Cybersecurity is no longer just about installing antivirus software and hoping for the best. As threats grow more complex—ransomware, zero-day exploits, supply chain attacks—small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) need advanced protection. That’s where Managed Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) solutions come in.

When managed properly, these tools offer continuous monitoring, threat detection, rapid response, and remediation—without needing a full in-house security team.

What Are EDR and XDR?

• EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) focuses on detecting, investigating, and responding to threats at the endpoint level (e.g., laptops, servers).

• XDR (Extended Detection and Response) goes a step further by aggregating data across multiple layers—endpoints, network, email, identity—to provide unified visibility and response.

Both solutions are enhanced dramatically when managed by experts who monitor alerts, respond to incidents, and ensure optimal configuration.

🔍 Why You Should Choose a Managed EDR/XDR

Here are the key benefits of having your EDR/XDR managed by professionals:

• 24/7 Threat Monitoring: Stay protected day and night, even when you’re offline.

• Faster Response Times: Incidents are contained and remediated quickly, minimizing damage.

• Expert Insights: Gain access to seasoned security professionals who understand real-world attack patterns.

• Reduced False Positives: Analysts can distinguish between noise and actual threats.

• Peace of Mind: You can focus on your business while the experts handle the threats.

🔐 Top Managed EDR/XDR Solutions for SMBs

1. SentinelOne

An autonomous, AI-powered EDR platform with strong detection and rollback capabilities. Its Singularity platform is often used in managed services due to its automation and high efficacy.

Benefits:

• Autonomous threat hunting

• Ransomware rollback

• Easy integration with SOC providers

2. Bitdefender GravityZone

Known for its high detection rate and lightweight footprint, Bitdefender offers EDR and XDR tools that integrate well into small business environments.

Benefits:

• Behavioral analytics

• Cloud-based dashboards

• Anti-exploit and network attack protection

3. Huntress

Built specifically for SMBs, Huntress offers lightweight EDR with real human analysts reviewing suspicious activity. It fills the gap between basic antivirus and a full SOC.

Benefits:

• Managed threat detection

• Easy deployment on MSP platforms

• Focused on post-exploitation behavior

4. Microsoft Defender for Business

Included with Microsoft 365 Business Premium, this EDR solution provides strong protection for companies already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.

Benefits:

• Native integration with Microsoft 365

• Automated investigation and remediation

• Great value for the price

✅ Why EDR/XDR Alone Is Not Enough

Even the best EDR solution won’t help if no one is watching it. Alerts can pile up, misconfigurations go unnoticed, and real threats can slip through the cracks. That’s why management is essential—whether through a trusted MSP or a specialized security provider.

🚀 Final Thoughts

Investing in a managed EDR/XDR solution is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Tools like SentinelOne, Bitdefender, Huntress, and Microsoft Defender for Business offer scalable, powerful protection. When managed by security experts, these tools give you the proactive defense your business needs to stay secure and compliant in today’s threat landscape.

Need help choosing or managing your EDR/XDR solution?
We help businesses like yours stay protected. Let’s chat.