In a world where digital threats are evolving rapidly, protecting business devices against malware, ransomware, and cyberattacks has become an absolute priority. Businesses are constantly seeking robust security solutions to protect their endpoints, whether laptops, servers, or mobile devices. Among these solutions, two options are frequently discussed: antivirus software and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions. But what is the difference between these two solutions, and which is best suited to your organisation?
What is antivirus software?
Antivirus software has existed for decades and is designed to detect, block and remove malicious software such as viruses, worms, Trojans, and many others. They regularly scan files on your devices, incoming data from the Internet, as well as email attachments to identify threats. Their primary detection method relies on a signature database: each known threat has a specific signature that allows the antivirus to recognise it.
However, traditional antivirus solutions face limitations against modern threats, particularly zero-day attacks that exploit unknown vulnerabilities, as well as advanced malware that rapidly changes its behaviour to evade detection.
What is an EDR and why is it essential?
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a more advanced solution that goes beyond simple signature-based detection. Instead of relying solely on a database of known threats, EDR uses behavioural analysis to monitor suspicious activity on endpoints in real time. For example, if a document executes an unexpected script via PowerShell, an EDR can immediately flag this activity and quarantine the file concerned, even if it has not yet been listed in a signature database.
EDR also enables in-depth analysis of incidents and an understanding of how an attack unfolded. This provides security teams with the information needed to take swift corrective action and strengthen future defences. Among the key features of an EDR solution, one finds:
- Real-time monitoring: Detects suspicious activities as soon as they occur.
- Threat isolation: Automatic quarantines to limit the spread.
- Behavioural analysis: Detects unknown threats based on abnormal behaviour.
- Automated remediation: Ability to automatically remove or remediate certain threats.
Antivirus or EDR: what is the difference?
Although there is some overlap between antivirus solutions and EDR, they differ in several respects:
- Antivirus: Primarily based on signatures of known viruses. It is effective at removing traditional threats such as spyware, adware and viruses, but struggles to handle unknown or sophisticated threats.
- EDR: Based on real-time analysis of file and process behaviour. It is more effective at detecting and responding to new, advanced, and stealthy threats that often evade traditional antivirus solutions.
Do you need both an antivirus and an EDR?
The answer is simple: if you opt for an EDR solution, you generally do not need an additional antivirus. Modern EDR solutions incorporate features that broadly cover what a traditional antivirus does, and much more. Furthermore, using both an EDR and an antivirus can slow down your systems and cause technical conflicts.
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At ST DIGITAL, we recommend that companies of all sizes prioritise EDR solutions for more comprehensive endpoint protection. In an environment where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, EDR provides proactive security, detecting attacks in real time and delivering rapid response capabilities to limit damage.
With the proliferation of devices connected to the corporate network, the need for advanced security solutions has never been greater. While an antivirus remains a useful solution for basic threats, modern businesses must consider adopting EDR to benefit from optimal protection against cyberattacks. At ST DIGITAL, we help businesses implement cybersecurity strategies tailored to their needs, integrating solutions such as EDR for enhanced defense against modern threats.