Quick Overview
- 1#1: Zscaler - Cloud-native secure web gateway platform delivering zero-trust access to the internet and SaaS applications for businesses.
- 2#2: Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access - SASE solution providing secure internet access, firewall-as-a-service, and advanced threat prevention for enterprise networks.
- 3#3: Cisco Umbrella - DNS-layer security and secure web gateway that blocks malicious internet domains and protects roaming users.
- 4#4: Netskope - Intelligent cloud security platform with secure web gateway, CASB, and real-time threat protection for business internet use.
- 5#5: CrowdStrike Falcon - AI-driven endpoint detection and response platform stopping internet-borne malware and ransomware attacks.
- 6#6: Microsoft Defender for Endpoint - Enterprise endpoint security solution with web protection, EDR, and cloud-delivered threat intelligence.
- 7#7: Fortinet FortiSASE - Secure access service edge platform combining firewall, secure web gateway, and ZTNA for business internet security.
- 8#8: Check Point Harmony Connect - Cloud security gateway offering secure internet access, URL filtering, and anti-malware for distributed enterprises.
- 9#9: Sophos Firewall - Next-generation firewall with web protection, application control, and synchronized security for business networks.
- 10#10: Trend Micro Apex One - Endpoint protection platform featuring web threat protection, behavior monitoring, and cloud sandboxing for businesses.
These tools were evaluated and ranked based on key factors such as advanced threat detection and prevention, ease of deployment and management, integration capabilities, and overall value, ensuring a balanced assessment of practicality and effectiveness.
Comparison Table
In an era where digital operations are central to business success, choosing the right internet security software is critical for safeguarding networks and data. This comparison table features leading tools like Zscaler, Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access, Cisco Umbrella, Netskope, CrowdStrike Falcon, and more, examining their key capabilities, performance, and ideal use cases. Readers will discover actionable insights to select a solution that aligns with their specific security needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zscaler Cloud-native secure web gateway platform delivering zero-trust access to the internet and SaaS applications for businesses. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access SASE solution providing secure internet access, firewall-as-a-service, and advanced threat prevention for enterprise networks. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Cisco Umbrella DNS-layer security and secure web gateway that blocks malicious internet domains and protects roaming users. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Netskope Intelligent cloud security platform with secure web gateway, CASB, and real-time threat protection for business internet use. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | CrowdStrike Falcon AI-driven endpoint detection and response platform stopping internet-borne malware and ransomware attacks. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Enterprise endpoint security solution with web protection, EDR, and cloud-delivered threat intelligence. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Fortinet FortiSASE Secure access service edge platform combining firewall, secure web gateway, and ZTNA for business internet security. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | Check Point Harmony Connect Cloud security gateway offering secure internet access, URL filtering, and anti-malware for distributed enterprises. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Sophos Firewall Next-generation firewall with web protection, application control, and synchronized security for business networks. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 10 | Trend Micro Apex One Endpoint protection platform featuring web threat protection, behavior monitoring, and cloud sandboxing for businesses. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
Cloud-native secure web gateway platform delivering zero-trust access to the internet and SaaS applications for businesses.
SASE solution providing secure internet access, firewall-as-a-service, and advanced threat prevention for enterprise networks.
DNS-layer security and secure web gateway that blocks malicious internet domains and protects roaming users.
Intelligent cloud security platform with secure web gateway, CASB, and real-time threat protection for business internet use.
AI-driven endpoint detection and response platform stopping internet-borne malware and ransomware attacks.
Enterprise endpoint security solution with web protection, EDR, and cloud-delivered threat intelligence.
Secure access service edge platform combining firewall, secure web gateway, and ZTNA for business internet security.
Cloud security gateway offering secure internet access, URL filtering, and anti-malware for distributed enterprises.
Next-generation firewall with web protection, application control, and synchronized security for business networks.
Endpoint protection platform featuring web threat protection, behavior monitoring, and cloud sandboxing for businesses.
Zscaler
enterpriseCloud-native secure web gateway platform delivering zero-trust access to the internet and SaaS applications for businesses.
Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange, a proxy-based fabric enabling secure, direct user-to-app access without VPNs or backhauling traffic.
Zscaler is a cloud-native security platform providing secure web gateway (SWG), firewall-as-a-service (FWaaS), zero trust network access (ZTNA), cloud access security broker (CASB), and data loss prevention (DLP) for businesses. It inspects all internet traffic in real-time using AI/ML-driven threat detection, preventing malware, phishing, ransomware, and data exfiltration without relying on VPNs or hardware appliances. Designed for distributed workforces, it enforces consistent zero trust policies globally via its massive proxy network spanning 150+ data centers.
Pros
- Scalable cloud architecture with low-latency global PoPs
- Advanced AI-powered threat prevention and sandboxing
- Comprehensive zero trust platform unifying SWG, FWaaS, ZTNA, and DLP
Cons
- Premium pricing requires enterprise-scale commitment
- Steep learning curve for complex configurations
- Limited customization for small businesses
Best For
Large enterprises with hybrid/remote workforces needing scalable, hardware-free internet security.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $10-20 per user/month based on bundles (Professional, Business, Transformation) and volume commitments.
Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access
enterpriseSASE solution providing secure internet access, firewall-as-a-service, and advanced threat prevention for enterprise networks.
Autonomous Operations with AI-driven policy optimization and continuous threat adaptation
Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access is a cloud-delivered Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform that provides comprehensive security for remote users, branch offices, and mobile endpoints. It integrates firewall-as-a-service (FWaaS), zero trust network access (ZTNA), secure web gateway (SWG), cloud access security broker (CASB), and data loss prevention (DLP) to protect internet-bound traffic and SaaS applications. Leveraging AI-driven threat prevention and autonomous operations, it ensures consistent policy enforcement across global locations with minimal latency.
Pros
- Comprehensive SASE integration with advanced ML-powered threat detection
- Global PoP network for low-latency performance
- Autonomous Digital Experience Management (ADEM) for proactive optimization
Cons
- High cost suitable mainly for enterprises
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Limited flexibility for small businesses due to minimum commitments
Best For
Large enterprises with distributed workforces and branches needing scalable, unified internet security.
Pricing
Custom quote-based subscription; typically $12-25/user/month for mobile users plus $100-300/Mbps for branches, scaling with features.
Cisco Umbrella
enterpriseDNS-layer security and secure web gateway that blocks malicious internet domains and protects roaming users.
DNS-layer enforcement as the first line of defense, stopping threats before they reach the network or endpoints
Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-delivered security platform specializing in DNS-layer protection, secure web gateway (SWG), and cloud firewall capabilities to safeguard businesses from malware, phishing, ransomware, and other internet threats. It enforces security policies at the DNS level to block malicious domains before connections are established, while also providing full proxy inspection, data loss prevention, and roaming client protection. Integrated with Cisco's broader ecosystem, it offers scalable threat intelligence powered by Talos for real-time defense across networks, endpoints, and remote users.
Pros
- Pioneering DNS-layer security blocks threats pre-connection with minimal latency
- Seamless scalability and integration with Cisco tools like SecureX and Active Directory
- Comprehensive visibility through advanced dashboards, logging, and AI-driven insights
Cons
- Premium pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses
- Occasional false positives require policy tuning
- Advanced configurations have a learning curve for non-experts
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing enterprise-grade, cloud-native internet security with deep Cisco ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; DNS Security from ~$2.80/user/month, full SIG/Advantage suites ~$5-12/user/month depending on features and volume.
Netskope
enterpriseIntelligent cloud security platform with secure web gateway, CASB, and real-time threat protection for business internet use.
Netskope One: A single platform converging SWG, CASB, ZTNA, and firewall-as-a-service for streamlined SASE management.
Netskope is a leading cloud-native security platform delivering Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) capabilities, including Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and Cloud Firewall. It secures internet traffic, SaaS applications, and private apps for businesses by providing real-time threat prevention, data protection, and granular policy enforcement. Ideal for distributed workforces, it replaces legacy VPNs with secure, anywhere-access without performance compromises.
Pros
- Unified SASE platform with AI/ML-driven threat detection
- Global NewEdge private cloud for low-latency security
- Advanced CASB for inline and API-based SaaS controls
Cons
- Premium pricing requires custom quotes
- Steep learning curve for complex deployments
- Limited visibility into non-cloud traffic without full stack
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with hybrid cloud environments and remote workforces needing comprehensive internet and cloud security.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $10-25 per user/month depending on modules, with volume discounts for larger deployments.
CrowdStrike Falcon
enterpriseAI-driven endpoint detection and response platform stopping internet-borne malware and ransomware attacks.
Falcon OverWatch: 24/7 human-led threat hunting that proactively hunts and responds to stealthy adversaries missed by automation alone.
CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-native endpoint detection and response (EDR) platform designed for businesses to protect endpoints, cloud workloads, and identities from advanced cyber threats. Leveraging AI and machine learning, it provides real-time threat prevention, detection, and automated response capabilities across the internet-exposed attack surface. The platform's lightweight single agent simplifies deployment while offering deep visibility and managed threat hunting services for rapid incident remediation.
Pros
- AI-powered behavioral threat detection with high accuracy and low false positives
- Lightweight single agent for easy deployment across thousands of endpoints
- Integrated managed threat hunting via Falcon OverWatch for expert response
Cons
- Premium pricing that may be prohibitive for small businesses
- Complex console requiring training for full utilization
- Opaque custom quoting process without transparent public tiers
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing robust, scalable endpoint security with expert managed services against sophisticated internet-borne threats.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$60-150 per endpoint/year (billed annually); custom enterprise quotes required for full modules.
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
enterpriseEnterprise endpoint security solution with web protection, EDR, and cloud-delivered threat intelligence.
Automated investigation and remediation using AI-driven analytics for rapid threat containment
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is an enterprise-grade endpoint detection and response (EDR) solution that delivers advanced threat protection for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. It combines next-generation antivirus, behavioral analysis, cloud-delivered protection, and automated investigation to defend against sophisticated cyberattacks, including ransomware and zero-day exploits. As part of the Microsoft 365 Defender suite, it provides unified visibility and response across endpoints, identities, and cloud apps, making it a cornerstone for business internet security in Microsoft-centric environments.
Pros
- Deep integration with Microsoft 365 ecosystem for unified threat management
- AI-powered automated investigation and response reduces response times
- Cross-platform support with strong performance on Windows endpoints
Cons
- Higher pricing may not suit very small businesses
- Steeper learning curve for non-Microsoft admins
- Resource-intensive on lower-end devices
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with heavy Microsoft infrastructure seeking comprehensive endpoint and web threat protection.
Pricing
Standalone licensing starts at ~$5.20/user/month (annual commitment); included in Microsoft 365 E3/E5 plans (~$36-$57/user/month).
Fortinet FortiSASE
enterpriseSecure access service edge platform combining firewall, secure web gateway, and ZTNA for business internet security.
Cloud-native FortiOS with hardware-accelerated security processing for consistent, high-speed threat protection across all PoPs
Fortinet FortiSASE is a cloud-delivered Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform that integrates networking and security for secure remote access to applications and the internet. It combines SD-WAN, firewall-as-a-service (FWaaS), zero-trust network access (ZTNA), secure web gateway (SWG), and cloud access security broker (CASB) with Fortinet's battle-tested FortiOS security engine. This solution enables businesses to protect distributed workforces and branch offices without traditional hardware appliances, leveraging a global network of points of presence (PoPs) for low-latency performance.
Pros
- Comprehensive security integration with AI-driven FortiGuard threat intelligence
- High-performance global PoP network for reliable connectivity
- Seamless scalability for hybrid and remote work environments
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to Fortinet ecosystem
- Pricing can be premium compared to basic web security tools
- Limited third-party integrations outside Fortinet stack
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with existing Fortinet deployments seeking a unified SASE solution for secure internet and cloud access.
Pricing
Subscription-based model starting at around $12-25 per user/month (billed annually), scaling with bandwidth and features; custom quotes required for enterprises.
Check Point Harmony Connect
enterpriseCloud security gateway offering secure internet access, URL filtering, and anti-malware for distributed enterprises.
Infinity Threat Prevention with real-time AI sandboxing for autonomous zero-day threat blocking
Check Point Harmony Connect is a cloud-native secure internet access solution that delivers enterprise-grade threat prevention for distributed workforces, branch offices, and mobile users. It provides real-time protection against malware, phishing, ransomware, and zero-day exploits through AI-powered engines, URL filtering, sandboxing, and zero-trust access controls. As a SaaS platform, it eliminates the need for on-premises hardware, offering scalable security directly from global Points of Presence (PoPs) for low-latency performance.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven threat prevention blocks zero-day attacks effectively
- Scalable cloud delivery with global PoPs ensures low latency and easy deployment
- Comprehensive policy management and integration with SD-WAN solutions
Cons
- Pricing can be high for small businesses or low-bandwidth needs
- Management console has a learning curve for non-Check Point users
- Reporting and analytics may overwhelm smaller IT teams
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with distributed remote workers and branch offices requiring robust, hardware-free internet security.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $4-12 per user/month or bandwidth tiers (e.g., 100Mbps+); custom enterprise quotes required.
Sophos Firewall
enterpriseNext-generation firewall with web protection, application control, and synchronized security for business networks.
Synchronized Security, which automatically shares threat data between firewalls and Sophos endpoints for proactive, coordinated responses
Sophos Firewall is a next-generation firewall (NGFW) solution that delivers comprehensive protection for business networks against internet threats, including malware, ransomware, and advanced persistent threats. It combines deep packet inspection, web filtering, application control, VPN, and SD-WAN in a unified platform, with centralized management via Sophos Central. The solution supports hardware appliances, virtual instances, and cloud deployments, integrating seamlessly with Sophos endpoint security for synchronized threat response.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven threat intelligence and synchronized security with endpoints
- High-performance Xstream architecture for deep packet inspection without performance loss
- Flexible deployment options including hardware, virtual, and cloud
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Additional licensing required for some premium features
- Higher costs for smaller businesses compared to basic firewalls
Best For
Medium to large enterprises needing integrated network and endpoint security with scalable performance.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$500/year for entry-level XGS appliances, scaling to $10,000+ annually for enterprise models based on throughput and features.
Trend Micro Apex One
enterpriseEndpoint protection platform featuring web threat protection, behavior monitoring, and cloud sandboxing for businesses.
Vulnerability Shielding that blocks exploits targeting software flaws in real-time without requiring immediate patches
Trend Micro Apex One is a robust endpoint security platform designed for businesses, offering next-generation antivirus, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and advanced threat protection against malware, ransomware, and zero-day attacks. It features centralized management via a web console, vulnerability shielding, and device control to secure endpoints across Windows, macOS, Linux, and virtual environments. The solution integrates with Trend Micro's broader XDR ecosystem for enhanced visibility and automated response.
Pros
- Comprehensive protection with NGAV, EDR, and vulnerability management
- Centralized web-based console for efficient endpoint management
- Strong ransomware rollback and exploit prevention capabilities
Cons
- Higher CPU and memory usage on endpoints compared to lighter agents
- On-premise deployment can involve a steeper setup curve
- Pricing scales less favorably for very small businesses
Best For
Mid-sized businesses with distributed endpoints needing scalable EDR and vulnerability protection.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; typically $35-60 per endpoint per year based on features, volume, and deployment type.
Conclusion
While every tool in the ranking delivers exceptional value, Zscaler leads as the top choice, particularly valued for its cloud-native platform that enables seamless zero-trust access to the internet and SaaS applications. Palo Alto Networks Prisma Access closely follows, standing out as a robust SASE solution with advanced threat prevention, and Cisco Umbrella remains a strong alternative, excelling with its DNS-layer security that blocks malicious domains for both fixed and roaming users. Together, these top three highlight the diverse strengths available, ensuring businesses find the right fit for their specific needs.
To boost your business's protection, start with Zscaler—its comprehensive cloud-native approach makes it a standout choice for modern, distributed security needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
