Endpoint security should be a top priority for chief information officers (CIOs) and cyber security teams. These user devices are the most common way for hackers to gain access to company networks. Among these are the ever-increasing number of employee computers, internet-enabled devices and servers.
The majority of business network attacks occur at compromised endpoints. As a result of hybrid workplaces and telecommuting, corporate networks have become extremely vulnerable, with an increasing number of unmanaged devices being added all the time.
Remote working trends are likely to continue, requiring cyber security professionals to rethink their endpoint security strategies. Here is a list of tips for businesses looking to improve their endpoint security.
1. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) software
EDR tools collect and compile data from all corporate endpoints. A large enterprise’s network can support thousands of devices. Each active endpoint continuously generates data, so having an EDR tool that can analyse vast amounts of data is essential.
Cloud-based EDR software provides the most accurate insights by using real-time analytics. The latest EDR technologies take a comprehensive approach to endpoint security, covering both cloud and on-premise endpoints.
Automation speeds up the detection of threats and vulnerabilities. Algorithms are capable of analysing large volumes of data and automatically responding to threats. Security teams are notified of threats, allowing them to respond quickly.
EDR tools proactively defend company networks by detecting threat patterns, detecting suspicious activity and stopping malicious attacks. EDR software can assist IT teams in restoring affected systems and improving endpoint protection.
2. Identity Detection and Response (IDR) software
Businesses must have a cyber security strategy in place to avoid and minimise ransomware attacks. A single weak password can cause a large-scale security breach. IDR tools are used to prevent credential theft and misuse. It also monitors user activity for suspicious changes to credentials or bulk account changes, as well as suspicious reactivation of disabled accounts.
SEACOM Business is one such company in Africa that offers endpoint security solutions that limit access to business networks and data. Policy-based credential controls link usernames and passwords to specific devices. True credentials can be masked with concealment technology, making endpoint infiltration incredibly difficult.
3. Entitlement Management can prevent security breaches
Authorisations, privileges, access rights and permissions are granted and revoked using Entitlement Management software. A cloud-based console allows administrators to manage entitlements for various devices, apps, platforms, networks and users.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a critical cyber security tool that has been proven to support remote working. It does, however, have drawbacks and many businesses may need to change their approach to Entitlement Management.
When companies migrate to the cloud, a large number of entitlements are enabled to expedite the process. The drawback is that the increased attack surfaces heighten exposure and risk.
A cloud-based Entitlement Management solution uses automation to evaluate entitlements and identify vulnerabilities and security policy deviations. If an employee, for example, has turned off MFA or reused a password, automated software will detect entitlement policy breaches.
4. Secure your Active Directory to boost endpoint security
A database that connects all users and resources on a network is known as the Active Directory. It’s an interface that effectively defines who’s permitted to do what and stores critical network information. Administrators can change permissions for users, groups, devices and applications, making the Active Directory a potential target for hackers.
Businesses must use automation to defend their Active Directory. Automated vulnerability assessments can be conducted in minutes, whereas manual vulnerability assessments can take weeks. Detailed health checks reveal Indicators of Exposure (IoEs), identify Active Directory vulnerabilities and offer suggestions.
As the number of endpoints grows exponentially, endpoint security becomes increasingly critical. Endpoint attack prevention and mitigation necessitates new EDR and IDR technologies. For data analytics to monitor behaviours and detect suspicious activity, advanced automation that can manage the massive volumes of data produced by endpoints connected to corporate networks is essential.
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