DigitalWorld:Edition8 End Point Technical Control Solutioning

This news letter delves into End Point Technical Controls ( EPP , EDR , XDR ) Solutioning various aspect such as EPP , EDR , XDR Functionality , EPP , EDR , XDR? Architecture and Solution Components , EPP , EDR , XDR Protocol and formats? ,EPP , EDR , XDR Deployment Consideration , EPP , EDR , XDR Functionality , EPP , EDR , XDR Functionality difference ,? Top 5 Vendors, and Key Regulatory consideration? .

Contents

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EPP , EDR , XDR Definition

EPP , EDR , XDR? key functionality

EPP , EDR , XDR Architecture , Solution Component

EPP , EDR/XDR Key Data Format & Protocol

EPP , EDR , XDR Agent and Server Placement into an Enterprise Network

End Point Platforms working - ?EDR , XDR

EPP , EDR , XDR Functionality difference

EDR , EDR , XDR Functionality top 5 vendors

EPP , EDR , XDR Key Regulatory Consideration

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EPP , EDR , XDR Definition

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EPP (Endpoint Protection Platform)

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EPP stands for Endpoint Protection Platform. It's a security solution designed to protect individual devices (endpoints) like laptops, desktops, mobile devices? and servers from threats like malware, zero-day vulnerabilities, and fileless attacks etc ..

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR):

EDR Stands for Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) .It is a security solution that focuses on on?detecting and responding to?various types of cyber threats on endpoints? .These threats includes Insider Threats, Ransomware , fileless malware , advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), Credential Theft and Lateral Movement

Extended Detection and Response (XDR):

XDR stands for Extended Detection and Response (EDR ) is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution that collects and analyse data from Security stack and IT Infrastructure . This includes data from firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and security information and event management (SIEM) systems, endpoints, identities, cloud applications, email, and data etc .

In summary, EPP focuses on prevention, EDR enhances detection and response, and XDR provides comprehensive protection across your security stack. Each plays a crucial role in safeguarding your organization’s data and systems.

EPP , EDR , XDR key functionality

EPP (Endpoint Protection Platform)

EPP? goal is to prevent attacks on endpoints (such as devices) from threats like malware, zero-day vulnerabilities, and fileless attacks. EPP uses below to accomplish its goal.

·???????? Signature-based detection: Uses databases of known signatures to match malware and other file-based threats.

·???????? Application control: Allows or blocks applications, URLs, ports, and addresses using blacklists or whitelists.

·???????? Sandboxing: Provides a controlled environment to test suspected threats (e.g., executables).

·???????? Behavioural analysis and machine learning: Detects anomalous or suspicious activity on the endpoint

EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response)

EDR? works on twin goal of prevention of attack on Endpoints? ,? providing support for automated incident response . EDR uses below to accomplish its Goal.

·???????? Identifying IoC ( Incident of Compromise ) : Collects and analyzes endpoint data like logs, files, and network activity to identify signs of attack /IoC.

·???????? Investigates incidents: EDR provides security analysts with the information they need to investigate the incident and determine its scope.

·???????? Automates response actions: Some EDR solutions can automate certain response actions, such as quarantining infected devices or blocking malicious URLs.

·???????? Real time alerts: Some EDR solutions provide Real time alerts for a security incident

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XDR (Extended Detection and Response)

XDR (Extended Detection and Response) goes beyond EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) by offering a holistic view of security across your entire IT infrastructure.

XDR uses below capabilities to provide comprehensive security view across entire IT Infrastructure .

·???????? Broader Data Collection and Aggregation: XDR collects data from firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), security information and event management (SIEM) systems, cloud workloads, and more. It acts as a central repository for security data from various sources, normalizing and standardizing the data for easier analysis.

·???????? Advanced Threat Detection: XDR delivers advanced threat detection using co-relation of events across system , behaviour analytics and machine learning to detect sophisticated threats and anomalies

·???????? ?Improved investigation and response: XDR provide security analysts with the necessary data and tools to investigate incidents efficiently. Additionally, automated response capabilities can help expedite the containment and remediation process.

·???????? Threat Intelligence Integration: XDR can integrate with threat intelligence feeds to stay updated on the latest threats and vulnerabilities. This helps XDR prioritize alerts and focus on activities most likely to be malicious

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EPP is the first line of Défense, focusing on prevention. EDR builds upon EPP by providing additional detection and response capabilities. XDR offers the most comprehensive view of security by collecting data from various sources across an organization.

EPP , EDR , XDR Architecture , Solution Component

EPP ( End Point Protection Platform )

·???????? Follows agent-server architecture.

·???????? EPP agents would still be deployed on endpoints to collect data.

·???????? EPP Central Management Server is deployed in Enterprise Environment at a location that shall be reachable to all the end point agents/devices.

EPP Agent communicates with central server for security policy enforcement, updates, threat detection, and data analysis.

EDR ( Endpoint Detection and Response)

• Follows agent-server architecture.
• EDR agents would still be deployed on endpoints to collect data.
• EDR Management Server , Data Analytic engine , Automated incident response and alert and reporting mechanism and ?management console are deployed in Enterprise environment at a location that shall be reachable to all the end point agents and security tools .

XDR ( Extended Detection and? Response )

·???????? Follows agent-server architecture.

·???????? uses Data Lake Architecture for storing the collected security data .

·???????? uses machine learning techniques to performs comprehensive analysis of security data stored in data lakes.

·???????? XDR Endpoint Agent is deployed on the endpoint device.

·???????? XDR Management Server, Data Collection Engine, Data Lake Threat Intelligence Feed, and User Interface, gets deployed elsewhere and communicate with the endpoint agent and other security tools.

The approach followed maintains a minimal endpoint footprint, ensuring efficient resource utilization and device performance. The heavy lifting of data collection, analysis, correlation, and threat detection happens on the server-side both for EDR/XDR

EPP , EDR/XDR Key Data Format and Protocol

Endpoint Platforms? don't directly rely on specific protocols for endpoint security. Their focus is on protecting devices, rather than network communication itself. They typically leverage a combination of protocols depending on the functionality involved:

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1.Management Communication: TCP is a common choice for reliable, connection-oriented communication between the EPP agent on the endpoint and the central management server. It ensures data reaches its destination without errors.

2.File Scanning Protocols: While scanning files, End Point platform might interact with file systems using file access protocols specific to the operating system (OS) like NTFS for Windows.

3.Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) protocols: Many EDR and other security tools send logs and events to the XDR platform for centralized analysis using Common Event Format (CEF) or Syslog.

4.HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure): This is the preferred protocol for secure data transfer between endpoints and the server. It encrypts communication, protecting sensitive information from interception.

5.DNS (Domain Name System): Protocol used to identify malicious websites and block access to them on protected endpoints.

6.SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol): protocol used to send email alerts or reports to security teams.

Additional /Optional Protocols

7.SMNP (Simple Network Management Protocol): Endpoint solutions might utilize SNMP for basic device management tasks on endpoints.

8.WSAPI (Windows Security API): This API is used on Windows endpoints to enforce security policies, such as application control or device control.

9.NetFlow/sFlow: These protocols provide detailed information about network traffic,

10.API integrations: End point Platforms may integrate with specific security tools through their APIs to access relevant data.

11.Proprietary Protocols: Certain vendors might have their own proprietary protocols for specific functionalities within their EPP system.

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EPP , EDR , XDR Agent and Server Placement into an Enterprise Network

When deploying an on-premise Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) solution in a large enterprise network, several key considerations come into play beyond the general points for any size organization. Here's a breakdown focusing on enterprise-specific factors:

Scalability and Performance:

• Large Network Size: Accommodate a large number of endpoints across geographically dispersed locations. The EPP server infrastructure needs to handle the increased load efficiently to avoid performance bottlenecks.
• Deployment Strategy: Decide on a centralized or distributed deployment model. A central server might not scale well for a vast network, so consider regional servers or a hierarchical structure for optimal performance.

Management and Control:

• Standardization and Group Policies: Establish standardized configurations and group policies for EPP settings across the enterprise to ensure consistent protection.
• Remote Management Tools: Leverage remote management tools to efficiently deploy, configure, and update EPP agents on endpoints across various locations without requiring physical access.

Security and Visibility:

• Network Segmentation: Segment the enterprise network to isolate potential threats and minimize the attack surface. EPP can be used to enforce access controls within network segments.
• Centralized Logging and Reporting: Implement a centralized logging and reporting system to gain comprehensive visibility into endpoint security events across the entire network. This allows for faster threat detection and incident response.

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Integration and Automation:

• Integration with Existing Security Tools: Ensure the EPP solution integrates seamlessly with existing security tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and SIEM for a holistic security posture.
• Automation: Automate tasks like agent deployment, update distribution, and basic threat response actions to streamline management and reduce manual workload for the IT team.

Additional Considerations for Large Enterprises:

• Change Management: Develop a comprehensive change management plan to effectively communicate EPP deployment procedures and potential impacts to employees across the organization.
• User Training and Awareness: Provide ongoing user training and awareness programs to educate employees on cybersecurity best practices and how the EPP solution helps protect them.
• Vendor Support: When selecting an EPP vendor, prioritize solutions with robust enterprise support options that cater to the specific needs of large organizations.

By carefully considering these factors, enterprises can ensure a successful on-premise EPP deployment that effectively safeguards their vast network against evolving cyber threats.

End Point Platform working - EDR , XDR

EDR Working

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XDR Working

EPP , EDR , XDR Functionality difference

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EDR , EDR , XDR Functionality top 5 vendors

Here are the top 5 vendors of EPP, EDR, and XDR Solutions according to various industry sources in 2024:

1. CrowdStrike Falcon(EDR, XDR)

CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-delivered endpoint protection platform (EPP) and extended detection and response (XDR) solution that provides comprehensive protection against cyberattacks. It uses machine learning and behavioral analysis to identify and stop threats in real-time. Falcon offers a variety of features, including:

• Next-gen antivirus and anti-malware
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Breach prevention
• Managed threat hunting
• Vulnerability assessment

1. Microsoft Defender for Endpoint(EDR, XDR)

Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a cloud-based endpoint security platform that provides comprehensive protection against cyberattacks. It leverages the power of Microsoft's security intelligence to identify and stop threats in real-time. Defender for Endpoint offers a variety of features, including:

• Next-gen antivirus and anti-malware
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Vulnerability assessment and patching
• Threat intelligence
• Managed detection and response (MDR)

1. Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR(XDR)

Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR is a cloud-based extended detection and response (XDR) platform that provides a unified view of security data across your entire IT infrastructure. It uses machine learning and behavioral analysis to identify and stop threats in real-time. Cortex XDR offers a variety of features, including:

• Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Network traffic analysis
• User behavior analytics
• Cloud security
• Deception technology

1. Trend Micro Vision One(EDR, XDR)

Trend Micro Vision One is a cloud-based endpoint security platform that provides comprehensive protection against cyberattacks. It uses a combination of traditional and machine learning techniques to identify and stop threats. Vision One offers a variety of features, including:

• Next-gen antivirus and anti-malware
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Vulnerability assessment and patching
• Web security
• Email security

1. McAfee Endpoint Security(EPP, EDR)

McAfee Endpoint Security is a comprehensive endpoint security platform that provides protection against a wide range of threats. It uses a combination of traditional and machine learning techniques to identify and stop threats. Endpoint Security offers a variety of features, including:

• Next-gen antivirus and anti-malware
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Web security
• Email security
• Data loss prevention

It's important to note that these are just a few of the many EPP, EDR, and XDR solutions available on the market. The best solution for your organization will depend on your specific needs and requirements.

EPP , EDR , XDR Key Regulatory Consideration

?Regulatory Requirements and Security Features:

Here's a table outlining how regulations can influence your security solution choices:

?Additional Considerations:

·???????? Data residency and Storage : Depending on regulations, you might need to choose solutions that store data within specific geographical locations , how long log data be stored for audit purpose? .

·???????? Reporting requirements: Some regulations mandate specific reporting formats for security incidents. Ensure your chosen solutions can generate reports that comply with these requirements.

Reference

Cortex EDR/XDR - https://docs-cortex.paloaltonetworks.com/r/Cortex-XDR/Cortex-XDR-Pro-Administrator-Guide/Architecture

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