Endpoint security

Last updated

Endpoint security or endpoint protection is an approach to the protection of computer networks that are remotely bridged to client devices. The connection of endpoint devices such as laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and other wireless devices to corporate networks creates attack paths for security threats. [1] Endpoint security attempts to ensure that such devices follow compliance to standards. [2]

Contents

The endpoint security space has evolved since the 2010s away from limited antivirus software and into more advanced, comprehensive defenses. This includes next-generation antivirus, threat detection, investigation, and response, device management, data loss prevention (DLP), patch management, and other considerations to face evolving threats.

Corporate network security

Endpoint security management is a software approach that helps to identify and manage the users' computer and data access over a corporate network. [3] This allows the network administrator to restrict the use of sensitive data as well as certain website access to specific users, to maintain, and comply with the organization's policies and standards. The components involved in aligning the endpoint security management systems include a virtual private network (VPN) client, an operating system and an updated endpoint agent. [4] Computer devices that are not in compliance with the organization's policy are provisioned with limited access to a virtual LAN. [5] Encrypting data on endpoints, and removable storage devices help to protect against data leaks. [6]

Client and server model

Endpoint security systems operate on a client-server model. The main software for threat analysis and decision making is on a centrally managed host server. Each endpoint has client programs to collect data and interact with the server. [7] [8] There is another model called software as a service (SaaS), where the security programs and the host server are maintained remotely by the merchant. In the payment card industry, the contribution from both the delivery models is that the server program verifies and authenticates the user login credentials and performs a device scan to check if it complies with designated corporate security standards prior to permitting network access. [9]

In addition to protecting an organization's endpoints from potential threats, endpoint security allows IT admins to monitor operation functions and data backup strategies. [10]

Attack vectors

Endpoint security is a constantly evolving field, primarily because adversaries never cease innovating their strategies. A foundational step in fortifying defenses is to grasp the myriad pathways adversaries exploit to compromise endpoint devices. Here are a few of the most used methods:

Components of endpoint protection

The protection of endpoint devices has become more crucial than ever. Understanding the different components that contribute to endpoint protection is essential for developing a robust defense strategy. Here are the key elements integral to securing endpoints:

Methods for use

Endpoint protection platforms

An endpoint protection platform (EPP) is a solution deployed on endpoint devices to prevent file-based malware attacks, detect malicious activity, and provide the investigation and remediation capabilities needed to respond to dynamic security incidents and alerts. [14] Several vendors produce systems converging EPP systems with endpoint detection and response (EDR) platforms – systems focused on threat detection, response, and unified monitoring. [15] Tools like Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) help monitor and respond to potential threats in real-time, providing valuable defense mechanisms against advanced attacks. [16] Additionally, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) play a critical role in encrypting internet traffic, particularly for users connecting over unsecured networks such as public Wi-Fi hotspots. [17] [18] Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) enhances these platforms by adding an extra layer of verification, ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive systems. [19] [20]

See also

References

  1. "Endpoint Security (Definitions)". TechTarget . Retrieved January 14, 2024.
  2. Beal, V. (December 17, 2021). "Endpoint Security". Webopedia. Retrieved January 14, 2024.
  3. "What Is Endpoint Security and Why Is It Important?". Palo Alto Networks. Retrieved January 14, 2024.
  4. "USG Information Technology Handbook - Section 5.8" (PDF). University System of Georgia. January 30, 2023. pp. 68–72. Retrieved January 14, 2024.
  5. Endpoint security and compliance management design guide. Redbooks. October 7, 2015. ISBN   978-0-321-43695-5.
  6. "What is Endpoint Security?". Forcepoint. August 9, 2018. Retrieved August 14, 2019.
  7. Singh, Ronnie (June 9, 2018). "Cutting-Edge Technology – End-Point Security Protection and Solutions" . Retrieved March 22, 2025.
  8. "Client-server security". Exforsys. July 20, 2007. Retrieved January 14, 2024.
  9. "PCI and Data Security Standard" (PDF). October 7, 2015.
  10. "12 essential features of advanced endpoint security tools". SearchSecurity. Retrieved August 14, 2019.
  11. Feroz, Mohammed Nazim; Mengel, Susan (2015). Phishing URL Detection Using URL Ranking. pp. 635–638. doi:10.1109/BigDataCongress.2015.97. ISBN   978-1-4673-7278-7 . Retrieved January 8, 2024.{{cite book}}: |website= ignored (help)
  12. International Conference on Nascent Technologies in Engineering (ICNTE). Vashi, India. 2017. pp. 1–6. doi:10.1109/ICNTE.2017.7947885.
  13. Majumdar, Partha; Tripathi, Shayava; Annamalai, Balaji; Jagadeesan, Senthil; Khedar, Ranveer (2023). Detecting Malware Using Machine Learning. Taylor & Francis. pp. 37–104. doi:10.1201/9781003426134-5. ISBN   9781003426134 . Retrieved January 8, 2024.
  14. "Definition of Endpoint Protection Platform". Gartner. Retrieved September 2, 2021.
  15. Gartner (August 20, 2019). "Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms" . Retrieved November 22, 2019.
  16. Force, Joint Task (December 10, 2020). Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations (Report). National Institute of Standards and Technology.
  17. "Remote Work Security Trends". Gartner.
  18. "Endpoint Protection Solutions". McAfee.
  19. "What is Endpoint Security?". Kaspersky.
  20. Higgins, Malcolm (January 23, 2020). "What is endpoint security?".