Endpoint security is a methodology to protect the business network when being accessed by remote devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets & other wireless devices. It includes monitoring their status, software as well as activities.
Nowadays, employees are granted network access through the internet on their mobile devices which increases the need to focus on endpoint security. Enterprises have to work on securing the data available on their employee’s mobile device such that if the device falls into wrong hands, the data still stays protected. Security software such as antivirus, antispyware, firewall, etc. are installed on all endpoint devices as well as network servers.
Why Is It Called Endpoint Security?
Devices connected to the network are called endpoints as they are placed on edge of the network and are used by individuals to perform various tasks. Individuals connect to the central network using these endpoint devices. However, these devices may pose a security threat to the network and the strategy that is employed to secure these endpoints is thus known as endpoint security.
Why Is It Important To Ensure Endpoint Security?
- There has been a significant increase in BYOD culture
- There is a rise in number of employees who work from home
- Increase in security threats via mobile devices
Ways To Implement Endpoint Security
- User Management: Businesses should control the user access to the network. It can be done by setting up password protocols, restricting administrative privileges, usage policies, mobile device management, etc. It should be implemented in such a way that if a user loses his device then the IT team can remotely lock the device to protect the data from being compromised.
- Encryption: Another way to keep the data safe is to implement encryption on endpoints. It is simple yet effective way to prevent the data stored on corporate devices from any risk.
- Antivirus & Malware: In the wake of rising phishing & ransomware attacks, it is mandatory to install antivirus & malware protection software on your mobile devices. This helps in increasing endpoint security.
- Updating & Patching: It is important to keep the devices updated. This is because devices without latest updates & patches are most vulnerable to security breaches.
Often there is a confusion between endpoint security & antivirus, although they differ from each other. The former is much wider than the latter. Antivirus protects the PCs, single or many, depending upon the type of antivirus being deployed. However, in case of endpoint security the whole network is made secure. It provides provisions for application whitelisting, endpoint detection & response, network access control, etc. unlike an antivirus software.
By implementing endpoint security solutions, businesses can exercise greater control on number & types of access points on the network.
For more information about IT security, call Centex Technologies at (254) 213-4740.