Xero vs. FreshBooks — What is Better for Cybersecurity

Compare Xero vs FreshBooks cybersecurity features to find the secure accounting software that safeguards your business finances.

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Jeff Harms

Reviewed by Jeff Harms

Director, Advisory Services at OCD tech

Updated September, 18

Usability & Integration: Xero vs FreshBooks

Discover how Xero and FreshBooks compare on usability and integration for business productivity.

Xero Usability and Integration for Business

Xero delivers an intuitive, user-friendly experience that seamlessly integrates cybersecurity best practices—from automated MFA prompts and secure logins to precise role-based access—to ensure that employees can work efficiently without compromising security. The platform’s administration and setup processes allow IT professionals to easily manage security configurations, including conditional access policies and encryption defaults, providing a streamlined approach to safeguarding sensitive data. Additionally, Xero integrates effectively with popular productivity tools such as Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack/Teams, CRM systems, SSO mechanisms, APIs, and automation tools, thereby maintaining robust security standards across interconnected platforms. Practical considerations—including smooth migration, comprehensive data portability, and secure mobile and desktop access—make Xero a well-rounded solution for organizations prioritizing both functionality and cybersecurity.

FreshBooks Usability and Integration for Business

 

Usability & Integration for FreshBooks

 

The FreshBooks platform combines an intuitive employee interface with robust cybersecurity measures, featuring MFA prompts, secure logins, and role-based access to ensure that usability never compromises security. Administrators appreciate that setup and configuration are streamlined, with essential security tools such as conditional access policies and encryption defaults easily manageable, allowing for seamless risk mitigation. The system's integration capabilities are exemplary, linking securely with platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack/Teams, along with CRM, SSO, and API-driven automation tools, thereby preventing any potential security gaps. Additionally, practical aspects such as secure data migration, data portability, and unified mobile/desktop access further reinforce FreshBooks as a highly secure and efficient solution for modern financial management.

 

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Security and Compliance: Xero vs FreshBooks

See how Xero and FreshBooks compare on security and compliance, including data protection, regulations, and business trust.

Xero

Data Security & Encryption

  1. Data Protection & Encryption is crucial for safeguarding sensitive financial and personal data, ensuring it is securely stored and transmitted through advanced encryption protocols. Xero employs industry-standard encryption methods to protect data both at rest and in transit, reducing the risk of unauthorized access while providing confidence in the security of transactional information.

FreshBooks

Data Security & Encryption

FreshBooks employs advanced encryption standards like AES and secure transport protocols such as TLS to protect sensitive financial and personal data. This rigorous approach to data protection ensures that all information is encoded during transmission and storage, making it inaccessible to unauthorized parties. By integrating state-of-the-art encryption, FreshBooks significantly minimizes the risk of data breaches and maintains trust with its users.

Xero

Authentication & Access Control

  1. Authentication & Access Control refers to the mechanisms that verify user identities and restrict access based on predefined roles and policies. Xero integrates multi-factor authentication and robust access control measures to ensure that only authorized users can access sensitive areas, effectively mitigating potential insider threats and cyber intrusions.

FreshBooks

Authentication & Access Control

FreshBooks enforces robust authentication methods including multifactor authentication and stringent password policies to guarantee that only verified users gain access. The platform’s use of role-based access control further limits access to critical functionalities based on user responsibilities. These measures are crucial as they prevent unauthorized access and protect the integrity of sensitive financial data.

Xero

Compliance & Certifications

  1. Regulatory Compliance & Certifications involves adherence to industry standards and legal requirements necessary to protect data privacy and security. Xero consistently achieves key certifications and maintains compliance with global regulations, which reassures clients that the platform meets rigorous standards and is regularly audited for continuous improvement.

FreshBooks

Compliance & Certifications

FreshBooks is compliant with a range of global standards and industry regulations such as GDPR and PCI-DSS, reflecting its commitment to regulatory compliance and best practices. Regular third-party audits and certifications demonstrate that the platform adheres to strict security protocols and legal requirements. This compliance not only mitigates legal and financial risks but also reassures clients that their data is managed responsibly.

Xero

Incident Response & Reliability

  1. Incident Response & Risk Management includes the procedures and processes designed to identify, address, and recover from security incidents. Xero has established comprehensive incident response strategies and risk management protocols that minimize damage and restore operations quickly, ensuring that both preventive and reactive measures are in place to adapt to evolving threats.

FreshBooks

Incident Response & Reliability

FreshBooks has structured an effective incident response and risk management plan that includes proactive monitoring, regular vulnerability assessments, and rapid patch deployments. Detailed procedures ensure that any security incident is quickly contained, analyzed, and remedied, minimizing potential damage. This vigilant approach to managing risks reinforces the platform’s resilience and commitment to maintaining a secure environment for its users.

Cost and Value: Xero vs FreshBooks

Compare the cost and value of Xero and FreshBooks to see which offers better pricing, affordability, and long-term benefits.

 

Cost & Value for Xero

 

Xero offers subscription plans typically ranging from $11 to $62 per month, and while this predictable licensing fee makes budgeting easier, users should also consider additional hidden costs such as initial setup, user training, and investment in security add-ons that might be necessary to fully safeguard their financial data. Even though these one-time expenses can add up, the comprehensive support and resources Xero provides help ensure a smoother integration and quicker proficiency for your team.

Furthermore, investing in Xero’s built-in cybersecurity features such as robust encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular updates can save businesses significant costs in the long run. For example, the potential avoidance of data breaches—where remediation costs can exceed $4M according to IBM—along with the reduction in compliance fines and downtime, contributes to a strong overall return on investment. This balance between predictable subscription costs and the substantial savings from enhanced security underscores the value Xero delivers to businesses of all sizes.

 

Cost & Value for FreshBooks

 

When evaluating FreshBooks from a cybersecurity and IT advisory perspective, licensing and subscription costs typically range from $15 to $50 per month based on different service tiers. While the core plans provide essential accounting features, there may be hidden costs such as setup fees, staff training, and optional security add-ons that can impact your initial investment. Business owners should be aware that even these minor expenditures play a crucial role in establishing a secure digital environment.

From a cybersecurity angle, the integrated security features in FreshBooks help prevent costly data breaches and avoid compliance fines, with industry estimates for breach costs exceeding $4M. Thus, investing in robust security measures generates a strong return on investment by reducing the risk of downtime and subsequent financial losses. In the long run, these savings translate into enhanced trust, operational efficiency, and a competitive edge in managing financial data security.

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Final Recommendation: Xero vs FreshBooks for Cybersecurity

 

Final Recommendation

 

Xero vs FreshBooks for cybersecurity reveals distinct strengths, with Xero excelling in robust integrations, automated workflows, and comprehensive security features suitable for larger or rapidly growing businesses. Xero is ideal for organizations that require advanced customization and scalability while maintaining strong cybersecurity protocols and compliance adherence. Meanwhile, FreshBooks delivers an intuitive and user-friendly experience, catering primarily to small businesses and freelancers seeking straightforward accounting solutions. This platform offers solid functionality for managing finances and basic integrations, though it may not support complex operational demands as robustly as Xero. Both tools present compelling benefits, balanced against their specific target demographics and security considerations. Ultimately, your choice should align with your business size, complexity of operations, and cybersecurity needs.

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Read How to Enable MFA on these tools

Enabling MFA is one of the most effective ways to strengthen account security. We’ll walk through how to turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA), making it clear which steps are required and how the user experience compares across the two tools.

How to enable 2FA/MFA on a Xero account?

Learn how to enable 2FA/MFA on your Xero account to protect your financial data. Step-by-step guide for secure login using an authenticator app.

Learn More

How to enable 2FA/MFA on a FreshBooks account?

Learn how to enable 2FA/MFA on your FreshBooks account for stronger security. Step-by-step guide to protect your financial data with two-factor authentication.

Learn More

Customized Cybersecurity Solutions For Your Business

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Audit. Security. Assurance.

IT Audit | Cybersecurity | IT Assurance | IT Security Consultants – OCD Tech is a technology consulting firm serving the IT security and consulting needs of businesses in Boston (MA), Braintree (MA) and across New England. We primarily serve Fortune 500 companies including auto dealers, financial institutions, higher education, government contractors, and not-for-profit organizations with SOC 2 reporting, CMMC readiness, IT Security Audits, Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessments. We also provide dark web monitoring, DFARS compliance, and IT general controls review.

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