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ESET Research: The EDR Killer Ecosystem 2026

ESET Research has unveiled a massive shift in ransomware tactics. Attackers are increasingly using EDR Killers—specialized tools designed to blind security software—as a prerequisite for successful data encryption.

Strategic Division of Labor Affiliates pick the tools, while operators provide the encryptors. More affiliates mean more diverse and unpredictable attack methods.
The AI Influence Recent codebases, specifically from the Warlock gang, show markers of AI-assisted generation, including “trial-and-error” logic.
Driverless Neutralization BYOVD is common, but attackers now abuse legitimate anti-rootkit utilities and admin commands to suspend protection without touching the kernel.
 

The Defensive Reality

Protecting against modern ransomware requires a mindset shift. Unlike automated threats, ransomware is a human-driven operation. When a tool fails or a driver is blocked, the attacker is there in real-time to pivot to a new method.

“While preventing vulnerable drivers from loading is a crucial step, it is not a silver bullet. Defenders must aim to disrupt EDR killers before they establish a kernel-level foothold.”

For the full technical analysis, visit WeLiveSecurity.com and search for the 2026 EDR Killer Ecosystem report.

About ESET
For 30 years, ESET® has been developing industry-leading IT security software and services for businesses and consumers worldwide. With solutions ranging from endpoint security to encryption and two-factor authentication, ESET’s high-performing, easy-to-use products give individuals and businesses the peace of mind to enjoy the full potential of their technology. ESET unobtrusively protects and monitors 24/7, updating defenses in real time to keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. Evolving threats require an evolving IT security company. Backed by R&D facilities worldwide, ESET became the first IT security company to earn 100 Virus Bulletin VB100 awards, identifying every single “in-the-wild” malware without interruption since 2003.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

ESET Endpoint Security v12 CC Certification

ESET, a global cybersecurity leader, has been named to the 11th annual CRN® Security 100 list. The company was specifically highlighted as one of the “20 Coolest Endpoint and Managed Security Companies of 2026” for its continuous innovation within the ESET PROTECT portfolio. These advancements assist channel partners in expanding services, maintaining regulatory compliance, and meeting cyber insurance demands.

Empowering the Channel with Advanced Security

CRN’s Security 100 list recognizes vendors that work closely with channel partners to deliver mission-critical, next-generation security solutions. Jennifer Follett, Vice President at CRN, noted that these vendors “continue to evolve their portfolios to stay ahead of adversaries and emerging threats.”

Scalable MDR and AI-Driven Automation

In 2025, ESET enhanced its ESET PROTECT MDR for MSPs to help providers manage cybersecurity complexity and industry fatigue. Key features of the service include:

  • Rapid Response: Boasts an average detection and response time of just six minutes.
  • Hybrid Intelligence: Integrates AI-powered automation with expert human threat hunting and global threat intelligence.
  • Comprehensive Monitoring: Provides 24/7 monitoring with integrated protection for endpoints, email, and cloud environments through a unified platform.

 

A 5-Star Partner Experience

In addition to the Security 100 recognition, ESET earned a 5-Star rating in the 2026 CRN Partner Program Guide. This rating reflects the maturity of the ESET Partner Connect Program, which offers:

  • Profitable Growth: Features stackable margins, incumbency protection, and a flexible tiered structure.
  • Extensive Support: Provides partners with comprehensive training, certifications, and robust sales and marketing resources.
  • Technical Edge: Equips partners with insights from ESET’s global R&D network to strengthen customer security and drive long-term success.

“Being recognized on the 2026 Security 100 list — and earning a 5-Star Partner Program rating — validates our strategy of pairing cutting-edge, AI-native security solutions with a flexible, profitable program,” said Ryan Grant, Country Manager, U.S. and Canada at ESET.

About ESET
For 30 years, ESET® has been developing industry-leading IT security software and services for businesses and consumers worldwide. With solutions ranging from endpoint security to encryption and two-factor authentication, ESET’s high-performing, easy-to-use products give individuals and businesses the peace of mind to enjoy the full potential of their technology. ESET unobtrusively protects and monitors 24/7, updating defenses in real time to keep users safe and businesses running without interruption. Evolving threats require an evolving IT security company. Backed by R&D facilities worldwide, ESET became the first IT security company to earn 100 Virus Bulletin VB100 awards, identifying every single “in-the-wild” malware without interruption since 2003.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

SOLIDWORKS on Mac: Performance & Hardware Guide

For the modern engineer, the question isn’t just “Can it run?” but “Will it perform under pressure?” Understanding the intersection of Apple hardware and Windows-native CAD is the key to a seamless workflow.

The Configuration Culprit

Most performance lag in SOLIDWORKS on Mac is caused by resource allocation rather than hardware limitations. By optimizing your Virtual Machine (VM) settings, you can achieve Windows-level stability on macOS.

Comparative Architecture

Workflow NeedVirtualized (Parallels)Dedicated Windows PC
Context SwitchingInstant (Coherence Mode)High (Physical machine swap)
Resource ControlDynamic AllocationNative/Fixed
PortabilitySingle Device (High)Dual Devices (Low)

Hardware Benchmarks for Engineers

  • Processor: Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) is the gold standard for authorized Windows 11 virtualization.
  • RAM: 16GB minimum; 24GB+ recommended for complex assemblies.
  • Graphics: Prioritize GPU acceleration settings within the VM to enable RealView graphics.
Pro Tip: Use Parallels Desktop Pro or Business Edition to unlock the necessary vRAM required for high-end 3D rendering in SOLIDWORKS.

About Parallels 
Parallels® is a global leader in cross-platform solutions, enabling businesses and individuals to access and use the applications and files they need on any device or operating system. Parallels helps customers leverage the best technology available, whether it’s Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android or the cloud.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

企業存取控制現代化報告

Forrester 的 Portnox Cloud 總體經濟影響™ 研究 強調了企業的根本轉變：從疲於奔命的故障排除，轉向主動式的合規治理。

287% 總投資報酬率
75% 風險暴露降低
95% 技術支援工單減少
< 6 個月 成本回收期

 

傳統架構的停滯成本

依賴在地（On-premises）存取模型的企業正面臨顯著的業務風險：

  • 資產隱形化： 未受管的 IoT 與 BYOD 設備創造了未知的橫向移動風險。
  • 營運阻力： 存取問題每週耗費工程師高達 60 小時以上的人力。
  • 擴張瓶頸： 新站點部署因硬體採購與實體設定而拖延。

 

雲端原生的轉型成效

關鍵目標雲端原生轉型成果
可見性即時監督全球所有地區的每一台連線設備。
運行時間消除本地伺服器故障；每年挽回 34 小時的有效生產時間。
敏捷性20 分鐘內完成部署；無需增加人力即可實現規模化擴張。
 
「我們現在可以看到一切——這改變了一切。」
— 企業資訊安全領導者
資料來源：Forrester 總體經濟影響™ (TEI) 研究報告，2026。

關於 Portnox

Portnox 致力於提供易於部署、營運及維護的網絡存取控制、安全及可視化解決方案。

Portnox 軟件可以部署於本地、以雲端服務交付，或採用混合模式。其無代理程式 (agentless) 及與供應商無關 (vendor-agnostic) 的特性，讓企業能夠善用現有的網絡及資訊安全投資。

關於Version 2

Version 2 Digital 是立足亞洲的增值代理商及IT開發者。公司在網絡安全、雲端、數據保護、終端設備、基礎設施、系統監控、存儲、網絡管理、商業生產力和通信產品等各個領域代理發展各種 IT 產品。透過公司龐大的網絡、通路、銷售點、分銷商及合作夥伴，Version 2 提供廣被市場讚賞的產品及服務。Version 2 的銷售網絡包括台灣、香港、澳門、中國大陸、新加坡、馬來西亞等各亞太地區，客戶來自各行各業，包括全球 1000 大跨國企業、上市公司、公用事業、醫療、金融、教育機構、政府部門、無數成功的中小企及來自亞洲各城市的消費市場客戶。

Stryker 網路攻擊分析：終端與行動監控的重要性

近期針對醫療設備製造商 Stryker 的網路攻擊凸顯了現代組織面臨的挑戰：如何在複雜的聯網環境中維持設備的可見性與營運韌性。

案例研究：全球網路中斷

Stryker 經歷了影響其 Microsoft 環境的全球中斷。值得注意的是，攻擊導致了 Lifenet 平台失效（該平台用於向醫院傳輸心電圖數據），迫使急救團隊回歸無線電通訊，直接影響了緊急醫療服務的效率。

擴張中的攻擊面

現代企業必須針對多樣化的終端設備建立防禦機制：

傳統工作站

辦公室與遠端員工使用的筆記型電腦與桌機。

行動基礎設施

存取企業郵件、SaaS 與 VPN 的智慧型手機與平板。

營運技術 (OT) 系統

醫療 IoT 設備與支援病患照護的關鍵營運平台。

雲端與身分平台

身分驗證系統與託管於雲端的應用程式空間。

核心安全優先事項

  • 終端監控： 即時追蹤登入行為、應用程式執行與網路流量模式。
  • 行動設備管理 (MDM)： 強制執行設備加密、遠端抹除功能及強化認證政策。
  • 集中式日誌關聯： 利用 Graylog 等平台將各設備的微弱訊號整合為可供決策的敘事洞察。

結論：可見性即韌性

Stryker 事件證明了即使沒有勒索軟體，系統中斷也可能造成巨大損失。透過集中化日誌並監控所有終端（從伺服器到手機），組織能更早偵測威脅，確保關鍵業務不中斷。

關於 Graylog
Graylog 通過完整的 SIEM、企業日誌管理和 API 安全解決方案，提升公司企業網絡安全能力。Graylog 集中監控攻擊面並進行深入調查，提供卓越的威脅檢測和事件回應。公司獨特結合 AI / ML 技術、先進的分析和直觀的設計，簡化了網絡安全操作。與競爭對手複雜且昂貴的設置不同，Graylog 提供強大且經濟實惠的解決方案，幫助公司企業輕鬆應對安全挑戰。Graylog 成立於德國漢堡，目前總部位於美國休斯頓，服務覆蓋超過 180 個國家。

關於 Version 2 Digital
Version 2 Digital 是立足亞洲的增值代理商及IT開發者。公司在網絡安全、雲端、數據保護、終端設備、基礎設施、系統監控、存儲、網絡管理、商業生產力和通信產品等各個領域代理發展各種 IT 產品。透過公司龐大的網絡、通路、銷售點、分銷商及合作夥伴，Version 2 提供廣被市場讚賞的產品及服務。Version 2 的銷售網絡包括台灣、香港、澳門、中國大陸、新加坡、馬來西亞等各亞太地區，客戶來自各行各業，包括全球 1000 大跨國企業、上市公司、公用事業、醫療、金融、教育機構、政府部門、無數成功的中小企及來自亞洲各城市的消費市場客戶。

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