Cybercriminals are leveraging advanced tactics, such as generative AI and fileless attacks, to create malware that evades traditional defences. Device-level MDR SOC provides the expertise and tools needed to combat these evolving threats, making it indispensable for businesses.
In our previous blog, we discussed how Managed Detection and Response (MDR), paired with a 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC), delivers proactive cybersecurity for modern businesses. But what happens when attackers target the endpoints—those laptops, and desktops that are essential to your daily operations?
Endpoints are where work happens—and where attacks often begin. Studies show that 70% of breaches originate at endpoints, making them one of the most vulnerable entry points for cybercriminals. Protecting these devices requires more than traditional tools like antivirus software or firewalls. It demands device-level MDR SOC, a solution that provides real-time monitoring, advanced detection, and expert-led responses to stop threats before they cause harm.
Before exploring the specifics of device-level MDR SOC, it’s important to understand how MDR operates across multiple layers to create a comprehensive defence. Let’s take a closer look at these layers and how they work together to shield your IT environment.
The Layers of MDR Protection
MDR isn’t limited to just one type of defence—it operates across multiple layers to provide a comprehensive shield for your IT infrastructure:
1. Network-Level MDR:
Focuses on monitoring and securing network traffic. This layer detects and blocks threats such as data exfiltration (when unauthorized individuals attempt to steal sensitive information from your network), lateral movement (when attackers move through your network to access more valuable data or systems), and malware communications (when malicious software tries to send information back to its creator or a command center outside your network).
2. Email and Application MDR:
Monitors email systems and cloud applications like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace to identify phishing attempts, compromised accounts, and suspicious activity.
3. Device-Level MDR:
Targets endpoints, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, which are often the first points of attack. This layer provides real-time threat detection and response for devices connected to your network.
Each layer addresses unique vulnerabilities, but together, they create a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. Now, let’s zoom in on device-level MDR SOC and why it’s essential for protecting your endpoints.
What is Device-Level MDR SOC?
Device-level MDR SOC extends the power of MDR to endpoints—laptops, desktops, and other connected tools. This service provides continuous monitoring, real-time threat detection, and rapid response to safeguard your devices from advanced cyber threats.
Unlike traditional endpoint security, which relies on known threat signatures, MDR SOC employs behavioural analysis and human oversight to spot and stop anomalies. It doesn’t just protect devices individually; it integrates them into a proactive, enterprise-wide security ecosystem.
Why Traditional Endpoint Security is No Longer Enough
Traditional antivirus tools rely on known threat signatures, making them ineffective against modern, evolving cyber threats like fileless attacks and zero-day exploits. While advanced AI-based tools attempt to detect anomalies, they often produce disruptive false positives, creating unnecessary noise and hindering productivity.
Cybercriminals now use methods that evade static defences:
- Fileless Attacks: Hackers exploit legitimate system tools like PowerShell to execute malicious actions without leaving detectable malware traces.
- Zero-Day Exploits: Attackers take advantage of vulnerabilities in software that haven’t been patched or publicly disclosed. A prime example is the Log4j vulnerability, which exposed millions of devices to ransomware and spyware by exploiting a commonly used software library.
- Lateral Movement: Once attackers breach a single device, they traverse the network, escalating their privileges to access high-value systems and data.
Standalone Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools also struggle with these threats, often generating a flood of alerts that leave businesses overwhelmed and unable to distinguish genuine threats from false alarms.
This is where Device-level MDR SOC makes the difference. By detecting unusual system behaviour, isolating compromised devices, and providing rapid remediation, MDR SOC bridges the gaps left by traditional tools. It offers the critical protection needed to safeguard endpoints during patching delays and beyond.
How Device-Level MDR SOC Works
Device-level MDR SOC takes a proactive approach to endpoint security, combining advanced tools with expert analysis to detect and neutralize threats effectively. To simplify how it works, think of device-level MDR SOC as your event security team:
- Antivirus serves as the guest list, ensuring only pre-approved “guests” (verified files and programs) can enter.
- MDR SOC is the vigilant patrol team, scanning the event for unusual behaviors or suspicious actions.
- The SOC (Security Operations Center) is the control room, staffed with experts who monitor activities and act immediately when a threat arises.
This multi-layered approach ensures that even if a sophisticated, unknown threat bypasses the initial layer (antivirus), MDR SOC can detect and neutralize it through advanced behavioural analysis and expert intervention.
Here’s how device-level MDR SOC delivers comprehensive endpoint protection:
24/7 Monitoring:
Around-the-clock monitoring ensures that any suspicious activity, such as unauthorized logins or abnormal file access, is detected immediately. This level of vigilance is crucial to prevent incidents during off-hours, minimizing damage and allowing swift action to protect your business.
Behavioural Analysis:
By studying device behaviour rather than relying solely on known malware signatures, MDR SOC detects subtle anomalies, such as a device encrypting files at an unusual rate. Additionally, ransomware canaries act as traps within the system to detect early signs of malicious behaviour, flagging unauthorized data access before encryption spreads.
Expert-Led Threat Investigation:
When suspicious activity is flagged, SOC analysts step in to evaluate it. For example:
- A spike in login attempts: Could this be an employee struggling with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) or a brute-force attack by a malicious actor?
- Unusual file encryption activity: Is it a legitimate business process, or the early stages of ransomware?
- Unauthorized software behaviour: Is it a harmless application update or a malicious exploit in disguise?
Unlike AI-only solutions that can generate a high number of false positives, SOC analysts provide critical context and human oversight, reducing false positives to less than 1%. This expert intervention ensures that genuine threats are prioritized while legitimate activities are not unnecessarily disrupted, allowing businesses to operate efficiently.
Rapid Incident Response:
Once a threat is confirmed, the SOC takes swift action. This could mean isolating a compromised device, revoking access, or halting malicious activity to prevent further damage. Additionally, device-level MDR SOC enables a rollback to a pre-attack state, restoring operations quickly and avoiding the need for costly, time-consuming device rebuilds. This rapid recovery minimizes downtime and ensures business continuity.
Post-Incident Reporting:
After resolving an incident, you receive a detailed report that explains what happened, how it was addressed, and recommendations to prevent similar issues in the future.
Real-World Examples of MDR SOC in Action
1. Containing Ransomware Spread: The Curious Click That Could’ve Cost Thousands
Meet Sarah, a well-meaning employee in your finance team. One busy morning, she receives an urgent email from what appears to be a trusted vendor. The email contains a link labelled “Outstanding Invoice – Action Required.” Without thinking twice, Sarah clicks it.
Within moments, ransomware silently installs itself on her laptop. It begins encrypting critical files and creeping into shared drives, threatening to bring the entire business to a halt.
How MDR SOC Responds:
- Detects the Threat Early: The system identifies the unusual behaviour of rapid file encryption on Sarah’s laptop.
- Isolates the Device: Sarah’s laptop is immediately quarantined, cutting it off from the network and stopping the ransomware from spreading further.
- Guides Recovery: The SOC team assists in restoring encrypted files from backups, ensuring minimal downtime.
Thanks to device-level MDR SOC, Sarah’s company avoided $10,000 in ransomware costs, and operations were restored within hours.
2. Stopping Unauthorized Remote Access: The Attack That Never Got Far
James, your IT administrator, logs into the company’s remote desktop application from his office every morning. But one evening, after hours, an alert pops up: a login attempts from an unfamiliar IP address in another country.
A cybercriminal has found a vulnerability in the remote desktop software and is trying to gain control of James’s laptop to access sensitive company data. Without MDR SOC, this could’ve gone unnoticed until it was too late.
How MDR SOC Responds:
- Flags Suspicious Activity: The system detects the login attempt from an unexpected location and unusual time.
- Blocks the Attacker: The SOC team immediately terminates the session and blocks the attacker’s IP address from further access.
- Secures the Vulnerability: Analysts recommend patching the software and implementing stricter access controls to prevent future attempts.
With MDR SOC, James’s team prevented unauthorized access, preserving sensitive data and avoiding significant compliance fines.
Actionable Steps to Strengthen Endpoint Security
Even with device-level MDR SOC in place, implementing these best practices will further enhance your security:
Regular Updates and Patch Management:
- Ensure all operating systems, applications, and firmware are updated regularly to close known vulnerabilities. Regularly scan for exposed entry points (open ports) that could be exploited by attackers. By identifying and patching these vulnerabilities proactively, you reduce the risk of network breaches.
- Example: Use automated tools like Microsoft Intune or ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus to streamline patch deployment across devices.
Educate Employees on Cyber Hygiene:
- Conduct regular training sessions to help employees identify phishing attempts, avoid downloading suspicious files, and use secure passwords.
- Example: Leverage platforms like KnowBe4 for interactive cybersecurity training tailored to employees.
Endpoint Encryption:
- Encrypt sensitive data on devices to prevent unauthorized access in case of theft or breach.
- Example: Use built-in tools like BitLocker (Windows) or FileVault (Mac) to enable full-disk encryption effortlessly.
Secure Backups:
- Maintain regular, encrypted backups of critical data to recover quickly in case of ransomware attacks or data loss.
- Example: Opt for cloud-based solutions like Veeam Backup for Endpoints or Acronis Cyber Protect to automate secure backups.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):
- Enforce MFA on all devices and applications to add an extra layer of security.
- Example: Use tools like Duo Security or Microsoft Authenticator to simplify MFA for employees.
By combining these steps with device-level MDR SOC, you create a robust endpoint security strategy that minimizes risks and strengthens your defences.
To help you implement these best practices, we’ve created a free downloadable checklist. Click below to access it and start strengthening your endpoint security today.
FAQ: Understanding Device-Level MDR SOC
Why do you need MDR if you already have antivirus software?
Traditional antivirus tools rely on known virus signatures and cannot detect emerging threats like fileless attacks or zero-day exploits. MDR focuses on suspicious behaviours and includes human-led analysis to address threats that antivirus alone might miss.
Does this replace your existing antivirus software?
No. MDR complements your antivirus by focusing on advanced threat detection and response for unknown attacks. Antivirus handles known threats, while MDR addresses emerging risks and mitigates potential damage.
Why is 24/7 monitoring necessary?
Cyberattacks can happen anytime, including after business hours. Without 24/7 monitoring, threats may go unnoticed until it’s too late. MDR SOC ensures immediate detection and rapid response to minimize downtime and damage.
Isn’t MDR too expensive for SMEs?
Historically, MDR was reserved for large enterprises, but it is now affordable for SMEs. Investing in MDR SOC helps prevent costly breaches, regulatory fines, and reputational damage, saving you money in the long run.
What happens during a threat incident?
When a threat is detected:
- The compromised device is isolated to prevent the spread.
- Security experts analyse the incident and take appropriate action.
- Your system is restored to a pre-attack state, minimizing downtime and avoiding a full device rebuild.
How is device-level MDR SOC different from traditional cybersecurity solutions?
Device-level MDR SOC integrates advanced behavioural analysis, human oversight, and proactive threat hunting to detect and respond to emerging threats. It goes beyond prevention by addressing incidents in real time and minimizing their impact.
How does device-level MDR SOC handle false positives?
While AI systems detect potential threats, SOC analysts interpret the context and eliminate false positives. This ensures that only genuine risks are acted upon, reducing unnecessary disruptions and improving operational efficiency.
How does device-level MDR SOC handle threats that bypass other defences?
Device-level MDR SOC acts as your last line of defence. If a breach occurs, compromised devices are isolated, the attack is contained, and systems are rolled back to a safe state. This minimizes the threat’s impact and ensures fast recovery.
How long does it take to implement device-level MDR SOC?
Implementation typically takes a day per device, depending on the number of endpoints and the complexity of your IT environment. Sereno IT ensures a seamless integration process with minimal disruption to your business.
Does 24/7 monitoring protect devices in remote or hybrid work environments?
Yes, device-level MDR SOC is designed to protect endpoints regardless of location, making it ideal for remote and hybrid work environments. With 24/7 monitoring, it safeguards devices connected to your network, whether on-site or off-site.
Why Device-Level MDR SOC is Essential
Endpoints are not just tools—they’re gateways to your business. Without robust protection, a single compromised device can lead to widespread damage. Here’s why device-level MDR SOC is critical:
- Proactive Defence: Detects and mitigates threats before they escalate.
- Minimal Business Disruption: Swift responses keep your operations running smoothly.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps meet industry standards for data protection.
- Scalability: Adapts to protect growing device ecosystems.
- Cost-Efficiency for SMEs: Historically reserved for large enterprises, MDR SOC has now become accessible for SMEs, offering enterprise-grade security at an affordable cost. This proactive investment mitigates risks of compliance breaches, reputational harm, and downtime expenses.
By integrating MDR SOC into their security strategy, small and medium-sized businesses can now benefit from enterprise-grade protection without breaking the bank. This proactive investment mitigates risks of compliance breaches, reputational harm, and downtime expenses, ensuring resilience against advanced threats like ransomware and zero-day exploit.
Secure Your Endpoints with Sereno IT
Small and medium-sized businesses no longer need to compromise on security. Sereno IT support packages offer device-level MDR SOC as an add-on, providing enterprise-grade protection tailored for SMEs. This ensures your business stays resilient against advanced threats while benefiting from a complete IT management solution—all at an affordable cost.
Your devices are critical to your business—and often the first targets for cybercriminals. With device-level MDR SOC as part of your IT support, you gain access to real-time monitoring, expert analysis, and rapid response, giving your endpoints the protection they need to operate securely.
Take the next step to strengthen your cybersecurity and ensure your IT support strategy includes robust defenses against today’s threats. Contact Sereno IT to learn how we can help safeguard your business.
