Introduction

As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses need to be more vigilant than ever. One of the best ways to stay protected is by using endpoint protection solutions. These defenses are crucial for companies of all sizes as they provide a crucial layer of protection at the last point of connectivity – the end users’ devices. In this blog post, we will discuss the best endpoint protection Gartner has recommended for 2021. Selected based on their ability to detect and respond to threats, ease of management, and overall value, these solutions can help your business master cybersecurity.

What is Endpoint Protection?

Endpoint protection, also known as endpoint security, is a type of cybersecurity software designed to secure endpoints, or end-user devices like desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. It protects these devices from threats by ensuring that they meet certain standards of security before they’re granted network access. This is often managed through a central endpoint protection platform (EPP).

Gartner's Top Picks for Endpoint Protection Solutions in 2021

1. Crowdstrike Falcon Platform

Rated as a leader in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms in 2021, Crowdstrike Falcon Platform offers a cloud-native endpoint protection solution that utilizes AI and indicators of attack (IoAs) to prevent breaches. Crowdstrike provides a lightweight agent that doesn't require reboot upon installation and a highly intuitive user interface.

2. Microsoft Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP)

Known for its integration capabilities with other Microsoft products, Microsoft Defender ATP provides advanced threat protection services for endpoints. Its strengths include vulnerability management, attack surface reduction, and automated investigation and remediation capabilities. Considering its low total cost of ownership, it is one of the best endpoint protection Gartner recommends for businesses that are already using Microsoft services extensively.

3. Symantec Endpoint Security

Another leader in Gartner's Magic Quadrant, Symantec (now part of Broadcom) offers a comprehensive endpoint protection solution. It's built to secure the increasing number of entry points to a corporate network. With its robust portfolio of options like SEP Mobile for mobile devices and SEP Cloud for cloud-based endpoint protection, Symantec provides a solution well-suited for complex enterprise environments.

4. Carbon Black Predictive Security Cloud

Acquired by VMware in 2019, Carbon Black offers a cloud-native endpoint protection platform called Predictive Security Cloud. It integrates with other VMware products, leveraging Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) for a seamless prevention, detection, and response solution. It offers a single agent for all its functions, providing simplified operations and consolidated agent management.

5. SentinelOne Singularity Platform

SentinelOne is a highly-rated endpoint protection solution in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for its Singularity Platform. Leveraging AI and machine learning for real-time threat detection and response, Singularity provides a unified approach to endpoint protection. A key advantage of Singularity platform is its ability to offer full visibility across all network devices and run autonomous actions to eliminate threats.

Guidelines for Evaluating Endpoint Protection Solutions

Apart from considering the best endpoint protection Gartner recommendations, businesses should ensure they conduct their own evaluation based on the following criteria:

• Effectiveness: Check the vendor's record in independent tests for malware detection and false positives.
• Usability: Consider the solution's interface, real-time protection options, and administrative controls.
• Compatibility: Opt for solutions that are compatible with your company's operating systems and virtual environments.
• Integration: Look for endpoint protection solutions that can integrate with your existing security infrastructure.
• Costs: Understand the total cost of ownership, including acquisition costs, implementation costs, and ongoing costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as cyber threats become more sophisticated, endpoint protection adds a buffer of security that every business needs. Solutions like the Crowdstrike Falcon Platform, Microsoft Defender ATP, Symantec Endpoint Security, Carbon Black Predictive Security Cloud, and SentinelOne Singularity Platform, all recommended by Gartner as the best endpoint protection in 2021, offer a comprehensive and effective approach to protecting every endpoint in your network. By considering the key factors in evaluating these solutions, businesses can ensure they deploy the most suitable endpoint protection for their specific needs.