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Endpoint security isn’t a household term, but it should be. It is the way that corporations protect their networks against cyber threats, primarily when employees work remotely.
It is a vital tool to safeguard against data breaches, preventing hackers from exploiting device vulnerabilities and breaking into business systems in search of sensitive information.
Detects Malware
Endpoint security software prevents attacks on devices connected to the company network, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and desktops. The software and services can also prevent hackers from accessing company files and stealing information.
Unlike traditional antivirus (AV), a staple in most businesses, modern endpoint protection software uses more advanced technology to detect and stop malware. One of the most essential features is sandboxing, which takes suspicious files and isolates them from the rest of the system for further analysis. This allows the solution to see what they do without risking the integrity of the entire network.
The machine learning that powers modern endpoint security solutions can identify behavior patterns and alert the IT team to potential threats. This can be particularly helpful for spotting zero-day attacks, which are almost impossible to predict and prevent. It also reduces downtime for the business and ensures that employees can continue to work even after an attack. This is essential because 85 percent of data breaches are caused by human error, according to the Verizon 2021 Data Breach Investigations Report.
Stops Viruses
Regarding viruses, no shortage of threats can grind your business operations to a halt. These include ransomware, malware, zero-day attacks, and more. To prevent these threats, you need practical tools to keep up with cyberattacks.
Traditional endpoint security, such as antivirus software, is an excellent first line of defense. However, it is not up to the task of defending modern enterprises. This is because it is easy for hackers to create malware that has a “signature” that antivirus or anti-malware software doesn’t recognize.
As a result, many antivirus solutions miss more than 60 percent of all threats. Next-generation endpoint security solutions and managed security services use artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies to keep up with changing threats. They also monitor device activity, including file creation and driver loading, registry modification, disk access, and memory access to identify and stop malware. Moreover, they provide a centralized portal for IT teams and employees to remotely monitor, oversee and protect devices connected to the corporate network, including BYODs, smartphones, and tablets.
Stops Spyware
Endpoint Security Software can stop spyware from running on computers, servers, or other devices that connect to the business network. The software will monitor all applications and prevent them from executing if they are found to be infected. This will protect your sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access to your network.
Cyberattacks are increasingly sophisticated and complex. Hackers are constantly developing new ways to steal information, gain access to systems, and trick employees into revealing critical details. Combined with the reputational and financial damage that can result from a data breach, it’s clear why businesses need strong security measures.
A robust endpoint solution will have several programs that work together to protect each device on a network. For example, an endpoint security solution might include an agent application that installs on all devices, regularly collects data, and reports back to a centralized server. This will eliminate blind spots, improve visibility and make it easy to detect and respond to advanced threats like zero-day attacks. Moreover, the agent will block attacks without slowing down endpoints or the network with frequent signature updates.
Prevents Ransomware
Ransomware is one of the most common threats faced by businesses. When a device is compromised by ransomware, the threat actor demands money from the company for its safe return. A good EDR solution will protect your organization from such attacks by preventing malicious programs from entering the network. This is done through various methods, such as file-based detection, anti-malware, and granular application control.
Traditional antivirus software can no longer protect your business against new malware risks. With so many devices connecting to your network, you need a comprehensive security solution that protects your business from every angle.
For instance, if an employee works remotely from home or offsite, an EDR solution that manages these endpoints securely is essential for your business. The best solutions will offer a centralized management tool that allows you to deploy applications and policies to each remote endpoint. This helps your IT team manage your remote devices and protects you from cyberattacks. Ideally, your solution should include forensic tools to help unlock the whole story behind an attack.
Prevents Identity Theft
With remote work on the rise, endpoint security software is crucial to help secure devices, like laptops and smartphones, that employees bring to work. These “endpoints” are often the entry point for hackers trying to enter a business network, steal confidential information, or disrupt operations.
Traditionally, anti-malware software detects malware by examining files entering the corporate network and comparing them to an ever-increasing database of threat information stored in the cloud. However, it’s easy for hackers to modify the characteristics of malicious files to evade signature-based detection.
Next-generation endpoint protection uses a different approach, using machine learning and AI to prevent fileless attacks and zero days. These solutions also include automated incident response capabilities to provide faster, more comprehensive cybersecurity coverage.