​Osquery is a pioneering tool in the domains of cybersecurity and digital infrastructure management. Initially developed by Facebook's security team, this open-source utility enables detailed querying of device states, akin to interacting with a database. This capability offers deep insights and transparency in managing endpoint security and tracking organizational device fleets. While traditionally embraced by large tech entities and security specialists, the case for osquery's broader application is strong, given its exceptional utility and the advent of solutions like Beyond Identity’s Device360 that address its deployment and operational complexities.

The Inception of Osquery

Osquery was created to fulfill a pressing need for detailed visibility across an organization's diverse array of devices, cutting across various operating systems. Its core premise is innovative: viewing and querying infrastructure as if it were a database. This approach has led to its adoption by respected firms in technology and security, such as Square and Palantir. It is widely recognized for its singular ability to consolidate information on system irregularities, vulnerabilities, and regulatory compliance into one integrated perspective.

Comparison with Traditional Security Measures

In comparison to established endpoint security methods — Mobile Device Management (MDM), Unified Endpoint Management (UEM), Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), and Endpoint Protection Platforms (EPP) — Osquery offers nuanced, real-time data interrogation capabilities. The following comparison highlights osquery’s distinct advantages:

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The Operational Challenges of Osquery

Despite Osquery's powerful capabilities, notable deployment and operational challenges have limited its widespread adoption. These challenges include knowledge of SQL, rolling out Osquery widely across the fleet, and managing the lifecycle of an Osquery deployment lifecycle. The expertise required to deploy and maintain Osquery effectively has confined its use to organizations with specialized, well-staffed security teams. These challenges have unfortunately kept a broader audience from leveraging Osquery to its full potential.

Bridging the Gap with Device360

Acknowledging these operational hurdles, Beyond Identity is introducing Device360, a solution that seamlessly incorporates Osquery with pre-made, ready-to-use threat hunting queries and a GUI-based admin console. Device360 simplifies the deployment and ongoing management of Osquery, making its profound security benefits accessible to a broader range of organizations. By automating the complexities associated with Osquery, Device360 allows organizations to focus on deriving actionable insights from their data, democratizing advanced cybersecurity tools for a more inclusive audience. This integration marks a significant step forward in making sophisticated digital defense mechanisms manageable and accessible, reinforcing the security posture of organizations at large.

Learn more about Device 360 today.

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