Simple Guide to Follow for Better Endpoint Protection

Simple Guide to Follow for Better Endpoint Protection

Endpoints or entry points are made up of a company’s network and IT infrastructure. It is made up of computers, laptops, mobile devices, servers, IoT devices, and gadgets that are actively used in the company’s network.

Each organisation can have a few to thousands of endpoints, depending on the IT infrastructure and number of devices used across the network. Each of these devices can be exploited by malicious hackers to penetrate a company’s cybersecurity defence. An endpoint solution is applicable for devices in the corporate network, devices used for remote work, as well as organisations that employ Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) initiative.

What is Endpoint Security?

Endpoint security is the practice of securing all these endpoints from being exploited by malicious hackers. Endpoint security has evolved from traditional antivirus software to comprehensive protection that deters sophisticated malware and evolving zero-day threats. Endpoint security is part of an organisation’s front line of defence for enterprise networks. Below are simple solutions to help you detect, analyse, block, and contain attacks in progress.

Address Password Vulnerabilities

Passwords are one of the biggest vulnerabilities when it comes to endpoints. Poor password security and lack of awareness can lead to credential thefts that can have devastating effects on the organisation. Below are tips on addressing password vulnerabilities:

• Train employees in best practices for password creation and handling
• Implement password-less solutions, such as biometrics if possible
• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all accounts
• Ensure that all endpoint devices used within the company network uses antivirus and endpoint security software

Stop Malware Infection Before Operating System (OS) Boot

USB drives or flash drives are extremely popular giveaways. While they are common, these USB drives can cause a breach. Hackers with malicious intentions can use it to gain access to a computer by booting up malicious code that is residing in a USB device. A simple method to prevent this from happening is to scan all USB devices before plugging them into your computer. For enterprise security, make sure that you are using firmware protection that covers two areas – Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Security.

TPM is resistant to physical tampering and tampering via malware. It looks at whether the boot process is occurring properly. It also monitors the presence of anomalous behaviour. For assistance in implementing this solution, contact us on 1300 440 444.

Update All Endpoint Security Solutions

Regularly update your endpoint security solutions. You can set up automated software updates so that you will not forget about it. Firmware updates are often forgotten about, and this will become a loophole that is easy for hackers to penetrate. It is best to have an IT professional manage all your endpoint updates. Your IT vendor will ensure that all updates happen in a timely fashion for all your devices.

Use Modern Device & User Authentication

If you are using just usernames and passwords to authenticate users, it may be time to start exploring enterprise authentication methods. Using solely passwords can expose your organisation to breaches. Two modern methods of authentication that you can consider include contextual authentication and a zero-trust approach.

Contextual authentication takes multi-factor authentication (MFA) one step further. It looks at context-based cues for authentication and security policies. These include things like the logging time, geographic location, and the device used.

Zero Trust continuously monitors your network and ensures that every entity in a network is supposed to belong there. You approve all devices for access to your network and block all others by default.

Apply Security Policies Throughout the Device Lifecycle

All devices need to have security protocols in place to prevent misuse. Tools like Microsoft AutoPilot and SEMM allow companies to automate the process of deploying security practices on devices across each lifecycle phase. This is a step-by-step process to ensure that critical steps are not missed in each device’s lifecycle phase.

Some examples of security practices include removing unnecessary privileges of new devices, removal of old data when there is a change of users and scrubbing data when a device is retired.

Prepare for Device Loss or Theft

It is common for mobile devices and laptops to get stolen or lost. When such a situation happens, there is a sequence of events that needs to take place immediately. This prevents the risk of exposing data and access to business accounts. It is always best to prepare in advance for potential device loss. An automated periodic backup will prevent data loss in the event of such a situation. Using endpoint security will also allow you to remotely lock and wipe out all data for lost or stolen devices.

Reduce Your Endpoint Risk

Get help putting robust endpoint security in place. Contact us to review your existing endpoint security solutions and potential areas for improvements. We are reachable at 1300 440 444.