Endpoint management can sometimes feel like maneuvering through a complex subway system, with the multitude of endpoints resembling bustling stations and various routes leading to different destinations.
Just as subway operators oversee train schedules, safety protocols, and passenger experiences, businesses and organizations must effectively manage their endpoint devices to ensure smooth operations and security. The parallels between endpoint management and navigating a subway system shed light on the importance of efficient systems control, seamless connectivity, and streamlined security protocols. Hop on board this subway and explore the world of endpoint management.
First Stop: What is an endpoint?
An endpoint is a stop where a passenger begins or ends their journey.
In more technical terms, an endpoint is anything that is the starting or ending point of any communication on a computer. The name 'endpoints' came about primarily because we draw these devices on a diagram as destination points, much like the stops on a subway map. Examples of endpoints include:
- Desktops/Laptops
- Smartphones/Tablets
- Servers
- Internet-of-things (IoT) devices
Second Stop: What is not an endpoint?
Devices that assist in managing data flow do not function as endpoints.
Going back to our subway analogy, the station where you change trains is not an endpoint but rather a location that aids in reaching your desired endpoint. Examples of such devices include:
- Routers
- Switches
- Network gateways
- Wireless Access Points (WAP)
- Firewalls
Stop Three: What could go wrong?
Poor endpoint management can result in operational disruptions.
Everything that gets used needs maintenance and care. In the subway, trains need to be serviced in order to ensure that things are working properly. Without a clear plan to execute software updates and patches, device performance will deteriorate. Relying on the user to implement software updates and patch management can lead to performance decline, due to varied compliance.
As device performance degrades, so does productivity — just like how a subway train that is not maintained will break down leaving you stuck.
Additionally, there is also an increased susceptibility to cyberattacks. As the number of hybrid and remote workers has become more common, there is a corresponding increase in the number of endpoints being used to compromise an entire company. Protecting endpoint devices presents challenges as employees are often the weakest link in terms of cybersecurity. Implementing effective endpoint monitoring and policies is crucial to protect sensitive company information.
Just like someone who jumps the turnstile to enter the subway system to gain access to all stations, a hacker who compromises an endpoint within your IT system can gain access to your data and other endpoints. Protecting endpoints is challenging, and a significant portion of security breaches occur due to poorly secured endpoints.
Examples of the drawbacks of endpoint devices:
- Lost Devices: Devices can be stolen or misplaced. When a device is connected to the company network, it becomes an open window to your network.
- Outdated Security: End-users often neglect necessary updates due to time constraints and lack of compliance.
- Personal Devices: These devices are more likely to have inadequate security measures, and IT personnel may not have access to them. They are the most vulnerable type of endpoint. Cell phones are attractive targets for hackers as they may provide access to personal and corporate data.
Final Stop: How can Net Friends help?
- Monitoring: We install Remote Monitoring & Management (RMM) software on all company-owned devices, effectively enrolling them into a suite of cloud management tools. This allows us to locate a device if it connects to the internet. Our RMM solution also allows us to apply policies and controls to each device, ensuring they perform as intended.
- Device Health: Every device is enrolled in a suite of cloud endpoint management solutions. This allows us to detect potential breaches, monitor device health and send software and security updates to every device in a controlled manner. By having this done automatically, it ensures that all devices are up to date. Protecting users from malicious actors and innocent mistakes.
- Mobile Device Management: Net Friends employs several strategies to help secure your company IT systems and manage data from employee-owned mobile devices. We can collaborate with your organization to create policies and set up Mobile Application Management (MAM).
- Creating clear policies and procedures (and reporting): Your Customer Success Manager will work with your company to create clear policies regarding how employees interact with internal systems. This can extend to how they access your networks with personal devices.
Net Friends takes a holistic approach to cybersecurity by establishing secure networks. This philosophy recognizes that the perimeter-based approach of the past decade is insufficient to create a truly secure network. Just as fences, gates, and security guards prevent unauthorized access to the subway, Net Friends can work with your company to secure your network. This strategy will help to create a productive safe computing environment for your team.
Ultimately, endpoint management ensures a smooth journey for both IT teams and end-users, like the seamless ride on a well-maintained subway system.
With comprehensive endpoint management strategies in place, organizations can confidently navigate the ever-changing landscape of endpoint devices, secure their systems, enhance productivity, and steer toward success in today's interconnected world. Are you ready to hop aboard the endpoint management train? You can purchase your ticket on the Net Friends Express and enjoy a safe, efficient, and productive ride to your destination. Reach out today!
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