Let’s talk about endpoints.
What are endpoints?
Endpoints essentially include everything from desktops, laptops to mobile devices and servers. But did you know that 70% of successful breaches start at the endpoint? Which is why protecting them, like your network is a crucial component of creating a good security strategy.
Protecting your endpoints
When it comes to protecting your organization’s endpoints, choosing the right Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solution is important EDR continuously monitors endpoint activity for any suspicious behavior, enabling rapid detection and response to threats. This capability distinguishes EDR from other preventive measures, such as antivirus software or firewalls, making it a complementary layer in any security stack.
Here are three key points to consider when selecting an EDR solution:
1.Real-Time Detection, Usability, and Integration
Real-Time Detection and Alerting
An effective EDR solution should provide real-time detection and alerting to quickly identify and respond to threats. This capability allows your security team to respond promptly to potential breaches, mitigating damage and reducing recovery time. Real-time detection ensures that threats are identified and addressed as they occur, rather than after the fact, which can prevent significant data loss and operational disruption.
Usability
The EDR solution of your choice should be easy to roll out and use, allowing your team to implement and operate it without extensive training or disruption to your workflow. Complex systems can lead to implementation delays and steep learning curves, which might hinder effective usage.
Note: When choosing your EDR solution, check if they have intuitive interfaces and streamlines processes so your team can quickly adapt and use the tool efficiently. This reduces the burden on your IT staff. We know they already have so much going on.
Integration with Existing Tools
Your EDR solution should integrate seamlessly with your existing security infrastructure. This includes compatibility with other security tools, such as SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) systems, antivirus software, and firewalls.
2. Management and Skill Requirements
Not a “Set It and Forget It” Solution
It’s important to understand that EDR solutions require ongoing management and monitoring. They are not a “set it and forget it” type of solution. Consider whether your team has the necessary skill sets and abilities to effectively manage the EDR solution. This includes tasks such as configuring alerts, analyzing threat data, and responding to incidents. If your team lacks the expertise, you may need to invest in training or consider other options.
3. Decide if Managed or Unmanaged EDR is the right route for your organization
Unmanaged EDR
Unmanaged EDR solutions require your internal team to handle all aspects of management and monitoring. This can be a good option if you have a skilled and dedicated security team as it allows greater control and customization. But take note that it also demands significant time and expertise to manage effectively.
Managed EDR
Managed EDR solutions, on the other hand, provide external support from a third-party provider. This can be beneficial if you lack the resources or expertise to manage the solution in-house. Managed EDR services include continuous monitoring, threat detection, incident response, and regular updates performed by cybersecurity professionals.
