Version 1.0.12+ (August, 2023)

We're excited to announce the release of Guardz Endpoint Security Agent version 1.0.12+. Working in tandem with the pre-installed Microsoft Defender on Windows devices, Guardz now offers a comprehensive endpoint security solution.

Features & Functionality

This release includes significant enhancements, expanding the functionality of our device agent to include 4 primary features.

Device Posture: Guardz identifies gaps in security settings, OS updates, AV tool versions, and AV signature freshness. Any identified issues generate an actionable playbook for administrators to manually remediate.
Defender Policy Settings: Guardz monitors and enforces the proper configuration of Microsoft Defender security settings on each device based on admin preferences. Any discrepancies generate an issue, and if enforcement is enabled, will automatically adjust the device's settings.
Defender Threats: Guardz integrates deeply with Microsoft Defender to identify antivirus threats and respond in real-time across managed devices. It works with Microsoft Defender to handle virus and malware threats and to record automated resolutions. If a threat is identified but not handled, administrators can manually remediate it or instruct Defender to remove the threat automatically.
Investigation & Research: Guardz provides snapshots of processes and autoruns per device for security & threat research. Administrators can download a CSV file to see what is actively running on any device at any time.

Adaptive Security

Guardz operates differently based on the device's antivirus setup. Whether Microsoft Defender is the sole antivirus, coexists with another antivirus, or is disabled, Guardz adapts to provide the best possible security & management.

Upgrade Instructions

There are no required steps for the upgrade. Simply ensure the Guardz agent is deployed across managed devices and check out the new policy settings available in the Control Center.

OS Compatibility

Windows 10 & 11 are currently supported, utilizing the pre-installed (free) version of Microsoft Defender Antivirus. For Mac devices, Guardz operates alongside the native XProtect, monitoring device posture, processes, and autoruns.

Version Requirements

Guardz Endpoint Security Agent version 1.0.12+ requires that the device is running at least version 0.106 for automated updates. Older versions of the Guardz agent will require a more manual approach to upgrading. Please reach out if assistance is required.

Coming Soon:

Additional Device Posture functionality; including encryption, lock screen status, and more.
Early Ransomware Detection; auto generated files as bait for malware.
Device Isolation; as a remediation and on-the-fly safety net for when things go wrong.