Comparing MDR and EDR: Choosing the Ideal Security Solution for Your Company?
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, two solutions have emerged as key players in threat detection and response (TDIR): Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR). Let's delve into the distinctive features and benefits of each.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
EDR is a host-based security solution that monitors endpoints within an organization's IT environment. It detects and responds to malicious and anomalous activity, including malware, ransomware, unauthorized access, attempts to elevate privileges, and the use of shell code on an endpoint. EDR operates through agent software that is deployed to hosts within the organization, recording activity taking place on those systems.
Key benefits of EDR include behavioral-based detection, lateral movement/threat escalation prevention, contextualization, and remediation speed. However, EDR can sometimes fall short in a cybersecurity landscape where threat actors utilize sophisticated techniques to compromise endpoints, and the breadth of the modern extended enterprise environment requires a more coordinated approach to TDIR.
Challenges of EDR include excessive alert noise, limited monitoring, limited visibility, and the fact that EDR is a tool, first.
Managed Detection and Response (MDR)
MDR, on the other hand, is a detection and response solution that combines human effort and expertise with a unified platform to provide comprehensive TDIR capabilities as a managed service. MDR providers often manage investigations into threats, relieving an organization's security team of the heavy lifting and sifting through various alerts.
MDR solutions can provide 24x7 monitoring with a human team that can respond to potential threats as they occur. They can use a variety of approaches to discover, identify, and categorize assets, as well as collect data and security event observations from multiple sources of telemetry. Some MDR solutions are provided via dedicated products owned and operated by the MDR provider, while others allow customers to choose from a limited selection of tools or use the tools the customer already has in their environment.
The main differentiator for any MDR solution is the human element, including the expertise of security engineers or analysts providing the service. The scope of the managed human element in MDR can vary by vendor, and organizations should consider factors such as dedicated teams, named security experts, and communication methods when evaluating providers.
Case Study: WatchGuard Technologies and Arctic Wolf
A notable example of an organization that has chosen an MDR provider for their TDIR solution is WatchGuard Technologies. Since March 2024, they have been using the professional Security Operations Center supported by their long-term trusted partnership and previous experience with WatchGuard and Panda.
Arctic Wolf offers both endpoint and MDR solutions. Aurora Endpoint Security combines the capabilities of modern EPP and EDR solutions, while Arctic Wolf MDR provides 24x7 monitoring of networks, endpoints, identity, and cloud environments.
In conclusion, while EDR offers visibility, insight, and the ability to respond to threats on endpoints across the extended enterprise, MDR provides a more comprehensive approach, offering flexibility, guided remediation, and 24x7 monitoring with a human team. Organizations should carefully consider their specific needs and the offerings of various providers when deciding on a TDIR solution.
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