
Top 11 Free Cybersecurity & IT Tools for Nonprofits in South Africa (2025)

Top 11 Free Cybersecurity & IT Tools for Nonprofits in South Africa (2025)

Top 11 Free Cybersecurity & IT Tools for Nonprofits in South Africa (2025)

Author
Author
Romanos Boraine
Romanos Boraine
Category
Free Resources
Free Resources
Date
19 May 2025
19 May 2025
Cybersecurity Doesn’t Have to Break Your Budget
Cybersecurity Doesn’t Have to Break Your Budget
Cybersecurity Doesn’t Have to Break Your Budget
This guide spotlights the best free or discounted cybersecurity and IT tools that South African nonprofits and startups can use to protect their systems and data. From secure email and password managers to endpoint protection and threat awareness, these tools help small teams operate safely online — even with limited budgets.
Unsure where to begin?
Book a free consult to unpack your risks and explore whether a Digital Systems Audit or AI Readiness Audit could streamline your IT and boost protection.
👉 Book a free strategy call
This guide spotlights the best free or discounted cybersecurity and IT tools that South African nonprofits and startups can use to protect their systems and data. From secure email and password managers to endpoint protection and threat awareness, these tools help small teams operate safely online — even with limited budgets.
Unsure where to begin?
Book a free consult to unpack your risks and explore whether a Digital Systems Audit or AI Readiness Audit could streamline your IT and boost protection.
👉 Book a free strategy call
This guide spotlights the best free or discounted cybersecurity and IT tools that South African nonprofits and startups can use to protect their systems and data. From secure email and password managers to endpoint protection and threat awareness, these tools help small teams operate safely online — even with limited budgets.
Unsure where to begin?
Book a free consult to unpack your risks and explore whether a Digital Systems Audit or AI Readiness Audit could streamline your IT and boost protection.
👉 Book a free strategy call


Quick Overview: Cybersecurity Tools for South African Nonprofits
Quick Overview: Cybersecurity Tools for South African Nonprofits
Quick Overview: Cybersecurity Tools for South African Nonprofits
# | Tool | Summary |
---|---|---|
1 | Cloudflare Project Galileo | Free enterprise-grade website protection (DDoS, WAF, CDN) for public interest organisations. |
2 | Okta for Good | Identity management with free SSO and MFA for up to 50 users. |
3 | Bitdefender (via TechSoup) | Donated antivirus protection with centralised management. |
4 | Bitwarden | Open-source password manager with nonprofit discounts. |
5 | Let’s Encrypt | Free SSL certificates to encrypt your website. |
6 | ProtonMail & ProtonVPN | Encrypted email and VPN with nonprofit pricing. |
7 | 2FA Apps (Authy, GA) | Free two-factor authentication apps to secure logins. |
8 | Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace | Free cloud productivity tools with built-in security. |
9 | Cisco Umbrella / Fortinet | Network-level threat protection for NGOs and educators. |
10 | KnowBe4 Awareness Kit | Free cybersecurity training toolkit. |
11 | Internet Safety Resources | Free monthly tips and staff training toolkits. |
# | Tool | Summary |
---|---|---|
1 | Cloudflare Project Galileo | Free enterprise-grade website protection (DDoS, WAF, CDN) for public interest organisations. |
2 | Okta for Good | Identity management with free SSO and MFA for up to 50 users. |
3 | Bitdefender (via TechSoup) | Donated antivirus protection with centralised management. |
4 | Bitwarden | Open-source password manager with nonprofit discounts. |
5 | Let’s Encrypt | Free SSL certificates to encrypt your website. |
6 | ProtonMail & ProtonVPN | Encrypted email and VPN with nonprofit pricing. |
7 | 2FA Apps (Authy, GA) | Free two-factor authentication apps to secure logins. |
8 | Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace | Free cloud productivity tools with built-in security. |
9 | Cisco Umbrella / Fortinet | Network-level threat protection for NGOs and educators. |
10 | KnowBe4 Awareness Kit | Free cybersecurity training toolkit. |
11 | Internet Safety Resources | Free monthly tips and staff training toolkits. |
# | Tool | Summary |
---|---|---|
1 | Cloudflare Project Galileo | Free enterprise-grade website protection (DDoS, WAF, CDN) for public interest organisations. |
2 | Okta for Good | Identity management with free SSO and MFA for up to 50 users. |
3 | Bitdefender (via TechSoup) | Donated antivirus protection with centralised management. |
4 | Bitwarden | Open-source password manager with nonprofit discounts. |
5 | Let’s Encrypt | Free SSL certificates to encrypt your website. |
6 | ProtonMail & ProtonVPN | Encrypted email and VPN with nonprofit pricing. |
7 | 2FA Apps (Authy, GA) | Free two-factor authentication apps to secure logins. |
8 | Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace | Free cloud productivity tools with built-in security. |
9 | Cisco Umbrella / Fortinet | Network-level threat protection for NGOs and educators. |
10 | KnowBe4 Awareness Kit | Free cybersecurity training toolkit. |
11 | Internet Safety Resources | Free monthly tips and staff training toolkits. |
Tool Details: Cybersecurity Software for South African Nonprofits
Tool Details: Cybersecurity Software for South African Nonprofits
Tool Details: Cybersecurity Software for South African Nonprofits
Explore the top cybersecurity and IT tools that South African nonprofits can use to protect their systems and data. Each tool listed below offers either a free or heavily discounted nonprofit plan. Click the tool name to visit the official site.
1. Cloudflare Project Galileo
Description | Enterprise-grade website protection for nonprofits. Includes DDoS mitigation, content delivery network (CDN), web application firewall (WAF), and traffic filtering. |
---|---|
Benefits | Keeps websites online during cyberattacks, increases loading speed, and provides advanced protection tools at no cost. |
Use-cases | Ideal for NGOs hosting sensitive content or advocacy campaigns vulnerable to attack. Boosts both uptime and credibility. |
Register | Apply at cloudflare.com/galileo with your nonprofit credentials. |
2. Okta for Good
Description | Okta provides secure single sign-on (SSO), multi-factor authentication (MFA), and user access controls. |
---|---|
Benefits | Free for up to 50 users; unifies login credentials and protects all major platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and CRMs. |
Use-cases | Small teams managing multiple tools and needing centralised, secure access control. |
Register | Submit an application through the Okta for Good Nonprofit Program. |
3. Bitdefender (via TechSoup)
Description | Business-grade antivirus and endpoint security platform available to nonprofits via TechSoup. |
---|---|
Benefits | Real-time protection, anti-ransomware, firewall, web threat detection. Licences are donated or low-cost for NPOs. |
Use-cases | All devices used by staff, including desktops, laptops, and shared terminals. |
Register | Join TechSoup South Africa and apply for Bitdefender under the security category. |
4. Bitwarden
Description | Encrypted password management tool with secure team sharing. Offers open-source transparency and affordable nonprofit plans. |
---|---|
Benefits | Secure password vaults, team access controls, random generator, and encrypted notes. Free and 50% discounted team plans. |
Use-cases | Sharing login credentials for banking, CRM, and donor platforms securely. Encourages strong password hygiene. |
Register | Sign up at bitwarden.com, then request nonprofit pricing via support. |
5. Let’s Encrypt
Description | Free, automated SSL certificates that secure your site with HTTPS. Trusted globally. |
---|---|
Benefits | Enables secure web encryption without licensing costs. Enhances trust and SEO. |
Use-cases | Any website handling donations, personal data, or membership content. |
Register | Use Certbot or check if your web host offers one-click Let’s Encrypt setup. |
6. ProtonMail & ProtonVPN
Description | Encrypted email service and VPN provider based in Switzerland. Built for security and privacy. |
---|---|
Benefits | End-to-end encrypted emails, secure data centres, strong data protection laws. Free and discounted nonprofit plans. |
Use-cases | Privacy-critical communications: legal clinics, human rights NGOs, whistleblower platforms. |
Register | Create an account at proton.me and request NPO pricing. |
7. 2FA Apps: Authy / Google Authenticator
Description | Free apps for generating time-based one-time passcodes (TOTP) used in two-factor authentication. |
---|---|
Benefits | Adds a layer of login security beyond passwords. Works offline and supports most major services. |
Use-cases | Protecting email, banking, document storage, CRM, and admin tools from phishing. |
Register | Download from the App Store or Play Store. Add services via QR code scan. |
8. Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace for Nonprofits
Description | Full productivity suites including email, cloud storage, docs, sheets, and video conferencing. Secure, cloud-based, and collaborative. |
---|---|
Benefits | Free to eligible nonprofits with security and compliance features built in (e.g., DLP, 2FA). |
Use-cases | Running core operations: communications, reporting, donor documents, and file sharing. |
Register | Apply via Phambano Technology or TechSoup ZA. |
9. Cisco Umbrella / Fortinet Security Tools
Description | Cloud-delivered threat intelligence, DNS filtering, and network security tools. Fortinet offers training and device-level protection. |
---|---|
Benefits | Blocks malware, phishing, and botnets at DNS level; improves web filtering and network visibility. |
Use-cases | Protecting office Wi-Fi, preventing malicious site access, securing network devices. |
Register | Explore via Cisco's nonprofit page or local Fortinet Security Academy partners. |
10. KnowBe4 Cybersecurity Awareness Kit
Description | Annual free training kit with cybersecurity videos, checklists, posters, and a phishing quiz. |
---|---|
Benefits | Helps small teams understand and identify common threats. Regular training improves security habits. |
Use-cases | Staff induction, monthly awareness moments, internal communication boards. |
Register | Download each October at KnowBe4.com. |
11. Internet Safety Resources (SANS OUCH!, SAFECyber)
Description | Trusted cybersecurity newsletters and educational content for non-technical users. Updated monthly. |
---|---|
Benefits | Ongoing free training and reminders that reinforce cyber hygiene in teams. |
Use-cases | Monthly security email tips, printable office posters, quarterly workshop content. |
Register | Subscribe via SANS OUCH! or SAFECyber. |
Explore the top cybersecurity and IT tools that South African nonprofits can use to protect their systems and data. Each tool listed below offers either a free or heavily discounted nonprofit plan. Click the tool name to visit the official site.
1. Cloudflare Project Galileo
Description | Enterprise-grade website protection for nonprofits. Includes DDoS mitigation, content delivery network (CDN), web application firewall (WAF), and traffic filtering. |
---|---|
Benefits | Keeps websites online during cyberattacks, increases loading speed, and provides advanced protection tools at no cost. |
Use-cases | Ideal for NGOs hosting sensitive content or advocacy campaigns vulnerable to attack. Boosts both uptime and credibility. |
Register | Apply at cloudflare.com/galileo with your nonprofit credentials. |
2. Okta for Good
Description | Okta provides secure single sign-on (SSO), multi-factor authentication (MFA), and user access controls. |
---|---|
Benefits | Free for up to 50 users; unifies login credentials and protects all major platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and CRMs. |
Use-cases | Small teams managing multiple tools and needing centralised, secure access control. |
Register | Submit an application through the Okta for Good Nonprofit Program. |
3. Bitdefender (via TechSoup)
Description | Business-grade antivirus and endpoint security platform available to nonprofits via TechSoup. |
---|---|
Benefits | Real-time protection, anti-ransomware, firewall, web threat detection. Licences are donated or low-cost for NPOs. |
Use-cases | All devices used by staff, including desktops, laptops, and shared terminals. |
Register | Join TechSoup South Africa and apply for Bitdefender under the security category. |
4. Bitwarden
Description | Encrypted password management tool with secure team sharing. Offers open-source transparency and affordable nonprofit plans. |
---|---|
Benefits | Secure password vaults, team access controls, random generator, and encrypted notes. Free and 50% discounted team plans. |
Use-cases | Sharing login credentials for banking, CRM, and donor platforms securely. Encourages strong password hygiene. |
Register | Sign up at bitwarden.com, then request nonprofit pricing via support. |
5. Let’s Encrypt
Description | Free, automated SSL certificates that secure your site with HTTPS. Trusted globally. |
---|---|
Benefits | Enables secure web encryption without licensing costs. Enhances trust and SEO. |
Use-cases | Any website handling donations, personal data, or membership content. |
Register | Use Certbot or check if your web host offers one-click Let’s Encrypt setup. |
6. ProtonMail & ProtonVPN
Description | Encrypted email service and VPN provider based in Switzerland. Built for security and privacy. |
---|---|
Benefits | End-to-end encrypted emails, secure data centres, strong data protection laws. Free and discounted nonprofit plans. |
Use-cases | Privacy-critical communications: legal clinics, human rights NGOs, whistleblower platforms. |
Register | Create an account at proton.me and request NPO pricing. |
7. 2FA Apps: Authy / Google Authenticator
Description | Free apps for generating time-based one-time passcodes (TOTP) used in two-factor authentication. |
---|---|
Benefits | Adds a layer of login security beyond passwords. Works offline and supports most major services. |
Use-cases | Protecting email, banking, document storage, CRM, and admin tools from phishing. |
Register | Download from the App Store or Play Store. Add services via QR code scan. |
8. Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace for Nonprofits
Description | Full productivity suites including email, cloud storage, docs, sheets, and video conferencing. Secure, cloud-based, and collaborative. |
---|---|
Benefits | Free to eligible nonprofits with security and compliance features built in (e.g., DLP, 2FA). |
Use-cases | Running core operations: communications, reporting, donor documents, and file sharing. |
Register | Apply via Phambano Technology or TechSoup ZA. |
9. Cisco Umbrella / Fortinet Security Tools
Description | Cloud-delivered threat intelligence, DNS filtering, and network security tools. Fortinet offers training and device-level protection. |
---|---|
Benefits | Blocks malware, phishing, and botnets at DNS level; improves web filtering and network visibility. |
Use-cases | Protecting office Wi-Fi, preventing malicious site access, securing network devices. |
Register | Explore via Cisco's nonprofit page or local Fortinet Security Academy partners. |
10. KnowBe4 Cybersecurity Awareness Kit
Description | Annual free training kit with cybersecurity videos, checklists, posters, and a phishing quiz. |
---|---|
Benefits | Helps small teams understand and identify common threats. Regular training improves security habits. |
Use-cases | Staff induction, monthly awareness moments, internal communication boards. |
Register | Download each October at KnowBe4.com. |
11. Internet Safety Resources (SANS OUCH!, SAFECyber)
Description | Trusted cybersecurity newsletters and educational content for non-technical users. Updated monthly. |
---|---|
Benefits | Ongoing free training and reminders that reinforce cyber hygiene in teams. |
Use-cases | Monthly security email tips, printable office posters, quarterly workshop content. |
Register | Subscribe via SANS OUCH! or SAFECyber. |
Explore the top cybersecurity and IT tools that South African nonprofits can use to protect their systems and data. Each tool listed below offers either a free or heavily discounted nonprofit plan. Click the tool name to visit the official site.
1. Cloudflare Project Galileo
Description | Enterprise-grade website protection for nonprofits. Includes DDoS mitigation, content delivery network (CDN), web application firewall (WAF), and traffic filtering. |
---|---|
Benefits | Keeps websites online during cyberattacks, increases loading speed, and provides advanced protection tools at no cost. |
Use-cases | Ideal for NGOs hosting sensitive content or advocacy campaigns vulnerable to attack. Boosts both uptime and credibility. |
Register | Apply at cloudflare.com/galileo with your nonprofit credentials. |
2. Okta for Good
Description | Okta provides secure single sign-on (SSO), multi-factor authentication (MFA), and user access controls. |
---|---|
Benefits | Free for up to 50 users; unifies login credentials and protects all major platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and CRMs. |
Use-cases | Small teams managing multiple tools and needing centralised, secure access control. |
Register | Submit an application through the Okta for Good Nonprofit Program. |
3. Bitdefender (via TechSoup)
Description | Business-grade antivirus and endpoint security platform available to nonprofits via TechSoup. |
---|---|
Benefits | Real-time protection, anti-ransomware, firewall, web threat detection. Licences are donated or low-cost for NPOs. |
Use-cases | All devices used by staff, including desktops, laptops, and shared terminals. |
Register | Join TechSoup South Africa and apply for Bitdefender under the security category. |
4. Bitwarden
Description | Encrypted password management tool with secure team sharing. Offers open-source transparency and affordable nonprofit plans. |
---|---|
Benefits | Secure password vaults, team access controls, random generator, and encrypted notes. Free and 50% discounted team plans. |
Use-cases | Sharing login credentials for banking, CRM, and donor platforms securely. Encourages strong password hygiene. |
Register | Sign up at bitwarden.com, then request nonprofit pricing via support. |
5. Let’s Encrypt
Description | Free, automated SSL certificates that secure your site with HTTPS. Trusted globally. |
---|---|
Benefits | Enables secure web encryption without licensing costs. Enhances trust and SEO. |
Use-cases | Any website handling donations, personal data, or membership content. |
Register | Use Certbot or check if your web host offers one-click Let’s Encrypt setup. |
6. ProtonMail & ProtonVPN
Description | Encrypted email service and VPN provider based in Switzerland. Built for security and privacy. |
---|---|
Benefits | End-to-end encrypted emails, secure data centres, strong data protection laws. Free and discounted nonprofit plans. |
Use-cases | Privacy-critical communications: legal clinics, human rights NGOs, whistleblower platforms. |
Register | Create an account at proton.me and request NPO pricing. |
7. 2FA Apps: Authy / Google Authenticator
Description | Free apps for generating time-based one-time passcodes (TOTP) used in two-factor authentication. |
---|---|
Benefits | Adds a layer of login security beyond passwords. Works offline and supports most major services. |
Use-cases | Protecting email, banking, document storage, CRM, and admin tools from phishing. |
Register | Download from the App Store or Play Store. Add services via QR code scan. |
8. Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace for Nonprofits
Description | Full productivity suites including email, cloud storage, docs, sheets, and video conferencing. Secure, cloud-based, and collaborative. |
---|---|
Benefits | Free to eligible nonprofits with security and compliance features built in (e.g., DLP, 2FA). |
Use-cases | Running core operations: communications, reporting, donor documents, and file sharing. |
Register | Apply via Phambano Technology or TechSoup ZA. |
9. Cisco Umbrella / Fortinet Security Tools
Description | Cloud-delivered threat intelligence, DNS filtering, and network security tools. Fortinet offers training and device-level protection. |
---|---|
Benefits | Blocks malware, phishing, and botnets at DNS level; improves web filtering and network visibility. |
Use-cases | Protecting office Wi-Fi, preventing malicious site access, securing network devices. |
Register | Explore via Cisco's nonprofit page or local Fortinet Security Academy partners. |
10. KnowBe4 Cybersecurity Awareness Kit
Description | Annual free training kit with cybersecurity videos, checklists, posters, and a phishing quiz. |
---|---|
Benefits | Helps small teams understand and identify common threats. Regular training improves security habits. |
Use-cases | Staff induction, monthly awareness moments, internal communication boards. |
Register | Download each October at KnowBe4.com. |
11. Internet Safety Resources (SANS OUCH!, SAFECyber)
Description | Trusted cybersecurity newsletters and educational content for non-technical users. Updated monthly. |
---|---|
Benefits | Ongoing free training and reminders that reinforce cyber hygiene in teams. |
Use-cases | Monthly security email tips, printable office posters, quarterly workshop content. |
Register | Subscribe via SANS OUCH! or SAFECyber. |
Cybersecurity & Digital Hygiene Support
Staying secure isn’t just about installing software — it’s about daily habits. Who has access? Where are passwords stored? What happens if a laptop is lost or a team member leaves?
That’s where a Digital Systems or AI Readiness Audit fits in.
I help small teams identify risks, set access controls, enforce policies, and streamline their tool usage. 👉 Book a free 20-min consult to improve your organisation’s cybersecurity maturity.
Cybersecurity & Digital Hygiene Support
Staying secure isn’t just about installing software — it’s about daily habits. Who has access? Where are passwords stored? What happens if a laptop is lost or a team member leaves?
That’s where a Digital Systems or AI Readiness Audit fits in.
I help small teams identify risks, set access controls, enforce policies, and streamline their tool usage. 👉 Book a free 20-min consult to improve your organisation’s cybersecurity maturity.
Cybersecurity & Digital Hygiene Support
Staying secure isn’t just about installing software — it’s about daily habits. Who has access? Where are passwords stored? What happens if a laptop is lost or a team member leaves?
That’s where a Digital Systems or AI Readiness Audit fits in.
I help small teams identify risks, set access controls, enforce policies, and streamline their tool usage. 👉 Book a free 20-min consult to improve your organisation’s cybersecurity maturity.
FAQs: Cybersecurity for Nonprofits in South Africa
FAQs: Cybersecurity for Nonprofits in South Africa
FAQs: Cybersecurity for Nonprofits in South Africa
1. What is the best free antivirus for South African NGOs?
1. What is the best free antivirus for South African NGOs?
1. What is the best free antivirus for South African NGOs?
Bitdefender for Nonprofits is available via TechSoup South Africa. It offers enterprise-grade antivirus and anti-malware protection, centralised control, and real-time updates — all at no cost to eligible organisations.
2. How can we secure our nonprofit website from cyberattacks?
2. How can we secure our nonprofit website from cyberattacks?
2. How can we secure our nonprofit website from cyberattacks?
Apply for Cloudflare Project Galileo for DDoS protection, firewall access, and improved site performance. Combine with Let’s Encrypt for free SSL/TLS certificates to enable HTTPS and build trust with site visitors.
3. What is the most secure way to manage and share passwords in a nonprofit?
3. What is the most secure way to manage and share passwords in a nonprofit?
3. What is the most secure way to manage and share passwords in a nonprofit?
Use Bitwarden to generate, store, and securely share passwords across your team. Free personal plans are available, and nonprofits can get a 50% discount on team features for secure shared vaults.
4. How do we reduce the risk of phishing and social engineering attacks?
4. How do we reduce the risk of phishing and social engineering attacks?
4. How do we reduce the risk of phishing and social engineering attacks?
Enable 2FA on all accounts using free apps like Authy. Run team awareness sessions using the KnowBe4 Cybersecurity Awareness Kit and subscribe to SANS OUCH! for monthly training tips.
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Ready to Move Faster?
Let’s chat. Book a free 20-minute call with me, Romanos Boraine, to map out your brand, systems, or content gaps - and explore what we can fix fast.
Romanos Boraine
Helping nonprofits, startups and social enterprises grow smarter through strategic positioning, creative direction, digital systems audits and workflow optimisation.
Services
Digital Tools
Ready to Move Faster?
Let’s chat. Book a free 20-minute call with me, Romanos Boraine, to map out your brand, systems, or content gaps - and explore what we can fix fast.
Romanos Boraine
Helping nonprofits, startups and social enterprises grow smarter through strategic positioning, creative direction, digital systems audits and workflow optimisation.
Services
Digital Tools
Ready to Move Faster?
Let’s chat. Book a free 20-minute call with me, Romanos Boraine, to map out your brand, systems, or content gaps - and explore what we can fix fast.
Romanos Boraine
Helping nonprofits, startups and social enterprises grow smarter through strategic positioning, creative direction, digital systems audits and workflow optimisation.
Services
Digital Tools