When you think about business security, it’s likely that firewalls and passwords are the first things that come to mind. But, cyber attacks don’t just target networks, they also target the devices that are accessing them. Laptops, tablets, mobiles, and desktops are all potential entry points. This is where endpoint protection comes into play.

What is Endpoint Protection?

Endpoint protection is the process of protecting any device that plugs into your business’ network. An “endpoint” might be a company desktop computer, a remote employee’s smartphone, or virtually anything else that accesses your network. These devices are often the vulnerabilities that hackers take advantage of, and without proper protection installed, one infected laptop can leave your whole business exposed.

While legacy antivirus solutions protect against malware, new endpoint protection does so much more. It sees beyond basic malware detection, watching devices in real time, finding suspicious behaviour, and stopping threats before they actually do harm.

The way people work has changed. Remote working is now the norm for a lot of businesses, and under a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) setup, workers are using their own devices, so the attack window is wider than ever. If a worker opens their corporate emails on an unprotected home computer, that endpoint can leave a hacker with a direct route into your business system.

There have been numerous high-profile attacks that began with compromised endpoints. Take the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack, for instance, which propagated quickly using vulnerable endpoints to take down businesses and even sections of the NHS. SMEs are targeted regularly via phishing emails that drop malware onto single machines. From there, attackers work their way through networks, extracting data or encrypting systems until a demanded ransom is paid.

The consequences are costly: downtime, reputational damage, and in some cases, regulatory fines. And it’s not just big businesses in the firing line, smaller businesses are now being targeted as attackers assume defences are weaker.

Key Features to Look For in Endpoint Protection

Not all solutions are made equal. When choosing an endpoint security system, it is worth making sure it offers more than just the basics. Features to consider include:

• Real-time threat detection and response – catching issues as they happen, rather than after the damage is done.
• Centralised management – so your IT team (or provider) can monitor and control devices from one place.
• Advanced malware protection – going beyond standard business antivirus to defend against ransomware, spyware, and zero-day attacks.
• Data encryption – keeping sensitive files safe even if a device is lost or stolen.
• Scalability – ensuring protection can grow with your business as more devices are added.

The Role of Managed Endpoint Security

While there are plenty of available software options, executing them in-house can be complex and time-consuming. Threats develop quickly, and bringing systems up to date demands expertise and around-the-clock attention. That is where managed endpoint security is priceless.

Working with a trusted partner like Intrasource means your devices are monitored and protected around the clock. As a provider of managed IT services and managed IT security, Intrasource takes care of everything from deploying the right software to responding to alerts and carrying out updates. That way, your team can focus on running the business without worrying about the latest cyber security threats.

Why Your Business Can’t Afford to Ignore Endpoint Protection

Endpoint attacks aren’t going away. In fact, they’re becoming more sophisticated and increasing in number. Businesses using partial or outdated solutions risk being caught out, while those that invest in quality protection can reduce the chances of costly breaches. Most hackers and attacks are looking for the easy win, they’re looking for the endpoints and networks with inadequate security.

Whether your team is working in the office, at home, or on the road, every poorly or un-protected endpoint is exposed. By adopting next-gen endpoint security, ideally managed by an experienced IT security provider, you can safeguard your data, your reputation, and your bottom line.

If you are unsure where to start with endpoint protection, Intrasource can help. Our managed IT security services provide comprehensive endpoint protection in line with your business needs, so you can have assurance that your hardware and your business are secure. Get in touch today.