The next-generation Cisco Security Agent network security software provides threat protection for server and desktop computing systems, also known as endpoints. The Cisco Security Agent goes beyond conventional endpoint security solutions like personal firewalls and host-based IDSs by identifying and preventing malicious behavior before it can occur, thereby removing potential known and unknown security risks that threaten networks and applications. The Cisco Security Agent analyzes behavior rather than relying on signature matching, providing robust protection with reduced operational costs.