How to choose the best endpoint security for your software

What is endpoint security software?

Endpoint Security software protects devices like desktops, laptops, and mobile phones from cyber threats such as malware, ransomeware, and intrusions.

This software is essential for small and midsize businesses (SMBs) that may not have large cybersecurity teams.

Why small businesses need endpoint security

Many SMBs struggle to find software that's both affordable and effective. Worse, relying on outdated software can create a false sense of security, making businesses more vulnerable to attacks.

Proactive measures like endpoint security software are critical to keep your business protected.

1. Effectiveness

When evaluating endpoint security software, one of the most important factors is effectiveness—how well it detects and prevents threats. But how can you verify a product's claims?

Trusted third-party organizations provide reviews, certifications, and insights that help you make informed decisions. Below are two reliable sources.

Gartner Peer Insights

Gartner Peer Insights is a trusted platform offering user-driven reviews on endpoint security software. It provides unbiased feedback from IT professionals and cybersecurity experts who have hands-on experience with the tools.

• How to Use It: Search for your shortlisted endpoint security tools and compare them based on customer ratings, deployment experience, and ongoing support.
• Website: Gartner Peer Insights

CDW

CDW is a well-known technology solutions provider that offers detailed product specifications, certifications, and customer reviews for endpoint security software.

• How to Use It: Use CDW's website to compare features, licensing options, and customer support. Look for certifications like ISO 27001 or NIST compliance.
• Website: CDW Endpoint Security

2. Multi-Functionality

Early endpoint security products service single purposed, such as antivirus protection. Modern endpoint security tools offer multiple functions, including firewall protection, intrusion detection, and ransomware defense.

Examples of Multi-Functional Endpoint Security Software

CrowdStrike Falcon: CrowdStrike Falcon excels in proactive threat detection, using AI-powered analytics to prevent breaches before they happen.

Its cloud-based architecture allows for real-time updates and monitoring.

Microsoft Defender: Microsoft Defender is a built-in endpoint security solution for Windows devices. It integrates antivirus, firewall, and threat detection seamlessly with the Windows ecosystem.

Businesses benefit from its cost-effectiveness and minimal disruption.

Examples of Poor Multi-Functionality

Norton: While Norton offers robust antivirus protection, its endpoint security often lags in enterprise-level multi-functionality, causing performance bottlenecks.

ESET: ESET is lightweight and affordable but lacks advanced features such as AI threat analysis and real-time monitoring, making it less suitable for businesses with growing security needs.

3. Ease of Use

It's frustrating when endpoint software has a complex installation process or vague instructions. Regardless of technical expertise, ease of use is key for successful deployment.

4. Monitoring & Reporting

Good monitoring and reporting are critical for detecting threats. Avoid solutions prone to false positives (incorrectly flagging safe actions as threats) or false negatives (failing to identify malicious activities).

5. Support

Support is essential, especially during emergencies. Top-tier endpoint software includes automated responses, patching, and custom configurations.

Understand whether the software's support personnel align with your data privacy requirements.

The shortcut to choosing the right software

If you're pressed for time, consider working with a Value-Added Reseller (VAR) or a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP).

These Partners:

• Test and vet products for your business.
• Leverage buying power to secure discounts.
• Provide additional layers of support and custom configurations.

When I served as the CISO of a large stock exchange, my team and I rarely had time to research, test, and review new security software, hardware, or vendors. Instead, I partnered with VARs and MSSPs.

These partners became an extension of our team. They took the time to understand our environment, pre-vetted solutions, and introduced only the most suitable software to us. They also leveraged buying power to negotiate better prices on our behalf.

One memorable incident comes to mind. We were facing an advanced persistent threat targeting our trading systems. Our MSSP partner quickly identified the breach attempt, isolated affected systems, and deployed additional endpoint measures-all within hours. This proactive partnership ensured 12 years without a significant breach or intrusion.

For small to midsized businesses, these partnerships can bridge resources and expertise gaps. If you're unsure where to start, reach out to trusted partners who specialize in endpoint security.

Conclusion

Choosing the right endpoint security software can be overwhelming, but focusing on key features like effectiveness, ease of use, and support simplifies the process.

Investing in strong endpoint security software is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your SMB. It safeguards sensitive data, ensures business continuity, and protects against evolving cyber threats. With the right tools and partners, you can focus on growing your business instead of worrying about security breaches.

If you're short on time, working with trusted partners like VARs or MSSPs can be a game-changer.

Take the next step: Protect your business by researching endpoint security options today. Prevention is always better than reaction.