Best Endpoint Management Software to Protect Your Network

05 May 2025

In today’s threat landscape, businesses of all sizes—from small enterprises to large corporations—must prioritise how they manage and secure their endpoints. Endpoints are the laptops, desktops, smartphones, tablets, servers, and IoT devices that connect to your network, often from outside the traditional firewall. Each of these devices can be a gateway into your corporate systems. In fact, industry research by IDC reveals that 70% of successful security breaches originate at the endpoint level. This means a vulnerable laptop or smartphone isn’t just a problem for that device alone—it can be the entry point for attackers to infiltrate your entire network. Given this reality, implementing the right endpoint management software is critical for protecting your network.

Why Effective Endpoint Management is Essential

Many business owners mistakenly assume that a good firewall and antivirus software are enough. While perimeter security and anti-malware tools are important, endpoints now form the new perimeter of your organisation. With remote work and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) practices becoming common, more devices access company data from outside the office. This increases exposure—employees’ home PCS or mobile phones might not have the same protections as in-office systems. Cybercriminals know this and increasingly target endpoints as a way to breach organisations.

A recent study revealed that 68% of organisations faced targeted endpoint attacks resulting in data or IT infrastructure compromise, with such attacks increasing at a comparable rate year over year.  In other words, not only are endpoints commonly attacked, but the volume of such attacks is growing rapidly.

Crucially, this isn’t just an enterprise problem. Limited IT resources or budgets do not spare smaller companies from hackers’ attention. Every unmanaged laptop, outdated software, or unprotected mobile device in your business could be a weak link. This is why effective endpoint management software, especially when integrated with managed IT services as part of broader network protection solutions, is essential for businesses of any size to safeguard their network.

Common Endpoint Security Threats

Cyber threats originating from or spreading through endpoints are increasingly diverse in nature and complexity. Attackers often focus on end-user devices as an entry point, then move laterally through the network. Some of the most common endpoint security threats include:

• Malware and Ransomware: Malicious software remains a top threat on endpoints. Ransomware, in particular, has become notorious for encrypting files and demanding ransom; it’s one of the most prevalent malware types impacting businesses today. Other malware, like trojans, spyware, or keyloggers, can silently steal data or credentials. If an endpoint management solution fails to detect malware on a single computer, that infection can spread or give attackers a foothold in your network.
• Phishing and Social Engineering: Endpoints are often compromised not through technical exploits but through users being tricked. Phishing emails or fraudulent links can persuade an employee to download malware or give up their login details
• Unpatched Vulnerabilities: Running outdated software or operating systems on endpoints is another big risk. Attackers frequently exploit known vulnerabilities in apps or OSes that haven’t been patched. Without strong patch management (a key feature of good endpoint management tools), these weaknesses can be the open door attackers use to get in.
• Lost or Stolen Devices: Laptops or phones that are lost, stolen, or otherwise go missing can lead to security incidents if not properly secured. An unattended endpoint in the wrong hands might grant direct access to sensitive data or company networks. Encryption and remote wipe capabilities are critical to mitigate this threat.
• Insider Threats and Misuse: Sometimes, authorised users or compromised insiders can intentionally or accidentally cause security incidents via endpoints. This could be as simple as an employee installing unauthorised software that introduces malware or using a personal device that isn’t secure to handle work data. Endpoint management solutions help by enforcing policies and monitoring for unusual activity on devices.

Key Capabilities in Endpoint Management Software

1. Centralised Management & Visibility

• A unified dashboard enables centralised monitoring and control of all endpoints across the organisation.
• Facilitates efficient device oversight, policy enforcement, and status tracking.

2. Automated Patch & Update Management

• Automatically deploys software updates and security patches to endpoints.
• Ensures timely remediation of vulnerabilities, reducing security risks.

3. Integrated Endpoint Security (EPP/EDR)

• Integrates Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) capabilities into a unified security solution.
• Provides real-time threat detection, malware scanning, and incident response.

4. Policy Enforcement & Compliance

• Defines and enforces security policies (e.g., password protocols, encryption standards).
• Maintains regulatory compliance and ensures consistent security configurations.

5. Device Inventory & Asset Management

• Maintains an up-to-date inventory of all endpoint hardware and software assets.
• Aids in lifecycle management and anomaly detection.

6. Remote Access & Control

• Enables IT teams to remotely troubleshoot, update, or secure endpoint devices.
• Supports remote work environments and rapid incident response.

7. Scalability & Multi-Platform Support

• Supports a wide range of devices and operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android).
• Scales efficiently with organisational growth and diverse device ecosystems.

8. Integration with Network Security Tools

• Seamlessly integrates with existing network protection solutions (e.g., firewalls, SIEM systems).
• Enhances threat intelligence sharing and coordinated defence mechanisms.

Best Practices for Protecting Your Endpoints and Network

1. Regular Updates: Ensure all operating systems, applications, and security software are up-to-date to patch known vulnerabilities.
2. Strong Security Policies: Implement robust password policies, enforce device encryption, and restrict administrative privileges to minimise risk.
3. User Education: Conduct regular cybersecurity training to help users recognise phishing attempts and other threats.
4. Multi-Layered Defence: Combine endpoint protection with firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure email gateways for comprehensive security.
5. Continuous Monitoring: Utilise endpoint management tools to detect and respond to incidents promptly.
6. Regular Audits: Conduct periodic reviews and enhancements of security measures to remain adaptive to the evolving threat landscape.
7. Seek Expert Support: Engage IT consulting services to tailor security solutions to your organisation's needs.

Conclusion

Endpoints are critical junctures in cybersecurity; a single compromised device can jeopardise an entire network. Implementing robust endpoint management software—featuring centralised control, automated patching, and threat detection—is essential. By adhering to best practices and integrating endpoint solutions with broader security measures, organisations can significantly reduce risks. Proactive endpoint management not only safeguards data but also ensures operational resilience against evolving cyber threats.