Endpoints are constantly connected to the internet, so they offer a gateway for cyberattacks. Endpoint security is simply the process of protecting your endpoints, be it inside or outside the corporate network. This thwarts any deliberate exploitation via cyberattacks. You can easily protect your endpoints by employing endpoint security software, patching devices regularly, implementing proper security protocols and adhering to security compliance requirements.

Unlike an antivirus solution that primarily detects existing threats in the network, endpoint security software goes a step further and reduces the chances of any threat in the first place. Implementing automation software for IT processes while ensuring security compliance is a way for IT system administrators to stay a step ahead in the ever-changing technological landscape.  

How to leverage ManageEngine‘ Desktop Central to improve endpoint security

Desktop Central provides an integrated platform for managing all your endpoints. Apart from being a one-stop shop for patch management, asset management, software deployment, and remote control, Desktop Central also helps organizations ensure network security and that IT processes meet data compliance standards, namely by:

1) Securing browsers

Every organization must meet internet security standards, such as CIS Benchmarks and STIGs, to abide by data regulations. Browsers can be an attack vector that cybercriminals use to target organizations. Integrating Desktop Central with Browser Security Plus can provide more visibility about the browsers being used as well as their add-ons, extensions and plug-ins. Browser Security Plus assists in hardening browser settings and securing web activities.

2) Filtering applications

Every organization maintains a list of prohibited software to avoid compliance issues.

Barring some applications can be an important step towards preventing malware threats. Desktop Central helps you fully automate the process of detecting and removing prohibited software. You can not only identify and automatically uninstall unwanted software, but also exempt devices from the auto-uninstallation cycle as per your convenience. The prohibited software report shows which block liste software is in use and the devices those applications are installed on, providing further clarity.

3) Using BitLocker encryption

In light of the ever-growing pool of devices, where an IT administrator manages many endpoints, organizations must use an encryption tool to prevent theft of sensitive corporate data and other data loss. BitLocker encryption provides enhanced security for data throughout its life cycle, which starts with the creation and storing of the data and continues through its deletion or disposal. All phases are susceptible to attack; maintaining drive encryption prevents important data from being stolen or accidentally disclosed. Desktop Central’s BitLocker add-on is equipped with granular settings so you can implement policies that satisfy both user requirements, and your organization’s cybersecurity standards.

4) Detecting vulnerabilities in time

The most vital step to risk elimination is often risk identification. Using a proactive approach for identifying potential threats in your network, can keep you well off the path of cyberattacks. Integrating Vulnerability Manager Plus with Desktop Central will help you detect, assess, and classify vulnerabilities. Once the vulnerabilities can be assessed based on enterprise-level risk, they can be eliminated in order of priority. Vulnerability Manager Plus also lets you calculate the age of a vulnerability, either from the date the vulnerability was published or from the date it was discovered in your network. Letting a vulnerability reside in your network for a longer period is an indication of weak security. Vulnerability age must be taken into consideration while prioritizing vulnerabilities. All of the above-mentioned practices and features are easily implemented using Desktop Central and its add-ons. Leveraging endpoint management solutions to automate IT processes and proactively securing aspects of endpoint security that are often overlooked by traditional anti-virus and other perimeter security solutions will ensure network security and compliance. Download a 30-day, free trial today.

Note:- ManageEngine (formerly AdventNet) is the Enterprise IT Management Software division of ZOHO Corp. Founded in 1996 and known until 2009 as AdventNet Inc., ZOHO Corp. is headquartered in Pleasanton, CA with offices in North America, Europe and Asia.

ManageEngine is a producer of Enterprise IT Management Software, offering high-end functionality of large network management frameworks.