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
8.3
F5
6reviews
Starting Price:N/A
F5 Networks, commonly known as F5, is a leading provider of application delivery networking (ADN) technology. The company offers various solutions that help organizations efficiently deliver applications and secure their network infrastructure. With its innovative products and services, F5 enables b...
WH Score
8.2
CyberArk
9reviews
Starting Price:N/A
CyberArk is an industry leader in Identity & Access Management (IAM). CyberArk is trusted by global organizations for identity protection and as a defense system against cyber attacks. The CyberArk Endpoint Privilege Manager has 100% efficacy against more than 3 million ransomware strains. Havin...
WH Score
8.2
Secureworks
2reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Secureworks is a Dell company that provides managed security services, Threat Intelligence-as-a-Service, Incident Response-as-a-Service, and cloud security. The company also offers a suite of tools to help organizations with their cybersecurity needs. These tools include a Security Information and E...
WH Score
8.1
CylanceENDPOINT
10reviews
Starting Price:N/A
CylanceENDPOINT is a cutting-edge endpoint security solution that employs artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to proactively predict and prevent even the most sophisticated cyber threats.
WH Score
8.1
CrowdStrike Falcon
7reviews
Starting Price:$59.99 per device / per year
CrowdStrike Falcon is an AI-driven cybersecurity solution that provides threat detection, prevention, and response for any organization. Its cloud-based solution integrates security and IT operations management using a single lightweight agent for effective defense across endpoints, backups, and dat...
WH Score
8.1
Cisco Secure
16reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Cisco is ushering in the new era of networking with Cisco Secure.
WH Score
8.1
Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud

Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud

2reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Acronis is data protection software vendor that specializes in cybersecurity and cloud security, and solves accessibility, privacy and security issues. It separated from a Singaporean company called Parallels and now its products enabling secure backup, enterprise file sync and disaster recovery are...
WH Score
7.9
GoSecure Titan
0reviews
Starting Price:N/A
GoSecure is an information technology company and cybersecurity leader that provides quality services of predictive endpoint detection, prevention, and response capabilities. The platform aims to empower security teams by offering unique solutions to counter advanced cyber threats and ensure full-sp...
WH Score
7.9
SonicWall
0reviews
Starting Price:N/A
SonicWall is an enterprise-grade cybersecurity platform that protects distributed enterprises’ cloud, hybrid, and traditional systems from security breaches, and prevents cyber attacks. SonicWall also provides tailored security solutions to fulfill the protection and compliance needs of variou...
WH Score
7.9
WatchGuard
0reviews
Starting Price:N/A
WatchGuard is a trusted provider of cybersecurity solutions and services, catering to businesses, service providers, and industries worldwide. Their extensive range of offerings includes network security, endpoint security, identity security, and managed services. With a focus on AI-driven NDR secur...

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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