EDR... MDR...XDR... What are they and which one is right for us?

EDR... MDR...XDR... What are they and which one is right for us?

As we delve into the realm of endpoint cybersecurity, there are three acronyms that constantly appear: EDR, MDR, and XDR. For a lot of businesses, although EDR has been around for 10 years, these technologies may still be uncharted territory so let's demystify these terms and understand which one is the right fit for your organisation based on you current strategy and maturity.


1. EDR - Endpoint Detection and Response:

When we think of traditional AV, we know it focuses on malicious software and signature based threats. EDR however takes things further are begins to look at malicious behaviour and patterns to detect threats allowing you to mitigate them before they become breaches by automatically isolating affected devices. It is important to bear in mind that while EDR is clearly a huge jump up from AV you there will be additional skills required to run a tool and utilise it properly (which leads us onto MDR).

For more information on Cybereason EDR click here


2. MDR - Managed Detection and Response:

MDR is similar to EDR and uses the same technology however it alleviates the requirement to have in house skilled team members that can decipher these new alerts. MDR not only detects and responds to threats but also provides ongoing support and expertise, ensuring comprehensive security on your endpoints.

Cybereason MDR services offer 24/7 x365 monitoring and response through it's Global SOC Team filled with elite security experts that proactively hunt, analyse, and remediate threats around the clock.

For information on Cybereason MDR Services click here


3. XDR - Extended Detection and Response:

As technology advances, so do the tactics of cyber threats. XDR is latest and greatest that combines the strengths of EDR and MDR while expanding its reach beyond your traditional endpoint devices. While EDR/ MDR focus on endpoints XDR is able to integrate data from applications, identities, network, workspace, cloud sources, and operational technology. XDR then correlates and enriches data to uncover threats that would have been missed with siloed solutions.

For information on Cybereason XDR Services click here


Choosing the right solution for you:

  • If your organisation is small and primarily concerned about individual devices and you are maybe still using traditional AV for your endpoints , EDR might be your go-to guard at the entrance of each building.

  • If you are looking to make that next step in your endpoint security strategy but have restricted resources and knowledge in the team the MDR is likely going to be much more beneficial than EDR

  • If your organisation operates on a larger scale or you already have a mature endpoint programme with EDR or MDR, then it might be wise to consider how your other technologies interconnect with your endpoints and how XDR can help unify and strengthen your overall cybersecurity strategy.

In conclusion, the right choice depends on the complexity of your threat landscape and the maturity of your existing programme. Understanding the basics of EDR, MDR, and XDR is the first step toward fortifying your organisation against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. Remember, the key is not just to react but to stay one step ahead.


If you have any questions on anything in this article please reach out to myself or any of the team at Cybereason.

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