What is endpoint security?

“Endpoint Security” has traditionally referred to the idea that all end-user devices (particularly in business settings) need to be secured from threats, and that this process should ideally be centrally managed. Endpoint Security in practice can be seen by the use of desktop firewalls, antispam, antivirus, and internet security software.

As corporate access points have been completely mobilized and extended to such devices as PDAs, smartphones, laptops and netbooks, the term “endpoint security” has come to encompass more ground, even shifting the concept to refer predominantly to securing such devices.

Think about it: Employees around the globe are using their smartphones to:

• send and receive emails
• browse the internet
• maintain a business schedule
• organize business contacts
• access and edit company documents
• upload and transfer a variety of files

and whether they do it at home or at work, they’re also likely:

• downloading music and other media files
• playing games
• downloading and accessing a variety of apps
• taking and sharing photos
• accessing any number of mobile websites

Perimeters are becoming more permeable as a variety of external devices synch, download, upload, and otherwise transfer files between each other. Employees may literally be walking out the door with crucial business documents and trade secrets in their pockets. And they may return the next morning with a virus just waiting to connect to the network.

Can/Should/How do I monitor external devices?

Endpoint security at its best is designed to keep threats from infiltrating the system, but can only do so much to keep the important information in. So what do you do? It doesn’t make sense to completely lockdown all external media (though you can effectively restrict access with ESET NOD32 Antivirus Business Edition or Symantec Endpoint Protection), and it’s important that your employees have access to important files while on business travel.

Enduring to the Endpoint

The best approach then, is a combination of employee training on good practices and a robust endpoint protection solution. When determining which business antivirus software solution is best for you and your company, keep versatility in mind. A flexible solution will accommodate a variety of unique environments and end-user devices.

When it comes to modern business security, individual antivirus software isn’t enough. Today’s best solutions include protection from spyware, rootkits, spam, Trojans, and all manner of malware for individual workstations and other devices. And best of all, they can be centrally installed, deployed, and managed. The best business antivirus solutions truly are all-encompassing security solutions, providing internal security and endpoint protection.

For some of the best business antivirus software solutions for endpoint security (including smartphones, laptops, PDAs, and/or USB flash drives), consider reading our reviews of Kaspersky Business Space Security, BitDefender Management Server and ESET NOD32 Antivirus 4 Business Edition.

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Useful Resources

EndpointSecurity.Org
Dilbert.com