Endpoint detection and response, or EDR, is a set of cybersecurity services that vigilantly monitors the connections made to your network for suspicious activity and cyberattacks that target the devices connected to the network. Small and medium businesses can benefit from EDR because it can both act immediately to protect devices and provide alerts that aggregate information from various sources that can make tracking down threats much easier. Here are some of the basics about EDR that you should know to make an informed decision on if your business needs EDR to improve its cybersecurity posture!
What is EDR?
Endpoint detection and response is a collection of cybersecurity services that allow every endpoint connected to your network to be monitored and protected against malicious activity. This means all of the devices on your network, such as tablets, laptops, desktops, servers, and more, will be protected by endpoint protection software and analysis tools. These security services can function to protect or quarantine endpoints subject to suspicious activity. Then, EDR can package together collected information to present to your IT department that allows them to launch pointed investigations into issues and run the risk assessments necessary to ensure malicious actors haven’t compromised information on your network.
EDR Advantages
Because the number of endpoints that connect to a network has been increasing with the proliferation of smart devices and the internet of things (IoT), endpoint detection and response has become an essential tool for a business of any size. Endpoint protection also offers a reliable layer of protection for the devices your employees will use while they work remotely. Additionally, many EDR solutions constantly receive information from threat intelligence teams to stay on top of the attacks targeting your industry. A strong EDR setup will integrate with other security services to provide network coverage, and, most importantly, EDR tools can isolate attacked endpoints and immediately provide actionable guides for remediation.
Risk Management Example
Endpoint detection and response services constantly monitor the endpoints on your network through installed endpoint protection software or other indirect means. This means that if an end user were to click on a phishing email’s link, the endpoint protection on their device could block access to the URL with an automated response. Alternatively, if the hackers use trusted websites or services to launch an attack, the EDR tools on your network can identify an infected device as soon as malware is downloaded and begins reaching out to command and control (C2) servers. The endpoint will then be isolated from the network, cutting off its connection with other parts of the business, and alerts will be sent to IT.
Summary
Endpoint detection and response offers small businesses a layer of cybersecurity that has become pivotal as malicious actors increase the complexity of their attacks. When combined with network detection and response (NDR) and other security solutions, EDR can help keep every endpoint on your network secure no matter where in the world your employees work. If your business is growing to include more endpoints, adding additional layers of security to meet regulatory compliance, or simply needs to improve its cybersecurity posture, then EDR may be the right solution for you. Our security specialists are always ready to setup a complimentary consultation with your SMB to explore the best EDR solutions for you!
