Vulnerable IT systems are one of the biggest threats to small business. Data theft and - increasingly - ransomware can bring a company to its knees. Alarmingly, many startups and SME’s believe that they are ‘too small’ for hackers or cyber-criminals to bother with. However, statistics prove that small businesses are the preferred targets since bigger companies can fight back with significant resources to stop cyber-crime. Luckily, system endpoint protection can help...

 

What is Anti-Virus Software?

Anti-virus (or AV) software detects, removes, and prevents running of dangerous software like Trojans, worms, adware and viruses in real-time, by monitoring the system whenever it uses active memory such as opening an email or document.

Antivirus software also protects users on the internet. Browser extensions are tiny portions of code specially designed to run (execute instructions) in a web browser by injecting code into webpages as you access it. This technology is used to track browsing, display ads, store private information and can even capture passwords. Browser extensions may be perfectly safe – in fact, many websites won’t work correctly without it - but can be devastating in the hands of a crook.

 

What Is Endpoint Security?

In computer-speak, each unit which can access the internet independently or through a network connection is considered an endpoint. In the past, corporate networks regulated users' access and used network-wide anti-virus software and other sophisticated tools within a ‘closed’ system. Nowadays, almost everyone uses remote access methods to connect to their company network with smartphones, home computers, or using vulnerable public Wi-Fi. Cyber criminals can, and do, use all of these endpoints to access systems.

 

Why Do I Need Endpoint Security?

Attackers can use smartphones, laptops, and tablets as entry points to plant malware or steal data. Due to this virtual ‘free-for-all’, centralized anti-virus systems are no longer enough. The new solution is to stop intrusion before it happens.

Endpoint security enables every access point – computer, phone, tablet or other – to defend itself first. Each strong, self-defending contributes to the security of the network as a whole, making it a more effective way to implement antivirus software.

While you may be super-careful, your new employee may be freely accessing your network on his unsecured smartphone using public Wi-Fi to answer a quick email while he is having lunch. If you allow mobile or remote computers onto your network, you need endpoint security.

 

What to Look for in an Endpoint Security Solution:

▪ A solution that will grow with your business; from one user with multiple devices to a full corporate solution

▪ Antispyware and Antivirus for malware detection, containment, and removal

▪ Inbound and Outbound Firewalls and Data Leak Prevention

▪ Data input/output control, including portable devices

▪ Application control and Behavior Analysis to manage harmful actions

▪ User management and protection including Web URL Filtering

▪ File Lookup Services (FLS) or Application Whitelisting service

▪ Host Intrusion Protection System (HIPS)

 

How to Choose an Endpoint Protection Solution?

If you cannot immediately afford an endpoint solution, free antivirus software may be a short term savior. However, as startups add more users or devices, proven endpoint security solutions become critical. Here is a short overview of two excellent, well-known security developers who offer packages with easy endpoint management controls for non-technical managers.

Keep in mind that if you are not sure which product will suit you, we would be delighted to assist with your selection!

 

ESET Endpoint

For a single user or small home-based business, we recommend that you take a look at the great benefits of two different ESET Endpoint Security options.

ESET Endpoint Protection Standard currently starts at $44.75 for a 5-10 seat new 1-year agreement. While it does not include web control, antispam, botnet protection or a two-way firewall; it does however allow for remote management, virtualization support, anti-phishing and of course antivirus and antispyware protection. This is a great option if you’re new to endpoint management and really just need the basics to ensure a consistent level of security among your users.

You may also opt for File Security, specifically made for Windows Servers. ESET File Security provides Ransomware prevention, Data breaches prevention, Multilayered defense, server management and machine learning, starting at $69.95 per year for 5-10 seats. 

 

 

Kaspersky Endpoint

Kaspersky Endpoint Security protects businesses of all sizes against any kind of cyber threat, across any device and on any platform. The powerful multi-layered security is supported by extensive management features.

This endpoint solution is an easy to use, flexible option which will adapt to your needs regardless of your business size or the platform you use. Its granular security management makes it easy to administrate and control all security issues with no need for additional integration and management solutions. Its main features include: multi-layered security for desktops, servers & mobile devices, security controls to manage applications, devices and Internet access, security beyond the desktop and centralized management.