What feature blocks potentially infected devices from connecting to the endpoint?

The correct choice effectively addresses the prevention of potentially infected devices from gaining network access through the implementation of specific rules. Granular whitelisting policies allow organizations to define which devices are permitted on the network, based on a set of criteria that typically includes security posture, device health, and compliance with organizational standards. This proactive approach ensures that only devices meeting the established safety thresholds can connect, effectively minimizing the risk of infection spreading across the network.

By permitting only those devices that have been specifically approved and ensuring they align with the organization's security policies, granular whitelisting serves as a robust barrier against threats. This method contrasts with more reactive measures, such as device isolation or relying solely on endpoint detection, which may not prevent an infected device from connecting in the first place. While firewall settings play a vital role in overall network security, they do not provide the same level of control over individual device connectivity based on health status or security compliance.