Home What is an endpoint?

What is an endpoint?

Any device at the end of a computer network is considered an endpoint. For example, your laptop is considered an endpoint. Endpoints provide access to internal network systems, where important organizational data is stored. Cyber criminals often launch cyber attacks through endpoints, as they’re considered easy to exploit.

What are additional examples of endpoints? 

  • Desktop computers
  • Smartphones
  • IoT devices
  • Tablets
  • Routers
  • Printers
  • Surveillance cameras
  • Point-of-sale terminals
  • Sensors

Physical hardware that can connect to the internet is typically considered an endpoint.

What is endpoint security? 

Endpoint security is a strategy that enables you to prevent cyber criminals from entering your network through your assorted endpoints. The concept of endpoint security refers to more than simple antivirus software; rather, it refers to a comprehensive package of security tools and protocols that enable you to defeat cyber criminals.[1]

Is your endpoint security comprehensive? If your endpoint security is comprehensive:

  • Your solution is multi-layered.
  • Your data is secure at rest, in use, and in transit on endpoint devices.
  • Your endpoint security includes Zero-Day protections, which can safeguard your enterprise from advanced threats.
  • Your endpoint devices are protected from both known and unknown threats.
  • You have unified management and policy enforcement capabilities.
  • Your security is connected to a threat intelligence hub.
  • Your endpoint security is seamless and effective.

What are the top endpoint security challenges?

Last year, the market for IoT devices surged by 21%.[2]  The growing popularity and diversity of IoT devices means that manufacturers will need to source new ideas for building security into their products. As it stands, IoT device security is often lacking, allowing hackers to easily exploit them. While some patches for IoT endpoint flaws do exist, keeping up with endpoint patching is a constant challenge for IT teams. [3]

In addition, the number of employees who now work from home, or on-the-go, means that the average enterprise network has a large number of smartphones continually accessing it. Employees’ smartphones introduce a new level of risk. Ensure that your organization implements endpoint protection for mobile devices.

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[1] Endpoint Security, Check Point Software

[2] Security Boulevard, “Top 8 Endpoint Security Solutions for 2021”, Noa Ouziel, 30 August 2020

[3] Solutions Review, “The Top 5 Endpoint Security Challenges Facing Businesses in 2020,” Ben Canner, 8 January 2020.