Top tips is a weekly column where we highlight what’s trending in the tech world and list ways to explore these trends. This week, we will explore ways to increase endpoint security in your organization.
In this ever evolving tech landscape, endpoint security has grown to become a pillar of organizational cybersecurity. With the rise of remote work and more devices accessing corporate networks, endpoints such as laptops, smartphones, and IoT devices are prime targets for cyberattacks.These devices act as gates that provide access to an organization’s data, which when opened is a threat to any organization. For organizational heads, ensuring robust endpoint security is not just a technical challenge, but a strategic priority to protect sensitive data and maintain operational efficiency.
Here are a few essential tips for organizational leaders to enhance endpoint security effectively:
1. Conduct regular endpoint audits
Many organizations face risks from “invisible” endpoints. These are devices that connect to the network but are not accounted for in security protocols. These unmanaged endpoints can become entry points for cyberattacks, exposing sensitive data and systems. Conducting regular audits helps prevent this unmanaged inventory and makes sure device is mapped to an employee.
These audits also help the administrative team profile each endpoint to assess its risk level and ensure compliance with security policies, respective to each organization. By maintaining visibility into all endpoints, organizational heads can ensure that no device goes unmonitored or unsecured.
2. Implement Zero Trust access controls
Traditional perimeter-based security models are no longer sufficient in a world where devices access networks from multiple locations. A Zero Trust approach ensures that no user or device is trusted by default, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Companies enforce least-privilege access policies by only granting users the permission necessary for their roles. Another way organizations can include Zero Trust access is with multi-factor authentication (MFA) across each endpoint to secure logins. Deploying MFA across all endpoints to secure logins is another way organizations can include zero trust access controls. Zero Trust access controls help safeguard sensitive data by ensuring that every access request is verified before being granted, which is why organizations should prefer this method before any kind of access is given to an employee.
3. Automate patch management
Outdated software is one of the easiest vulnerabilities for attackers to exploit. It’s critical to ensure that every endpoint is running the latest security patches to prevent breaches. A few ways organizations can implement automatic patch management is by investing in automated patch management tools and assigning a dedicated team member or vendor to oversee critical updates and ensure compliance. Automating patch management reduces human error and ensures that your organization stays ahead of emerging threats.
4. Educate employees on endpoint security
Even with advanced tools in place, human error remains one of the leading causes of security breaches. Employees who lack awareness about endpoint security can inadvertently compromise systems through unsafe practices. Conducting regular training sessions on recognizing phishing attempts and using strong passwords is a step in the right direction. Creating clear policies around device usage, software installation, and data sharing, and making sure this information is readily available to employees helps them take more informed decisions. A well-informed workforce acts as an additional layer of defense against endpoint-related risks, and that is how an organization can together stand against prevalent cyberattacks.
Endpoint security is no longer optional. It is a fundamental necessity for safeguarding organizational data and operations. By implementing strategies such as regular endpoint audits, Zero Trust access controls, automated patch management, and deploying advanced protection platforms, organizational heads can ensure their networks remain resilient against evolving threats.
