In network security, endpoint security is the practice of protecting endpoints or entry points of end-user devices such as laptops and mobile devices from malicious parties. An endpoint security system works to give organizations the ability to detect and respond to security events within their environments. Endpoint security has evolved from traditional antivirus software to providing extensive protection from advanced malware and threats. Common endpoint devices include:
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Mobile devices
- Desktops
- Smart watches
- Servers
- Printers
- ATM machines
The importance of endpoint security
Endpoint security is becoming an increasingly common IT security function and concern as more employees participate in Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies and as the popularity of Internet of Things (IoT) increases. In addition, more employees are working from home as the COVID-19 pandemic shifts the workforce to remote. Between connecting to home Wi-Fi networks, participating in BYOD, and the rising prevalence of IOT, the enterprise network security perimeter is extremely susceptible to penetration.
In many ways, data is the most important asset that a company has. To lose that data, or share it with a malicious party, puts a company at risk. As hackers continue to come up with new ways to gain access, steal information, or manipulate employees into giving out sensitive data, endpoint security systems have become a necessity for enterprise security.
Endpoint security systems
End Detection and Response (EDR) solutions give companies a centralized platform for monitoring endpoints, catching attacks before they spread, and responding to incidents as they arise.
Another endpoint security solution, Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP) works to prevent file-based malware, detect and block malicious activity from applications, and dynamically respond to security incidents and alerts. An EPP focuses solely on prevention, so relying on an EPP tool alone may not be enough to mitigate the risk of breaches. It’s worth mentioning that most EDR products now include EPP capabilities.
Comprehensive EDR vendors have the following security features:
- Data loss prevention
- Vulnerability management
- Patching
- Application whitelisting and control
- Identity access management
- Data classification and protection
- Privileged account management
- VPN
- Endpoint encryption
Top EDR vendors include:
- CrowdStrike
- Check Point
- Sentinel One
- F-Secure
- Palo Alto
