Those looking around for enterprise network security solutions have possibly seen the term XDR. There are so many different acronyms representing each kind of security tool, it can be tough to keep track of them all. For those who want the nuances of XDR explained to them, let’s dig into some of the details of this powerful security technology.
What Is XDR?
Extended Detection and Response (XDR) is a type of cybersecurity platform that combines the functionality of several security protocols into one. The “extended” part of the name makes sense in this regard, as XDR really delivers a holistic package of top-tier security features.
Typically delivered with in an as-a-service package, XDR is a great way for enterprises to quickly fill any holes in their network security suite. Organizations that want to build a comprehensive security framework, while also potentially saving money, should consider looking deeper into XDR.
What Makes XDR Different?
Something that can be a bit confusing about XDR is the fact that it’s not always easy to distinguish from other security tools. While XDR utilizes many of the same approaches and features as other platforms, what makes it different is the fact it goes the extra mile for extended protection.
A good XDR will incorporate some or all of the features from the following other kinds of cybersecurity and network security tools:
- NDR – Network Detection and Response (NDR) harnesses the power of machine learning to better understand the traffic flow of a network. Ongoing analysis allows NDR to identify anomalies or suspicious network activity.
- EDR – Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), while also harnessing advanced technologies to spot potential attacks, doesn’t focus on the whole network. Instead, EDR is specifically designed to detect issues at endpoints, which are devices connecting to enterprise networks. The rise of BringYour-Own-Device (BYOD) polices has especially created a higher need for EDR.
- MDR – Managed Detection and Response (MDR) combines some of the best automated threat detection processes with a managed thirdparty service, which means a cyber expert will always be there to triage when necessary.
When looking at adopting XDR for your enterprise, you’ll want to see a combination of all these aforementioned tools bundled into its offering. With XDR, you’re supposed to be getting a truly next-gen technology suite that brings the best elements of monitoring, detection, and response to the table.
Open Systems is an example of an XDR provider that has managed to bundle all of these features into a single, functional service-based product. Opting for an XDR of this caliber, you can rest easier knowing the top tools and security experts are keeping your network safe.
What Can XDR Do For Enterprises?
There’s a single concept that always needs to be addressed when thinking about spending capital: return on investment (ROI). When looking at the ROI of XDR, there are two main ways to cut it.
First, stakeholders want to see how certain tools compare against others in terms of price versus performance. A couple things give XDR an advantage here. For starters, it bundles the capabilities of several other kinds of technology, so you’re going to get a lot of capability out of a good XDR system. The concept of adopting XDR as a service can also be accreditive to a firm’s bottom line, as you can get the expertise of highly skilled employees without having to hire them as full-time staff.
The other way enterprises need to think about ROI when it comes to XDR is through cost reduction in the event of a breach. An average data breach in today’s world will run just under $4 million. A good XDR platform can drastically reduce the damage, and thus costs, associated with a breach. Early detection and triage is key to this; and XDR is an optimal tool for both of these actions.
There are many reasons why XDR is an effective tool for network security today. Consider if your enterprise will benefit form bringing an XDR solution into its cybersecurity suite.
