EDR or MDR: which protection for an SMB?

Cybersecurity is evolving fast, and SMBs are now prime targets. Two acronyms come up often: EDR (Endpoint Detection & Response) and MDR (Managed Detection & Response). Which option is best suited for your organization?

EDR: endpoint analysis and response

EDR continuously monitors endpoints (PCs, servers) to detect suspicious behavior, ransomware, and lateral movement. Strengths:

• Detailed visibility on each endpoint
• Rapid isolation of a compromised device
• Threat hunting (threat hunting) on the endpoint side

Limitations for an SMB: the tool requires staff to interpret it, create rules, respond 24/7, and keep up with updates.

EDR: endpoint analysis and response

MDR includes a SOC 24/7, analysts, and response procedures. Advantages:

• Continuous monitoring (nights, weekends, holidays)
• Triage + containment handled
• Reports and recommendations to fix the root cause

MDR often relies on an EDR… but outsources the operations.

How to choose (checklist)

• Internal resources : do you have a trained security team available 24/7?
• Client/compliance requirements : contracts, cyber insurance, standards (e.g., detection and response time requirements).
• Attack surface : remote work, exposed servers, critical SaaS.
• Budget & risk : how much does 1 hour of downtime cost ?
• MTTD/MTTR : required detection and response time.

SMB recommendation

For the majority of SMBs, MDR provides a better risk/cost ratio, thanks to 24/7 monitoring and response without hiring. EDR alone is suitable if you already have an experienced security team.