With the constantly shifting landscape of cybersecurity threats, it has become imperative for businesses to have effective solutions in place to safeguard their valuable data. Malware is becoming more sophisticated, and cyberattacks are growing in complexity.
Thankfully, businesses can utilize state-of-the-art threat protection solutions. ATP represents a category of cybersecurity tools specifically designed to detect and address sophisticated cyber threats. These tools are engineered to identify and assess potential threats, counter ongoing attacks, and eradicate malware once it has been identified.
By utilizing advanced real-time monitoring and threat intelligence, ATP tools are well-equipped to shield against phishing, ransomware, and other advanced cyber threats before they inflict significant damage on your business.
In this piece, we delve into the top ATP solutions in 2024.
Compared: Leading advanced threat protection tools and solutions
Prime advanced threat protection solutions
Here is an extensive examination of the top ATP solutions, encompassing their characteristics, costs, advantages, and disadvantages.
CrowdStrike Falcon: Optimal Choice
My top recommendation is CrowdStrike Falcon for its exceptional overall performance. It is a cloud-native solution that delivers AI-driven protection, detection, and response capabilities across all attack surfaces within a company. This encompasses endpoints, workloads, data, and identity, among others. As an endpoint detection and response tool, CrowdStrike stands out with its Real Time Response feature, providing users with extensive visibility across the enterprise, enabling actions to either collect vital security data or implement remediative measures against threats.
SEE: The 8 Best Penetration Testing Tools for 2024 (TechRepublic)
I particularly appreciate CrowdStrike’s incorporation of its own Charlotte AI generative AI assistant into the platform. This empowers staff to create automated security workflows for quicker responses to incidents or threats. The platform’s scalability and user-friendly management are also notable.
In independent assessments, CrowdStrike was identified as a Leader in the 2023 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Endpoint Protection Platforms and also acknowledged as a Leader in The Forrester Wave: Endpoint Security report for Q4 2023.
Reasons for Choosing CrowdStrike Falcon
I have selected CrowdStrike Falcon as the premier choice due to its unified platform and its approach to threat detection and resolution. It is recognized by independent agencies and real users alike as a leader in the realm of endpoint security.
Pricing Structure
This solution caters to both small businesses and enterprises.
For Small Businesses:
- Falcon Go: $4.99 per month per device.
- Falcon Pro: $8.33 per month per device.
Both plans require a minimum of five devices and a one-year commitment.
For Enterprises:
- Falcon Pro: $8.33 per month per device.
- Falcon Enterprise: $15.42 per month per device.
- Falcon Elite: Contact sales for pricing.
Key Features
- Enhanced visibility with Real Time Response.
- Lightweight installation.
- Incorporated Charlotte AI generative AI assistant.
- Firewall management capabilities.
Advantages and Disadvantages of CrowdStrike
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhanced visibility using USB device control. | A bit costly. |
| Robust threat detection capabilities. | Incidents of IT disruption related to CrowdStrike in 2024 might discourage potential buyers. |
| Seamless deployment and regular updates. | |
| Comprehensive solutions tailored for businesses of all sizes. | |
| Supports an anti-malware program. | |
| Includes an AI assistant that generates insights. |
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint: Ideal for Microsoft Environments
If your company predominantly utilizes Microsoft software, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint comes highly recommended. It is a cloud-based EDR solution that provides automatic defense mechanisms against ransomware; utilizes machine learning to identify potential threats or suspicious behavior; and maintains an extensive threat intelligence database to stay abreast of emerging cyber threats. Similarly to CrowdStrike, MDE is a reputable EDR provider and has been recognized as a Leader in the 2023 Gartner Magic Quadrant report for endpoint protection services.
SEE: Top 7 Cyber Threat Hunting Tools for 2024 (TechRepublic)
In my opinion, it is the top choice for businesses interested in the Microsoft software suite, as MDE is bundled with Microsoft 365 E5, which includes a wide range of Microsoft Office applications, Power BI Pro, Microsoft Loop, and Visio.
Reasons Behind Choosing Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
I selected Microsoft Defender for Endpoint due to its valuable offerings for businesses heavily relying on the Microsoft ecosystem or considering the adoption of Microsoft software solutions.
Pricing Details
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint can be acquired through a Microsoft 365 enterprise plan, which encompasses other services such as Word, Excel, Outlook, OneDrive, and Power BI, among others.
- Microsoft 365 E5 (without Teams) and no Audio Conferencing: $54.75 per user per month.
Characteristics
- Streamlined endpoint administration.
- Microsoft Copilot for Security AI.
- Global threat intelligence and analytics.
- Automatic deployment of deception tactics.
- Priority-based security advisories and notifications.
Merits and Drawbacks of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Bundled with additional services through Microsoft 365. | Might not be suitable for non-Microsoft entities. |
| Extremely adaptable solution. | |
| Versatile and detailed business controls. | |
| Choice of Microsoft Defender XDR. |
Harmony Endpoint Protection: Optimal for extensive endpoint safety
Previously labeled as SandBlast Agent, Harmony EndPoint Protection stands out for users seeking a comprehensive solution for endpoint security. It streamlines tasks pertaining to detecting, investigating, and resolving threats, offering protection against ransomware, phishing, malware, and covert attacks. Harmony encompasses a unified agent for EPP, EDR, VPN, NGAV, data and web-browsing protection, along with credential, behavioral, email, and URL protection.
VIEW: The 6 Best Antivirus Software Options for Windows in 2024 (TechRepublic)
Presenting six varied Harmony Endpoint packages, I admire its capability to serve both small-scale enterprises and large corporations. The solution supports Windows, macOS, and Linux and can be implemented on-premises, in a hybrid model, or using a cloud-based service.
Reasons for Choosing Harmony Endpoint Protection
I selected Harmony Endpoint Protection due to its holistic approach to detecting and mitigating endpoint threats, suitable for businesses of any size.
Pricing Details
This solution offers three primary subscription levels: Basic, Advanced, and Complete. A complimentary 30-day trial is accessible for up to 100 endpoints. For pricing specifics, reach out to the vendor.
Characteristics
- Host firewall and app control.
- Centralized administration.
- Threat investigation.
- Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) for email and web.
- Protection against zero-day phishing sites.
Harmony Endpoint Protection strengths and weaknesses
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Forensics compilation and automated reports. | The on-premises server involves an extra charge. |
| Backing for remote access VPN. | |
| Host and media encoding. | |
| Web safeguarding. | |
| Provides forensic report. |
Trellix Endpoint Security: Ideal for intelligence-led corporate safeguarding
If prioritizing threat intelligence, I recommend evaluating Trellix Endpoint Security. Acknowledged for its intelligence-driven approach to threats, Trellix employs a blend of machine learning and behavioral analysis for detecting and thwarting threats. It deploys dynamic machine learning, artificial intelligence, and multi-vector virtual execution for identifying and affirming zero-day and advanced threat variations. I particularly praise how its XDR framework adapts to threat actors’ pace and delivers sophisticated cyberthreat intelligence.
VIEW: 6 Best Enterprise Antivirus Software Choices in 2024 (TechRepublic)
The solution also presents Universal Access Control safeguards, host remediation, process monitoring, and nearly real-time IoC capabilities. Trellix Endpoint Security is harmonious with Windows, MacOS, and Linux. It is accessible in various deployment alternatives — as an autonomous hardware appliance, a virtual appliance, or via cloud-based models.deployment.
Reasons for Opting for Trellix Endpoint Security
The choice of Trellix Endpoint Security was based on its prioritization of intelligence-driven protection, providing a proactive defense approach compared to conventional endpoint security solutions.
Price Details
Request a quotation from the supplier. A demonstration can be arranged upon request.
Characteristics
- Incorporation of advanced threat intelligence and analytics.
- Management centralized in the cloud.
- Usage of behavioral analysis and machine learning.
- Inclusion of Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) capabilities.
- Scalable design with modularity.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Trellix Endpoint Security
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Innovation of SecOps. | Potential confusion with multiple agents and modules. |
| Support for additional modules to enhance alerts. | Extra charges for premium customer service. |
| Consolidated dashboard. | |
| Proactive management of risks. | |
| Continuous protection against dynamic threats. |
Trend Micro Advanced Threat Protection: Ideal for Port Observation
If you are looking for another effective solution, Trend Micro Advanced Threat Protection is recommended. This solution from Trend Micro delivers real-time defense against advanced threats and facilitates advanced sandbox analysis, threat sharing, and analytics for businesses. It is equipped with the Deep Discovery Inspector to monitor all ports and more than 105 diverse network protocols, uncovering advanced threats.
SEE: 5 Best Endpoint Detection & Response Solutions for 2024 (TechRepublic)
An exceptional feature inclusion in Trend Micro’s offering is Threat Sharing and Analytics, which enriches threat visibility, aiding in threat detection via standardized sharing and event correlation. Trend Micro also boasts managed XDR for alert supervision, prioritization, threat analysis, and hunting. Together, these features contribute to comprehensive network safeguarding, advanced sandbox analysis, and threat sharing and analytics.
Reasons for Choosing Trend Micro
The specialization of Trend Micro Advanced Threat Protection in port monitoring across diverse network protocols earned it a spot on my selection list.
Pricing Details
Trend Micro provides four plans, all with a complimentary 30-day trial period.
- Worry-free Service: Starting at $37.75 annually per user.
- Worry-free Service Advanced: Starting at $59.87 annually per user.
- XDR service: Request a quotation.
- Co-managed XDR services: Request a quotation.
Functionalities
- Sharing and analysis of threats.
- Security for endpoints and emails.
- Single-agent EDR covering emails and endpoints.
- Automated identification of root causes and actions against threats.
- Monitoring of endpoints enabled by firewalls and IPSs.
Advantages of Trend Micro Advanced Threat Protectionand disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Detection, inquiry, and response across customers. | Inability to change the names of endpoint agents once assigned. |
| Use of cloud sandboxing for advanced threat identification. | Certain editions have limited functionalities. |
| Critical alerting and monitoring available 24/7. | |
| Monitoring of more than 105 diverse network ports. | |
| Utilizes demographic information and safe listing to reduce false positives. |
Cortex XDR: Ideal for detecting identity threats
If you are looking for identity threat detection, I recommend exploring the functionalities of Palo Alto’s Cortex XDR. This application employs Next Gen Antivirus, host firewall, disk encryption, USB device control, and the MITRE ATT&CK framework to guarantee robust endpoint security. It assesses data from various origins to thwart sophisticated attacks and is structured to safeguard devices both online and offline.
Equipped with additional attributes like Zero Trust Network Access, Remote Browser Isolation, Data Center Security, and Intrusion Detection, Cortex XDR addresses a broader range of advanced threats — a critical aspect in a contemporary ATP solution. The array of threats it addresses includes advanced malware, evasive threats, phishing, and IoT-based threats.
SEE: Reasons Behind Your Company’s Requirement for Cybersecurity Awareness Training (TechRepublic Premium)
Augmented by the eXtended Threat Hunting (XTH) data module, this platform aids security teams in promptly identifying and intercepting threats. As an added security measure, both Cortex XSIAM and XDR consist of an identity threat detection and response module to thwart identity threats like compromised accounts and insider breaches.
Reasons for Selecting Cortex XDR
I opted for Cortex XDR due to its amalgamation of identity threat detection, Next Gen Antivirus (NGAV), and sophisticated endpoint security. This amalgamation enables it to cover a broader spectrum of attack surfaces for more comprehensive shielding of sensitive information.
Costs
Kindly reach out to the vendor for a quotation.
Capabilities
- Comprehensive outlook on users.
- ATT&CK correlation.
- Management of incidents.
- Analysis of behavior.
- Response to network detection across all devices.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Cortex XDR
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides extensive visibility. | XDR Prevent plan lacks eXtended Threat Hunting. |
| Threat detection driven by machine learning. | Navigating its advanced functionalities requires a significant learning curve. |
| Complete visibility to eliminate unmonitored areas. | |
| Includes a 30-day trial at no cost. |
ESET Endpoint Security: Prefect for small and medium-sized enterprises
For small and medium-sized businesses, I highly recommend ESET Endpoint Security. Provided as a web-basedand local cutting-edge security solution, ESET has been crafted to safeguard personal and corporate computers, data servers, and handheld devices against malware, brute force attacks, and various intrusion methods. By leveraging a blend of cloud-driven threat detection and artificial intelligence, it thwarts, detects, and autonomously reacts to malicious software incursions.
As an acknowledged player in the sphere of sophisticated threat defense, ESET Endpoint Security boasts a software firewall and a Host-based Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS) that utilizes preset rules to pinpoint and neutralize suspicious behaviors. I particularly appreciate its inclusive protection for web browsing and email applications, effectively intercepting and blocking harmful downloads and malicious web content.
Reasons for My Selection of ESET
I decided on ESET Endpoint Security due to its multi-faceted approach to prioritizing prevention against ransomware, phishing attempts, and email-based threats. The ease of management it offers is also well-suited for small to medium-sized enterprises.
Pricing Options
The pricing structure comprises four primary plans (Protection Tiers) and six supplementary options (Additional Solutions), billed annually. These prices include both current discounted rates and standard charges.
Protection Tiers
- Shield Entry: $211/year for five devices.
- Shield Advanced: $275/year for five devices.
- Shield Complete: $338.50/year for five devices.
- Shield Elite: Requires a minimum of 26 devices. Reach out to ESET for a personalized quote.
Highlighted Functions
- Advanced anti-exploit mechanisms.
- Integrated security management hub.
- Centralized administration tools.
- Cutting-edge XDR for enterprises.
- Support for hybrid deployment setups.
Pros and Cons of ESET Endpoint Security
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| User-friendly interface. | Integrating with external tools may pose challenges. |
| Includes remedial measures for infections. | Exclusive Enterprise-grade XDR is limited to Shield Elite users. |
| Effective ransomware detection and prevention. | |
| Compatible across diverse operating systems. | |
| Option for either on-site or cloud-based deployment. |
Sophos Intercept X: Optimal Choice for Novice Users
For individuals new to cybersecurity tools, my recommendation is Sophos Intercept X. This solution, powered by artificial intelligence and machine learning, is devised to thwart a broad spectrum of attacks. Employing web, application, and peripheral controls, it minimizes the attack surface and blocks common intrusion methods. The software showcases patented CryptoGuard technology, which identifies and halts ransomware, including novel strains and both local and remote ransomware assaults. Furthermore, Intercept X bolsters the inherent protections in Microsoft Windows by incorporating over 60 in-house exploit mitigations that are pre-configured and finely tuned.
A standout feature of Intercept X is its adaptive defenses that adjust dynamically in response to familiar and novel threats. The platform also features Sophos Central, a cloud-native system that simplifies the setup and management of Sophos solutions. With default activation of recommended protection modules, new users can configure the system without the need for extensive customization.
Reasons for Opting for Sophos Intercept X
I selected Sophos Intercept X for its recommendation mechanism, enabling users to deploy the solution immediately without intricate technical setup. This can be extremely advantageous for novice security practitioners venturing into advanced threat protection platforms.
Pricing Structure
Sophos Intercept X presents a 30-day trial for its three packages: X Advanced, Advanced with XDR, and Advanced with MDR Complete. For specific pricing information, reach out to the vendor for a personalized quote.
Features Overview
- Comprehensive protections against SQL injections.
- Interconnected querying functionalities.
- Human-controlled threat identification and response capabilities.
- Web-based management console provided by Sophos Central.
- Integration of Sophos ZTNA with EDR and MDR features.
Advantages and disadvantages of Sophos Intercept X
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| User-friendly. | Incompatible with some devices. |
| Efficient in deployment and detection of security vulnerabilities. | |
| Responsive to adaptive cyber attack defense. | |
| Offers security notifications. | |
| Includes a complimentary 30-day trial. | |
| Thorough evaluation of account well-being. |
Vital characteristics of advanced threat protection software
For safeguarding against constantly evolving cyber threats, I suggest that advanced threat protection solutions should possess a distinct set of crucial characteristics.
Behavior assessment
Behaviour assessment encompasses establishing a norm for the network’s behavior, utilizing algorithmic anomaly detection, and employing User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) to track and profile users or entities. This feature aids ATP solutions in comprehending and examining system behavior, detecting any irregularities that may indicate a potential threat.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
AI and machine learning are integral components of advanced threat protection systems. They assist in recognizing and forecasting threats by scrutinizing data patterns. ML algorithms learn from past cyberattack patterns, and AI leverages this data to foresee and prevent future cyber threats. The amalgamation of machine learning and AI facilitates real-time threat identification, prompt responses, and minimal system downtime, thereby enhancing an organization’s overall security posture.
Incorporation of threat intelligence
Integrating threat intelligence ensures that the system stays updated with the most current information on existing and emerging threats. By leveraging up-to-date intelligence on emerging threats, Advanced Threat Protection systems can make more informed decisions, correlate events, and fortify their overall security stance. Integrating threat intelligence is vital in fortifying the network against attacks and establishing a proactive defense against sophisticated threats.
Instant endpoint detection and response (EDR)
Real-time EDR allows for relentless monitoring and immediate counteraction at the network’s endpoint level. It achieves this by carrying out real-time scrutiny of endpoint activities and identifying and responding to security incidents promptly. This swift response to security incidents diminishes the impact of potential breaches. The necessity of integrating EDR into ATP solutions cannot be emphasized enough, as it not only identifies but also isolates compromised endpoints, thwarting malicious activities within these endpoints and reinforcing the overall network’s defense.
Multi-tier security
This security strategy involves combining diverse security layers such as firewall protection, intrusion detection/prevention systems, antivirus solutions, behavior analysis, anti-spyware, and at times, user awareness training. Each layer contributes a unique facet of security, creating an overlapping defense mechanism that enhances the system’s ability to combat a broad spectrum of potential threats and reduces the likelihood of successful breaches. Multi-tier security is proactive, adaptive, and efficient and is an essential feature for any ATP solution.
How can I select the most suitable advanced threat protection software for my enterprise?
While suggesting a single ATP might be straightforward, choosing an ATP tool should be tailored to your company’s security requirements. It’s crucial to note that there is no universal solution for enterprise security. Above all considerations, opt for an ATP solution that delivers the coverage and functionalities aligned with your firm’s security needs. Additionally, take into account the tool’s pricing structure and ensure they offer a plan that fits your organization’s budget.
Focus specifically on features that are vital to your organization’s security, as some solutions may prioritize real-time detection and response, threat hunting, and behavior analysis, while others — especially those catering to mid-sized businesses — might emphasize flexible deployment, user-friendliness, quality support, intuitive interfaces, and robust reporting capabilities.
Approach
To conduct this evaluation, I examined each tool’s capabilities. I commenced with in-depth market analysis to pinpoint leading tools based on industry trends and user insights. I considered key features like live threat detection, deployment methodologies, machine learning functionalities, ease of use, and scalability. Additionally, I gave precedence to inputs from credible sources such as Gartner, which includes expert evaluations and vendor materials.
About Author
