It’s no longer a matter of if your network endpoints will be targeted in a cyberattack — it’s a matter of when. From laptops to mobile devices, no endpoint is immune to the tactics of today’s bad actors.
Many IT and security teams rely on endpoint protection platforms (EPP) and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to safeguard their endpoints. EPP and EDR are two vital elements of a robust security strategy, serving distinct yet complementary purposes. Understanding the differences between EDR vs. EPP is crucial for making informed cybersecurity investment decisions and bolstering your organization’s security posture.
What is EPP?
An endpoint protection platform (EPP) is a comprehensive suite of security tools deployed on endpoint devices to counteract threats like malware, ransomware, and phishing. Most EPP solutions include antivirus and anti-malware technology, firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, device control, and web browser security features.
These technologies serve as a first line of defense, working together to identify and stop known threats before they impact your organization. Many advanced platforms also offer centralized management for monitoring and administering endpoint security across your network, which allows you to remotely disable endpoints or block malware.
What is EDR?
Endpoint detection and response (EDR) is a cybersecurity solution designed to monitor, detect, and respond to advanced threats on endpoint devices. EDR solutions are typically focused on identifying and responding to threats that have already bypassed preventive defenses.
Organizations most often outsource EDR to a third-party vendor or managed security service provider (MSSP) that continuously monitors their endpoints in real time. In this setup, a team of experts uses algorithms to analyze data from system logs, endpoint sensors, and network traffic for signs of anomalous activity.
When an EDR solution detects a potential threat, it automatically triggers a response, such as isolating the impacted endpoint to contain the threat. The team of experts can then launch an investigation to identify the source and scope of the threat. Detailed threat analysis enables the team to take appropriate actions to prevent further damage and strengthen the organization’s defenses to prepare for future incidents.
Key Differences Between EPP vs. EDR
Both EPP and EDR are designed to protect endpoint devices from cybersecurity threats. The main difference lies in the human-led aspect of EDR, which enables swift responses to advanced attacks.
| EPP | EDR | |
| Definition | A comprehensive software platform | An advanced solution that combines software and human expertise |
| Main Purpose | Threat prevention | Threat detection and remediation |
| Features | Antivirus, anti-malware, firewalls, and device control | Threat hunting, real-time monitoring, forensic analysis, and response capabilities |
| Incident Response | Limited response capabilities: focused on blocking and alerting | Comprehensive response capabilities, including isolation, neutralization, remediation, and recovery |
| Data Collection | Collects basic endpoint data | Collects detailed telemetry data from various endpoints for analysis |
| Deployment | Typically deployed as a single solution that integrates various endpoint security functions | Typically deployed as a complementary layer to solutions like EPP |
| User Interaction | Minimal interaction required; typically set and forget with automated updates and scans | Requires active management and monitoring, typically from a third party |
How To Maximize EPP and EDR
There are several common misconceptions about EPP and EDR. You may have heard that you only need one or the other, that one is inherently better, or even that the two can be used interchangeably.
The reality? Though some EPPs include EDR as a feature or bundled product, the solutions serve distinct and complementary roles in an endpoint security strategy. Leveraging both EPP and EDR creates a layered defense strategy that offers comprehensive endpoint protection.
EPP primarily focuses on prevention, which is essential for stopping known threats like specific pieces of malware and ransomware. However, it’s impossible for these platforms to block 100% of threats — especially more sophisticated and targeted attacks or zero-day exploits. But while an EPP might fail to detect an adversary’s attempt to exploit an unknown vulnerability, EDR solutions can identify unusual behavioral patterns that are indicative of this type of attack.
Complementing EPP with EDR services also extends protection by enabling security teams to investigate potential threats, understand their context, and respond in real time to contain those threats. Additionally, having an effective incident response plan enhances the effectiveness of your endpoint security solutions by improving your ability to mitigate and recover from security incidents quickly.
How Redpoint Can Help
The management of EPP and EDR solutions requires continuous vigilance and significant resources that extend beyond the capabilities of most internal IT and security teams. That’s why many organizations lean on managed endpoint security services.
Redpoint Cybersecurity’s managed EDR services deliver 24/7 threat monitoring, detection, and response across cloud, email, hybrid, and on-premises environments. Our team of seasoned experts has the experience and training needed to pinpoint potential threats, minimize false positives, and effectively respond to active threats.
Get in touch with our experts to discuss your endpoint security needs.