With the improvement and innovation in computer technology over the years, cyber threats have evolved as well. As a result, antivirus software is no longer the only cybersecurity solution, as more advanced cybersecurity solutions have been developed. EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) is one such modern solution developed for commercial enterprises. This technology safeguards an entire network by protecting all endpoints (devices) connected to the system.
If you’re considering EDR solutions for your business and want to know more about the basics of EDR and what makes it different from other network security software, read on.
Cybersecurity: A Brief History
Cybersecurity was an internal threat rather than an external one until the mid-1980s. Computer viruses didn’t exist; at that time the only threat was having someone find out your password. However, everything changed when a programmer named Bob Thomas created the first working model of a computer virus named “Creeper” which was further honed by German hacker Marcus Hess.
Hess used it in the first recorded computer hack that occurred in 1986. Since then, cyber threats such as viruses and hacking have grown exponentially, targeting and spreading through both software and hardware. Fortunately, this also has led to the development of various cybersecurity software solutions that provide comprehensive network and device security.
Standard Security
The standards for cybersecurity have evolved over the years for both businesses and individuals using computers and smart devices. There are currently multiple types of cybersecurity solutions on the market for individual and commercial users. Examples include:
- Network security monitoring tools
- Encryption tools
- Web vulnerability scanning tools
- Network defense wireless tools
- Packet sniffers
- Antivirus software
- Firewall
- PKI Services
- Managed detection devices
- Penetration testing
Some of these solutions are more expensive than others. Usually, commercial solutions are more expensive than business solutions.
EDR: New and Improved Cybersecurity
EDR, which stands for endpoint detection and response, is an integrated endpoint security solution. The endpoints refer to the devices with which the network is connected. The primary difference between EDR and basic antivirus software in the market is that EDRs actively assess malware threats and take preventive actions. This enables EDR software to excel in its threat hunting and incident response capabilities.
Antivirus software, on the other hand, uses a database to scan for threats and then act on it, leaving it vulnerable to new types of cybersecurity threats if not updated properly. This allows EDR to act in real-time as well as protect a larger number of devices simultaneously compared to the average low-tech cybersecurity software.
EDR software provides the following distinct advantages:
- Compilation and analysis of endpoint data for future reference
- Providing more visibility to the entire network without burdening it excessively
- EDR software can monitor endpoints both online and offline once activated. This mitigates internal cybersecurity threats
- EDR software can be integrated along with other pre-existing security solutions if compatible.
Individual software nodes or “agents” are installed in the endpoint devices included in the network. When these devices are connected to the network the first time they’re connected with the software server that handles the threat hunting and incident response tasks. The number of endpoints for an EDR setup can number to the hundreds, making it perfect for large scale organizations.
Is EDR Right for My Organization?
If you’re a business owner or potential tech startup looking for a dependable commercial cybersecurity solution, you might be wondering if EDR is right for you. The answer depends on your specific needs. You can evaluate your business’s cybersecurity needs by considering the following factors:
- Does your company or organization store sensitive information?
- Does your company allow employees to work from home or connect to the network using their own devices?
- Does your business require endpoint security more than network security?
- Does your business security have to handle encryptions?
- Does your business require active protection from hacking?
Standalone Security
If you answered “yes” to any of the questions above, then EDR is likely what your business needs. There are a lot of security solutions on the market, but EDR may be the most comprehensive yet. The best thing about the software is that you can use it as a standalone cybersecurity measure for your entire business.
