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EDR, XDR and MDR: what each acronym means and which one does a 30-employee SME need
EDR, XDR, and MDR are three levels of protection against cyberattacks: EDR monitors each computer and server, XDR extends that monitoring to the network, email, and user accounts, and MDR is a service where a team of experts reviews alerts and responds on behalf of the company. For a small business with 30 employees, it's common to start with an EDR managed as an MDR service.
If you manage a company of this size, you've probably been offered one of these acronyms. Below, we explain what each one means and how to choose without paying for what you don't need.
What does EDR mean?
EDR stands for Endpoint Detection and Response. It's a program installed on each computer, laptop, and server that monitors real-time activity and reacts to suspicious behavior, for example, by isolating the device from the network.
The difference between this and a traditional antivirus is the approach. Antivirus software looks for files it already knows are malicious. In contrast, EDR focuses on what programs are doing, so it also detects new attacks or attacks that use legitimate Windows tools.
What does XDR mean?
XDR stands for Extended Detection and Response. It includes what an EDR does and also cross-references that information with data from the firewall, email, user accounts, and cloud services to see a complete attack even as it moves from one system to another.
For example, a phishing email steals a password, the attacker accesses the site from another country, and days later, moves to a server. Viewed separately, these signals seem insignificant. However, an XDR (Experimental Disaster Response) system links them and presents them as a single incident.
What does MDR mean?
MDR stands for Managed Detection and Response. Unlike the previous two, it's not a tool but a service: an external team of specialists monitors EDR or XDR alerts, investigates what's happening, and takes action on behalf of the company.
This matters because a security tool is only useful if someone heeds its alerts. In fact, many small and medium-sized businesses have protection installed, but the alerts arrive in an email that no one checks until the next day.
What are the differences between EDR, XDR, and MDR?
The main difference lies in what each system monitors and who takes action when an alert is triggered. EDR and XDR are technologies that detect threats; MDR adds the people who manage them. Therefore, they don't compete with each other: MDR always relies on either EDR or XDR.
Simply put, EDR is the foundation every company should have, because it protects the systems where most attacks originate. XDR is an extension for companies with significant cloud, email, or multi-site activity. And MDR is the way to have someone truly manage security when the company doesn't have its own staff to do so.
Which one does a small business with 30 employees need?
A small business with 30 employees needs, at a minimum, an EDR on all its computers and servers. And, if it doesn't have someone dedicated to security to review alerts daily, the most sensible option is to contract it as an MDR service. XDR makes sense when the company relies heavily on the cloud, email, or multiple locations.
A company of this size typically has around 30 desktop or laptop computers, one or two servers, cloud-based email, and some staff working remotely. Furthermore, IT is usually handled by a single person who also performs other tasks, or by an external provider. With this in mind, the recommended order is as follows:
- Install an EDR on all computers and servers, including laptops that leave the office.
- Entrusting surveillance to an MDR service, so that someone can check and respond to alerts even at night and on weekends.
- Evaluate the XDR If email, passwords, or cloud files are the weakest point, or if there are multiple connected locations.
The context justifies it. According to the balance sheet of INCIBE Published in February 2026, the report states that 122,223 cybersecurity incidents were handled in Spain in 2025, 26.1% more than the previous year, with malware being the most frequent type, accounting for 55,411 cases. Therefore, an SME is no longer a relatively small target.
How much does it cost to protect an SME with EDR, XDR or MDR?
The cost depends primarily on the number of protected devices, as these solutions are typically paid for per device on a monthly basis. EDR is the most economical option; MDR adds the cost of expert monitoring, and XDR adds the cost of integrating more sources. Therefore, the most reliable approach is to request a quote based on your actual number of devices.
When comparing solutions, it's important to consider the potential costs of not having them: downtime, exposed customer data, or equipment that needs to be reinstalled. Therefore, the useful question isn't which option is the cheapest, but which one addresses your company's actual risks.
How can Apen help you choose between EDR, XDR, and MDR?
At Apen, we analyze your equipment, your workflow, and the tools you already have installed, and we tell you what level of protection you truly need. This way, you avoid falling short or paying for features your company won't use.
If you want to know how managed surveillance works, check out our service. MDR for companies. You can also call us on 938 606 220 and request your free diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an EDR replace antivirus software?
Yes, in practice. An EDR includes antivirus protection and adds behavioral detection and automatic response, so you don't need to maintain both.
Can I have MDR without EDR?
No. The MDR requires a tool to generate alerts. Therefore, the service always includes or relies on an EDR or XDR installed on the equipment.
Does an SME need XDR?
Not always. It makes sense when the company relies heavily on email, the cloud, or multiple locations. In other cases, an EDR managed with MDR is usually sufficient.
What happens if there is an attack at night or on a weekend?
With an EDR-only system, the team is isolated, but no one investigates until the next day. In contrast, with an MDR service, specialists analyze the attack and take immediate action.
How long does it take to implement an EDR on 30 devices?
Typically, a few days. The installation is done remotely and without interrupting work; then the rules are adjusted to the company's applications.
