Endpoint Security Software

What is Endpoint Security Software?

Endpoint security software consists of necessary tools and capabilities to secure a wide variety of endpoints, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and pretty much any other device that can be used to access an organization's network. With an increase in remote work and subsequent shadow IT, organizations need to monitor their endpoints more comprehensively than ever, while also preventing unauthorized access via network perimeters.

Often used in conjunction with Identity and Access Management (IAM) tools, the best endpoint security platforms offer all the tools that organizations need to detect threats, implement speedy quarantine or remediation, and even execute user access policies on a granular level. As a result, endpoint security software goes beyond basic antivirus solutions, by offering protection that is not only holistic, but also proactive.

Key Features of Endpoint Security Software 

  • Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): EDR continuously monitors endpoints for signs of compromise. If any are detected, the system takes action to contain and remediate the threat, strengthening the overall security positioning.
  • Antivirus and Anti-Malware Protection: Identifies and removes various forms of malware, including viruses, worms, Trojans, and spyware, safeguarding endpoints from malicious software.
  • Firewalls: Controls both incoming and outgoing network traffic, ensuring that unauthorized access attempts are blocked to maintain optimum network security.
  • Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): IPS monitors network traffic for signs of suspicious activity and takes immediate action if any is detected. This proactive approach prevents attacks in real time.
  • Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Endpoint security software typically includes DLP capabilities (but can also integrate with dedicated DLP tools) to prevent sensitive data from being compromised or leaked, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations.
  • Device Encryption: Protects endpoint data from unauthorized access in the event of device loss or theft, adding an extra layer of security.
  • Endpoint Lifecycle Management: Manages the entire lifespan of endpoints, from initial deployment to eventual retirement, ensuring optimal security throughout the device's operational lifespan.
  • Threat Intelligence Integration: Endpoint security software receives real-time updates about emerging threats by integrating with threat intelligence feeds. This proactive approach enhances its ability to protect endpoints from new and evolving attacks.

Choosing the Right Endpoint Security Software

When selecting endpoint security software, organizations should consider factors like:

  1. The full scope of protection,
  2. Ease of deployment and long-term management,
  3. Integration capabilities with allied cybersecurity tools, such as network security or Mobile Device Management (MDM) platforms,
  4. The quality of support and coordination in the event of an attack, from the vendor's SOC.

Ultimately, it's imperative to ensure no threat is missed, unauthorized access is always prevented and incidents are triaged so that your internal security or IT teams are always aware of what is most severe, and needs to be prioritized immediately.

Endpoint security software, just like any other cybersecurity tool, also needs to evolve based on zero-day threats - while the same applies to your security teams' level of expertise.

Interested to learn more about endpoint security platforms? Please visit out endpoint security FAQs.

Top 10 Endpoint Security Software

Microsoft Defender for Business / Syxsense / NinjaOne / ThreatDown / Lookout / Trellix / Broadcom / Rapid7 Managed Security Services / Singularity Cloud / Webroot

WH Score
8.6
AVG

AVG

162reviews
Starting Price:$170.97 per device / per year
AVG Internet Security Business Edition provides a complete endpoint security solution suited to the requirements of small and medium organizations. Its main goal is to protect devices and data efficiently. Real-time protection, anti-malware defenses, a firewall, web protection, email protection, dev...
WH Score
8.6
FortiClient

FortiClient

18reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Fortinet (formerly ApSecure) is an expert in providing cloud security, cybersecurity, and network security. Fortinet is leading innovations in networking and security, by effectively detecting threats and providing industries with a quality user experience.
WH Score
8.5
Blumira

Blumira

11reviews
Starting Price:$0 per user / per month
Blumira is an all-in-one cloud security solution for small teams. Blumira offers the industry’s only free cloud SIEM with detection and response which deploys in minutes. Blumira’s team has more than 20 years of experience in defending networks including ethical hacking to help organizat...
WH Score
8.5
N-central

N-central

12reviews
Starting Price:N/A
N-able provides a variety of different security solutions to help you fully protect your business, from server backups, remote IT management, and all-inclusive systems for managing and protecting your business devices and data.
WH Score
8.5
Carbon Black Endpoint

Carbon Black Endpoint

3reviews
Starting Price:N/A
VMware Carbon Black Endpoint is an advanced endpoint protection platform tailored to meet your comprehensive security requirements and protect your organization from evolving cyber threats.
WH Score
8.4
Kaspersky Enterprise Security

Kaspersky Enterprise Security

23reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Business security solutions from Kaspersky target varying enterprise needs across the spectrum, thereby delivering a solution that is precise yet scalable.
WH Score
8.4
ESET

ESET

22reviews
Starting Price:N/A
ESET is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions for both consumers and businesses. Their software offers advanced protection against various threats, including viruses, malware, and ransomware. Here, we'll take a closer look at some of the critical features of ESET software and its pricing and...
WH Score
8.3
Worry-Free Business Security

Worry-Free Business Security

14reviews
Starting Price:$37.75 per user / per year
From the home of Trend Micro, Worry-Free Business Security is the ideal security suite for companies looking to deploy a comprehensive yet easily deployable solution. Monitor which websites your employees visit and block unsafe ones, so your internal networks can be preserved.
WH Score
8.3
Jamf Protect

Jamf Protect

16reviews
Starting Price:$12 per device / per year
JAMF is a popular endpoint security and device management system introduced for Apple. It makes it easy to manage Apple devices like iPhone, Mac, Apple TV and iPad. With Jamf, IT experts can manage the lifecycle of Apple devices. This includes managing and updating software, checking for security th...
WH Score
8.3
Forcepoint ONE

Forcepoint ONE

20reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Forcepoint ONE is a comprehensive cybersecurity platform that provides organizations with advanced security solutions to protect their critical data and assets. It is designed to address the evolving challenges of today's digital landscape and offers a unified approach to safeguarding against cyber ...

Endpoint Security Topics

Learn more about Endpoint Security Software

What Is The Difference Between An Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) And A Traditional Antivirus?

Traditional antivirus software serves as a specialized defense mechanism tailored to combat viruses. In contrast, an Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) takes a more comprehensive approach, incorporating a wider array of security functionalities. Alongside its antivirus capabilities, an EPP reinforces security with firewalls, Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and device encryption. This multifaceted strategy establishes a robust defense, fortifying against various cyber threats. By employing a combination of these advanced security measures, an EPP offers a heightened level of protection for endpoints, ensuring a more resilient defense against the evolving landscape of digital threats.

Do I Need Antivirus Software If I Have An Endpoint Protection Platform?

You can function without a traditional antivirus if you use an Endpoint Protection Platform, as EPPs offer all the capabilities of an AV, plus many other advanced capabilities that help to proactively secure devices. EPPs, unlike static AVs, can also detect zero-day threats, as they analyze behavior patterns among users and their devices to block, triage and remediate any incidents.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) vs Extended Detection and Response (XDR): What’s The Difference?

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) represent two distinct but crucial approaches to cybersecurity. EDR, as the name suggests, hones in on threats that are localized specifically to endpoints. These endpoints could range from individual devices like laptops and desktops to servers and mobile devices. By focusing on these critical touchpoints, EDR ensures a granular and detailed level of scrutiny, providing high visibility into potential security issues.

On the other hand, XDR takes a more expansive approach. It casts a broader net, encompassing endpoints, networks, cloud workloads, and other IT assets. This comprehensive view of the entire IT environment allows XDR to provide a holistic defense against various threats.

By monitoring and analyzing activity across these diverse elements, XDR can swiftly detect and mitigate potential security risks, regardless of where they originate or how they may traverse the IT landscape. This comprehensive coverage ensures that organizations have a robust defense against the multifaceted and evolving nature of modern cyber threats.

Does Endpoint Security Software Offer Remote Access/Control?

Certain endpoint security software solutions integrate remote access and control capabilities. This functionality empowers IT administrators to manage and troubleshoot endpoints from a remote location efficiently. By providing this level of accessibility, the software streamlines maintenance tasks, ensuring that endpoints remain secure and optimized without requiring physical proximity.

Does Endpoint Security Software Offer Device Lifecycle Management? 

Yes, some endpoint security software solutions incorporate device lifecycle management features. This capability empowers IT administrators to oversee the entire lifespan of endpoints, from their initial deployment to eventual retirement.

By providing a comprehensive framework for managing devices throughout their lifecycle, this functionality contributes to streamlined operations and ensures that endpoints remain secure and optimized.

Does Endpoint Security Software Integrate With Threat Intelligence?

Many endpoint security software solutions seamlessly integrate with threat intelligence feeds. This integration ensures the software remains up-to-date with the latest threat intelligence, providing real-time updates about emerging threats. By leveraging this intelligence, the software enhances its capacity to detect and neutralize evolving cyber risks swiftly, bolstering the organization's overall security posture. This proactive approach is instrumental in safeguarding against cyber threats' dynamic and evolving landscape.

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