Endpoint detection and response, otherwise known as EDR, is a type of network security tool that helps organizations do more to protect themselves against incoming threats. Enterprises can deploy EDR solutions to give their networks an added boost of security.
EDR plays a particularly important role in modern network security because endpoints are becoming an increasingly complex security challenge. In the past, it was possible for IT to keep track of all devices connecting to enterprise networks and cloud applications. With the proliferation of automation and personal device usage, however, there has become a clear and pressing need for EDR.
But what are some things to look for when shopping around for EDR solutions? Here are some of the top elements to consider:
Total Visibility and Monitoring Controls
When looking at EDR solutions, visibility is one of the most critical elements. A major component of EDR adoption is the benefits that come with being able to see what’s really happening on your networks in real time.
There are a few ways EDR can improve cyber security through its visibility and control capabilities. First, EDR can automatically identify endpoints when they attempt to connect to enterprise networks. Whether it’s someone’s laptop or phone, or a random monitor in a disparate part of a warehouse, every endpoint can provide an attack surface for malicious actors. With EDR, your system can spot unidentified endpoints and bring them into compliance with your security framework.
You’ll also want to seek out EDR products that have comprehensive dashboard and reporting capabilities. You need to constantly be updating your approach when defending enterprise networks. Being able to easily see and understand what’s happening on your networks can help inform best practices.
A Strong Team of Expert Support
Even the most capable IT departments can use a bit of extra help sometimes. This is especially the case when it comes to cyber security, which is one of the most critical, but advanced, aspects of the modern enterprise.
When looking for EDR solutions, it’s smart to consider the team behind the product itself. Of course, you only want to go with EDR that comes from a respected security firm. But this isn’t the only layer. Many EDR products also have excerpt teams to back you up when something goes awry. Having extended monitoring and response, not just from your EDR system, but also experts from the platform provider, can help stop threats before they proliferate.
Triage and Containment in a Hurry
How effective is your EDR at stopping threats once they’ve been identified? If an EDR tool isn’t able to actually stop an attack, it hasn’t really done its job. This is why triage and containment capabilities are essential when you’re comparing various EDR solutions.
Make sure there are clear triage protocols that can be put in place before you opt for any EDR solution. There should be explicit actions that will happen—such as alerts and automatic containment efforts from the EDR platform and its expert team—when the system detects abnormalities. At the same time, you want to have an EDR that isn’t constantly flagging non-issues as serious. Striking the right balance here can help you find the best solution.
More advanced and persistent threats, such as compromised credentials, can be difficult to detect for normal security tools. EDR, however, is designed specifically to recognize these anomalistic conditions, and spring into action when needed.
It’s also important to consider speed as a non-negotiable element here. The threat doesn’t need to be stopped tomorrow or next week. It needs to be neutralized right away. Only consider EDR tools that prioritize response speed and uptime. Otherwise, you’re going to end up paying for a service that doesn’t do nearly enough.
Endpoint detection and response is an important part of enterprise cyber security today. Finding the right products and services to build out your EDR will keep your networks safer from constant risks.
