A security analyst is tasked with improving defenses against malware that could evade detection. Which of the following should the analyst focus on?

Focusing on endpoint protection is crucial for enhancing defenses against malware that can evade detection because endpoints are often the first line of defense and the most susceptible to malware attacks. Endpoint protection solutions typically include advanced features such as behavioral analysis, real-time monitoring, and machine learning capabilities that can identify and neutralize threats based on their behavior rather than just relying on known signatures. This proactive approach is essential in combating sophisticated malware that may employ evasion techniques to bypass traditional security measures.

In contrast, while ACL rules, update processes, and firewall rules are important elements of a comprehensive security strategy, they often do not provide the same level of specificity and sophistication needed to counter advanced malware threats. ACL rules primarily control access rather than actively monitor or respond to malware. Update processes, though vital for keeping systems secure, may not directly prevent malware detection evasion, especially if the malware is designed to exploit known vulnerabilities before patches can be applied. Firewall rules are important for traffic filtering but may not be effective against threats that manage to already be on an endpoint or when the malware uses legitimate protocols to communicate. Therefore, endpoint protection stands out as the most critical area of focus for defending against evasive malware.