Bitdefender has been around for some time now. The Romanian security company has been creating online protection since 2001. Just like their competitors, they offer several options like Free Antivirus up to Multi-user contracts. Now they offer the Box.
Bitdefender Box
Perhaps we are seeing the fore runner of total security in the “BOX”. The Bitdefender Box provides the same protection you would expect from any Antivirus solution but adds the following features.
- iOS Protection
- Network Discovery
- Privacy protections (data anonymization)
- Protection for Io T devices
- Network Vulnerability assessment* (Stated as coming soon on their website)
The Price is Right
If you are not into using the “Free” version of some Antivirus programs you are probably paying anywhere from $39.00 to $99.00 a year for a single or multiple user device license. The Box protects an unlimited number of devices for only $99.00 a year. Normally priced at $199 a year. It is not clear if this is a new lower price or a buy it now price but it does state annual price.
What Does It Do.
Unlike most antivirus or anti-malware programs, the Box is a hardware, software combination that sits between your router and devices. It may be controlled by one or more devices that have the Box app installed with the same BOX Account and provides security to any Io T within its protection. That’s right, not just your computer but everything connected to the internet including Smart TVs, smart phones, gaming consoles and even smart appliances like thermostats. Basically, if a device running Apple, Windows or even Linux is using your wired or wireless router to connect to the internet it is protected.
There are some compatibility issues with certain routers. On the Bitdefender website I can only find two ISP providers, AT&T and Comcast the have routers that are incompatible. I am not sure if all devices by these two ISPs are incompatible because the list only includes 13 routers. Additionally there are some steps, like disabling the DHCP server within the router that may make it compatible. It is really just a simple matter of contacting your ISP for conformation.
Installation
After connecting the power supply to the box, Connect the Box to your router using the USB cable, sign into your account and you are ready to go. You may even be able to connect directly to the internet without out using a router. 
Summary
Considering that the price is only marginally more than a regular Antivirus program and that it is capable of protecting all Io T devices, I would say it is certainly worth looking into. My only concern is that the software is an initial release and will probably have the bugs that all early releases seem to come with but given the fact that the price may change I think it might be worth taking a chance now.
Jim
Jim, I take it you’ve not tried the product. I mean no disrespect, but Bitdefender has a low reputation in my eyes. And the cost, well, that’s totally expensive. I use a suit, valid for 3 computers, at a fraction of that cost. I use multilayered protection for several vendors (which coexist beautifully), so I’m not putting all my trust into one product. I’ve just read what you posted, nothing more, so my comments are also weak, Mindblower!
Mindblower, I hear you, You are correct I have not tried the box but I have tried Bitdefender, The article was more about the concept rather than the product. I have neighbors with 7 children. That makes a minimum of 9 devices that need protections, when you add in phones, tablets, smart tv and even the possibility of wireless thermostats, or security,99 would be a very fair price. I think the way of the future will be using secure hardware rather than software and that was what the piece was about. I don’t know if the Bitdefender box is the one but I do believe that one of the big companies will develop a single box solution. The reason I lean this way is because most software needs to be updated with the latest definitions but a secure box would just block any not invited site. Thanks for the input.
Jim
Where have you been, Mindblower?
Dave, I visit frequently, just post (speak my mind) when I believe a comment deserves my reply, Mindblower! 🙂
I use BDF along with MBAB Premium and MBAE and so far have never had a security issue and all are freeware (due to an offer by MBAM a couple years ago to BETA testers for Premium). Perhaps with more family members at home and other SMART items this might be worth $100 annually but not at this time.
Interesting article. Interesting comments.
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Thanks Colin, good to hear from you Merry Xmas to you as well. r