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
7.9
Ivanti
12reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Ivanti offers various IT management products and technologies with its main focus on endpoint security and cloud computing. Headquartered in South Jordan Utah, Ivanti was formerly known by its founding name LANDesk which after several acquisitions was changed in 2017. It was established as an IT ass...
WH Score
7.8
Xprotect
0reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Founded by Rajesh Khazanchi and Nithin Mehta, ColorTokens is a security solution provider that provides endpoint security, cloud security, secure access to applications, and infrastructure for ransomware prevention and environment separation. In the latest Forrester New Wave report ColorTokens was r...
WH Score
7.8
Nozomi Networks
0reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Nozomi Networks is a security software company ensures OT and IoT security and visibility. OT and IoT software usage has increased manifold globally. With this increased usage, it is important to ensure the security of this software. Nozomi Networks also offers real-time network visibility along wit...
WH Score
7.8
Check Point Next Generation Firewalls (NGFW)

Check Point Next Generation Firewalls (NGFW)

9reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Check Point Next Generation Firewalls (NGFW) are advanced security solutions that provide comprehensive protection for networks, applications, and data. They offer a range of features and capabilities that go beyond traditional firewalls, making them an essential tool in today's threat landscape.&nb...
WH Score
7.8
Keyfactor Control
2reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Keyfactor is an IoT Security solution with over 500 customers around the globe. Keyfactor is trusted by industry leaders like Levi’s, Rackspace, Marathon, American Family Insurance, Tyson, and EQ bank. Founded by Ted Shorter and Kevin von Keyserling in 2001 Keyfactor started as a professional ...
WH Score
7.7
Darktrace
0reviews
Starting Price:N/A
Darktrace is a pioneer in cybersecurity, employing the prowess of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to usher in a new era of real-time threat detection, response, and remediation. Darktrace unifies its AI-powered cybersecurity suite, seamlessly integrating its products Prevent, Detect, Respond, and Heal ...
WH Score
7.4
AhnLab XDR
0reviews
Starting Price:N/A
AhnLab XDR is a leading Extended Detection and Response (XDR) platform equipped with robust security planning and automated response (SOAR) capabilities. This platform empowers organizations to efficiently identify, investigate, and respond to threats across their entire infrastructure.
WH Score
7.4
AT&T Managed Threat Detection and Response

AT&T Managed Threat Detection and Response

4reviews
Starting Price:N/A
AT&T Cybersecurity, formerly known as AlienVault, is a leading company in the Unified Threat Management (UTM) and Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) industries. AT&T cybersecurity provides users with open source services and commercial platforms that help them manage and prioritize cyb...
WH Score
6.8
Avast Business
0reviews
Starting Price:$15.19 per device / per year
Avast Business delivers a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions meticulously crafted to shield your business from an expansive array of threats. Avast Business is a trusted ally in cybersecurity, catering to businesses of all dimensions.
WH Score
6.4
VIPRE
0reviews
Starting Price:$96 per user / per year
VIPRE is a cybersecurity solutions provider renowned for its advanced threat detection and prevention prowess, boasting over two decades of experience.

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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