What is the difference between Symantec Endpoint Protection and EDR?

Symantec Endpoint Protection

Symantec Endpoint Protection (SEP) is an antivirus and endpoint security solution developed by Symantec Corporation, now part of Broadcom Inc. SEP is designed to protect endpoints (such as desktops, laptops, and servers) from various types of malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other cybersecurity threats. Key features of Symantec Endpoint Protection typically include:

1. Antivirus Protection: Detects and removes viruses, malware, spyware, and other threats.
2. Firewall: Monitors and controls network traffic to prevent unauthorized access and block malicious activities.
3. Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): Protects against network-based attacks and vulnerabilities.
4. Behavioral Analysis: Analyzes endpoint behavior to detect and block suspicious activities.
5. Device Control: Controls and monitors access to USB and other removable devices.
6. Application Control: Manages and enforces policies on applications running on endpoints.
7. Centralized Management: Provides centralized management and reporting through a management console.

Symantec Endpoint Protection focuses on protecting endpoints within an organization’s network infrastructure and ensuring the security of devices connected to the network.

EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response)

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a category of cybersecurity technology that focuses on detecting and responding to advanced threats and cyber attacks on endpoints. EDR solutions are designed to provide real-time monitoring, visibility into endpoint activities, and advanced threat detection capabilities. Key features of EDR typically include:

1. Continuous Monitoring: Monitors endpoint activities in real time to detect suspicious behavior and potential threats.
2. Advanced Threat Detection: Uses behavioral analytics, machine learning, and threat intelligence to identify and prioritize threats.
3. Investigation and Response: Provides tools for investigating security incidents, analyzing attack vectors, and responding to threats.
4. Forensic Analysis: Collects and analyzes endpoint data for post-incident forensic investigations.
5. Integration with SIEM: Integrates with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems for centralized security monitoring and incident management.

EDR solutions complement traditional antivirus and endpoint protection solutions by focusing on detecting and responding to sophisticated and targeted attacks that may evade traditional defenses.

Difference

The main difference between Symantec Endpoint Protection and EDR lies in their focus and capabilities:

1. Focus: Symantec Endpoint Protection focuses on preventing and protecting endpoints from a wide range of known threats using antivirus, firewall, and other preventive measures. It emphasizes proactive protection and security management across endpoints within a network.
2. Capabilities: EDR, on the other hand, focuses on detecting and responding to advanced threats and cyber attacks that may bypass traditional antivirus defenses. EDR solutions provide advanced threat detection, continuous monitoring, real-time visibility into endpoint activities, and capabilities for investigating and responding to security incidents.

Conclusion

Organizations often deploy both Symantec Endpoint Protection and EDR solutions to achieve comprehensive endpoint security. Symantec Endpoint Protection provides foundational antivirus and endpoint protection capabilities, while EDR enhances threat detection and response capabilities with advanced analytics, continuous monitoring, and incident investigation features. Together, they help organizations defend against a wide range of cyber threats and maintain the security of their endpoints and network infrastructure.

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