Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Technology (Anti-Virus)

.With the rise of cyberattacks, organisations need to stay ahead of the curve by utilising the best possible technology for their endpoint security. One of the technologies that is gaining a lot of traction in recently is called Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR). In this blog post we are going to discuss what EDR systems are, how they work, and why they are becoming increasingly popular with businesses.

What is Endpoint Detection & Response?

Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) systems detect security incidents and respond quickly once an attack has been identified. The response can include isolating the affected system or launching countermeasures against malicious activity. EDR also provides visibility into activity on endpoints so that any potential threats can be identified and addressed before there is a chance for them to become more serious issues.

How Does EDR Work?

An EDR system works by gathering data from endpoints—including network connections, software installations, user activities, processes running on devices, etc.—and analysing it using machine learning algorithms. This information is then used to identify anomalies that may indicate malicious activity or security breaches. If a threat is detected, then the system will take action to mitigate it—such as deploying countermeasures or isolating the affected device—to protect the organisation’s assets and data integrity.

Why Should I Use an EDR System?

Organisations should use an EDR system because it provides enhanced visibility into endpoint activity. It can also help detect potential threats before they become serious issues. Additionally, an EDR system can provide insights into user behaviour. This way, organisations can better understand how their employees are interacting with their systems and networks. An EDR system can automate many of the manual processes involved in incident response so that organisations can respond quickly and effectively when faced with cyber threats.

Additionally, many EDR solutions also offer automated incident response capabilities which allow them to quickly respond to any threats detected by the system without requiring manual intervention from administrators. This further reduces the time needed for incident response while also increasing its effectiveness.

Another benefit of using EDR solutions is that they provide greater flexibility for organisations in terms of how they manage their security posture. They are designed to integrate with existing security systems so that organisations can tailor their defences to meet their specific needs; without having to invest in additional tools or services.

Comparison with Traditional Anti-Virus Platforms

When comparing EDR technology with traditional anti-virus platforms, there are several key differences that should be noted. First, traditional anti-virus platforms focus on signature-based detection methods while EDR technologies utilise machine learning algorithms for threat detection. These can detect a greater range of threats faster and more accurately than signature-based detection methods.

Additionally, traditional anti-virus platforms focus primarily on prevention. EDR technologies offer both prevention and response capabilities which allow organisations to act quickly when threats are detected.

Finally, traditional anti-virus platforms tend to have limited forensic capabilities while EDR technologies offer enhanced forensic capabilities. These allow organisations to investigate incidents more effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Endpoint Detection & Response systems are becoming increasingly popular for businesses as they provide enhanced visibility into endpoint activity and allow organisations to respond quickly in case of a cyberattack. By utilising an Endpoint Detection system, businesses can ensure their assets and data remain safe from malicious actors. Additionally, gaining valuable insights into user behaviour as well. Ultimately, investing in an effective EDR platform could be a game-changer for any business looking to improve its security posture.

We highly recommend SentinelOne as an EDR platform. This platform can dramatically improve visibility and give you more confidence that you are well protected against advanced security risks. SentinelOne will provide the necessary levels of protection so you can keep your organisation running smoothly and securely without worrying about malicious actors infiltrating your digital assets.

SentinelOne offers a comprehensive security system with powerful malware and ransomware prevention capabilities; as well as robust endpoint detection and response. The cloud-based dashboard provides greater control over your IT environment and allows for easier management of the product itself.

Furthermore, SentinelOne’s AI-driven technology makes for smarter threat detection, which is especially helpful in large organizations with many endpoints. Based on all these strong features, we have chosen SentinelOne as our EDR provider.

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How to detect a virus on your computer

Computer viruses are unfortunately a widespread problem amongst its users. But knowing how to tell if you have a computer virus gives you the ability to act quickly, avoiding data loss or damage. Malicious malware is created to infiltrate, take over and cause havoc to a computer system. These attacks are designed to end in financial gain for the attacker.

Here are seven ways to detect if you have a virus on your computer

Computer Running Slowly

The most common and easy-to-detect symptom of a computer virus is your computer begins to run slowly. The reason for this is that the virus that has been deployed onto your system consumes massive amounts of your system’s resources. Your CPU (central processing unit) will become overwhelmed as it is trying to negotiate the amount of program usage taking place. Your hard drive will become overworked and can also cause overheating and physical damage to your computer.

The fan may also start running louder, even when performing a minor task, as it tries to combat the ever-increasing heat the CPU is producing.

Pop-Ups

Another common symptom is frequent pop-ups. These pop-ups are designed to recommend that not only do you have a virus, but to contact the number on your screen so that a ‘specialist’ can help. These pop-ups may also provide a web link for you to follow to rectify the situation, only further causing you more vulnerability to additional attacks.

Unknown Programs or Toolbars

Malicious malware designed to give access to attackers can also come in the form of unknown toolbars or programs. Should you notice that a toolbar or program is on your system that was not previously there, or you know you did not download or install it, can be a sign of a computer virus.

Unfamiliar icons may also appear on your computer, which can also indicate a computer virus. These icons may look different from other icons such as they include a question mark or other indicator that it is not a standard icon.

Disappearing Files

Although we can all lose files from time to time, whether it be from filing in the wrong area or accidentally deleting it, files disappearing can also suggest a computer virus. It is important to note that these deletions aren’t only reserved to files on your hard drive but can also include emails.

One of the most lucrative virus hacks is encryption viruses. An attacker will encrypt your files and demand a ransom for their return.

Equally, you may see messages that say that system files are corrupted. These corruptions can also cause your computer to crash and freeze, which brings us to our next point.

Frequent error messages or system crashes

Viruses cause errors in the software on your computer and your Operating System itself. These errors then cause frequent system crashes and error messages. The CPU overheating and hard drive damage caused by a virus also cause the system to malfunction.

Antivirus Not Working or Firewall issues

Computer viruses can disable the anti-virus program you are running by deactivating it from the system registries. They can also alter the instructions from these registries and adjust your anti-virus configuration settings. The virus will run without detection by your anti-virus and leaves your system vulnerable to a further attack.

Ensuring you have the latest in anti-virus technology can ensure you avoid this vulnerability.

Spam Coming in or out

You may start to see an increase in the amount of spam you are receiving in your inbox. This is an indicator that an attacker has targeted you. Furthermore, you may also be sending spam emails without your knowledge or your consent.

Spam email is a quite common symptom of a computer virus. These emails contain links to malicious websites, when clicked on will download a file onto your computer, releasing the virus onto your system.

While viruses are always finding new and cunning ways to attack your system, so too are the anti-virus platforms, and information provided to the public on what to look out for and how to protect yourself. Therefore, although viruses are nasty little things, by staying vigilant, you can avoid becoming a target.

 

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