What is an endpoint protection platform (EPP)

An endpoint protection platform (EPP) is a security solution that consolidates multiple security capabilities into a single agent or appliance. These capabilities might include antivirus, antispyware, application control, firewall, intrusion detection and prevention (ID&P), and web filtering.

An EPP protects network endpoints, including laptops, desktop computers, servers, virtual machines (VMs), and smartphones and tablets. EPPs are sometimes called endpoint security suites or next-generation antivirus (NGAV) solutions.

EPP products typically include a central management console that gives administrators visibility into the security posture of all endpoint devices on the network. The console also makes it easy to deploy security policies and signatures and monitor and respond to security incidents.

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EPP solutions can be delivered as software, appliances, or cloud-based services.

EPP solutions emerged in response to the changing threat landscape. Traditional antivirus (AV) solutions are no longer effective against today’s sophisticated malware, frequently authored by well-funded and organized cybercriminals.

In addition, the BYOD trend has made it more difficult for enterprises to control what devices connect to their networks and what applications are running on those devices.

The best EPP solutions provide comprehensive protection against endpoint threats, including malware, zero-day attacks, and targeted attacks. They also offer granular control over application usage and device access, making it possible to enforce security policies without compromising productivity.

EPP versus individual endpoint products

An EPP can be more effective than individual endpoint security products because it takes a more holistic approach to security. By consolidating multiple security capabilities into a single solution, an EPP can gain better visibility into the endpoint's security posture and make it easier to respond to incidents.

It’s also important to note that an EPP can often be more cost-effective than purchasing and managing multiple individual endpoint security products.

An EPP is not a silver bullet, however. While an EPP can provide better protection than individual endpoint security products, it’s important to remember that no security solution is 100% effective.

To be truly secure, enterprises need to take a comprehensive approach to security that includes both people and technology.

When choosing an EPP solution, it is essential to consider the following factors:

• The types of devices that need to be protected
• The range of security capabilities that are needed
• How the solution will be deployed (on-premises, in the cloud, or hybrid)
• The level of integration with existing security solutions
• The ease of use and scalability of the solution
• The vendor’s reputation and history
• The total cost of ownership (TCO), including licensing, deployment, and management costs

EPP solutions are ready to be delivered as software, appliances, or cloud-based services and are available to any organization looking to take the next step in cybersecurity.

The best EPP solutions deliver total protection against endpoint threats, including zero-day attacks and targeted malware incursions. They also offer granular control over application use and device access, making it possible to implement security policies without compromising productivity.

It’s easy to see why EPP solutions are among the industry's most popular choices to protect organizational networks.