The majority of a company's network and IT infrastructure consists of endpoints. This includes servers, computers, smart gadgets, mobile devices, and servers; you may even connect other IoT devices to the company network for added connectivity.
The number of endpoints a company has depends on its size. Businesses with fewer than 50 employees usually have 22 endpoints, while small businesses employing 50 to 100 individuals typically have around 114 endpoints. Enterprises with over 1,000 workers typically have an average of 1,920 endpoints.
Hackers have the capacity to breach a company's security systems with each of these devices, potentially installing malware or gaining access to company data. Endpoint security strategies address endpoint risks and implement targeted tactics in order to mitigate those risks.
64% of companies have experienced malicious endpoint attacks.
In this guide, we'll provide you with straightforward solutions. Protect endpoint devices today!
Address Password Vulnerabilities
Endpoints have one of the most vulnerable areas: passwords. News reports often highlight large data breaches related to password leaks, such as RockYou2021 which exposed 3.2 billion passwords.
Credential theft poses a significant threat to cybersecurity due to lax password security and breaches.
You can mitigate password vulnerabilities on your endpoints with:
- Employees should receive training on password handling and creation.
- Consider passwordless solutions such as biometrics.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be enabled on all accounts.
Stop Malware Infection Before OS Boot
USB drives (also known as flash drives) are often given away at trade shows and conferences. But they could potentially be hiding a security breach. Hackers use various techniques to gain access to computers by booting them from USBs with malicious code.
You can take steps to prevent this from occurring. Two areas of firmware protection should be used: Trusted Platform Module Security (TPM) and Unified Extensible Firmware Interface Security (UEFI).
TPMs are resistant to both physical and malware tampering. They ensure the boot process runs smoothly, as well as looking out for any unusual behavior. You should also search for security solutions and devices which enable you to disable USB booting.
All Endpoint Security Solutions Need Regular Updates
It is highly recommended that your endpoint security software remain up to date. Automating updates can help ensure they don't fall victim to failure and ensure these essential tasks are taken care of quickly and correctly.
Firmware updates can easily go overlooked, as they don't always come with the same warnings as software upgrades. Yet these essential updates are just as essential in keeping your devices secure and protected.
IT professionals are the most efficient at managing endpoint updates. They guarantee that upgrades are performed promptly and software and devices remain up to date smoothly.
Use Modern Device and User Authentication
How do you authenticate users to access your network, business applications, and data? Your company is at risk if you rely solely on username/password authentication.
Two contemporary methods of authentication are available:
- Contextual Authentication
- Zero Trust Approachx
Contextual authentication takes Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) to the next level by using context-based cues like time/place they log in as well as their device type to authenticate and secure policies. These cues may include various things, like when and where they log in from.
Zero Trust is a method that continuously monitors your network to guarantee all members are present. This approach includes safelisting devices; only approved devices can access your network, while any others are blocked by default.
Security policies should be applied throughout a device's lifecycle
Security protocols must be in place from purchase to expiration. Companies can automate this process using tools like Microsoft AutoPilot or SEMM, which implement security measures at every phase of its journey. Doing this ensures companies don't miss any critical milestones along the way.
Device lifecycle security begins when a device is issued for the first time to a user, and you should remove any unnecessary privileges. It's essential that any data that had been stored on a device during its transition between users be cleaned out and reconfigured for its new owner. Furthermore, once retirement has taken place it should be thoroughly cleaned - including wiping away all data and disconnecting from accounts - in accordance with industry guidelines.
Be Prepared for Device Theft or Loss
Mobile devices and laptops can be lost or stolen at any time, so it's important to create a plan of action in the event of such an occurrence. Doing this helps protect data loss and exposes business accounts.
Backup solutions can be utilized to safeguard against device loss. Endpoint security should enable remote locking and wiping of devices for added peace of mind.
Reduce Your Endpoint Risk Now!
Get assistance setting up robust endpoint security. We can guide you step-by-step. Contact us for a complimentary consultation now to learn how.
