With the technological landscape rapidly evolving, the sophistication of cyber threats has simultaneously escalated, making endpoint security a major concern for organizations and companies of all sizes around the world. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions have emerged as indispensable tools in the fight against these cyberattacks. By offering advanced threat detection, investigation, and response capabilities, EDR empowers organizations to identify and mitigate potential breaches proactively.
In this guide, we’ll explain the definition of Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), how it works, its key components, and the top 15 EDR solutions, helping you find the suitable service vendor to establish robust security for your organization.
What Is Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Solution? How Does It Work?
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a cybersecurity technology designed to identify, investigate, and contain threats targeting network endpoints. Endpoints, such as laptops, desktops, servers, and mobile devices, serve as critical access points for cybercriminals. EDR solutions provide real-time visibility into endpoint activity, enabling IT teams to detect anomalies and malicious behavior before a full-blown attack occurs.
Pioneered by Gartner analyst Anton Chuvakin, EDR solutions must possess four core functions: incident detection, containment, investigation, and remediation guidance. To achieve this, EDR solutions employ lightweight agents installed on endpoints to monitor and record device activity continuously. This data, encompassing system logs, registry changes, network connections, and file activity, is transmitted to a central server for analysis using advanced algorithms and machine learning. Upon identifying potential threats, the EDR system generates alerts detailing the attack source, type, and affected endpoint. This empowers security teams to contain the threat and prevent further damage swiftly. Beyond threat detection, EDR solutions offer forensic analysis, threat hunting, incident correlation, and automated response workflows.
What Are the Key Components of EDR Solution?
EDR solutions comprise several interconnected components working in unison to deliver comprehensive endpoint protection. Central to this architecture are endpoint agents, which monitor and safeguard individual devices by collecting and transmitting data to the EDR server. This central hub aggregates and analyzes incoming data, identifying potential threats and alerting security teams.
To enhance threat detection accuracy, EDR solutions leverage threat intelligence to stay informed about the latest attack vectors. Advanced analytics engines powered by machine learning scrutinize endpoint data to uncover hidden threats that evade traditional signature-based detection methods. Proactive threat-hunting capabilities enable security analysts to actively search for malicious activity, while robust incident response functionalities facilitate swift and effective countermeasures. Together, these components form a robust EDR solution capable of detecting and responding to sophisticated cyberattacks in real time.
Top 15 EDR Solutions
1. Sangfor Endpoint Secure
Distinguishing itself from existing next-generation anti-virus (NGAV) or endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, Sangfor Endpoint Secure is a robust and scalable option designed to protect endpoints from advanced threats. Offering a host of comprehensive features, Sangfor Endpoint Secure is noted for its quick ransom detection capabilities with a user-friendly interface for management.
Key Features:
- Automated responses to phishing and web intrusion attacks
- Real-time threat response
- Incident investigation
- Strong anti-ransomware capabilities
- Seamless integration with other Sangfor products for unified management
Pros:
- Effective threat prevention
- Strong anti-ransomware capabilities
- Seamless integration with other Sangfor products
- User-friendly interface
- Cost-effective choice for enterprises
Cons:
- Limited third-party integrations compared to some competitors
- Complexity involved in the initial setup process
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.8
Pricing: Flexible pricing based on the deployment size. Contact us for a quote.
2. SentinelOne Singularity Platform
SentinelOne Singularity Platform simplifies modern cybersecurity through a centralized and autonomous platform. It is a cloud-native EDR solution capable of making machine-speed decisions against threats. It strengthens each organization’s endpoints by utilizing static and behavioral AI.
Key Features:
- AI and machine learning-powered detection
- Real-time threat detection
- Automated incident response
- Proactive threat hunting
- Cloud-native architecture
Pros:
- Ease of use
- Strong prevention capabilities
- Rapid threat detection
- Effective incident response
Cons:
- Pricing may vary based on the deployment scale
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.7
Pricing: Subscription-based pricing model with five options to choose from.
3. CrowdStrike Falcon
Widely known as one of the leading EDR solutions, CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-delivered platform that integrates AI-powered protection and robust automated response capability to stop threats before they turn into breaches. Its coverage spans many operating systems, including mobile devices, IoT and endpoints.
Key Features:
- Endpoint protection using AI, machine learning, script control, and advanced memory scanning
- Threat intelligence
- Around-the-clock detection and response
- AI-powered accelerated investigations
- Extended visibility
Pros:
- Strong prevention capabilities
- Rapid threat detection
- Easy deployment
- Low system utilization
- Effective incident response
Cons:
- Higher pricing compared to other EDR vendors
- Potential false positives
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.7
Pricing: Subscription-based pricing with free trial available.
4. Trend Micro XDR
An EDR solution that collects and correlates data across different security layers, such as cloud workload, network, email, server, and endpoint, Trend Micro XDR offers a comprehensive approach to endpoint security, allowing any organization to have a holistic view of its own security posture.
Key Features:
- Automatic data correlation across different security layers
- Endpoint sensor to capture system behaviors for investigations
- Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service
Pros:
- Comprehensive visibility across security layers
- Strong reputation for reliability without dedicated security teams
- Unified platform
Cons:
- Not suitable for companies that seek separate solutions for different security layers
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.7
Pricing: Flexible plans with per-user and per-device options.
5. Harmony Endpoint
Developed by Check Point, Harmony Endpoint is a cloud-based EDR solution that adopts a unique prevention-first approach. It focuses on proactive threat prevention instead of detection and response. It integrates several other security capabilities within one cohesive platform, enhancing the effectiveness of protection.
Key Features:
- Combination of EPP, EDR, and XDR in a unified platform
- ThreatCloud AI for zero-day protection
- Zero-phishing protection
- Prevention-first methodology
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- High detection rates
- Strong compatibility with robust cross-platform support
Cons:
- Extensive set may be too complex and overwhelming for some users
- Requiring significant system resources
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.4
Pricing: The solution offers several packages to choose from. Users can request a demo.
6. Cortex XDR
Cortex XDR offers a comprehensive approach that helps organizations and businesses quickly detect and respond to complex and multi-stage attacks by unifying multiple advanced threat detection, investigation, and response capabilities.
Key Features:
- Unified security platform
- Behavioral analytics and machine learning for threat detection
- Integrated firewalls and disk encryption
- Strong integration with other Palo Alto Networks products
- Device control to monitor and secure USB access
Pros:
- Ability to detect sophisticated threats
- Seamless integration with Cortex XSOAR for automated incident response
- 24/7 expert support for threat hunting
Cons:
- May require additional personnel training and investment to utilize the platform’s capabilities fully
- Complex pricing model
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.6
Pricing: Pricing varies on the number of protected endpoints and different versions.
7. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
Highly recognized for its comprehensive security capabilities and “assume breach” mindset, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is an ideal cloud-based EDR platform for enterprises. It leverages AI and extensive threat intelligence for proactive defense against advanced cyber threats.
Key Features:
- Cloud-native architecture
- Vulnerability Management to prioritize certain threats
- Behavioral sensors for precise data collection and analysis
- Access to threat detection database
Pros:
- Wide adoption and ongoing development
- Strong integration with Microsoft ecosystem
- Reducing attack surface with integrated vulnerability management
Cons:
- Complex to use for smaller businesses or organizations
- Better suited to be used with other Microsoft services
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.3
Pricing: Offering two primary pricing plans for users.
8. ThreatDown Endpoint Detection and Response
ThreatDown Endpoint Detection and Response is an award-winning solution approved by industry experts. It effectively protects against threats that target workstations and servers. In addition to advanced AI and machine learning, this EDR solution utilizes heuristic technologies to identify attacks.
Key Features:
- Next-gen antivirus protection
- Accurate detection & fast response
- Ransomware rollback function to restore files
- Attack isolation at different levels
- Single, lightweight agent
Pros:
- Quick identification and containment of threats
- Simplifying security management and deployment
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Can be resource-intensive when performing advanced threat detection
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.7
Pricing: Subscription-based pricing model with several tiers available to choose from.
9. Cybereason Defense Platform
Unlike other regular EDR platforms, Cybereason Defense Platform focuses on identifying malicious operations (MalOps) and intercepting threats earlier on in the attack chain. Its approach is enabled by the combination of an EDR solution, XDR, and NGAV, which provides context-rich analysis of potential threats.
Key Features:
- Single console
- Nine layers of prevention for a robust defense
- Contextual alerts
- MalOps detection and analysis
Pros:
- Reducing complexities in management
- Effective threat disruptions
- Comprehensive and efficient threat investigation and response
Cons:
- Potential performance slowdown on endpoints
- User experience issues
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.3
Pricing: Flexible pricing model with subscriptions available.
10. WatchGuard EPDR
WatchGuard EPDR is an EDR solution that combines traditional endpoint protection capabilities with advanced detection and response features. Its signature-based protection, which utilizes AI technology, enables constant monitoring and classification of every endpoint activity.
Key Features:
- Integrated EPP and EDR
- AI-driven threat detection and response
- Zero-trust application service
- Additional threat-hunting service by security analysts
- Multiple additional modules
Pros:
- Holistic security approach
- Real-time monitoring for quick response to threats
- Good customer support
Cons:
- Complex initial configurations
- Problems with updating the system
- Need for streamlining the migration process
Gartner’s Customer Ratings:
Pricing: Flexible pricing model based on the number of protected endpoints and different selected services.
11. VMware Carbon Black EDR
Compared to other EDR solutions, VMware Carbon Black EDR stands out for its ability to operate in offline and air-gapped environments. It empowers organizations and businesses with robust security features without the need for constant internet connectivity.
Key Features:
- Continuous visibility into endpoint activity
- Centralized access to data
- Customizable behavioral detection
- Interactive attack chain visualization
Pros:
- Comprehensive visibility
- Low impact on endpoint resources
- Easy integration with other security products
- Real-time and rapid remediation
Cons:
- It requires significant resources for efficient operation
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.5
Pricing: Subscription-based pricing model that varies based on the number of protected endpoints and selected features.
12. Symantec Advanced Threat Protection
Symantec Advanced Threat Protection gathers and consolidates intelligence from multiple control points, including networks, emails, and endpoints. This solution works well with other existing Symantec products to enhance the security posture of the organization.
Key Features:
- One-click containment and remediation capability
- Synapse correlation technology to prioritize threats based on their attributes
- Cloud sandboxing to analyze the risk level of unknown files safely
- Available to integrate with third-party SIEM solutions for customizable incident response
- Dynamic adversary intelligence for proactive threat searches
Pros:
- Strong reputation in the security industry
- Rapid threat detection
- No additional agents or installations needed to enhance existing protection
- Comprehensive feature set
Cons:
- Difficulties with manual deployment
- Experiencing complications when upgrading the system
- Lack of scalability
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.4
Pricing: Flexible pricing model based on the modules selected.
13. Trellix Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Serving as the integration of advanced analytics and AI-enabled investigations, Trellix Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) offers a simplified security process for personnel of all levels as an EDR solution. The solution adopts a proactive approach to threat hunting and provides prescriptive guidance for efficient response to incidents.
Key Features:
- AI-guided threat investigations
- Proactive threat prioritization
- behavior-based detection with MITRE ATT&CK framework
- Visualization tools
Pros:
- Strong focus on threat hunting and incident response
- Reduced administrative effort
- Covering various attack vectors
- Providing clear insights into the threat context
Cons:
- Dependency on automation and external systems
- High resource consumption
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.7
Pricing: Subscription-based pricing model with variations based on different deployment options.
14. VMware Carbon Black Cloud
VMware Carbon Black Cloud operates through a single sensor and console, allowing the users to collect and analyze the endpoint data in real-time. With its cloud-native architecture, it offers enhanced comprehensive visibility for endpoints and quick response to threats.
Key Features:
- Live response to threats
- Real-time insights into endpoint activities
- Automated watchlists of threats
Pros:
- Comprehensive view of endpoint activities
- Strong scalability
- Seamless integration with other security tools
Cons:
- Limited assistance from the support team
- Resource-intensive solution
- Less user-friendly interface
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.6
Pricing: Subscription-based pricing model.
15. Sophos Intercept X Advanced with EDR
Combining the top-rated malware detection capability and exploit protection with other robust endpoint features, Sophos Intercept X Advanced with EDR is well recognized within the industry for its ability to intercept breaches before they occur.
Key Features:
- Deep learning malware detection and anti-exploit technology
- CryptoGuard anti-ransomware with rollback ability
- Guided investigations and single-click response
- On-demand curated threat intelligence
Pros:
- Ease of use and high level of accessibility to EDR features
- Comprehensive and effective protection against a wide range of threats
- Intercepting advanced threats
Cons:
- Cumbersome user interface
- Dependency on a lot of system resources
Gartner’s Customer Ratings: 4.7
Pricing: Various pricing models are available, including per-user or per-server subscriptions.
People Also Ask
While EDR offers robust endpoint protection, it's not a complete replacement. It excels at detecting and responding to threats but may lack the capabilities of other tools. Combining EDR with antivirus, firewall, and other security layers provides a comprehensive defense strategy.
The primary challenge companies typically experience when implementing EDR solutions is managing the volume of alerts generated by EDR. False positives can overwhelm security teams. Effectively tuning the EDR system, prioritizing alerts, and investing in incident response capabilities are crucial to address this.
Consider factors such as your organization's size, industry, threat landscape, budget, and existing security infrastructure. A suitable EDR vendor should offer a comprehensive feature set, robust detection capabilities, ease of use, integration options, strong customer support, and economical pricing. It's also recommended to conduct thorough product demonstrations and trials to ensure the quality of the solution.
