Endpoints are increasing due to factors such as the widespread adoption of remote and hybrid work models and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies. The increase in entry points to the network creates more scope for vulnerabilities because personal devices used in BYOD scenarios often lack the security configurations that internal office devices have. This difference in security standards prompts companies to adopt enterprise endpoint protection for security features that protect all the devices in a network. These features often include threat prevention tools, such as antivirus and anti-malware software, and firewall protection to scan and block malicious code actively.
Let’s explore what endpoint protection means to enterprises, highlighting why it is necessary, what it does, and its best practices. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the insights needed to protect your organization from cyber threats.
What is Enterprise Endpoint Protection?
Enterprise endpoint protection is a security framework designed to protect all devices within an organization’s network, known as endpoints. Although perimeter security, such as firewalls certainly helps against external threats, it is ineffective once the network is breached.
Enterprise endpoint protection protects every device on the network and is prone to outside and inside vulnerabilities. It helps enterprises avoid illegal access, data breaches, and the spread of malware.
What Are Endpoints?
In an enterprise setting, endpoints can include various computing devices that carry out functions such as communication, data processing, and remote access. These endpoints include traditional items like desktops and laptops, mobile devices, servers, or Internet of Things (IoT) devices. But at the same time, their use brings security risks. The most common types of endpoints include:
- Desktops and laptops: Desktop computers and laptops are vulnerable to malware, ransomware, phishing emails, and unauthorized access, often by way of system-level security vulnerabilities or social engineering. A compromised device can lead to data breaches and also give attackers access to the larger network, meaning business operations are disrupted and money is lost.
- Mobile devices: Mobile devices face threats like malware, phishing messages as well as insecure network connections. A compromised mobile device might disclose sensitive corporate data or fall on unauthorized resources at the company level. It will lead to data leakage, part compliance violations by public and private organizations, and even cause the entire network to crash.
- Servers: Servers are perhaps vulnerable to such assaults as DDoS attacks, ransomware viruses, and hacking of reversible penetrability. A corrupted server can spread data loss and application downtime alike and disclose important business information to the outside, which is likely to disable all business activity, causing significant financial harm.
- Internet of Things (IoT) devices: Devices in the IoT can easily be breached as they often lack robust security and cannot withstand a botnet attack. Exploits through default settings or outdated firmware can pose threats to device security. With such compromised devices, attackers can access critical systems and disrupt operations, e.g., environmental controls/security systems.
- Printers and scanners: In their compromised state, printers and scanner files can be intercepted remotely, providing openings into networks for attack. They can lead to data breaches and the spread of malware throughout multiple systems, causing widespread operational problems.
- Point of sale (POS) systems: POS systems are financially targeted and often are used to store card data. If this information is compromised it can result in financial fraud as well as expose an organization to legal liabilities and penalties, and damage its public reputation.
Common Threats to Enterprise Endpoints
Enterprise endpoints are prime targets for cyber threats. They are where critical business data is stored and processed, providing access to the wider network structure. Every endpoint contains sensitive information, such as customer records, financial data, and intellectual property.
This makes them very appealing to cyber thieves. Down below are a few of the threats that endpoints face:
Malware
Malware may infect endpoint devices and steal data, and in some cases, it can also threaten to extort the organization by denying service. The 2017 WannaCry attack infected more than 200,000 computers worldwide. It crippled a number of organizations, resulting in significant operational downtime, so much that it cost millions to recover.
Phishing attacks
Phishing attacks can be employed to dupe users into revealing confidential information via misleading emails or text messages. In 2016, phishing emails were sent to key employees of John Podesta’s campaign. They exposed confidential emails that heavily swayed the U.S. presidential election. This provoked widespread embarrassment and invasion of everybody’s privacy.
Ransomware
This is a set of malware that encrypts the data in the endpoint, demanding a ransom for its release. The 2021 Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack disrupted fuel supply along the East Coast of the U.S., leading to fuel shortages. The company paid a ransom of $4.4 million to restore operations.
Zero-Day Exploits
Software flaws can be used by attackers before the software developers release a new version to fix the problem. The SolarWinds breach exploited a zero-day vulnerability to infiltrate U.S. government agencies and major corporations, leading to widespread espionage, compromised data, and the need for massive recovery efforts.
Insider Threats
Malicious insiders or careless employees who have legitimate access to the corporate network and either have the motivation to harm the organization or have done so accidentally. In 2023, two employees at Tesla leaked confidential information that harmed Tesla’s reputation.
Advanced persistent threats (APTs)
Prolonged cyber campaigns in which attackers sneak into an organization’s network infrastructure. One example of an APT is the “Titan Rain” cyberattack. This series of cyberattacks began in 2003 and was attributed to hackers based in China. It targeted U.S. government networks, including high-profile organizations such as NASA and the FBI, causing concern between the governments.
Unsecured Devices
These include private devices that are not protected at work. In this case, the 2019 Capital One data breach occurred when an employee’s personal cloud configuration was exploited, leading to the theft of over 100 million customer records. The breach resulted in lawsuits, regulatory penalties, and damaged customer trust.
How Does Endpoint Protection Work?
Implementing endpoint protection requires a set of actions designed to secure every device connected to the network. This multi-layered approach ensures that businesses can defend against malware, ransomware, insider threats, and other risks that could lead to data breaches. Here is a breakdown of how it works:
Threat Prevention
Endpoint protection begins by proactively blocking potential threats before they reach the endpoint. For instance, antivirus and anti-malware solutions scan files and applications to detect and remove viruses.
Firewalls monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic, preventing unauthorized access. An organization using these tools can prevent a phishing attack from installing malware on a laptop and stop the threat before it compromises the network.
Real-Time Monitoring
Endpoints are continuously monitored for suspicious activities, such as repeated login attempts at odd hours or unauthorized access to sensitive data. For example, if an attacker tries to log into an employee’s device using stolen credentials, real-time monitoring tools can detect the anomaly and alert IT staff.
This constant vigilance significantly improves visibility and allows quick detection of threats before they escalate.
Automated Response
Upon detecting a threat, endpoint protection solutions automatically isolate the affected device, block harmful activity, and notify IT administrators. The system also automatically quarantines the device and stops the encryption process.
This rapid response minimizes the attack’s impact and prevents it from spreading to other devices within the network.
Data Encryption
Encryption tools ensure that data is protected both at rest (on storage devices) and in transit (during transfers). Even if an endpoint is compromised, encrypted data remains inaccessible without the encryption keys.
This is crucial for preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as customer records or financial data, during a breach.
Patch Management
Keeping software up to date is crucial to closing security gaps. Endpoint protection solutions often include automated patch management, which ensures that all devices are running the latest security updates and fixes.
It works by automatically patching all affected devices when a zero-day vulnerability is discovered to reduce the window of opportunity for attackers to exploit it.
Device Control
Endpoint protection also offers device control to regulate USB drives and external device access to prevent unauthorized data transfer and potential malware introduction. The device control feature allows granular control over what can be connected to the network.
In this way, a company can block the use of unauthorized USB drives to prevent sensitive data from being copied or malware being introduced.
Centralized Management
All of these security functions are typically managed through a centralized platform that provides IT teams with visibility and control over the entire network of endpoints.
This allows IT staff to monitor all endpoints, enforce security policies, deploy updates, and generate reports on the security status of the organization.
How to Implement Enterprise Endpoint Protection?
Implementing enterprise endpoint protection will help secure all devices within your network by reducing vulnerabilities. However, it demands a comprehensive approach to protecting confidential data and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Here are the steps to implementing enterprise endpoint protection effectively.
1. Review your current environment
Testing different types of devices such as desktops, mobile devices, and Internet of Things (IoT) systems such as smart devices, tracking systems, and sensors can produce a better understanding of your network and where potential risk points are.
By locating gaps and risks like old software or unguarded units, you develop an endpoint security strategy to encounter particular threats.
2. Choose the right endpoint protection solution
Selecting an endpoint protection platform (EPP) that will actually protect devices from security incidents is much more difficult. Many organizations are likely to choose a solution that combines real-time threat detection with automatic response in one package rather than having different programs on each device in the organization.
SentinelOne’s Singularity platform provides complete enterprise endpoint protection by integrating prevention, detection, and response for all endpoints, including IoT devices, mobile devices, and cloud workloads.
3. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA is an invaluable means of boosting security by introducing additional protection beyond passwords. Even if someone manages to steal your username and password, they cannot log in without also providing some other form of authentication such as a one-time code sent via email or mobile notification. This helps to greatly reduce the risk of unauthorized system access, thereby protecting the data stored on each device from both internal and external threats.
4. Set up centralized management
Center management tools permit security teams to observe and regulate all endpoints from a single console. They give a common approach to force security policies through while providing more rapid response, as well as streamlined software updates. It saves effort By offering IT teams real-time control and overview across all over the network.
5. Automate patching and updates
Each year, security vulnerabilities in SSL/TLS affect almost every individual (or at least those who use the internet). It serves as a strong reminder to always update security tools. Tools that manage patching automatically ensure that devices are updated just as soon as updates become available, thereby minimizing the exposure window. This prevents attacks against obsolete systems, frees up your IT team from manual updates, eliminates cyber-attack risks, and simplifies things.
6. Deploy data encryption
Data encryption is vital to safeguard confidential information in storage and in transit. If a rogue device gets into the network, encrypted data means that unauthorized users cannot access it, even if they have physical control and ownership of the gear. This makes the chances of a breach much lower and guarantees compliance with data privacy rules.
7. Monitor and respond in real-time
Real-time tools and automation are essential elements for the detection and response to threats at once. Tools that work in this way help contain attacks by removing compromised devices from the network and limiting damage caused by them.
Key Components of Enterprise Endpoint Protection
The best endpoint protection for enterprises will be equipped with various main components which are split into different sets of software or modules. These components work together to protect endpoints from an array of threats and to tackle risks both inside and outside the enterprise.
By doing this, companies can achieve complete protection, that is reducing vulnerabilities while continuing to operate as usual.
1. Endpoint protection platform (EPP)
EPP is the primary line of defense against common threats such as malware. It blocks threats before they reach the endpoint, reducing the chance of compromise.
Users will experience fewer interruptions and a minimized risk of infection, allowing for an uninterrupted focus on their work. EPP includes antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall capabilities for total end-device coverage.
2. Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
EDR provides tools to detect hidden attacks after they escape initial defenses and respond accordingly. For IT departments, this boosts efficiency by enabling proactive threat hunting and automated repairs based on predefined rules. This reduces the time spent on manual monitoring and allows users to remain at their work undisturbed.
3. Unified endpoint management (UEM)
UEM offers a comprehensive solution to manage and protect different types of endpoints, including desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and IoT devices. Standardized security policies across all platforms, coupled with automatic update services for necessary patching, reduce the workload for IT staff.
4. Privileged access management (PAM)
PAM manages and oversees access to certain critical systems by users called privileged users and works with least-privilege principles to minimize insider risks. In other words, users will have greater security without giving up their working capability.
For IT departments, PAM increases control and oversight of high-level access and thereby lowers the opportunity for unauthorized actions.
5. Antivirus solutions
Antivirus is a core component of endpoint security, focused on the identification and elimination of harmful software. This assures users that their terminals stay safe and functional, preventing the spread of malware that would otherwise disrupt productivity. It also takes some legwork out of IT staff needing to detect malware themselves.
Best Practices for Implementing Endpoint Protection
Implementing an effective endpoint protection strategy involves creating a strategy that addresses potential vulnerabilities across all devices and users within your network. It should integrate technology with your policies and employee awareness to combat cyberattacks.
Here is a practical way to help you implement effective endpoint protection to keep your network secure.
1. Cover all your devices
Think about every device that connects to your network, such as computers, smartphones, servers, and even IoT gadgets. All these endpoints need protection, so look for a security solution that covers all your bases. SentinelOne’s Singularity platform is designed to provide total endpoint protection that secures all devices across your network.
The platform’s AI-driven detection and response capabilities help organizations ensure consistent protection and visibility across all endpoints.
2. Stay Updated with Patches
Cybercriminals often target outdated software, exploiting vulnerabilities that haven’t been patched. The 2017 Equifax data breach occurred because the company failed to patch a known vulnerability in Apache Struts, a widely used software framework.
This failure allowed attackers to access sensitive data and compromised the personal information of 147.9 million people. Automated patch management tools can simplify this process, ensuring your systems are always up to date and reducing the risk of similar incidents.
3. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Adding a second layer of security with MFA significantly strengthens protection by requiring users to verify their identity using more than just a password. Common forms of verification include biometric factors like fingerprints or facial recognition, one-time codes sent to a user’s phone, or hardware tokens like security keys.
Industry giants like Google have implemented MFA across its workforce, using physical security keys. This measure reportedly prevented phishing attacks entirely, as attackers were unable to bypass the second form of verification, even if they obtained passwords.
4. Encrypt your Data
Encrypting data ensures that, even if a device is compromised, the information remains inaccessible without the encryption key. Organizations can use encryption tools such as BitLocker for Windows, FileVault for macOS, or full-disk encryption for mobile devices.
Additionally, using VPNs or encrypted email services ensures that sensitive data sent over networks is protected.
5. Centralize your Management
A centralized endpoint management system lets you keep an eye on everything from one place. Then, security policies are enforced, monitored for threats, and dealt with quickly if something goes wrong.
6. Train your Team
Even with the best technology in place, your security is only as strong as the people using it. Regular training and autonomous endpoint management help your team recognize threats like phishing and understand safe online practices.
7. Implement Endpoint Detection and Response
Enterprise detection and response tools give you a detailed view of your endpoints to help you catch and respond to advanced persistent threats (APTs), fileless malware, and insider threats that might slip past your initial precautions.
In 2017 there was the NotPetya attack, which spread fileless malware that bypassed traditional antivirus tools and crippled major companies like Maersk. It led to substantial disruptions in operations and financial losses estimated at $200 to $300 million for Maersk alone.
An enterprise endpoint protection comparison can help you identify the best solution for your needs.
8. Enforce the Least Privileged Access
As a general rule, users should be given access only to the resources they need to do their job. For example, an IT helpdesk employee may need access to user accounts for password resets but shouldn’t have access to sensitive databases or network configurations. This limits the impact if their account is compromised, as attackers would not be able to manipulate critical systems or access highly sensitive data.
9. Audit Regularly
Regularly audit your security policies and vulnerabilities to identify gaps in your endpoint protection strategy. It helps ensure your defenses remain effective against evolving threats.
These are critical to endpoint protection, but relying solely on traditional approaches can be insufficient. An AI-driven endpoint solution can ensure total enterprise protection.
Choosing the Right Enterprise Endpoint Protection Tool
When selecting the right enterprise endpoint protection tool, it’s important to focus on solutions that protect your organization and streamline workflows. The right endpoint protection platform (EPP) should assist your team in reducing manual tasks, improving visibility, and allowing for seamless integration with other security systems.
Let’s take a look at the essential features you need to be aware of:
1. Multi-Layered Detection
EPPs that combine behavioral analysis together with machine learning can detect more complex threats quickly. This means that your IT team spends less time on manual investigations and more on strategic projects, reducing disturbances and boosting the security of your organization.
2. Real-time Threat Intelligence
By relying on real-time threat intelligence, EPPs can stay updated and react to the latest cyber threats. The system automatically adjusts per threat detection to protect your organization from known and emerging threats.
3. Seamless Integration
Security tools that easily integrate with your existing system allow for a unified security strategy. It simplifies the complexity of managing multiple systems so that you can make quicker decisions to save time and reduce potential security loops.
4. Centralized Management
A combined dashboard empowers your team with total oversight from one point of control. Instead of moving between different interfaces, you can create rules, keep an eye on endpoints, and remediate threats from this spot. This ensures that security management is consistent across the entire enterprise.
5. Automated Remediation
Features like automated remediation and system rollback help contain and resolve threats with minimal intervention. When a threat is identified, the system automatically isolates the compromised endpoint and stops spreading before it does any more harm.
SentinelOne’s AI-Driven Endpoint Security for Enterprise Endpoint Protection
SentinelOne’s Singularity endpoint platform protects enterprises against evolving cyber threats. The platform ensures endpoints are secure without needing constant manual intervention. Its key features include:
- Autonomous threat detection and response: SentinelOne continuously monitors endpoint activities using AI to identify and neutralize threats before they can cause harm.
- Ranger: This feature helps automatically discover and secure IoT devices within your network. It identifies unmanaged devices, assesses risk, and applies appropriate security policies.
- Real-time visibility across all endpoints: SentinelOne provides complete visibility into all endpoints across your enterprise for centralized management and quick response times.
- Integrated EPP and EDR: SentinelOne combines EPP and EDR in a single, unified platform for end-to-end protection against both known and unknown threats.
- Storylines: SentinelOne’s Storylines contextualize and correlate telemetry data for a clear visual timeline of endpoint activities. It aids in faster incident response and efficient threat hunting.
- RemoteOps: This feature allows security teams to conduct remote forensic investigations and remediation. It enables deep analysis and action on endpoints without disrupting users.
- ActiveEDR: SentinelOne’s ActiveEDR goes beyond traditional EDR by providing context-aware, autonomous responses to threats. It helps prevent threats from spreading across the network and contain them as early as possible.
Conclusion
Many organizations struggle with cyber attacks due to outdated or broken security and management approaches that do not fully address their vulnerabilities. An endpoint protection strategy minimizes downtime and operational hiccups. However, achieving this level of protection requires more than a basic understanding of endpoint security and following the aforementioned best practices.
SentinelOne’s Singularity endpoint platform provides the ultimate endpoint protection for enterprises. The platform ensures endpoints are secure without manual intervention through autonomous threat detection and response, based on machine learning and artificial intelligence. Its centralized management and real-time visibility across all endpoints aid cybersecurity efforts.
Book a demo and see how you can secure every device in your network and prevent modern threats.
FAQs:
1. What is the difference between EPP and EDR?
Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) is all about stopping threats from getting to the endpoint by using antivirus solutions, and firewalls, among others. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) applies detection and response to endpoints that an attacker has bypassed because it analyzes the endpoint in real time, conducts investigations, and takes necessary action.
2. What are the three main types of endpoint security?
Endpoint security comes in three primary forms: antivirus solutions that specifically combat malware, endpoint protection platform (EPP) to prevent attacks from occurring at all, and endpoint detection and response (EDR)-based tools designed for identifying or stopping advanced threats inside the network.
3. What is the difference between endpoint security and Defender?
Endpoint security solutions offer total protection, including advanced features such as AI-driven threat detection and automated response. Microsoft Defender is good for basic antivirus and anti-malware protection on Windows, but it doesn’t have the depth or range of advanced features.
4. Which endpoint protection technique is commonly used?
AI-powered endpoint detection and response (EDR) is popular because it enables threat hunting, real-time responses to detected threats, and incident containment. It is especially useful when dealing with threat management and exposure issues on large enterprise networks.