Originally Published December, 2019. Updated July, 2021.
Microsoft has long held a position as a heavyweight cybersecurity services provider, even if that’s not what they’re known for. It’s understandable, too. According to Microsoft, they detect 5 billion security incidents each month and protect against over 99.99% of those threats. These robust security capabilities factor into why Gartner placed Microsoft in the Leader quadrant of the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud Access Security cybersecurity services (EPP). Keep reading to see what it means for your organization and how to finish the second half of 2021 on secure footing.
Gartner Microsoft Defender ATP
Microsoft’s dominance and the quality of its solutions helped propel the company to the Leader quadrant. In the report, Gartner highlighted Microsoft as “unique in the EPP space” because they’re “the only vendor that can provide built-in endpoint protection capabilities tightly integrated with the OS.”
Native Integration serves up enhanced security
One important reason for Microsoft ATP to land in the Leader Quadrant: this endpoint protection (EPP) is no longer exclusive for Windows users. Major recent macOS releases are supported as well, extending the vital protection offered by Windows Defender ATP.
In the report, Gartner also noted how controls like Windows Defender Antivirus are a standard component of Windows 10, providing strong baseline security for all users. On top of that, Microsoft has centralized reporting for Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) and created a secure portal to comprehensively show your security posture.
Consolidate Vendors without Sacrificing Security
The old assumption was Microsoft’s security capabilities couldn’t offer the same protection as other vendors and it was worth the extra money and additional vendors because you had better features.
This is no longer the case.
The Gartner report and Leader quadrant illustrate how Microsoft has made considerable improvements. You can now consolidate vendors without sacrificing security and potentially save money in the process.
Mitigate threats automatically
Cybercriminals will persistently knock on the door of your organization trying to get in, and many tactics will be similar. If you consistently receive alerts around a specific activity, you can set up actions in Microsoft Defender to automatically address the issue.
Uncover vulnerabilities
In the cloud-based defender security center, you can access data about incidents in your organization. It will tell you which machines the threat went to, the credentials used to access your network and more. The information gives you a better idea of what happened and how to create a plan to minimize your threat exposure.
Simplify With Nortec’s Managed IT and Cybersecurity Services
Through Nortec’s Managed Modern Workplace, we’ve brought together key components of Microsoft’s security solutions as part of our managed IT services stack, protecting companies while taking IT off their plate.
The Managed Modern Workplace security features include:
- Endpoint protection
- Multifactor Authentication
- Advanced Threat Protection
- Windows 10 Defender: antimalware providing real-time defense against malware
AI-powered security
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making Microsoft’s security solutions stronger and improving the security profile of all users. Through platforms like Microsoft Graph, threats can be immediately recognized and mitigated. When a vulnerability pops up, the information is sent to Microsoft. The company then profiles the problem and pushes out a patch to all users.
The capabilities in Graph and other platforms will continue to improve as more data is collected and other innovations are introduced.
Don’t DIY Security!
Before implementing Microsoft Defender ATP or another Microsoft security solution, there are two important considerations.
The right Microsoft licensing is key
First, the report noted it can be difficult to select the right licensing from Microsoft. We have an established history of securing the right licensing for organizations. We can offer licenses for less than you pay purchasing direct from Microsoft, while adding on layers like Microsoft Premier Support – without adding to your bill.
Configure your security settings properly
You’ll need to properly configure and manage all solutions to gain the security benefits, this is often complex and requires an expert, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) who can navigate the nuances of access and security.
The Nortec Difference: Our Security Services Lead the Pack
Nortec is a Microsoft Gold Certified partner with advanced specializations in cloud and Azure.
When deciding on IT management for your company, selecting a provider with layered cybersecurity services is crucial to navigating the current threat landscape. Ransomware attacks continue evolving rapidly, making it easier for hackers to strike through means like your existing technology if it’s not managed by a cybersecurity expert.
Nortec provides the highest level of security with a staff of trained and certified experts – including Certified Information Systems Security Professionals (CISSP), which is considered the gold standard in the industry and a Certified Ethical Hacker on staff.
We approach IT management with security in mind, baking security into everything we do so our clients are protected with a web of security solutions. Our team works with client company identity and access management, starting with endpoint security across all devices in mobile, social, and cloud-based environments. At Nortec, we utilize premier endpoint security tools for our clients using Microsoft Defender, Advanced Threat Protection, and Palo Alto Networks Traps® Advanced Endpoint Protection.
Nortec incorporates proactive measures into all our cybersecurity services. We implement preventative measures such as cybersecurity training of employees on proper safety measures that could save your company from major financial and security losses. Additional preventative measures include identity-based security innovations and multifactor authentication, which allow for real results and assures your company that there are no vulnerabilities. Anti-virus software and passwords are no longer enough to protect your company from the daily risk of cyberattacks. That’s where Nortec comes in – providing your company with seamlessly layered protection from all cyberattacks.
Nortec’s 3-step plan for securing your business:
- We conduct a security assessment. This assessment of your company helps us identify where you have the most need.
- You get a plan. We share tailored recommendations and a security roadmap based on your companies current situation, needs, goals and budget. We’ll identify the key priorities based on what will have the highest impact.
- Your business gets secured. From start to finish, we take care of everything so you can secure your business without the hassle.
Getting good cybersecurity services doesn’t have to be a challenge.