10 best endpoint security solutions for your business

Key Takeaways

• Endpoint security solutions protect devices like laptops, desktops, and mobile devices from a range of cyberthreats through integrated tools such as antivirus, firewalls, and encryption.
• Implementing effective endpoint protection not only strengthens an organization's security stance but also improves operational efficiency through centralized management and task automation.
• When selecting an endpoint security solution, businesses should prioritize features including real-time threat detection, robust malware protection, and scalability to ensure comprehensive and adaptable security.

In today's interconnected business environment, securing your company's endpoints is more critical than ever. With the proliferation of laptops, smartphones, and other devices accessing corporate networks and data, your attack surface has expanded significantly. 

Implementing a robust endpoint security solution can provide the protection you need to prevent costly data breaches, malware infections, and other security incidents that can cripple your operations. This guide introduces you to the best endpoint security solutions available in the market in addition to essential features to watch out for.

What is endpoint protection software?

Endpoint protection software is a cybersecurity solution designed to secure end-user devices like desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. It typically includes features such as:

• Antivirus and anti-malware to detect and block threats
• Firewall to monitor and filter network traffic
• Application control to block risky or unauthorized apps
• Data encryption to protect sensitive information
• Intrusion prevention to thwart hackers and attackers

Endpoint security solutions are used by organizations of all sizes to protect against basic and sophisticated cyberthreats. Whether it's preventing a ransomware infection that locks up critical data or stopping a hacker from stealing customer records, endpoint protection is a crucial layer in any company's security strategy.

In recent years, the concept of endpoint protection has evolved to include unified endpoint management (UEM). UEM combines traditional endpoint protection with mobile device management and enterprise mobility management. This modern approach provides a more comprehensive solution for securing and managing all types of endpoints within an organization, from traditional computers to mobile devices and IoT devices.

Benefits of implementing endpoint security solutions

Implementing robust endpoint security solutions offers numerous advantages for businesses which include:

Enhanced protection against cyber threats

The primary benefit of an endpoint security solution is, of course, better protection against the myriad of cyberthreats facing organizations today. Malware, phishing, zero-day exploits—the dangers are many and always changing. A comprehensive endpoint protection platform gives you the tools to identify and neutralize these threats before they can infiltrate your network and wreak havoc.

For example, let's say an employee accidentally clicks on a phishing email attachment, unleashing ransomware. An effective endpoint security solution would detect the malicious file, quarantine it, alert the security team, and potentially roll back any unauthorized changes—all in real-time. Without this protection in place, the ransomware could quickly encrypt critical data across the organization, leading to costly downtime and recovery efforts.

Data loss prevention

In addition to blocking external threats, endpoint security solutions also help prevent sensitive data from being lost or stolen. Features like data encryption ensure that even if a laptop is misplaced, the information on it remains secure and inaccessible to unauthorized users. Policies can be set to restrict copying data to external drives or cloud storage.

Consider a sales rep who has a spreadsheet full of customer names, email addresses, and purchase histories on her laptop. If that laptop is lost or stolen without data protection in place, the company could face major liability under data privacy regulations. With an endpoint DLP solution, that data would remain safely encrypted and the risk of a costly breach would be dramatically reduced.

Increased operational efficiency

While the security benefits are obvious, endpoint protection can also increase overall efficiency for IT teams. Centralized management consoles allow admins to monitor the security status of all devices, push updates and patches, enforce policies, and investigate incidents from a single location. Automation capabilities handle routine tasks like malware scans and free up the team to focus on higher-level security strategies.

Without an endpoint security solution, IT staff waste valuable cycles manually installing software, running scans, tracking down unpatched systems, and reacting to infections after they occur. Multiply this inefficiency across hundreds or thousands of devices and the costs really add up. Purpose-built endpoint protection enables a proactive security approach and streamlined operations.

6 features to look for in an endpoint security software

When evaluating endpoint security software for your organization, it's crucial to look for these key features that can significantly enhance your overall security posture and operational efficiency:

1. Real-time threat detection and response

Cyberthreats move fast and an endpoint security solution needs to be equally speedy in spotting and shutting down attacks. Look for platforms that offer real-time, continuous monitoring of endpoints to rapidly detect anomalous activity. Automated blocking and containment capabilities should kick in immediately to prevent the spread of an infection. The solution should also provide contextual alerts with detailed information on the threat, its origin, and what assets may have been compromised to aid in quick and effective remediation. 

2. Malware protection

Malware remains one of the most significant threats to endpoint security, with novel strains and variants appearing daily. Your endpoint solution needs robust anti-malware capabilities, including both signature-based detection of known malware and behavioral heuristics that can spot brand new, never-seen-before threats (zero-days).

3. Device and application control

Controlling which devices can connect to your network and what software can run on endpoints is a critical piece of the security puzzle. Your endpoint protection should allow you to define and enforce acceptable use policies, such as blocking USB drives, restricting admin rights, and blacklisting risky applications.

4. Centralized management console

Large, distributed organizations can have thousands of endpoints to manage. Choose an endpoint security platform with a centralized, cloud-based management console to streamline deployment, configuration, and ongoing monitoring. Dashboards should provide real-time views of endpoint health and compliance across the enterprise. Alerts, investigations, and actions (e.g quarantining a suspicious file) should be able to be performed remotely from the console. 

5. Threat intelligence

No single security vendor has a monopoly on threat information. The endpoint security solution you select should integrate with third-party threat intelligence feeds to provide the most current and comprehensive view of the threat landscape. Platforms that automatically correlate global threat data with local telemetry can more accurately detect attacks.

6. Scalability and performance

Finally, don't overlook scalability and performance when evaluating endpoint protection solutions. Security tools that hog resources and degrade user experience will be disabled or worked around. Bloated agents are also difficult to deploy and manage at scale. Look for lightweight, cloud-native agents and platforms built to perform at enterprise scale. The best solutions utilize an autonomous agent that uses minimal CPU cycles and RAM while providing a comprehensive set of EDR, EPP, and XDR capabilities from a single codebase. 

The 10 best endpoint protection solutions for your business

With so many endpoint security solutions on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for your organization. Here are some of the top options to consider:

Rippling + SentinelOne

Rippling, the leading workforce platform, has partnered with SentinelOne, a top-rated endpoint protection provider, to deliver a complete and integrated security solution. By combining Rippling's identity and device management capabilities with SentinelOne's AI-powered threat detection and response, businesses can protect their endpoints and streamline their IT operations from a single platform.

Key features

• Autonomous endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Behavioral AI to spot and block stealthy attacks
• Automated remediation and rollback of unauthorized changes
• Integrated device management and software inventory
• Customizable policies and real-time monitoring
• Zero-touch deployment for seamless device setup and enrollment

Integrations

The Rippling + SentinelOne integration enables customers to manage their endpoint security alongside their core IT needs. From the Rippling dashboard, admins can deploy the SentinelOne agent, view threats by user and device, take action on alerts, generate compliance reports, and more. Alongside SentinelOne, Rippling also offers other security integrations like Okta and Duo for identity management, Vanta and Drata for compliance, Malwarebytes for anti-malware, Cloudflare for network security, and KnowBe4 for security awareness training. This unified approach simplifies security operations and ensures total visibility.

Cisco Secure Endpoints

Cisco Secure Endpoint (formerly AMP for Endpoints) is a cloud-delivered endpoint security solution that combines next-generation antivirus, endpoint protection platform (EPP), and advanced EDR capabilities. Powered by threat intelligence from Cisco Talos, one of the world's largest threat research teams, Secure Endpoint protects against advanced threats.

Key features

• Advanced malware protection using machine learning and behavioral analysis
• Continuous monitoring and retrospective security to detect and stop fileless and stealthy attacks
• Endpoint isolation to contain attacks and prevent lateral spread
• Built-in sandboxing for dynamic malware analysis

Integrations

Cisco Secure Endpoint integrates seamlessly across the Cisco Secure portfolio and with third-party solutions, with key integrations including Cisco SecureX for unified threat response, Cisco Secure Malware Analytics (Threat Grid) for advanced sandboxing, Cisco Secure Firewall, Secure Email, and Secure Web Appliance for cross-vector protection, and Cisco AnyConnect for secure remote access. The solution's APIs also enable integration with a range of technology partners' products across SIEM, SOAR, IT service management, mobile device management, and more.

CrowdStrike Falcon

CrowdStrike Falcon is another cloud-native endpoint protection platform that unifies next-generation antivirus, EDR, cyber threat intelligence, and proactive threat hunting. Powered by the CrowdStrike Security Cloud and advanced AI, Falcon protects against different types of sophisticated attacks, from commodity malware to more advanced threats like ransomware.

Key features

• AI-powered prevention, detection, and automated response
• Proprietary Threat Graph technology for real-time analysis and correlation
• Falcon OverWatch proactive threat hunting by elite cybersecurity experts
• Integrated threat intelligence from CrowdStrike's global network of sensors

Integrations

Key integrations include Airlock for application allowlisting, Beyond Identity for zero trust authentication, JumpCloud for full disk encryption and patch management, and Vulcan Cyber for endpoint vulnerability and risk management. 

Microsoft Defender

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is an enterprise endpoint security platform that helps prevent, detect, investigate, and respond to advanced threats across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. Leveraging behavioral sensors, cloud analytics, and threat intelligence, Defender for Endpoint offers advanced optics and detection capabilities validated by independent third-party testing.

Key features

• Next-generation antivirus with real-time protection and cloud-based intelligence
• Automated investigation and remediation to quickly respond at scale
• Threat and vulnerability management for risk-based prioritization of issues
• Microsoft Threat Experts managed hunting service for proactive threat notification

Integrations

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint natively integrates with the broader Microsoft security stack for a unified defense platform. Key integrations include Microsoft Defender for Cloud for infrastructure security, Microsoft Sentinel for SIEM and SOAR, Microsoft Intune for mobile device management, Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps for CASB, Microsoft Defender for Identity for identity threat protection, Microsoft Defender for Office for collaborative app security, and Microsoft Defender XDR for cross-domain detection and response. These integrations provide comprehensive protection across endpoints, email, identities, cloud apps, and infrastructure.

Sophos Intercept X

​​Sophos Intercept X is an endpoint protection solution that combines powerful AI, behavioral analysis, exploit prevention, and other techniques to stop attacks before they impact systems. Managed through the cloud-based Sophos Central platform, Intercept X offers a prevention-first approach, anti-ransomware capabilities, and integrated EDR and XDR for threat hunting and response.

Key features

• Deep learning AI for detecting both known and unknown malware
• CryptoGuard anti-ransomware and master boot record protection
• Exploit prevention to stop fileless attacks and in-memory threats
• Sophos XDR for cross-product threat hunting and response

Integrations

Key integration partners include Aruba ClearPass and Cigent for data protection and conditional access, Cortex XSOAR and Rapid7 InsightConnect for security orchestration and response, Splunk and Sumo Logic for SIEM data ingestion and threat investigation, and ConnectWise Automate/Manage and SolarWinds N-central for RMM and MSP service delivery.

ThreatDown by Malwarebytes

ThreatDown by Malwarebytes is an endpoint security platform that combines next-generation antivirus, EDR, vulnerability assessment, and other capabilities to prevent threats from infiltrating your environment. 

Key features

• AI-powered multi-layered protection for defense-in-depth
• Proactive threat blocking and precise threat detection
• Single, lightweight agent for easy deployment and minimal system impact
• Incident response, device control, and application blocking included

Integrations

ThreatDown integrates with popular platforms like ConnectWise Asio and Automate for RMM and ticketing, Kaseya VSA and BMS for RMM and professional services automation, Datto RMM and Autotask for unified visibility and management, Splunk and Microsoft Sentinel for SIEM data ingestion and automated response, and Stellar Cyber and Palo Alto Cortex XSOAR for threat investigation and orchestration.

Huntress

Huntress is a fully managed security platform purpose-built for small and medium-sized businesses. Combining endpoint detection and response, Microsoft 365 protection, and security awareness training, Huntress offers threat coverage backed by a 24/7 security operations center. The platform is designed to be quick and easy to deploy, with a single dashboard for managing all security functions.

Key features

• Managed EDR for Windows and macOS with behavioral analysis
• Persistent foothold detection to uncover hidden threats
• Ransomware canaries for early warning of potential incidents
• External reconnaissance to identify perimeter weaknesses

Integrations

Huntress integrates with a wide range of tools across PSA, RMM, identity management, and compliance categories to streamline operations and fit seamlessly into existing workflows. Key integration partners include ConnectWise Manage and Automate, Datto Autotask and RMM, Kaseya BMS and VSA, SyncroMSP, NinjaOne, N-Able, Slack, Okta, Google Workspace, and Microsoft 365. 

Trend Vision One

Trend Vision One - Endpoint Security is an endpoint protection platform that integrates threat prevention, detection, and response capabilities to secure endpoints, servers, and cloud workloads. Part of Trend Vision One, a unified cybersecurity platform, it offers broad coverage and streamlined management across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments.

Key features

• Layered threat prevention across all attack stages with machine learning and virtual patching
• Integrated EDR and XDR for threat detection, hunting, and investigation
• Intrusion prevention and vulnerability shielding optimized for servers and cloud workloads
• Optional managed detection and response (MDR) services to augment security operations

Integrations

Key integration categories include SIEM, SOAR, threat intelligence, vulnerability management, cloud security, and IT service management. Notable integration partners are Splunk, IBM QRadar, Palo Alto Networks, Okta, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, ServiceNow, Jira, Chronicle, Elastic, and many others. These integrations enable data sharing, security orchestration, and unified investigations across Trend and multi-vendor environments.

ESET PROTECT

ESET PROTECT is an endpoint security platform that leverages ESET's multilayered defense and global threat intelligence network. With cross-platform support for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, ESET PROTECT offers robust protection, unparalleled performance, and easy management from a unified console.

Key features

• Advanced machine learning and behavioral analysis for pre- and post-execution protection
• Ransomware Shield for enhanced ransomware detection and remediation
• ESET Inspect, an XDR-enabling module for incident response, investigation, and threat hunting
• Full disk encryption, web browser protection, and brute force attack prevention

Integrations

Just like others, key integration categories include RMM, PSA, SIEM, SOAR, and XDR, with examples including ConnectWise Automate and Manage, Datto RMM and Autotask, Kaseya VSA, N-able N-central, NinjaOne, Stellar Cyber, and Arctic Wolf.

Bitdefender

Bitdefender is another endpoint security platform that combines advanced threat prevention, detection, and response capabilities. With its GravityZone solutions, Bitdefender offers a layered, AI-driven approach to protect physical, virtual, and cloud-based endpoints against sophisticated attacks like ransomware.

Key features

• 30+ machine learning layers for maximum threat visibility and prevention
• Ransomware protection with multiple defense layers for prevention, detection, and remediation
• GravityZone EDR for automated cross-endpoint correlation and incident response
• GravityZone Risk Management for identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities and misconfigurations

Integrations

The GravityZone platform is designed to be extensible and interoperable with existing security infrastructures. Bitdefender's open API architecture allows for integration with SIEMs, SOARs, and other security tools to streamline workflows and enhance visibility across the environment. 

Secure your business with Rippling

While standalone endpoint security solutions offer robust protection, they work even better when integrated as part of a comprehensive IT and security management platform. That's where Rippling shines. Rippling unifies your employee system of record with device and app management, identity and access controls, and powerful automation to secure and streamline your business.

Rippling's key capabilities include:

• Cross-OS device management (MDM) 
• Identity lifecycle management
• App provisioning and deprovisioning
• Single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Password management
• Endpoint detection and response

With Rippling, you can automatically deploy and configure devices for new hires, set up their accounts and access in integrated business apps like Slack and Office 365, enforce password and security policies, and secure their endpoints with Rippling's integrated EDR solution or a partner app like SentinelOne. All from one intuitive platform.

When an employee leaves, Rippling ensures all their access is terminated and their devices are deprovisioned immediately, eliminating security gaps. Continuous device monitoring and remote management lets you identify risks and take action company-wide in minutes. It's endpoint security made simple and effective.

Frequently asked questions

What is an endpoint in cybersecurity?

In cybersecurity, an endpoint refers to any device that is connected to a network and can be used as an entry point by an attacker. Common endpoints include computers, smartphones, tablets, servers, and IoT devices. Since end-users interact directly with these devices (the "endpoints" of the network), they are frequent targets and need dedicated protection.

What are the three main types of endpoint security?

The three main categories of endpoint security solutions are:

1. Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP) - focuses on preventing malware and other threats
2. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) - detects and investigates threats, enabling rapid response
3. Extended Detection and Response (XDR) - integrates EDR with other security tools for unified threat hunting and remediation

What is the best endpoint protection in the world?

There are many excellent endpoint protection solutions on the market, and the "best" one will depend on an organization's specific needs, environment, and risk profile. That said, Rippling's integrated endpoint security capabilities are a strong contender, especially for businesses looking to streamline IT and security operations.

Rippling provides a comprehensive set of features - endpoint detection and response, device management, identity and access controls, and more - in one unified platform. The cloud-native architecture enables rapid deployment and easy scalability, while automation takes the burden off lean IT teams. Rippling also integrates with leading endpoint protection products like SentinelOne for added flexibility and choice.

This blog is based on information available to Rippling as of September 6, 2024.

Disclaimer: Rippling and its affiliates do not provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide or be relied on for tax, accounting, or legal advice. You should consult your own tax, accounting, and legal advisors before engaging in any related activities or transactions.