Is Endpoint Management Nothing More than a Glorified Antivirus Solution?

Endpoint management is sometimes billed as a software solution that will allow you to fortify your systems from internal or external attacks. As a result, there is a growing suspicion that it is nothing more than a glorified antivirus system. However, the program is surely more than that.

For businesses that are not familiar with the term, remote endpoint management is the process of protecting your systems when mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops attempt to access your network. When you install the software, it will then track all activities and quarantine potential threats.

But Is it Not How an Antivirus Works?

The antivirus and endpoint management both have similar goals--which is to spot vulnerabilities and fill any holes in your system. However, the latter casts a wider net compared to your standard Kaspersky or BitDefender solution.

For instance, the antivirus will only protect the computer or workstation, as well as the server. It screens all communication and data packets for potential virus, adware, malware, ransomware, and spyware. Once detected, the software will then work to isolate and remove it for your device.

However, the endpoint will cover all grounds.

It is more accurate to say that antivirus is only a component of remote endpoint management. But it also has other tools to detect or thwart threats, as well, such as whitelisting, patching, HIPS system, firewall, audit logging, and patch reports.

The primary goal is to safeguard all endpoints (computer, laptop, smartphone, server, POS systems, etc.) that are connected to the network. The solution adopts a server/client model of protection.

Are you still confused? Perhaps it is best to consider this analogy: if you have a house and you want to protect it from burglars, the antivirus will only protect the bedroom. However, the endpoint solution will safeguard the whole building, including your yard.

How About Network Security Products?

Network security is crucial to ensure that your networks are clear of threats. Meanwhile, endpoint management will make sure that your devices are secure.

Going back to the same analogy, consider the network security solution as building a fence. And that’s good because you fortify your home further. But endpoint management ensures that even before the person can come inside the gates, you already know that they are not a threat. For instance, they are a familiar face and completely unarmed.

Nothing should hinder you from employing both products to protect your enterprise. Besides, enterprise network monitoring security and endpoint management are complementary solutions that work well with each other.

What is Remote Endpoint Management and Endpoint Management?

In terms of function, there is no difference between remote endpoint management and endpoint management. However, the former has an added capability for the users to access their systems from a distance.

The remote feature allows you to pull out data from your systems when you log in to the dedicated website. You can be on the other side of the world and it would not matter. The only crucial element is that you have an Internet connection. Two-factor authentication also ensures that no unauthorized person can access your server even if they use your device.

Not all endpoint management solutions have remote capability, so keep that in mind when you are shopping around for a product.