Easy-to-follow guide to endpoint protection

Endpoints make up a large part of a company's network and IT infrastructure. They include all the computers, mobile devices, servers, smart gadgets, and other IoT devices that connect to the company's network.  

The number of terminals a company has varies depending on its size. Companies with fewer than 50 employees have approximately 22 terminals. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with 50 to 100 employees have approximately 114. Companies with more than 1,000 employees have an average of 1,920 terminals.  

Each of these devices represents an opportunity for a hacker to penetrate an organization's security defenses. They could plant malware or access sensitive company data. An endpoint security strategy addresses endpoint risks and implements targeted tactics.  

Approximately 64% of businesses have experienced one or more compromising attacks on their endpoints.  In this guide, we will provide you with easy solutions focused on endpoint protection.

Resolving Password Vulnerabilities

Passwords are one of the biggest vulnerabilities when it comes to endpoints. The news constantly reports major data breaches related to password leaks. Take, for example, the RockYou2021 breach, which exposed the largest number of passwords ever recorded: 3.2 billion.  

Address password vulnerabilities in your endpoints by:  

• Training your employees on how to create and manage passwords properly
• Looking for password-free solutions, such as biometrics
• Installing multi-factor authentication on all accounts

Stop malware infection before operating system starts

USB drives (also known as flash drives) are a popular giveaway at trade shows. However, a seemingly harmless USB drive can actually cause a breach. One trick hackers use to gain access to a computer is to boot it from a USB device containing malicious code.  

There are some precautions you can take to prevent this from happening. One of these is to ensure you're using protective firmware that covers two areas. These include Trusted Platform Module (TPM) security and Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI).  

The TPM is resistant to physical tampering and malware tampering. It also monitors whether the boot process is running correctly and for any abnormal behavior. You can also look for security solutions that allow you to disable USB booting.  

Update all endpoint security solutions

You should regularly update your endpoint security solutions. It's best to automate software updates if possible so they don't fall through the cracks.  

Firmware updates are often overlooked. One reason is that they don't typically display the same warnings as software updates, but they're just as important for keeping your devices secure and protected.

It's best to have an IT professional manage all your device updates. They'll ensure updates are timely. They'll also ensure devices and software are updated as needed.  

Use modern device and user authentication

How do you authenticate users to access your network, business applications, and data? If you use only a username and password, your business is at high risk of breach.  

Use both modern authentication methods:  

• Contextual Authentication
• “Zero Trust” approach  

Contextual authentication examines contextual signals for authentication and security policies. These include several things. For example, what time of day a person logs in, their geographic location, and the device they are using.  

Zero Trust is an approach that continuously monitors your network. It ensures that every entity on a network belongs to it. Device trustlisting is an example of this approach. You allow all selected devices to access your network and block all others by default.  

Apply security policies throughout your device lifecycle

You need to implement security protocols from the moment a device is first purchased until the moment it is retired. Tools like Microsoft Autopilot and SEMM allow businesses to automate everything. They deploy sound security practices at every phase of the lifecycle. This ensures that a company doesn't overlook any critical steps.  

Examples of device lifecycle security include the moment a device is first issued to a user. This is when you should remove unnecessary privileges. When a device is passed from one user to another, it must be properly cleaned of old data and reconfigured for the new user. This means deleting all information and signing it out of all accounts.  

Be prepared for lost or stolen devices

Unfortunately, mobile devices and laptops can be lost or stolen. When this happens, you should have a sequence of events that take place immediately. This avoids risks related to exposed data and corporate accounts.

Prepare in advance for potential device loss with backup solutions. Additionally, you should use endpoint security that allows for remote locking and wiping of devices.  

Reduce your endpoint risks today!

Get help implementing a robust endpoint security strategy, step by step. We can help! Contact us now for a free consultation.  

About Nexxo

Nexxo Computer Solutions specializes in providing IT and technology services to Quebec businesses. Its mission is to offer Quebec companies IT services tailored to their needs. Acting as an external IT department, it handles all of a company's IT tasks, allowing it to focus on its business activities. It achieves this by collaborating closely with its clients and putting their interests at the center of its concerns.