Endpoint protection refers to a system for network security management that focuses on network endpoints, or individual devices such as workstations and mobile devices from which a network is accessed. The term also describes specific software packages that address endpoint security.
Endpoint protection may also be called endpoint security.
Endpoint protection or security is important to many businesses that use different kinds of devices to access a business network. Allowing the use of various mobile devices like iPhones, Androids, or other types of smartphones or tablets presents a risk for companies because sensitive company data can end up being stored or displayed on these endpoints. In order to manage these risks, enterprises invest in comprehensive endpoint security through different software packages and vendor services, as well as internal protocols and strategies for limiting liability.
One big part of endpoint protection or security is related to handling malware. Endpoint protection systems may help to identify malware and to minimize its negative effects on a network or on individual devices. Endpoint protection services may also look for the weak points in a network and try to remedy problems in order to provide better overall security. Certain kinds of custom endpoint security systems can help with virtual network environments or other complex IT infrastructures that require different kinds of monitoring and system protection.