IT Security – Technology Navigation Inc.

IT Security

Smart Cybersecurity Spending: A Guide to the Seven Layers of Protection

technavadmin IT Security , , ,
seven layers of protection cybersecurity
seven layers of protection cybersecurity

Cyber threats are evolving rapidly, making cybersecurity a top priority for IT leaders. Organizations must balance robust security measures with budget constraints while navigating a crowded market of security solutions. The seven layers of cybersecurity provide a comprehensive framework for protecting digital assets, but how can you maximize security while optimizing costs?

In this guide, we break down the seven layers of cybersecurity to help you identify the most critical areas for investment and ensure your budget is allocated effectively to defend against cyber threats.

1. Perimeter Security

Your first line of defense against cyberattacks, perimeter security protects your network from external threats using firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and secure web gateways.



Cost-Effective Tips:		• Choose scalable firewalls and IDS solutions with integrated threat detection and automated response capabilities

• Implement Zero Trust security principles to enhance perimeter defense.

2. Network Security

Safeguarding your internal network from unauthorized access and cyber threats is essential. Implement network firewalls, encryption, and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to protect sensitive data and ensure network integrity.



Cost-Effective Tips:		• Invest in unified network security solutions that combine firewall, VPN, and monitoring features

• Prioritize end-to-end encryption without sacrificing performance.

3. Endpoint Security

Endpoints, including laptops, smartphones, and IoT devices, are common attack vectors. Advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR), antivirus software, and device encryption help mitigate risks.



Cost-Effective Tips:		• Deploy endpoint security solutions with centralized management to streamline protection across all devices

• Implement Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies with strict security protocols.

4. Application Security

Protect software applications from vulnerabilities throughout their lifecycle with secure coding practices, regular penetration testing, and application firewalls.



Cost-Effective Tips:		• Use automated code analysis tools to detect vulnerabilities early in development

• Leverage open-source encryption solutions for cost-effective protection.

5. Data Security

Data is a prime target for cybercriminals. Encryption, access controls, and cloud security measures help prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.


Cost-Effective Tips:		• Utilize built-in cloud encryption services for data protection

• Automate data backups and disaster recovery plans to mitigate ransomware risks.

6. Security Policy Management

A well-defined cybersecurity policy helps mitigate human error and strengthen organizational security. Effective governance, compliance measures, and employee training play crucial roles.


Cost-Effective Tips:		• Use single-pass architecture to distribute security policies efficiently across all endpoints

• Implement security awareness training to educate employees on phishing and social engineering threats.

7. Monitoring & Response Security

Continuous monitoring and a proactive incident response plan ensure early threat detection and rapid mitigation of cyberattacks.


Cost-Effective Tips:		• Consider Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solutions with AI-powered threat detection

• Opt for managed security services to gain 24/7 threat monitoring without the overhead costs of an in-house SOC.

Strengthen Your Cybersecurity with Expert Guidance

Balancing cybersecurity investments with financial constraints is possible when you prioritize critical security layers and leverage cost-effective solutions. A strong security posture is essential—not a luxury.

At Technology Navigation, we help businesses assess cybersecurity risks, implement tailored security solutions, and navigate complex vendor landscapes. Contact us today to strengthen your cybersecurity strategy and protect your organization from evolving threats.

Antivirus or EDR: Understanding the differences to make the right decision for your organization

technavadmin IT Security , , ,
Antivirus or EDR: Understanding the differences to make the right decision for your organization


By John Witcher
Director of Client Engagement

One of the most important debates on cybersecurity these days is about choosing “the best option,” but does it exist? We always say that there’s no definitive answer, as every organization and network have different needs that need to be met.

EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) and Virus Protection (or antivirus) are two of the most popular cybersecurity solutions. While both serve the crucial purpose of protecting your devices and data from malicious attacks, they operate on different principles and offer distinct layers of defense. Here are the key differences between the approach they have on key security aspects:

Known Vs Unknown Threats:

  • Virus Protection: The key part of Antivirus is designed primarily to identify and remove known viruses, malware, and other types of malicious software. The key part of this is the known aspect, hence the reason to keep your antivirus on the latest release or version.   Antivirus matches known patterns of threats to detect and prevent an attack.
  • EDR: Is a more advanced security solution that goes beyond traditional antivirus capabilities. EDR focuses on detecting and responding to a wide range of cybersecurity threats, including known and unknown advanced threats.  Using behavior-based analysis, AI, and machine learning to identify activities and indicators of an attack.

Detection Mechanism:

  • Virus Protection: Uses signature databases that are regularly updated with the latest malware signatures. When a file or process matches a known signature, the antivirus software takes appropriate action to block or quarantine it.
  • EDR: Monitors and analyze endpoint behavior in real-time, looking for anomalous activities or deviations from normal behavior. This allows EDR to detect new and unknown threats or those that use sophisticated techniques to evade traditional antivirus measures.

Response to an Attack:

  • Virus Protection: Typically focuses on prevention. When it identifies a known threat, it will either quarantine the infected file or attempt to clean it, preventing it from causing harm. 
  • EDR:  Is designed for both detection and response. When a threat is detected, EDR tools can take proactive actions to isolate the endpoint, terminate malicious processes, or limit the impact of the attack.  Some clients are using Managed EDR, where a third party has “eyes on glass” watching for threats, providing awareness and actively terminating the bad actor.

Incident Investigation:

  • Virus Protection: Usually does not provide in-depth forensic tools for investigating the details of a security incident.
  • EDR: Has advanced investigation and forensics tools that allow security teams to analyze the root cause of an incident, understand the attack’s behavior, and develop appropriate mitigation strategies.  Managed EDR solutions will actually deploy patches, suggest changes and implement strategies and provide detail forensic reports on the attach or breach.

In summary, antivirus software can be considered a critical component of basic cybersecurity, providing protection against known threats.  On the other hand, EDR solutions offer a more comprehensive and proactive approach to cybersecurity by detecting and responding to a wider range of threats, including those that are unknown or known.   

While many organizations use both antivirus and EDR as part of a layered cybersecurity strategy, EDR is becoming more prevalent to secure endpoints and networks. Technology Navigation can help you determine the option that better serves the cybersecurity needs of your organization. Our support goes until the end of the lifecycle of your solution. Contact us here.