Endpoint security is a centrally managed solution that safeguards networks and all their endpoints against threats, with the help of various security tools.
More precisely, endpoint security solutions leverage a client/server model to protect various endpoints.
The server has a master instant of the security program, and the endpoints (clients) have agents installed within them.
In the process of keeping the endpoints secure, these agents communicate to the server, the activities of the respective device, which include the status of the device, user authentication/authorization, and so on.
Anti-virus
Typically, anti-virus is a single program responsible for scanning, detecting and removing malware, spyware, adware, ransomware and other such malicious entities.
Anti-virus solutions are installed on individual devices such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, and on servers.
They run in the background and periodically scan device directories and files for malicious patterns, indicating the presence of malware.
The software utilizes its database of virus definitions and signatures to analyze if there are executable malicious codes within it.
It blocks or quarantines files, if it comes up with a match.