• Suitable for non-technical users
• Supported by the UK government

Cons

• Focused primarily on basic cybersecurity practices
• Limited interactive features
• Primarily targeted at UK-based users

Ideal For

CyberAware is ideal for SMBs and individuals seeking practical, easy-to-understand cybersecurity training and resources. It is particularly beneficial for small businesses that need to improve their cybersecurity posture without incurring additional costs. CyberAware is suitable for users of all technical levels and provides essential guidance to help protect against common cyber threats.

7. OpenSCAP (Open Source)

What is it: A security baseline assessment tool

Website: OpenSCAP

Overview

OpenSCAP is an open-source security automation tool designed to assist with the assessment, measurement, and enforcement of security baselines, especially good for attack surface assessment exercises. It is based on the Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) and provides a range of functionalities, including vulnerability scanning, configuration auditing, and compliance checking against known security standards.

Key Features

• Compliance checking against security standards (e.g., PCI-DSS, HIPAA, STIG)
• Vulnerability scanning and reporting
• Configuration auditing
• Automated and customizable remediation scripts
• SCAP content authoring and validation tools

Usage and Installation

OpenSCAP can be installed on various Linux distributions. Installation typically involves using the package manager to install the openscap package and related tools. Detailed installation instructions and guides are available on the OpenSCAP website. Once installed, users can run scans and generate reports through command-line tools or the graphical SCAP Workbench.

Pros

• Open-source and free to use
• Comprehensive compliance and auditing features
• Supports a wide range of security standards
• Flexible and customizable
• Strong community support and documentation

Cons

• Requires technical knowledge for setup and use
• Primarily targeted at Linux environments
• Limited user interface for complex configurations

Ideal For

OpenSCAP is ideal for SMBs and larger organisations that need to ensure compliance with various security standards and perform regular security assessments. It is particularly beneficial for IT and security teams with the technical expertise to leverage its full capabilities. OpenSCAP is suitable for businesses seeking an open-source, flexible, and comprehensive solution to automate their security compliance and auditing processes.

8. Exercise in a Box by the Met Police (Government Backed)

What is it: Incident Response Training

Website: Exercise in a Box

Overview

Exercise in a Box is a free online tool provided by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and supported by the Met Police, designed to help organisations test and improve their cybersecurity preparedness. The tool offers a range of exercises that simulate real-world cyber incidents, allowing businesses to practice their response in a safe environment. The sessions are particularly tailored for London-based SMBs to enhance their cybersecurity resilience.

Key Features

• Simulated cyber incident exercises
• Step-by-step guidance and support
• Tailored scenarios for different types of cyber threats
• Detailed feedback and improvement recommendations
• Collaborative sessions to enhance team readiness

Usage and Installation

Exercise in a Box is accessible online and requires no installation. To get started, visit the Exercise in a Box website and register for an account. Once registered, users can select from a variety of exercises and follow the guided steps to complete each simulation. The exercises can be conducted individually or as a team.

Pros

• Free and accessible online
• Practical, hands-on training
• Realistic cyber incident simulations
• Detailed feedback and actionable recommendations
• Supports team collaboration

Cons

• Limited to the scenarios provided
• Requires time commitment to complete exercises
• Primarily focused on UK-based businesses

Ideal For

Exercise in a Box is ideal for London-based SMBs looking to improve their cybersecurity readiness through practical, hands-on training. It is particularly beneficial for organisations that want to test their incident response plans and enhance team collaboration in handling cyber threats. The tool is suitable for businesses of all sizes and technical capabilities, offering valuable insights and recommendations to strengthen cybersecurity posture.

9. SpamAssassin (Open Source)

What is it: Email / Spam Filter

Website: SpamAssassin

Overview

SpamAssassin is open-source email filtering software that uses various spam-detection techniques to identify and filter out unwanted email. It employs methods including header and text analysis, Bayesian filtering, DNS blocklists, and collaborative filtering databases to combat spam effectively.

Key Features

• Robust spam filtering capabilities
• Customizable rules and configurations
• Integration with other mail systems
• Uses multiple spam-detection techniques
• Open-source and community-supported

Usage and Installation

SpamAssassin can be installed on various operating systems, including Linux and Windows. Installation typically involves using the package manager to install the spamassassin package. Detailed installation instructions and setup guides are available on the SpamAssassin website. Once installed, SpamAssassin can be configured to work with your mail server to filter incoming email for spam.

Pros

• Free and open-source
• Highly effective spam detection
• Customizable and flexible
• Large community and extensive documentation
• Can be integrated with other email systems

Cons

• Requires technical knowledge for setup and configuration
• May need regular updates and maintenance
• Resource-intensive on large email volumes

Ideal For

SpamAssassin is ideal for SMBs and individuals looking to improve their email security by filtering out spam effectively. It is particularly beneficial for IT and security teams who have the technical expertise to set up and manage the tool. SpamAssassin is suitable for businesses that need a customizable, open-source solution to combat spam and enhance their email security.

10. Nmap (Open Source)

What is it: Network discovery tool

Website: Nmap

Overview

Nmap (Network Mapper) is an open-source network discovery and security auditing tool. It is widely used for network inventory, managing service upgrade schedules, and monitoring host or service uptime. Nmap uses raw IP packets to determine what hosts are available on the network, what services those hosts are offering, what operating systems they are running, what type of packet filters/firewalls are in use, and many other characteristics.

Key Features

• Network discovery and inventory
• Port scanning and service detection
• OS detection and version detection
• Scriptable interaction with the target
• Extensive output formats and logging

Usage and Installation

Nmap can be installed on various operating systems, including Linux, Windows, and macOS. Installation typically involves downloading the appropriate installer from the Nmap website and following the setup instructions. Once installed, Nmap can be run from the command line, and users can perform scans using a variety of options and parameters to tailor the results to their needs.

Pros

• Free and open-source
• Versatile and powerful scanning capabilities
• Extensive documentation and community support
• Supports a wide range of operating systems
• Regularly updated with new features and enhancements

Cons

• Command-line interface may be challenging for beginners
• Can be resource-intensive on large networks
• Requires understanding of network protocols for effective use

Ideal For

Nmap is ideal for SMBs, IT professionals, and security enthusiasts who need a reliable tool for network discovery, security auditing, and vulnerability scanning. It is particularly beneficial for network administrators and security teams who have the technical expertise to utilize its powerful features. Nmap is suitable for businesses of all sizes that require a comprehensive, open-source solution for managing and securing their network infrastructure.

Conclusion

In summary, we’ve highlighted ten excellent free cyber security tools that can significantly enhance your business’s security posture. However, these are just the tip of the iceberg. If you require different solutions or additional features, a simple Google search can uncover many more options tailored to your specific needs. For those seeking expert guidance, consider partnering with a Virtual CISO (vCISO) who can provide strategic advice and help you select the best tools aligned with your business objectives and cyber security roadmap.