Endpoint security and EDR: where antivirus falls short.
Laptops, servers and mobile devices are attackers' first target. This guide explains what EDR is, how it differs from classic antivirus and what to look for when choosing a solution.
What is endpoint security?
An endpoint is any computer, server, virtual machine or mobile device connected to the network. Endpoint security is the set of layers on these devices that blocks malware, detects suspicious behaviour and enables response when an incident occurs.
As remote work and cloud applications have spread, the network perimeter has blurred. Protection therefore has to sit on the device itself, not only at the network edge.
What are EDR and XDR?
EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) continuously records process, file, network and user activity on the endpoint. Alongside known signatures it uses behavioural analysis to detect suspicious chains, and lets you respond remotely, for example by isolating the device or stopping a process.
XDR (Extended Detection and Response) adds sources such as email, network and cloud to the endpoint and correlates events in a single picture.
Differences between EDR and classic antivirus
| Criterion | Classic antivirus | EDR |
|---|---|---|
| Detection method | Mostly signature-based | Signatures, behavioural analysis and threat intelligence |
| Visibility | A record of the blocked file | A timeline of process, network and user activity |
| Response | Quarantining the file | Isolating the device, stopping the process, rolling back changes |
| Post-incident analysis | Limited | Retrospective investigation of the attack chain |
| Operation | Install and forget | Alerts must be monitored and assessed |
What to look for when choosing EDR
- Supported operating systems and server coverage
- Who will monitor alerts, and when
- Central management console and reporting
- Ability to work with DLP, email security and backup
- Licensing model: per user or per device
- Local support and Turkish-language interface
Related solutions and products
DEBsec EDR
Real-time monitoring, threat detection and rapid response at the endpoint.
Explore →DEBsec XDR
Correlates endpoint, email and cloud data in a single picture.
Explore →Network and Endpoint Protection
Managed firewall, WAF, IPS, EPP/EDR, IAM, MFA and DLP, with Kuantum Pi and DEBsec.
Explore →Security Operations and SIEM
24/7 alert monitoring and playbook-based incident response.
Explore →Frequently asked questions
Does EDR replace antivirus?
Most EDR products include an antivirus (EPP) layer too. The real difference is that EDR provides visibility and response options after detection.
Do SMBs need EDR?
Ransomware attacks do not discriminate by company size. For small businesses, EDR delivered with a service that monitors the alerts is far more accessible than building an in-house security team.
What is the difference between EDR and XDR?
EDR focuses on the endpoint. XDR also correlates data from additional sources such as email, network and cloud.
Who monitors EDR alerts?
Unmonitored alerts reduce the value of EDR. Through its SOC service, TurnCloudON can take on 24/7 alert monitoring and response.
Other guides
Network Security and Firewalls
What is network security, what does a next-generation firewall deliver, and how should an SMB choose a model? Web filtering, VPN, guest networks and logging; Kuantum Pi.
Read the guide →GRC Software
What is GRC (governance, risk and compliance) software, why move away from spreadsheets, and how does it help prepare for ISO 27001, NIS2 and DORA? POC with SecureChapter eCISO.
Read the guide →CISO, vCISO and eCISO
What is a CISO, when does a virtual CISO (vCISO) make sense, and what does an eCISO provide? Three ways to establish information security leadership, and SecureChapter eCISO.
Read the guide →A no-commitment start in three steps.
Discovery call
We spend 45 minutes understanding your environment and priorities. Free of charge.
Free initial assessment
After the meeting, a one-page note with initial findings and recommendations; the findings are yours to keep. A full health check and risk report are part of our accelerator packages.
Package or service
Start with an accelerator package or go straight to managed services.