Key Takeaways
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) defends against modern endpoint threats with real-time monitoring.
- EDR Security complements traditional antivirus by detecting unknown and evolving cyber risks.
- EDR Solutions automate response, isolate threats, and improve forensic investigations.
- Understanding XDR vs EDR helps choose the right security model for business scale.
- Managed IT Services by Fortray integrates EDR into broader cybersecurity and managed IT frameworks.
- Choosing the right EDR approach boosts compliance, uptime, and overall cybersecurity posture.
Introduction
In today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape, traditional antivirus software is no longer enough. Cybercriminals target endpoints, including laptops, desktops, servers, and mobile devices, using sophisticated malware, ransomware, and credential theft. That’s where Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) becomes essential for businesses of all sizes.
The adoption of cloud-based and on-premises EDR solutions is valued at USD 6.5 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 50.5 billion by 2034, according to the EDR – Global Market Outlook (2017-2026) Report. If you’re an SME or a mega-scale enterprise, understanding EDR and how it integrates into your managed IT strategy can protect you from costly breaches and downtime.
In this article, we explain in clear terms what EDR is, why it matters, and how EDR solutions strengthen your cybersecurity framework, especially when deployed through a managed service provider like Fortray.
What Is Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)?
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a cybersecurity technology focused on monitoring and responding to suspicious activities on endpoints, any device that connects to your network. These include laptops, servers, desktops, and mobile devices.
EDR goes beyond traditional antivirus by continuously monitoring for threats, using behavioural analytics, and responding in real time to contain or remediate attacks. While antivirus might block known malware signatures, EDR detects unusual patterns, unknown malware, and emerging threat behaviours. This makes it a crucial layer in modern security postures.
What EDR Security Does on a Technical Level?
- Tracks system and application process activities in real time.
- Uses threat intelligence and machine learning to spot anomalies.
- Automates response actions, such as isolating infected endpoints or terminating malicious processes.
Recommended Reading: Beyond Phishing: The New Wave of ‘Human-Centric’ Cyber Threats
Why EDR Matters for Businesses?
Cybersecurity threats have increased dramatically in recent years. Microsoft reports that attackers often target endpoints first, as they represent accessible entry points into business environments.
For organisations, from SMEs to large enterprises, unprotected endpoints can lead to:
- Ransomware attacks are locking critical data.
- Credential theft through phishing and brute-force attacks.
- Data exfiltration and non-compliance with data protection standards (e.g., GDPR).
By implementing EDR, companies can identify threats early, automatically contain them, and initiate incident response measures before significant damage occurs.
Real Risk Scenarios Without EDR
Imagine the device (laptop) of a remote worker infected with a stealthy keylogger; without EDR, this could go unnoticed until data is stolen. With EDR, behavioural anomalies trigger alerts or isolation, reducing breach impact.
Recommended Reading: Why Patch Management Should Be a Priority in 2026?
Key Features of EDR Solutions
Modern EDR solutions provide a rich set of capabilities that address endpoint threats comprehensively:
- Real-Time Monitoring: Constantly track endpoint activity.
- Threat Detection: Identify both known and unknown threats using analytics.
- Automated Response: Quarantine or remediate threats swiftly.
- Forensic Investigation: Understand incident root causes for future defence.
- Reporting and Compliance: Provide logs and audit trails for security standards.
These features make EDR a must-have for organisations aiming to protect valuable data and maintain business continuity.
EDR vs XDR — What’s the Difference?
XDR (Extended Detection and Response) extends EDR by correlating data across endpoints, networks, email, cloud workloads, and identity systems. While EDR focuses on endpoints alone, XDR provides a broader context, which is useful for organisations with complex environments.
When to choose EDR?
- You need focused protection for endpoints (workstations, servers).
- You’re starting your cybersecurity journey.
When to consider XDR?
- You require integrated threat detection across multiple security vectors (network, cloud, email, etc.).
- You’ve already deployed a robust SIEM and need unified analysis.
Understanding XDR vs EDR helps businesses choose the right security model based on scale, risk appetite, and infrastructure complexity.
Recommended Reading: What is XDR? The Evolution from EDR and Why Your Business Needs It
How EDR Enhances Managed IT Services?
Fortray embeds EDR Security within its suite of managed IT services to provide proactive threat detection and response for clients across the United Kingdom.
The Managed EDR solutions by Fortray include:
- 24/7 endpoint monitoring.
- Automated responses to isolate compromised devices.
- Continuous threat intelligence updates.
- Integration with broader security services (firewalls, SIEM, backup).
This means clients get a comprehensive defence, not standalone tools. The dedicated security experts at Fortray monitor alerts and support remediation.
Recommended Reading: What are Managed IT Services?
Choosing the Right EDR Solution for Your Business
Selecting an effective EDR solution depends on:
- Environment complexity (SME vs enterprise).
- Regulatory requirements and compliance standards.
- Integration with current MSP tools and services.
Fortray assists organisations in evaluating and deploying EDR solutions that fit their scale and risk profile, combining technology with managed support.
Secure Your Digital Future with Expert IT Solutions
Detection & Response (MDR/XDR)
- Stay ahead of threats with intelligent detection.
- Get 24/7 cyber defence and rapid response.
Managed SOC
- 24/7 SOC monitoring and threat detection.
- Rapid response without slowing you down.
Not sure what you’re looking for?
Recommended Reading: Cyber Talk with Mr. Farooq Zafar, IT Cybersecurity Consultant
Conclusion
In a world where endpoint threats are increasing in sophistication and volume, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) has become indispensable for businesses of all sizes. If you’re protecting a small team’s laptops or a global enterprise’s hybrid network, EDR solutions offer visibility, detection, and response capabilities that traditional tools cannot match.
The organisations prioritise cybersecurity in 2026 and beyond, partnering with a trusted MSP like Fortray ensures you deploy EDR effectively. This is further supported by proactive monitoring, incident response, and expert security operations.
Don’t wait until a breach hits; choose yourself and strengthen your cybersecurity posture with EDR today: Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a cybersecurity solution that continuously monitors endpoints to detect, investigate, and automatically respond to security threats.
EDR security protects businesses from ransomware, malware, and zero-day attacks through continuous monitoring and automated, real-time responses.
EDR solutions use behavioural analytics, machine learning, and threat intelligence to detect suspicious activity and contain attacks before they spread.
EDR protects individual endpoints, while XDR extends detection and response across networks, cloud, and email systems.
No. EDR security complements antivirus tools by identifying unknown and advanced threats that traditional antivirus tools may miss.
Fortray provides managed EDR solutions with 24/7 monitoring, threat response, and compliance support for UK SMEs and large enterprises.
