Protecting data and ensuring network security are essential issues for companies today. So, EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) presents itself as an option to improve the protection and security situation in your company.
EDR is responsible for monitoring people's devices and understanding whether there are cyber threats targeting the data and network the device is connected to.
In this article, you will understand in detail about this technology and also the trends for the future. If you've never heard of EDR, it's time you understood this subject better and applied it to your business.
What is EDR and why is it important?
EDR is a solution for data protection and network security. This technology uses real-time analysis and automation with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to work.
The system's objective is to find cyber threats that are not detected by antivirus software. Furthermore, the technology is more advanced than other device security options, making it a good option for companies.
Using EDR, it is possible to improve the data protection of your company's customers, in addition to having more advanced network security. Increasingly, due to the advancement of existing threats, having an EDR solution in companies is essential in cybersecurity strategies.
How does EDR work?
EDR collects data from network endpoints constantly. These devices include computers, laptops, servers, cell phones, and devices connected to the Internet of Things, among others.
Once data is collected, the system is capable of analyzing it in real time. This way, it is possible to identify possible threats or suspicious behavior. So, with cyber threats identified, there is an automatic response to prevent or minimize the damage that these threats cause.
Therefore, the idea that EDR is just a tool for discovering devices on a network is a misconception. It has this feature, of course, but it also protects and acts against digital threats 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Characteristics of an EDR
There are differences between EDR tools, but some characteristics are common to all manufacturers.
Data collection
As you have already understood, any EDR technology will capture continuous data. This data can come from processes, performance, configuration changes, network connections, files, downloads, and behaviors of connected devices, among others.
Data is normally stored in the cloud, in a central database for better control. For data collection to happen, most EDR tools use a collection tool installed on each device.
Threat detection
To perform threat detection in real-time, the system uses advanced analysis technology and machine learning algorithms.
In this sense, threats fall into two categories: indicators of compromise (IOCs) and indicators of attack (IOAs). Indicators of compromise are actions or events with the potential for attack or data leakage. On the other hand, attack indicators are in fact associated with threats and cybercriminals.
In addition to an EDR tool, it is possible for a company to integrate it with other solutions related to network security. This way, all layers of the IT structure will be protected and monitored against threats.
Incident response
When an EDR tool is being used, one of the main features that helps businesses is that incident response is automatic.
This is possible because the system has rules pre-defined by the security team. Furthermore, as machine learning algorithms are part of the system, over time the EDR itself learns how to deal with various situations automatically.
Thus, when an incident occurs, security alerts are sent so that the correct actions are taken. Another advantage of the system is being able to identify and understand alerts according to the level of the incident.
Whenever necessary, affected devices will be disconnected from the network so that the protection of other ones is preserved.
These incident response, investigation, and remediation actions can be done through integrations with other systems. This increases data protection and network security significantly.
Advantages of EDR
Using an EDR tool is what improves the quality of your company's data protection. Likewise, it increases network security to keep devices away from cyber threats. Therefore, there are some important advantages to share with those who are interested in knowing more about the technology.
Reduced incident response time
With an EDR tool installed on your network, you will automatically have reduced incident response time.
This is one of the great objectives of this technology, after all, it improves the whole technology team’s work and avoids major problems for the company.
Therefore, as soon as an incident or threat alert is sent by the EDR, automatic actions begin to occur. Furthermore, the team responsible for network security is called in and the time to resolve the problem is reduced.
Improved security visibility
When network security solutions are basic, it is common for data and analysis to be stored and done in different locations.
Conversely, when an EDR is used, data collection, analysis, and reports are sent to a single system.
Consequently, the security team has a complete view of the network. This makes it possible to make better decisions for the company's security objectives and goals.
Cost reduction
When advantages such as productivity and time reduction exist in a system, cost reduction is a consequence.
In addition, by using an EDR, the company saves on different systems and platforms that would be necessary to ensure network security and data protection throughout the infrastructure.
Taking this into consideration, choosing a single tool to perform all roles within data protection and network security is essential. Therefore, choosing EDR is a very advantageous business decision both in terms of results achieved and the value invested.
The Future of EDR: Trends and Evolution
EDR is increasingly being used by companies as a cyber defense tool. When in operation, the tool records suspicious activities and acts to stop the action. However, there are even more advanced technologies in the area of data protection and network security.
One example is the so-called XDRs, which is the next step in the EDR concept. With this innovative tool, it is possible to create a complete chain of protection. Thus, XDR helps control threats at different points in the chain.
The tendency, therefore, is for more and more sophisticated systems to be used on the market.
This does not change the reality of EDR use by companies, which is a complete and useful tool for companies. However, it is essential to always be aware of news in the area, so that safety always comes first.
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