Cisco Secure Endpoint

Basic information

• Model: Cisco Secure Endpoint (formerly AMP for Endpoints).
• Version: Continuously updated cloud-native service. Connector versions are typically 8.x (e.g., v8.1.5 for Windows). Console versions are typically 5.4.x (e.g., 5.4.20230329).
• Release Date: Not applicable as a single release date for a continuously evolving cloud service.
• Minimum Requirements: Vary by endpoint. The connector is designed to be lightweight.
• Supported Operating Systems:
  • Windows: 7 (ESU required), 8, 8.1, 10, 11. Server 2008 R2 (ESU required), 2012, 2012 R2, 2016, 2019, 2022.
  • Linux: Red Hat Enterprise Linux (6, 7, 8), CentOS (6, 7, 8), Oracle Linux RHCK (6, 7, 8), Oracle UEK (7, 8), Alma Linux (8, 9), Rocky Linux (8, 9), Ubuntu (18.04, 20.04, 22.04), Amazon Linux 2, SUSE Enterprise Linux 15, openSUSE Leap 15, Debian (10, 11).
  • macOS: 10.13, 10.14, 10.15, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15.
  • Mobile: iOS 14.4 and above, Android 8.0 (Oreo) and above (with enhanced support for 11, 12, 13, 14).
• Latest Stable Version: Connector versions are continuously updated, with recent Windows connector versions around 8.1.5.
• End of Support Date: As a cloud-native service, it receives continuous updates and support. End-of-life (EOL) dates apply to specific operating systems it supports, not the service itself.
• End of Life Date: Not applicable for the service itself, as it is continuously developed and supported.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable; updates are continuous as part of the subscription.
• License Type: Subscription License, available in Essentials, Advantage, and Premier tiers.
• Deployment Model: Cloud-based, offered as a hosted service with public or private cloud deployment options for its connectors.

Technical Requirements

• RAM: Minimum requirements for endpoint connectors are not explicitly detailed but are designed for low impact.
• Processor: Not explicitly detailed for endpoint connectors, but designed for low impact.
• Storage: Not explicitly detailed for endpoint connectors, but designed for low impact.
• Display: Not a primary technical requirement for the endpoint protection software.
• Ports: Requires network connectivity for cloud communication and updates.
• Operating System: Refer to the "Supported Operating Systems" section above.

Analysis of Technical Requirements: Cisco Secure Endpoint is a software-based solution with connectors deployed on endpoints. Its technical requirements are primarily dictated by the operating systems it supports, rather than specific hardware specifications for the product itself. The endpoint connectors are generally considered lightweight, aiming for minimal impact on system resources. However, some users report temporary high CPU utilization, particularly upon system wake-up, as the software performs catch-up scans and telemetry uploads. This suggests that while baseline operation is light, certain intensive tasks can demand significant processing power from the endpoint.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: Connector versions are frequently updated, with recent Windows connector versions around 8.1.5. Console versions are also regularly updated.
• OS Support: Comprehensive support across Windows, various Linux distributions, macOS, iOS, and Android platforms.
• End of Support Date: As a subscription-based cloud service, support is continuous for the service itself. Support for specific older operating system versions may be phased out over time (e.g., Windows 7/8 and Server 2012 are considered legacy).
• Localization: User interface includes Japanese language support and additional language support for the Android application.
• Available Drivers: The solution deploys "connectors" or agents to endpoints, which include necessary drivers for monitoring and protection.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: Cisco Secure Endpoint offers robust and broad compatibility across major operating systems, ensuring a wide range of devices can be protected. The continuous update model means the product evolves with new threats and OS versions. Integration with other Cisco security products (like SecureX, Umbrella, Talos) enhances its overall effectiveness and provides a unified security ecosystem. While support for legacy operating systems exists, it is recommended to use currently supported OS versions for optimal security and feature access. The availability of localization indicates a commitment to a global user base.

Security Status

• Security Features: Advanced prevention, detection, and response capabilities. Includes machine learning, behavioral analysis, sandboxing, file trajectory, retrospective security, exploit prevention, anti-malware, application control, dynamic file analysis, vulnerability identification, and endpoint isolation. It continuously monitors endpoint activity and protects against fileless malware and ransomware.
• Known Vulnerabilities: Cisco regularly releases updates to address vulnerabilities, including fixes for components like ClamAV. Information on specific versions with known vulnerabilities is tracked.
• Blacklist Status: Leverages Cisco Talos threat intelligence to block known threats globally and offers blacklisting/whitelisting capabilities for applications and files.
• Certifications: While not explicitly detailed in searches for Secure Endpoint itself, Cisco products generally adhere to industry security standards. CIS Benchmarks are available for various Cisco technologies.
• Encryption Support: Supports TLS 1.2 and 1.3 for secure communication.
• Authentication Methods: Integrates with Cisco's broader security ecosystem, which supports various authentication methods, including multi-factor authentication solutions like Duo.
• General Recommendations: Deploy in "protect mode" for active threat remediation. Integrate with Cisco SecureX for extended detection and response (XDR) capabilities and automated security playbooks. Utilize Cisco Talos threat intelligence for enhanced protection.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating: Cisco Secure Endpoint provides a robust, multi-layered security posture. Its integration with Cisco Talos delivers cutting-edge threat intelligence, enabling proactive blocking and rapid response to emerging threats. The combination of prevention, detection, and response features, including advanced techniques like sandboxing and behavioral monitoring, offers comprehensive protection against a wide array of cyberattacks, including ransomware and fileless malware. Continuous monitoring and the ability to isolate infected endpoints quickly are critical strengths. While vulnerabilities are inherent in any complex software, Cisco's regular patching and update cycles demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a high security standard. The overall security rating is strong, particularly when integrated within the broader Cisco security ecosystem.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Specific, publicly available benchmark scores for Cisco Secure Endpoint are not readily available in the provided search results.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: User feedback is mixed. Many users describe the endpoint agent as lightweight with minimal impact on end-user experience. However, some users report significant CPU utilization (40-70%) for extended periods, especially after a system wakes from sleep, as the software catches up on scans and telemetry. Performance improvements are regularly noted in release notes.
• Power Consumption: Specific power consumption metrics are not available. The impact on power consumption is generally tied to CPU utilization, which can be high during certain operations.
• Carbon Footprint: Cisco has a corporate net-zero target by 2040 and reports on Scope 3 emissions, including the use of sold products. However, specific carbon footprint data for Cisco Secure Endpoint is not provided.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Users compare it favorably to solutions like MalwareBytes and Microsoft Defender in terms of effectiveness and integration. Some users find it more resource-intensive than alternatives like ZScaler and Carbon Black. Direct comparisons with Carbon Black Cloud exist, showing varying user perceptions on performance impact.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status: Cisco Secure Endpoint generally performs well in its core function of threat protection. Its performance impact on endpoints is often described as low during normal operation, which is crucial for user productivity. However, the "catch-up" behavior after sleep states can lead to noticeable CPU spikes, affecting user experience temporarily. Continuous performance improvements are part of its development cycle. While specific benchmark data is scarce, user feedback suggests that its effectiveness in threat detection often outweighs perceived performance drawbacks for many organizations.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews highlight Cisco Secure Endpoint's strengths in comprehensive threat detection and response, particularly its machine learning capabilities and detailed endpoint visibility. Integration with other Cisco security products, such as SecureX and Talos, is a significant advantage, creating a unified security environment. Many users find the product easy to use and appreciate its ability to identify threats that other tools might miss, including protection against fileless malware and ransomware. The agent is often described as lightweight, with little to no impact on end-user performance during regular operation.

However, common weaknesses include the product's pricing, which is considered high compared to competitors, and the complexity of its licensing structure. Some users report challenges with the initial setup process, requiring significant technical expertise. There are also mentions of a lack of local file encryption, limited API integration with third-party SIEM solutions, and a need for improved in-depth analytics and reporting. A notable concern is the occasional high CPU usage, especially when endpoints wake from sleep, which can temporarily impact system performance. The user interface, while generally clean, can sometimes have varied functionality across similar-looking views, making it challenging to decide on actions.

Recommended use cases emphasize its suitability for securing business endpoints, providing 24/7 malware protection, and leveraging its EDR, XDR, and EPP capabilities. It is highly recommended for organizations looking for reliable, intelligent endpoint protection with automated remediation and strong integration into a broader security ecosystem.

Summary

Cisco Secure Endpoint is a robust, cloud-native endpoint protection platform designed to provide comprehensive security across diverse operating systems. Its key strengths lie in its multi-layered approach to threat prevention, detection, and response, powered by advanced machine learning, behavioral analysis, and the industry-leading Cisco Talos threat intelligence. The product excels in endpoint visibility, rapid threat identification, and the ability to isolate infected devices, significantly reducing the spread of cyberattacks. Its seamless integration with the broader Cisco security ecosystem, particularly SecureX, offers enhanced XDR capabilities and streamlined security operations.

However, the asset presents some challenges. Its pricing and complex licensing structure can be a barrier for some organizations. Initial setup may require considerable technical expertise, and some users desire improved API integration with third-party SIEM solutions and more in-depth analytics. While generally lightweight, the endpoint connector can exhibit high CPU utilization during specific operations, such as system wake-up, which may temporarily impact user experience.

Overall, Cisco Secure Endpoint is an excellent choice for enterprises seeking a powerful, scalable, and integrated endpoint security solution. Organizations that can leverage its full potential within the Cisco security portfolio will benefit most from its advanced capabilities. Recommendations include careful planning for deployment and configuration, particularly regarding policy settings and integrations, to optimize performance and maximize security posture. The continuous update model ensures ongoing protection against evolving threats.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.