What is EPP?
An Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) is a unified security solution designed to safeguard devices (endpoints) like desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones from cyberattacks. Microsoft offers the EPP solution, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, within its Microsoft 365 security offerings.
Benefits_
- Centralised management: EPP offers a single platform to manage and monitor security across all endpoints, reducing complexity and improving efficiency. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft 365 security products for a holistic view.
- Multi-layered protection: EPP employs a layered approach that combines traditional antivirus and anti-malware with additional features like application control, intrusion prevention, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) to identify and block evolving threats. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint leverages machine learning and threat intelligence to stay ahead of emerging threats.
- Cloud-based delivery: EPP solutions are typically cloud-based, allowing for centralised management, automatic updates, and scalability. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint benefits from the global threat intelligence of the Microsoft Security cloud.
Use cases_
- Protecting remote workforces: The rise of remote working creates a larger attack surface. EPP helps secure remote devices and ensure consistent security policies are enforced regardless of location.
- Securing BYOD environments: EPP allows organisations to securely integrate employee-owned devices into the corporate network without compromising security. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint can be deployed on various platforms ensuring a consistent security posture.
- Meeting compliance requirements: Many industries have strict data security regulations. EPP helps organisations meet these requirements by ensuring endpoint security controls are in place.
Key components_
- Next-Gen Antivirus (NGAV): Goes beyond traditional signature-based detection to identify and block zero-day threats and advanced malware. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint utilises machine learning and behavioural analysis for advanced threat detection.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Provides visibility into endpoint activity allowing for rapid identification, investigation, and response to security incidents. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint offers advanced EDR capabilities for proactive threat hunting and incident response.
- Application control: Allows organisations to define which applications are allowed to run on endpoints, reducing the attack surface and preventing unauthorised software execution. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint integrates with Microsoft Intune for granular application control.
By implementing an EPP solution like Microsoft Defender for Endpoint organisations can protect their data and devices from evolving cyber threats.
