Endpoint protection solutions and NIS2 compliance

Gusztáv Krékity

In the digital transformation era, advanced endpoint protection is crucial for organizations facing increasing cyber threats. Systems like EPP, EDR, and XDR are vital in safeguarding network-connected devices and systems from attacks. The EU's NIS2 Directive adds more cybersecurity requirements, urging companies to integrate these into their security processes. This article explores their roles and best practices.

In the age of digital transformation and ever-increasing cyber threats, the use of advanced endpoint protection is critical for organisations. Systems such as Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP), Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) play a key role in effectively protecting devices and systems connected to the network from cyber attacks. The new NIS2 Directive of the European Union imposes additional requirements in the field of cyber protection, which companies must incorporate into their security processes. In this blog article, we review the role of these advanced endpoint protection systems and the requirements of the NIS2 Directive, as well as the related best practices.

The relationship between the NIS2 Directive and endpoint protection

The European Union's NIS2 Directive is gaining more and more attention among organisations, as regulators are tightening security standards in the midst of ever-increasing threats in cyberspace.

The aim of NIS2 is to establish uniform and stricter cyber security rules for organisations operating in the EU, especially for critical infrastructures. NIS2 also imposes additional requirements concerning endpoint protection, including preventive measures, incident management, and continuous risk management.

Requirements:

Preventive measures: NIS2 requires organisations to implement comprehensive security measures, such as those provided by EPP, EDR, and XDR systems, in order to prevent endpoint attacks.
Incident management: Organisations must be able to identify and quickly respond to security incidents. EDR and XDR systems play a central role in this, as they can detect and respond to threats immediately.
Continuous Risk Management: NIS2 emphasises the importance of continuous risk analysis so that organisations can always keep their security measures up to date. The integrated approach of XDR systems enables comprehensive management of risks.

So which solution is the best for your organisation?

EPP, EDR, and XDR: What is the difference?

In the field of endpoint protection, there are several solutions available which ensure the protection of devices connected to the network at different levels and depths.

Endpoint Protection Platform (EPP)

EPP provides a basic level of endpoint protection. It aims to prevent endpoint threats such as viruses, malware and phishing attacks. EPP solutions typically offer real-time virus protection, a firewall, protection against ransomware, and regular software updates.

Main functions: Malware protection, virus scanning, endpoint firewall protection, and proactive protection capabilities against ransomware.
Advantages: Easy to install, it provides comprehensive protection against most common threats.
Disadvantages: It provides limited information to the security team about the blocked incident and can be exploited against complex targeted attacks.
Who is it for? EPP can be an ideal choice for smaller businesses where the main goal is basic endpoint protection and there is no need for advanced threat detection or response functions.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

EDR systems specialise in continuous monitoring of endpoints and rapid detection of cyber attacks. EDR solutions are able to identify anomalies and provide detailed insight into the progress of attacks, allowing for quick intervention and minimising damage.

Main functions: Continuous monitoring, behaviour detection, threat analysis and incident management.
Advantages: Deeper analysis, quicker response, and greater visibility against threats.
Disadvantages: Focuses only on endpoint and server data and anomalies.
Who is it for? EDR systems are recommended for medium and large companies, where advanced threat detection and the ability to respond quickly are important.

Extended Detection and Response (XDR)

XDR offers an integrated approach that includes the protection of not only endpoints, but also the entire IT infrastructure (such as networks, servers, cloud-based applications). XDR systems combine all security data through a central dashboard, providing a more comprehensive overview of potential threats.

Main functions: Integrated threat detection, automated response measures, central dashboard, and aggregation of data from multiple sources.
Advantages: Complete protection, high level of automation and extensive integration with IT systems.
Disadvantages: Robust system and the related costs, lack of competencies.
Who is it for? XDR is an ideal choice for large companies and organisations operating critical infrastructure, where complex, multi-layered protection is required and where compliance with the requirements of the NIS2 Directive is key.

Processes and competencies: The Basics of Effective Endpoint Protection

It is particularly important to emphasise that in addition to technology, the right processes and expertise are also key to ensuring effective endpoint protection and NIS2 compliance.

Processes:

Risk analysis and audits: Organisations should regularly perform risk analyses and security audits to assess potential threats and improve their defence strategies.
Incident management protocols: In addition to using EDR and XDR systems, it is important that organisations have clear incident management protocols that enable a quick and efficient response to security incidents.
Update and Patching Processes: Regular software updates and security patches ensure that endpoints remain protected against new threats.

Competencies:

Continuous Training and Awareness: Organisations must continuously train their IT security professionals and raise awareness among the entire staff so that everyone knows the security risks and the right responses to them.

How do we use endpoint protection systems to comply with NIS2 requirements?

To ensure compliance with NIS2, it is essential that organisations choose endpoint protection solutions that meet their needs and unique risk profile.

NIS2 and EDR/XDR:

The NIS2 Directive requires the effective detection and management of cybersecurity incidents. EDR and XDR systems play a central role in this, as they ensure the timely identification, analysis and elimination of threats. EDR focuses specifically on endpoint threats, while XDR offers broader protection extending to network and cloud-based systems.

NIS2 and EPP:

EPP enables organisations to comply with the requirements of NIS2 by helping them establish and enforce the necessary cybersecurity policies. Based on the rules and procedures defined in the EPP, the EDR and XDR systems can be controlled and monitored, thus ensuring compliance with the regulations.

EDR and XDR integrated in EPP:

The EPP platform can be used to manage and control the policies of EDR and XDR systems. For example, EPP can be used to define threat models monitored by EDR and XDR systems, incident response measures, and incident reporting protocols that meet the requirements of the NIS2 Directive.

Summary

Advanced endpoint protection systems are a significant step forward in cyber defence, especially in a world of growing and increasingly complex threats. The new NIS2 Directive further tightens cybersecurity requirements and encourages organisations to adopt comprehensive and integrated defence strategies. In addition to technology, a combination of the right processes and expertise is essential for organisations to effectively protect their endpoints, meet regulatory requirements, and successfully address cybersecurity challenges.