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Fidelis Network Detection and Response (NDR): Proactive Cyber Defense for Evolving Threats

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As cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated, traditional security measures such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS) are no longer sufficient. That’s why Network Detection and Response (NDR) is brought into the picture, to provide better and advanced solutions. It comes with real-time detection, automated responses, and advanced analysis. 

This blog focuses on the protective defense capabilities of NDR in cyber security

Capabilities of Fidelis NDR

Fidelis NDR is a high-performance network defense system built to handle today’s cybersecurity challenges. It offers deep visibility, advanced threat detection, and automated responses in complex environments, ensuring comprehensive cyber network defense.

1. Full Network Visibility Across All Traffic

Fidelis NDR platform provides full insight into both incoming/outgoing and lateral network traffic. By using Deep Session Inspection® (DSI), it provides enhanced visibility, even for encrypted traffic and gathers detailed metadata that aids in identifying threats across various network protocols. 

Key Features:  

  • Using Deep Packet Inspection®(DPI) to examine protocols and find hidden threats. 
  • Gathering metadata from more than 300 protocol features during network sessions to analyze threats later. 
  • Visibility into encrypted traffic by decrypting TLS.

2. Advanced Threat Detection Using Machine Learning

Fidelis NDR uses Machine Learning and behavioral analysis to find suspicious activities, such as zero-day attacks and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). 

Key Features:  

  • Using machine learning to find unusual patterns and abnormal network activity. 
  • Identifying unusual actions that don’t match the usual network behavior. 
  • Predicting potential threats by analyzing threat information from various sources.

3. Automated Threat Response and Quarantine

To minimize human involvement, Fidelis NDR employs automated actions to immediately address detected threats. This involves: 

  • Automated security rules 
  • Blocking malicious traffic.  
  • Preventing the spread of threats within the network.

Moreover, its automated processes, guided by predefined actions, easily work with other security tools, coordinating responses across devices and network levels. This speeds up the response time, preventing threats from spreading. 

Key Features:

  • Integrated playbooks for automatic responses based on detected incidents.  
  • Can drop malicious connections, stop IP addresses, or change traffic flow based on set rules. 
  • Fully connected with Fidelis Elevate® XDR, allowing coordinated actions across networks, cloud services, and devices.

4. Deep Session Inspection® (DSI) and Sandboxing

Fidelis NDR’s patented Deep Session Inspection® technology enables real-time analysis of content and context. It examines data at the packet level across various protocols (like HTTP, SMTP, DNS, etc.). And then reconstructs sessions to inspect compressed or encrypted content more thoroughly.  

This is supported by cloud-based sandboxing. Suspicious files are run in isolated spaces to monitor their behavior and block them if harmful actions are identified. 

Key Features: 

  • Reassembling sessions for real-time and past threat detection. 
  • Analyzing files in a safe environment, where files can be run under controlled conditions. 
  • Scanning both incoming and outgoing traffic to stop data from being stolen.

5. Integrated Deception Technology

Fidelis NDR uses deception technology to confuse attackers even more. It places decoys and breadcrumbs in the network, making attackers think they’ve found something valuable. This not only slows down attacks but also gives security teams important information about the attacker’s strategies. 

Key Features: 

  • Deploying decoy across the network to mislead attackers into interacting with false assets. 
  • Breadcrumbs lead attackers further into a setup, giving defenders early warning signs.  
  • Integrated deception capabilities within the broader Fidelis Elevate XDR platform.

Note: Deception technology is a separate module within the Fidelis Elevate® XDR platform and requires a separate license.

6. Data Loss Prevention (DLP) and Encryption Monitoring

Fidelis NDR offers strong Data Loss Prevention (DLP) features. It monitors network traffic to spot any attempts to steal data. It uses Deep Session Inspection® to find and block unauthorized data transfers.  

DLP is important for companies that deal with sensitive information. It helps them to protect against both intentional and accidental data leaks. 

Key Features:  

  • Implementing DLP to prevent unauthorized data exfiltration via network, email, and web channels. 

7. Multi-Cloud and Hybrid Environment Support

As organizations are moving to hybrid and multi-cloud setups, Fidelis NDR is designed to handle the increase in complex environments. It offers consistent monitoring and security across on-premise, cloud, and hybrid infrastructures. 

Key Features:  

  • Full cloud deployment support for environments such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.  
  • Ability to monitor both on-premises and cloud systems, helping security teams see all network traffic. 
  • Smooth connection with applications that are designed specifically for the cloud.
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How Fidelis NDR Stands Out Against Competitors

When looking at Fidelis NDR alongside other top security solutions, there are several important features that set Fidelis apart. Here’s a look at how Fidelis NDR stacks up against some popular network detection and response solutions.

FeatureFidelis NetworkCompetitors
Network VisibilityComprehensive (north-south and east-west) with Deep Session Inspection (DSI)Limited focus (north-south or east-west) with less granular visibility
Threat DetectionMachine learning-driven, behavioral analyticsSignature-based, less effective against zero-day and polymorphic threats
Automated ResponsePlaybooks for quarantine, block, reroute Manual intervention, slower response times
IntegrationSandboxing, and malware analysis capabilitiesSeparate modules or tools
Data Loss Prevention (DLP)Built-in, monitors network traffic, email, and webBasic DLP or separate tools
Cloud Integration Native cloud integration, cloud-based sandboxing Limited cloud integration, on-premises sandboxing
ScalabilityHandles large-scale networks and high-volume trafficMay struggle with large environments or high traffic
User InterfaceIntuitive and easy-to-use Complex
PricingCompetitive pricing, flexible licensing optionsHigher pricing, limited licensing options

Real-World Impact: Case Studies of Fidelis NDR in Action

Fidelis NDR has shown its effectiveness in protecting organizations from different fields by using its proactive defense capabilities. Below are examples that show how Fidelis NDR has made impact in real-world scenarios:

1. Enhancing Network Security for LAUDA

LAUDA, a worldwide expert in temperature control systems, had trouble protecting its complex network as it grew. They needed a solution providing real-time insight into their network traffic and detecting advanced threats that traditional systems missed. 

With Fidelis NDR’s Deep Session Inspection®, LAUDA could see clearly all network traffic, including encrypted traffic. This allowed them to keep an eye on everything happening in their network. Plus, the system’s automated threat response features reduced the need for manual work, making it much faster to fix any issues.  

This setup helped LAUDA find and stop threats like malware, unauthorized movement of data, and attempts to steal important information, keeping their sensitive data and intellectual property safe.

2. Government Agency Deploys Fidelis NDR for Advanced Threat Detection

Multiple U.S. government departments, which manage sensitive information and important operations, started using Fidelis NDR to strengthen their security. These departments needed protection from attacks by highly skilled hackers aiming to infiltrate their systems. Fidelis NDR was selected as it analyzes behavior and uses advanced computer learning techniques to detect and identify unauthorized access and complex threats. 

By incorporating Fidelis NDR into their security systems, these agencies could monitor internal and external threats as they happened. The platform’s use of deception techniques and threat intelligence helped them identify advanced persistent threat (APT) attacks early, preventing possible security breaches. The solution offered detailed insights and reduced response times, enabling security teams to quickly identify and neutralize attacks.

Conclusion

Fidelis NDR offers a strong solution for defending against cyber threats, combining machine learning for threat detection, detailed monitoring, and automatic responses to safeguard against new threats. Features such as Deep Session Inspection®, support for cloud-based systems are present. For businesses looking for a defense strategy that adapts to changing threats, Fidelis NDR is a perfect option. 

By providing layered security and complete network protection, Fidelis NDR helps organizations prevent complex cyberattacks while maintaining regulatory compliance.

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Frequently Ask Questions

How can Fidelis NDR reduce alert fatigue for security teams?

Fidelis NDR automates the process of alert correlation, combining related alerts into comprehensive incidents. This reduces the volume of individual alerts that your security team needs to analyze, allowing them to focus on more significant threats. Additionally, integrated playbooks automate responses to certain alerts, ensuring quick, consistent action without human intervention.

Can Fidelis NDR help protect against data exfiltration?

Yes. Fidelis NDR includes advanced Data Loss Prevention (DLP) capabilities that scan all traffic—including encrypted data—for signs of data leakage. It can prevent unauthorized data exfiltration by detecting suspicious activities like file transfers, suspicious user behavior, and encrypted communications that attempt to bypass security controls

How does Fidelis NDR ensure compliance with data protection regulations?

Fidelis NDR includes a robust Data Loss Prevention (DLP) capability, which monitors network traffic for potential data breaches and unauthorized exfiltration. The platform helps organizations comply with regulations by enforcing pre-built policies that align with major compliance frameworks such as GDPR and HIPAA, and by offering deep inspection of encrypted traffic.

About Author

Sarika Sharma

Sarika, a cybersecurity enthusiast, contributes insightful articles to Fidelis Security, guiding readers through the complexities of digital security with clarity and passion. Beyond her writing, she actively engages in the cybersecurity community, staying informed about emerging trends and technologies to empower individuals and organizations in safeguarding their digital assets.

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