Endpoint protection platforms (EPP) combine a number of endpoint security and management capabilities to deliver an all-in-one solution for securing endpoint devices. These tools facilitate endpoint management through remote control, monitoring, and inventory management. Endpoint protection platforms also provide some level of endpoint detection and remediation to identify and remove causes of web-based threats. Lastly, they offer antivirus capabilities to prevent malicious software from infecting endpoint devices.
Companies often choose solution suites because of their all-encompassing nature and to centralize control and maintain consistency of security operations related to endpoint devices. While these tools possess the capabilities of other endpoint security software, they also accomplish much more. By combining at least three key components of endpoint security, endpoint security vendors are excellent choices for companies looking to consolidate security solutions.
To qualify for the Endpoint Protection Platforms category, a platform or product suite must offer the following core features:
Facilitate control over disparate endpoints
Provide endpoint malware and antivirus protection
Facilitate the detection and remediation of web-based threats
In some cases, endpoint protection and security platforms may contain features of antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR) software, and endpoint management software, including:
Possession of anti-malware and malware identification or removal features
Ability to distribute updates as new virus signatures are detected
Features for showing the health status of individual devices and alerting administrators when devices have been compromised
Ability to manage endpoint assets connected to a network and patch updates and ensure device compliance
Detecting new network assets, endpoints, and anomalies to trigger remediation
Installing new operating systems or applications to an endpoint device