Unveiling the Power of Cisco Secure Endpoint: Features, Pricing, and More

by Mohamed El-Shayeb

What is Cisco Secure Endpoint?

Endpoint security is a crucial component of overall cybersecurity, focusing on protecting individual devices, or endpoints, such as laptops, desktops, servers, and mobile devices, from various cyber threats. As endpoints are often the entry points for cyberattacks, securing them is essential to safeguard an organisation's sensitive data, networks, and overall infrastructure.

Cisco Secure Endpoint (formerly Cisco AMP for Endpoints) is a comprehensive endpoint security solution developed by Cisco to address the evolving threat landscape. It’s significance in the cybersecurity landscape extends beyond traditional endpoint protection and its integration with broader security frameworks, support for diverse platforms, and emphasis on proactive threat hunting contribute to a comprehensive and adaptive cybersecurity strategy. This makes it a crucial element in safeguarding organisations against evolving cyber threats. As well as the core aspects of the solution such as Advanced Threat Protection, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Cloud-Native Security, Secure Configuration Management and Integrated Firewall and Antivirus which we will discuss in more detail later in the article, these additional features highlight the significance of Cisco Secure Endpoint in the cybersecurity landscape:

• Endpoint Visibility and Control:

  Cisco Secure Endpoint offers comprehensive visibility into endpoint activities, allowing organisations to understand the security posture of their devices. This visibility enables better control over endpoints, helping to enforce security policies and compliance standards across the entire network.
  
  

• Zero Trust Security Model:

  Cisco Secure Endpoint aligns with the Zero Trust security model, emphasising the principle of "never trust, always verify." By continuously validating the security status of endpoints, the solution helps organisations move away from a traditional perimeter-based security approach to a more dynamic and adaptive security model.
  
  

• Response Automation and Orchestration:

  The solution includes automation and orchestration features, allowing security teams to automate routine tasks and response actions. This not only accelerates incident response times but also reduces the workload on security analysts, enabling them to focus on more complex and strategic security tasks.
  
  

• Cross-Platform Protection:

  Cisco Secure Endpoint provides protection across various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms. This cross-platform support ensures a consistent and unified security approach, regardless of the devices and operating systems used within the organisation.
  
  

• Threat Hunting Capabilities:

  Beyond automated detection, Cisco Secure Endpoint enables security teams to actively hunt for threats. Security analysts can use the solution's capabilities to conduct proactive threat hunting exercises, identifying and mitigating potential threats that may not be detected by automated processes alone.
  
  

• Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) Integration: 

  Cisco Secure Endpoint integrates with the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) architecture, which combines network security functions with WAN capabilities to support the dynamic, secure access needs of organisations. This integration strengthens overall network security by extending protection to remote and branch office environments.
  
  

• Scalability for Large Enterprises:

  Cisco Secure Endpoint is designed to scale effectively, making it suitable for large enterprises with diverse and extensive network infrastructures. The solution can handle a high volume of endpoints while maintaining efficient performance and threat detection capabilities.
  
  

• Cloud-Native Architecture: 

  Cisco Secure Endpoint's cloud-native architecture provides flexibility and scalability, allowing organisations to seamlessly adapt to changes in their IT infrastructure. This architecture is well-suited for modern, cloud-centric environments, ensuring that security remains effective in hybrid and multi-cloud scenarios.
  

Cisco Secure Endpoint Features

Cisco Secure Endpoint boasts a robust set of features designed to fortify organizations against diverse cyber threats. Here's a concise overview of its key functionalities across advanced threat protection, EDR, cloud-native security, secure configuration management, and integrated firewall and antivirus capabilities.

A. Advanced Threat Protection:

• • Machine Learning and Behavioural Analysis:

    Cisco Secure Endpoint employs advanced machine learning algorithms and behavioural analysis to proactively identify and block sophisticated threats. This includes the ability to recognise patterns indicative of malicious behaviour, even if the threat has not been seen before.
    
    

  • Threat Intelligence Integration:

    The solution integrates with threat intelligence feeds, both local and cloud-based, to stay updated on the latest threats. By leveraging real-time threat intelligence, Cisco Secure Endpoint enhances its ability to detect and prevent emerging threats effectively.
    
    

  • File Reputation Analysis:

    Advanced threat protection includes file reputation analysis, where files are evaluated based on their reputation and behaviour. Suspicious files or those with malicious indicators are flagged and either blocked or subjected to further analysis.
    
    

  • Sandboxing for Dynamic Analysis:

    Cisco Secure Endpoint utilizes sandboxing techniques to execute files in isolated environments, allowing dynamic analysis to identify previously unknown threats. This helps in uncovering and mitigating advanced malware and zero-day attacks.

B. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR):

• • Real-Time Endpoint Visibility:

    Cisco Secure Endpoint provides real-time visibility into endpoint activities, allowing security teams to monitor and analyse behaviour continuously. This visibility is crucial for early detection of potential threats.
    
    

  • Incident Investigation and Response:

    EDR features enable security teams to investigate and respond to security incidents efficiently. Analysts can drill down into endpoint data, conduct forensics, and take responsive actions to contain and remediate threats.
    
    

  • Behavioural Analytics:

    The solution utilises behavioural analytics to identify anomalies and unusual patterns in endpoint behaviour. This helps in detecting advanced threats that may not be recognisable through traditional signature-based methods.
    
    

  • Threat Hunting Capabilities:

    Cisco Secure Endpoint supports proactive threat hunting, allowing security teams to search for signs of compromise and potential threats within the organisation. This capability is essential for identifying and mitigating threats that may have evaded automated detection.

C. Cloud-Native Security:

• • Cloud-Delivered Protection:

    Cisco Secure Endpoint leverages a cloud-native architecture to deliver real-time protection and updates. This ensures that endpoints are consistently protected, regardless of their location or connection to the corporate network.
    
    

  • Scalability and Flexibility:

    The cloud-native approach provides scalability, allowing organizations to adapt to changes in their infrastructure seamlessly. This is particularly valuable in modern, dynamic IT environments, including those with hybrid and multi-cloud configurations.

D. Secure Configuration Management:

• • Policy Enforcement: 

    Cisco Secure Endpoint allows organizations to define and enforce security policies across all endpoints. This includes specifying secure configurations and settings to ensure consistent protection and compliance.
    
    

  • Centralised Management Console:

    The solution provides a centralized management console, allowing security administrators to configure and manage security policies easily. This ensures that secure configurations are consistently applied and maintained across all endpoints.

E. Integrated Firewall and Antivirus:

• • Firewall Protection: 

    Cisco Secure Endpoint includes an integrated firewall that adds an additional layer of protection by monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. This helps in preventing unauthorized access and blocking malicious activities.
    
    

  • Antivirus and Anti-Malware:

    The solution incorporates robust antivirus and anti-malware capabilities to identify and remove known threats. Regular signature updates and real-time scanning contribute to effective protection against a wide range of malware.
    

Cisco Secure Endpoint Pricing

A. Subscription Plans

When choosing which Cisco Secure Endpoint Plan is best for your business it’s important to select the option that suits your requirements as they have varied features catering to distinct needs.

1. Secure Endpoint Advantage:

For AED 25.69/month/device (1 to 99 devices*), the recommended Secure Endpoint Advantage plan by Cisco offers built-in integrations and automated security playbooks through the Cisco SecureX platform. With powerful machine-learning-based behavioural monitoring engines, continuous endpoint activity monitoring, and dynamic file analysis, it provides real-time detection and blocking of abnormal activities. The plan also includes one-click isolation of infected endpoints, visibility and control over USB mass storage devices, and access to the Malware Analytics Cloud for deep dynamic file analysis and malware threat intelligence. Accelerate threat hunting and investigations with over 200 pre-defined queries, and Orixcom Managed Services are included.

2. Secure Endpoint Essentials:

Priced at AED 21.05/month/device (1 to 99 devices*), the Secure Endpoint Essentials plan from Cisco offers essential features such as built-in integrations and automated security playbooks with the Cisco SecureX platform. It includes powerful machine-learning-based behavioural monitoring engines, continuous monitoring, dynamic file analysis, one-click isolation of infected endpoints, and visibility and control over USB mass storage devices. Orixcom Managed Services are also included, making it a cost-effective choice for organisations prioritising fundamental endpoint security needs.

B. Factors Affecting Pricing

Cisco AMP Endpoint costs involves considering key factors that influence the pricing. From deployment scale to industry-specific requirements, understanding these elements is crucial for organisations seeking tailored and cost-effective endpoint security solutions.

1. Scale of Deployment:

The scale of deployment significantly influences the pricing of Cisco Secure Endpoint. Larger deployments with a higher number of devices generally incur higher costs due to increased licensing requirements. Cisco often offers tiered pricing models, providing cost efficiencies for businesses with larger-scale implementations. Smaller deployments may benefit from more budget-friendly options tailored to their specific needs.

2. Additional Features and Add-ons:

The inclusion of advanced features and add-ons can impact the pricing structure. Cisco AMP Endpoint Costs include different feature sets, ranging from essential functionalities to advanced threat protection and endpoint detection and response (EDR). Organisations opting for plans with additional features, such as threat hunting capabilities, cloud-native security, or integrated firewall options, may experience higher costs reflecting the enhanced capabilities provided.

3. Industry-Specific Considerations:

The nature of the industry can also play a role in determining pricing for Cisco Secure Endpoint. Industries with heightened regulatory compliance requirements, such as healthcare or finance, may necessitate additional security features, customisations, or compliance modules, contributing to a higher overall cost. Cisco may tailor pricing structures to align with industry-specific security needs, ensuring organisations meet regulatory standards. 

FAQs

1. How does Cisco Secure Endpoint differ from traditional antivirus solutions?
   Cisco Secure Endpoint differs significantly from traditional antivirus solutions by adopting a holistic approach to endpoint security. While traditional antivirus focuses on signature-based detection, Cisco Secure Endpoint leverages advanced technologies such as machine learning, behavioural analysis, and cloud-native security. This allows it to proactively identify and block not only known malware, but also emerging and sophisticated threats. The solution goes beyond mere virus detection, offering features like Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), continuous monitoring, threat hunting capabilities, and integrated firewall protection. Its integration with the Cisco SecureX platform further enhances visibility and response capabilities, creating a comprehensive and adaptive defence strategy compared to the more limited scope of traditional antivirus solutions.
   
   
2. What are the three main types of endpoint security?
   The three types of endpoint security that are essential to modern organisations are Antivirus Software, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and Mobile Device Management. Here’s why they’re important:
   
   
   • Antivirus Software: Antivirus software is a foundational element of endpoint security. It focuses on detecting and removing known malware, viruses, worms, and other malicious software from individual devices. Traditional antivirus solutions rely on signature-based detection, where predefined patterns or signatures of known threats are used to identify and eliminate malicious code. While effective against well-established threats, antivirus solutions may struggle to detect novel or sophisticated attacks.
   • Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): EDR solutions are designed to provide real-time monitoring, detection, and response capabilities on endpoints. Unlike traditional antivirus, EDR goes beyond signature-based detection, employing advanced techniques such as behavioural analysis and machine learning. EDR solutions continuously monitor endpoint activities, detect anomalies, and enable security teams to investigate and respond to security incidents promptly. This proactive approach is crucial for identifying and mitigating advanced threats, including those that may not have known signatures.
   • Mobile Device Management (MDM): With the proliferation of mobile devices in the workplace, MDM has become a vital component of endpoint security. MDM solutions focus on securing and managing mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. They enforce policies related to device configurations, access controls, and data protection. MDM also facilitates features like remote wipe in case a device is lost or stolen. As mobile endpoints present unique security challenges, MDM ensures that organisations can maintain a secure and compliant mobile environment.
     
     
3. How do you implement endpoint security?
   Implementing endpoint security involves a multi-faceted approach to protect individual devices from various cyber threats. Here we provide a high-level guide on how to implement endpoint security:
   
   
   • Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential vulnerabilities, risks, and assets. Understand the specific needs and challenges of your organisation, taking into account the types of devices, operating systems, and applications in use.
   • Define Security Policies: Develop comprehensive security policies that specify acceptable use, access controls, data protection measures, and other relevant guidelines. Clearly communicate these policies to all users and stakeholders.
   • Choose Endpoint Security Solutions: Select endpoint security solutions that align with your organization's needs. This may include antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, mobile device management (MDM) tools, and other security technologies. Consider solutions that offer a range of protections, from traditional antivirus features to advanced threat detection and response capabilities.
   • Regular Software Updates and Patch Management: Keep all endpoint software, including operating systems and applications, up to date with the latest security patches. Regularly apply updates to address known vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture.
   • Device Encryption: Implement encryption on endpoint devices to protect sensitive data. Full-disk encryption ensures that even if a device is lost or stolen, unauthorized access to the stored information is prevented.
   • Access Controls and User Privileges: Enforce strong access controls by ensuring that users have the minimum necessary privileges to perform their tasks. Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict access to sensitive data and critical systems.
   • User Education and Awareness: Conduct regular training sessions to educate users about potential security threats, phishing attacks, and best practices for maintaining a secure computing environment. Foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness throughout the organisation.
   • Network Security Measures: Implement network security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure Wi-Fi protocols to protect endpoints from external threats. Secure network configurations add an additional layer of defence.
   • Endpoint Monitoring and Incident Response: Deploy tools for continuous endpoint monitoring, which may include EDR solutions. Establish an incident response plan to quickly identify, contain, and mitigate security incidents. Regularly test and update this plan to address emerging threats.
   • Regular Security Audits and Assessments: Conduct regular security audits and assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of your endpoint security measures. This includes reviewing configurations, monitoring logs, and identifying areas for improvement.
   • Compliance with Regulations: Ensure that your endpoint security measures align with industry-specific regulations and compliance standards relevant to your organisation. This is crucial for maintaining a secure and legally compliant environment.