EDR vs MDR vs XDR

EDR vs MDR vs XDR

Fig 1:EDR vs MDR vs XDR

EDR – Endpoint Detection and Response

What it is:

• EDR is a security solution focused on detecting, investigating, and responding to threats on endpoints (e.g., laptops, servers, mobile devices).

Key Features:

• Real-time monitoring of endpoint activity.
• Threat detection and automated responses (e.g., isolating infected devices).
• Forensic analysis and threat hunting.
• Requires in-house security expertise to manage.

Use Case:

• Organizations with dedicated security teams who want deep visibility into endpoint activity.

MDR – Managed Detection and Response

What it is:

• MDR is a service that combines EDR (or similar tools) with a team of security experts who manage threat detection and response for you.

Key Features:

• 24/7 threat monitoring and response by a third-party provider.
• Human analysts validate alerts and take action.
• Includes incident reports, investigation, and remediation guidance.
• Outsourced solution—no need for in-house SOC.

Use Case:

• Ideal for small to mid-sized organizations without internal security teams or expertise.

XDR – Extended Detection and Response

What it is:

• XDR is an integrated security platform that goes beyond endpoints and collects data across multiple security layers—endpoints, network, email, servers, and cloud—to detect and respond to threats more effectively.

Key Features:

• Correlates data across different security tools.
• Provides a unified view of threats from various vectors.
• Enables faster and more accurate detection and response.
• Typically includes or works with EDR capabilities.

Use Case:

• Organizations wanting centralized visibility and response across their entire IT environment.

Summary

• EDR = Tools for detecting/responding to endpoint threats.
• MDR = EDR + human expertise as a service.
• XDR = Broader threat detection across multiple vectors, not just endpoints.