An endpoint protection platform (EPP) is a cybersecurity solution deployed on endpoint devices, such as laptops, desktops, mobile devices, and servers, to detect and block a wide range of threats. These platforms serve as a frontline defense against malware, ransomware, phishing, and fileless attacks.
EPPs combine signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, machine learning, and cloud-based threat intelligence to stop threats before they can compromise your network. For modern IT teams and managed service providers (MSPs), EPPs are essential to maintaining consistent, scalable endpoint security, especially in remote and hybrid work environments.
How does an endpoint protection platform work?
A typical EPP uses multiple layers of protection to secure endpoints against known and unknown threats:
- Antivirus and anti-malware: Blocks known threats using threat signature databases
- Behavioral analysis: Detects suspicious activity and anomalies
- Cloud-based threat intelligence: Provides real-time updates on emerging global threats
- Application control: Restricts execution of unauthorized or risky software
- Policy management: Enables centralized configuration and enforcement across devices
- Sandboxing: Isolates unknown files or applications in a secure environment for evaluation
Pro tip for MSPs: Choose an EPP that supports multi-tenant environments, integrates with your RMM, and offers remote remediation to simplify security management across multiple clients.
Why endpoint protection platforms matter in 2025
Endpoints are one of the most common attack vector in today’s cyber landscape, and remote work has only increased the exposure. A modern EPP:
- Protects against zero day threats and ransomware
- Secures cloud-connected and off-network devices
- Helps meet compliance requirements (HIPAA, PCI-DSS, etc.)
- Streamlines endpoint management for IT teams and MSPs
Reduces incident response time and manual investigation
EPP vs. EDR: What’s the difference?
Feature |
EPP |
EDR |
| Focus | Threat prevention | Threat detection and response |
| Primary Goal | Block attacks before execution | Investigate and contain post-breach |
| Techniques Used | Signatures, heuristics, ML | Behavioral analytics, threat hunting |
| Remediation Capabilities | Basic (quarantine, block) | Advanced (forensics, rollback, response) |
| Best For | Preventing everyday threats | Analyzing and responding to sophisticated attacks |
Many organizations now deploy EPP and EDR together, or choose a unified solution for complete endpoint protection.
Pro tip: Managed detection and response (MDR) software builds on EDR by adding 24/7 threat monitoring, expert analysis, and human-led incident response, which is ideal for organizations without in-house security teams. MDR often leverages both EPP and EDR technologies under the hood, but provides hands-on help from security analysts who act as an extension of your team.
Common threats blocked by EPP
- Malware and viruses
- Ransomware (e.g., LockBit, BlackCat)
- Phishing payloads and malicious attachments
- Fileless malware using PowerShell or WMI
- Unauthorized applications and scripts
What to look for in a modern EPP
If you're selecting or recommending an EPP in 2025, prioritize:
- Cloud-native architecture
- Integration with EDR and SIEM
- Support for remote/hybrid workforces
- AI-powered threat prevention
- Centralized policy control
- Multi-tenant support for MSPs
Protect your endpoints with ConnectWise cybersecurity solutions
Whether you're looking to prevent threats at the endpoint, detect sophisticated attacks, or offload 24/7 threat monitoring, ConnectWise has a solution designed for MSPs and IT teams. Explore our cybersecurity and data protection solutions >>