Learn about the key features of endpoint security for remote workers, such as device visibility, threat detection, data protection, user education, VPN, and management.

Traditional VPN solutions will often open access to the whole network segment, and this can be tempting to a threat actor. Adopting a solution based on ZTNA (Zero-Trust Network Access) can close that gap and can make sure the remote user can only access the applications and on-prem resources depending on their identity even though they are not in a corporate network and will work as a protected layer before it checks for the app or resource permissions. Features like Entra Private Access can be connected with MFA and strong authentication to provide a good level of protection based on identity and will work on the ZTNA principals.

Last updated on Oct 15, 2024

What are the key features of endpoint security for remote workers?

Endpoint security is the practice of protecting the devices and data of remote workers from cyber threats. It is essential for businesses that rely on telecommuting, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we will explore the key features of endpoint security for remote workers and how they can help you secure your network, devices, and data.

1 Device Visibility and Control

One of the first steps to ensure endpoint security is to have a clear view of all the devices that access your network and data. You need to know what devices your remote workers use, where they are located, what operating systems and applications they run, and how they connect to your network. You also need to have the ability to control the devices remotely, such as enforcing security policies, updating software, wiping data, or locking devices in case of theft or loss. A device visibility and control solution can help you monitor and manage your endpoints effectively and efficiently.

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Amir Reza Nazarizadeh

Sr. Security Engineer, DevSecOps @ Snapp! | PhD Candidate
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There may be habits in personal use of devices that may compromise security. Unfortunately, in many cases, many of these bad habits are unintentionally practiced while working remotely. Especially since security policies may affect convenience. For example, one of these habits is using the auto-complete feature during authentication, since the prerequisite for using this feature is to store sensitive information in the system, malware can easily steal the stored data. Another issue is the apps updating, which sometimes users may postpone this for various reasons and provide the possibility of exploiting vulnerabilities. Endpoint security can monitor devices, enforce security policies and helps preventing such bad security practices.

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2 Threat Detection and Response

Another key feature of endpoint security is to detect and respond to cyber threats that target your remote workers' devices and data. You need to have a robust antivirus and anti-malware solution that can scan and remove malicious files, block phishing and ransomware attacks, and alert you of any suspicious activities. You also need to have a threat response solution that can isolate infected devices, analyze the root cause and impact of the attack, and remediate the damage. A threat detection and response solution can help you prevent and mitigate cyberattacks and minimize the risk of data breaches.

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3 Data Protection and Backup

A third key feature of endpoint security is to protect and backup the data of your remote workers. You need to have a data protection solution that can encrypt the data on the devices and in transit, prevent unauthorized access, and comply with data privacy regulations. You also need to have a data backup solution that can automatically and regularly backup the data to a secure cloud or local storage, and restore it in case of loss, corruption, or deletion. A data protection and backup solution can help you safeguard your valuable data and ensure business continuity.

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4 User Education and Awareness

A fourth key feature of endpoint security is to educate and raise awareness among your remote workers about the best practices and policies of cybersecurity. You need to have a user education and awareness solution that can provide training, guidance, and feedback to your remote workers on how to use their devices safely, securely, and responsibly. You also need to have a user education and awareness solution that can test and measure the knowledge and behavior of your remote workers and identify any gaps or weaknesses. A user education and awareness solution can help you foster a culture of cybersecurity and reduce human errors.

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Rechard Keith
(edited)
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The issue of cybersecurity is a pressing matter for individuals and groups alike. I've found that the primary, impervious assailant to security measures is the "user," being a human entity. Data infractions are largely caused by human inaccuracy, and one of the most frequent culprits is a lack of sensationalizing security awareness education. Staff who are not familiar with proper framework may unintentionally disclose sensible data or not stay in accordance with security procedures, making the organization a sitting duck for cyber dangers.

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5 VPN and Firewall

A fifth key feature of endpoint security is to use a VPN and firewall to secure the connection between your remote workers' devices and your network. You need to have a VPN solution that can create a secure and encrypted tunnel for your remote workers to access your network resources, such as servers, applications, and databases. You also need to have a firewall solution that can filter and block any unwanted or malicious traffic from entering or leaving your network. A VPN and firewall solution can help you protect your network perimeter and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your data.

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Shehan Perera
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Traditional VPN solutions will often open access to the whole network segment, and this can be tempting to a threat actor. Adopting a solution based on ZTNA (Zero-Trust Network Access) can close that gap and can make sure the remote user can only access the applications and on-prem resources depending on their identity even though they are not in a corporate network and will work as a protected layer before it checks for the app or resource permissions. Features like Entra Private Access can be connected with MFA and strong authentication to provide a good level of protection based on identity and will work on the ZTNA principals.

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Geoffrey Michael

IT security, policy, and training | Historian of the Civil War and 19th century America
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One of the most common issues I have seen with new remote employees is that they frequently do not understand how to use the VPN or even know what it is. Be sure to go over VPN use in your new employee orientation, or have some kind of how-to on VPNs that the new employees can reference easily.

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6 Endpoint Security Management

A sixth key feature of endpoint security is to have a centralized and integrated endpoint security management solution that can orchestrate and automate all the other features. You need to have an endpoint security management solution that can provide you with a single pane of glass to view, monitor, and control all your endpoints, threats, data, and policies. You also need to have an endpoint security management solution that can leverage artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing to enhance your endpoint security capabilities and performance. An endpoint security management solution can help you simplify and streamline your endpoint security operations and optimize your endpoint security outcomes.

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Rechard Keith
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Training is an essential part of an organization's cybersecurity strategy. It helps to prevent attacks and protect sensitive information. By following the best practices and using available resources and tools, organizations can create effective security awareness training programs.

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What are the key features of endpoint security for remote workers?

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1 Device Visibility and Control

2 Threat Detection and Response

3 Data Protection and Backup

4 User Education and Awareness

5 VPN and Firewall

6 Endpoint Security Management

Endpoint Security

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