They go beyond traditional home setups to provide scalable wireless connectivity within your business and meet its demanding needs.

The following are our recommendations for the top enterprise Wi-Fi solutions:

• NETGEAR Business WiFi: Best overall enterprise Wi-Fi.
• Juniper Mist: Best for large enterprises.
• Ubiquiti UniFi: Best for small to medium businesses.
• Sophos Wireless: Best for mixed device environments.
• Cisco Meraki MR: Best for challenging enterprise environments.
• HPE Aruba WLAN: Best for hybrid environments.
• Cambium Enterprise Wi-Fi: Best for service providers.
• ExtremeWireless: Best for high-density environments.
• Fortinet Secure Wireless LAN: Best for remote work.

Top enterprise Wi-Fi solutions comparison

Below is an overview of the best business Wi-Fi solutions today. It shows their speed, range of hardware selection, free trial availability, and pricing details.

NETGEAR Business WiFi

Best overall enterprise Wi-Fi

Overall rating: 4.75/5

• Cost: 5/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Integrations: 4.75/5
• Customer support: 4.75/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

NETGEAR Business WiFi is a comprehensive solution providing a range of products customizable to your exact business needs. It delivers high performance with its Wi-Fi 6 technology feature that enables high-speed, reliable, and efficient connections.

This enterprise Wi-Fi comes with advanced Instant VPN, Instant Captive Portal, Instant Mesh, and Instant Wi-Fi features that let your business maximize your network’s potential effortlessly.

Product design: NETGEAR Insight is a cloud-based platform for the remote management of NETGEAR Business WiFi. Its well-organized dashboard shows a clear overview of your network status and device information, making it easier for you to handle different aspects of your network. It also allows you to customize your summary views so you can control what you want to see.

Product development: NETGEAR has added the S3600 Series to its Smart Switch lineup. These switches aim to address the growing networking demands of high-bandwidth applications and devices in the workplace through high-speed connectivity, and ease of setup and configuration. This product line expansion demonstrates NETGEAR’s dedication to continually enhancing their offerings to meet the evolving needs of their customers.

Why we picked NETGEAR Business WiFi

NETGEAR Business WiFi is our best overall enterprise Wi-Fi because it is cost effective, packed with sophisticated features, and has broad integration capabilities. It also has advanced security features such as WPA3 encryption, robust authentication mechanisms, and secure key management, ensuring the safety of your network.

On top of that, it is user-friendly, offers a wide selection of Wi-Fi hardware appliances, and has solid customer support.

Pros and cons

Pricing

NETGEAR Business WiFi has two pricing plans:

• Insight Premium: Starts at $0.83/device/month
• Insight Pro: Starts at $1.83/device/month

Get in touch with their sales team to find out more.

Features

• High-speed connectivity.
• Wi-Fi 6 technology.
• Supports WPA3 encryption and authentication mechanisms.
• Remote network management.
• Advanced device profiling.
• User role management.
• Analytics and reporting features.
• Network segmentation.
• Dynamic mesh networking.
• Auto-configuration and provisioning.
• Guest access capabilities.
• Insight Instant Captive Portal.
• Support for multiple locations and devices.
• Quality of service (QoS) packet scheduling.
• Distributed denial of service (DDoS) prevention.

Juniper Mist

Best for large enterprises

Overall rating: 4.75/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Juniper Mist is a modern, cloud-based wireless network solution that leverages AI and machine learning (ML) to deliver high-performance Wi-Fi while maintaining visibility and control. It offers features such as AI-driven operations, cloud portal, and automation capabilities, making it an excellent choice for large enterprises with complex networks.

Juniper Mist’s AI-driven operations give optimized configurations, maximum performance, and optimized packet scheduling for increased capacity. Additionally, its cloud portal and automation capabilities streamline network management, simplifying management at a large scale.

Product design: The Juniper Mist has an intuitive and straightforward interface that’s easy on the eyes. It presents a holistic view of your network with simple tabs and menus that separate different components. The uncluttered design can aid you to quickly identify and fix any network issues, thereby minimizing business downtime and ensuring a smooth user experience.

Product development: Since acquiring Mist Systems in 2019, Juniper Networks continues to focus on AI and cloud services. In 2023, it unveiled a series of enhancements to its AI-driven enterprise portfolio, including integration of ChatGPT with Marvis, Juniper’s unique AI-driven virtual network assistant.

Marvis now allows you to conveniently access knowledge base information using advanced Large Language Models (LLM). This means users can pose technical queries to Marvis and receive not only precise answers, but also a curated list of relevant documents.

Why we picked Juniper Mist

Juniper Mist is one of our choices of top commercial Wi-Fi solutions because of its innovative use of AI and ML for efficient troubleshooting and decision-making. These intelligent capabilities improve overall network performance as well as end-user experience.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Juniper Networks states that Juniper Mist has a subscription-based licensing model, but does not reveal actual pricing. Contact their sales team to request a call.

Features

• AI-driven operations.
• Cloud portal.
• Automation capabilities.
• Asset tracking and room utilization.
• Visitor segmentation and trends.
• Network segmentation.
• Monitoring and behavior reports.
• WAN visibility.
• Secure guest access.
• Customizable guest portal.
• External captive portal integration.
• Single Sign-On (SSO) with identity provider.
• Template-based configuration.
• Dynamic mesh networking.
• Auto-configuration and provisioning.
• Self-healing network.
• WPA3 encryption.
• Advanced authentication mechanisms (802.1X, EAP).
• Secure key management.
• On-premises deployment support.

Ubiquiti UniFi

Best for small to medium businesses

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Integrations: 4.75/5
• Customer support: 4/5
• Ease of use: 4.25/5

Ubiquiti UniFi has a range of devices such as access points, switches, and routers, all managed through a single software interface. Some of its key features are high-performance Wi-Fi, advanced device profiling, user role management, and support for dynamic mesh networking.

Ubiquiti UniFi is well-suited for SMBs due to its scalability and cost-effectiveness. The system is designed to grow with your business, allowing you to add devices as needed without significant increases in management complexity. What’s more, the absence of licensing fees for its management software makes it a cost-effective choice for small to medium organizations.

Product design: The UniFi Controller software shows a visual overview of your network’s status and performance. It displays real-time data on network traffic, connected devices, Wi-Fi experiences and clients, as well as APs. The extensive details shown on the dashboard could be confusing and intimidating to some users.

Product development: Ubiquiti’s release of the UniFi Network Application 8.0.24 introduces Admin Settings Change Logs for tracking changes, raises the network limit to 255 for managing larger networks, and includes stability fixes for a more reliable network.

Why we picked Ubiquiti UniFi

We selected Ubiquiti UniFi because it combines performance, scalability, and affordability. Its extensive hardware selection also makes it a smart choice for businesses looking to build and manage their own networks.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Ubiquiti’s software license is free and bundled with the Wi-Fi hardware product. UniFi Enterprise Wi-Fi device prices start at $279.00.

Features

• High-performance Wi-Fi.
• Advanced device profiling.
• Network segmentation.
• User role management.
• Dynamic mesh networking.
• Auto-configuration and provisioning.
• Self-healing network.
• WPA3 encryption.
• Secure key management.
• Guest access capabilities.
• Secure guest networks.
• Captive portal support.
• Remote management.
• License-free software.
• Advanced QoS.
• Per-user rate limiting.
• Real-time traffic dashboards.
• Visual topology maps.
• Support for admin settings change logs.

Sophos Wireless

Best for mixed device environments

Overall rating: 4.5/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 4.75/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Sophos Wireless is a high-performance Wi-Fi solution managed through Sophos Central, a cloud-based security management platform. It comes with a range of functionalities, such as centralized management, advanced analytics and reporting, guest access capabilities, and advanced device profiling.

The adaptive nature of Sophos Wireless guarantees seamless integration and support for a diverse set of devices, like various operating systems and device types. This adaptability is crucial in environments where users utilize different devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Moreover, it enables a smooth and uninterrupted user experience as devices move within the network through the Fast Transition feature.

Product design: The Sophos Central lets you manage your Wi-Fi alongside your firewalls and switches, endpoint and server security and operations, and email protection. It offers at-a-glance insights into your enterprise network without looking complex and overwhelming. The dashboard is well-rounded, user-friendly, and provides deeper intelligence into network activity through analytics.

Product development: Sophos launched the AP6 Series, which supports Wi-Fi 6/6E, improves performance, and reduces latency. This series comprises various models designed for diverse environments, including indoor and outdoor settings. This means customers can 

Why we picked Sophos Wireless

We picked Sophos Wireless as one of our recommended business Wi-Fi solutions for its advanced security features, high performance, and centralized management capabilities. It comes with strong security measures, including advanced threat protection, secure access controls, and encryption. With high-speed connectivity reaching up to 8350 Mbps, Sophos Wireless meets the demands of high-density networks. Finally, the centralized management interface simplifies administration tasks for businesses.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Sophos mentions on its licensing guide that Sophos Wireless has per-appliance-pricing but does not provide exact prices. Contact their sales for additional details.

Features

• Centralized management.
• Local user interface.
• Scheduled firmware upgrades.
• Mesh networking.
• Dynamic VLAN and RADIUS.
• Web categorization.
• Network segmentation.
• Application visibility.
• Synchronized security.
• Multiple SSIDs.
• Time-based SSIDs.
• Client load balancing.
• Auto channel selection.
• Channel width selection.
• Band steering.
• Airtime fairness.
• Keep broadcasting SSID.
• Roaming assistant.
• Fast Transition feature.
• Captive portal.
• Auto power.
• Enterprise-level authentication.
• Rogue AP detection.
• Voucher authentication.
• Social login.

Cisco Meraki MR

Best for challenging enterprise environments

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 4.75/5
• Integrations: 3.75/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

The Cisco Meraki MR series is a line of cloud-managed access points with simplified deployment and troubleshooting, making it an ideal solution for challenging enterprise environments that require end-to-end network management.

Additionally, they use advanced Wi-Fi 6 technologies, including orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) and multi-user, multiple input, multiple output (MU-MIMO), beam forming, and channel bonding, delivering the throughput and reliable coverage required by demanding business applications.

This enterprise Wi-Fi also supports auto-configuration and provisioning, ensuring a self-healing network that can adapt to changes and failures in challenging network environments.

Product design: It has a simple dashboard with components neatly grouped together in a sidebar. However, this extreme simplicity lacks granularity in terms of data shown.

Product development: Cisco Meraki recently added a new Callbacks feature in the Meraki Dashboard API, focusing on providing tools that offer automation, efficiency, and convenience. This feature lets you initiate pinging a device or executing a phased deployment, and step back. You receive a notification at your specified webhook URL once it completes the operation.

Why we picked Cisco Meraki MR

We selected Cisco Meraki MR series because of its versatility and ability to adapt to complex network environments, coupled with robust security measures and extensive integration capabilities.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Cisco Meraki doesn’t display the pricing details on their website. Get in touch with their sales team to learn more.

Features

• Self-configuring plug-and-play deployment.
• 802.11ax MU-MIMO with up to eight spatial streams built for voice and video.
• Dedicated radio for security and RF optimization with integrated spectrum analysis (indoor models).
• Advanced security to protect against malware, ransomware, and C2 callbacks with Umbrella integration.
• Integrated intrusion detection and prevention system (WIDS/WIPS).
• Intelligent firmware upgrades.
• Network segmentation.
• AI/ML-powered analytics for root cause analysis and Wi-Fi troubleshooting.
• Advanced application visibility with Cisco Network-Based Application Recognition (NBAR).
• Flexible group policy engine.
• Wi-Fi personal network (WPN) on any shared network.
• Integrated Bluetooth IoT radio.
• IoT ready (ESL integration).
• Self-healing, zero-configuration mesh.
• Role-based administration.
• Email and text message alerts upon power loss, downtime, or configuration changes.
• FIPS-140-2 compliant, IPv6 compatible, WFA-certified APs.

HPE Aruba WLAN

Best for hybrid environments

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 4.75/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

HPE Aruba WLAN is a business-grade wireless LAN solution with cloud-native, microservices architecture that streamlines IT operations, boosts agility, and reduces costs by unifying the management of all network infrastructure. This enterprise Wi-Fi is well-suited for hybrid environments due to its scalability, seamless integration with hybrid cloud services, unified management capabilities for wired and wireless networks.

HPE Aruba WLAN has the latest Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E standards for high-speed and stable connectivity. Furthermore, it uses artificial intelligence (AI) to power its network operations and proactively identify and resolve network issues. It also comes with advanced security features, including encryption, authentication, and access controls, bolstering overall network security.

Product design: The Aruba Central dashboard gives a unified view of wired and wireless local area networks (LANs), WANs, and virtual private networks (VPNs) across multiple locations. It offers AI-powered insights, visualizations, workflow automation, and edge-to-cloud security, to ease network management. That said, it has numerous options and settings that may require time and effort to fully understand and navigate.

Product development: HPE Aruba Networking introduced the Aruba Instant On AP22D and the Aruba Instant On 1960 stackable switch to enable small to medium businesses (SMBs) to improve networks with faster speeds, increased capacity, and strengthened security.

Why we picked HPE Aruba WLAN

We chose HPE Aruba WLAN because of its state-of-the-art functionalities combined with high high security levels and dependability. In addition, this enterprise Wi-Fi It is compatible with the latest Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E protocols, guaranteeing better efficiency and bandwidth.

Pros and cons

Pricing

HPE Aruba doesn’t publish pricing information on their page. Connect with their sales department for full pricing details.

Features

• Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E support.
• Support for digital transformation and IoT.
• Cloud-managed networking.
• AI-powered network operations.
• Security for the Intelligent Edge.
• Guest encryption.
• Aruba WLAN Portfolio with indoor, outdoor, ruggedized, and remote access points.
• Gateways and controllers.
• OFDMA.
• Target wake time (TWT).
• Dynamic mesh networking.
• Auto-configuration and provisioning.
• Self-healing network.
• Location analytics.

Cambium Enterprise Wi-Fi

Best for service providers

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 0/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Integrations: 4/5
• Customer support: 3.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Cambium Enterprise Wi-Fi supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, including Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E, delivering high-performance wireless network connections. The solution offers built-in security features and guest access capabilities. In addition, it supports dynamic mesh networking, auto-configuration and provisioning, and self-healing network capabilities, boosting scalability.

This scalability is particularly advantageous for service providers, like broadband service providers or network-as-a-service (NaaS) providers dealing with diverse network sizes and customer needs, as it allows for smooth expansion as demand grows. Of course, this enterprise Wi-Fi also has security features, including encryption and authentication, addressing the concern of data security.

Product design: Cambium’s cnMaestro dashboard brings a single-pane-of-glass view of all network devices and their performance. It includes network statistics, channel utilization graphs, and remote troubleshooting tools. Real-time and historical analytics give insights into network performance, usage patterns, and potential issues.

Product development: Cambium Networks updated its network management system, cnMaestro 4.1, elevating automation and analytics and reducing costs. The new feature, cnMaestro X Assurance, uses analytics to identify and resolve network issues quickly. Other features include Personal Wi-Fi for secure connectivity across campus networks, and Network Service Edge for security and SD-WAN services.

Why we picked Cambium Enterprise Wi-Fi 

We picked Cambium Enterprise Wi-Fi for its scalability, comprehensive feature set, and support for the latest Wi-Fi standards that promotes fast and efficient wireless network connections. Its analytics and reporting features also provide valuable insights for network optimization. 

Pros and cons

Pricing

Cambium doesn’t disclose pricing details on their official website. Contact their sales representative for a quote.

Features

• Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E support.
• Cloud-first architecture.
• Zero-touch provisioning and maintenance.
• Policy-based access.
• Built-in security features.
• Network segmentation.
• Guest access capabilities.
• Analytics and reporting features.
• Dynamic mesh networking.
• Self-healing network.
• cnMaestro management system.
• Network service edge.
• Advanced device profiling and segmentation.
• Seamless roaming.
• Automatic RF optimization and interference avoidance.

ExtremeWireless

Best for high-density environments

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 0/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Integrations: 4.25/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Ease of use: 4.25/5

ExtremeWireless by Extreme Networks leverages explainable machine learning (ML) to increase IT efficiency and secure the network with Universal Universal Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). This enterprise Wi-Fi solution also uses ExtremeCloud IQ for management, bringing end-to-end visibility and data-driven AIOps for faster network issue resolution.

ExtremeWireless excels in high-density environments thanks to its tri-radio indoor universal APs offering Wi-Fi 6E coverage. These APs can run multiple operating systems for on-premises and/or cloud management, making ExtremeWireless a top choice for environments that need high-speed, high-capacity networks like stadiums, large venues, and conference centers. The high data rates ensure seamless connectivity even in areas with a large number of concurrent users, elevating user experience.

Product design: The ExtremeWireless dashboard gives a detailed insight of the network status with elaborate charts to help monitor the overall status of the wireless network. However, it  presents many tabs, sections, and subsections that can make it challenging for some users to locate certain capabilities.

Product development: Extreme Networks has presented the ExtremeCloud Universal ZTNA, a groundbreaking solution that integrates network, application, and device access security into one platform. This will provide a consistent security policy across the entire network and make it easier for IT teams to manage and secure user access across multiple locations. The solution is set to be available in early 2024.

Why we picked ExtremeWireless

We selected ExtremeWireless because its high data rates and reliability promotes consistent and stable wireless connectivity. Its scalability allows organizations to easily expand their networks to accommodate growth.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Extreme Networks doesn’t disclose pricing structure for ExtremeWireless. For updated prices, get in touch with their sales team.

Features

• Cloud management.
• Explainable ML secures networks with Universal ZTNA.
• End-to-end visibility.
• Data-driven AIOps.
• Context-based optimization.
• Advanced captive portal support.
• Full-stack management of access points, switches, and SD-WAN through ExtremeCloud IQ.
• Advanced device profiling.
• User role management.
• Analytics and reporting.
• Dynamic mesh networking.
• Auto-configuration and provisioning.
• Tri-Radio access points.
• Software-selectable operating systems.
• Interference-free spectrum.
• Extended temperature range.

Fortinet Secure Wireless LAN

Best for remote work

Overall rating: 3.25/5

• Cost: 0/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Integrations: 4/5
• Customer support: 4.75/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

Fortinet Secure Wireless LAN integrates wireless and wired access, security, authentication, switching, and management into a single system. Some of its key features include secure networking, end-to-end network visibility, automated threat response, unified management, and flexible deployment options. It also supports zero-touch deployment, making it fast and simple to deploy without needing on-site tech support.

Fortinet Secure Wireless LAN is best for remote work environments because of its specific features for encryption and wireless connection security, safeguarding sensitive data and communications as remote employees access corporate networks. Additionally, its focus on integrated security policies makes sure that remote workers benefit from advanced threat protection, reducing the risk of cyber threats.

Product design: This enterprise Wi-Fi solution has a highly-detailed software interface with graphs and intricate details for status, analysis, and diagnostics. This abundance of in-depth information can be overwhelming for some users.

Product development: Fortinet launched high-performance FortiSwitch 600 and 2000 to cater to the growing connectivity needs of campuses. These products have embedded intelligence and readily integrate with Fortinet’s AIOps management tool and FortiGuard AI-Powered Security Services.

Why we picked Fortinet Secure Wireless LAN

Despite losing some points for its lack of transparent pricing or free trial, Fortinet Secure Wireless LAN made it to our list because of its solid security features and flexibility.

It incorporates threat protection, encryption, and consolidated security policies, fortifying wireless networks against potential threats. Furthermore, it has tight integration with other Fortinet security products, forming a cohesive security infrastructure.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Pricing information is not available on Fortinet’s website. For updated pricing, reach out to their sales department.

Features

• Secure networking.
• Integrates with the Fortinet Security Fabric.
• End-to-end network visibility.
• Automated threat response.
• Unified management.
• Flexible deployment.
• Zero-touch deployment.
• Network segmentation.
• Secure access service edge (SASE).
• Wireless presence analytics.
• Device profiling.
• Role-based access control (RBAC).
• Wireless mesh network.
• IoT segmentation.
• Captive portal.

Key features of enterprise Wi-Fi solutions

Enterprise Wi-Fi solutions should have features for security, high-performance, guest access, device management, scalability, and integrated hardware selection.

Security

Security is a critical feature of an enterprise Wi-Fi solution that includes measures to safeguard the network from unauthorized access and data breaches. This entails implementing access controls, encryption protocols to protect data during transmission, and mechanisms to prevent unauthorized users from gaining access. Wi-Fi network security is a must, especially in the age of advanced connectivity and the proliferation of 5G network providers.

High-performance capability

Enterprise Wi-Fi performance refers to the speed, reliability, and overall efficiency of the network. A high-performance Wi-Fi network contributes to productivity by guaranteeing quick and uninterrupted access to resources and applications. It also positively influences the user experience for employees, customers, and guests.

Guest access

Guest access lets non-employees connect to the Wi-Fi network with restricted privileges. This functionality gives convenience for visitors and clients to access the internet while visiting the enterprise. Simultaneously, it segregates guest traffic from the internal network, mitigating potential security risks.

Device management

Device management involves monitoring, controlling, and handling devices connected to the Wi-Fi network. It aids in inventory management by keeping track of all connected devices, facilitating troubleshooting efforts, and equipping administrators to enforce security policies. Effective device management strengthens network integrity and optimizes the operation of connected hardware devices.

Scalability

Scalability determines the ability of the enterprise Wi-Fi solution to adapt to the growing demands of an expanding enterprise. It supports business growth by accommodating an increasing number of users and devices. This feature aids in the addition of new access points and network infrastructure as needed and prevents congestion and performance degradation as the network expands.

Integrated hardware selection

The selection of hardware is another key aspect of an enterprise Wi-Fi solution, and vendors often offer a comprehensive hardware ecosystem tailored to complement their Wi-Fi software. This encompasses access points, controllers, switches, firewalls, and antennas for smooth integration.

How we evaluated enterprise Wi-Fi solutions

We thoroughly analyzed various options available in the current market to identify the best-performing enterprise Wi-Fi solutions today.

Our evaluation concentrated on five key criteria: cost, core features, integrations, customer support, and ease of use. We systematically assessed the performance of each enterprise Wi-Fi based on these criteria, assigning ratings and subsequently calculating their overall scores.

Cost – 20%

For this category, we considered the pricing transparency and the availability of free trial, as well as its duration.

Criterion winner: NETGEAR Business WiFi.

Core features – 30%

To determine scores for core features, we researched if each enterprise Wi-Fi solution has built-in features for security, high-performance, guest access, device management, and analytics and reporting. We also measured if the solution is scalable and checked the extensiveness of their selection of hardware devices.

Criterion winners: NETGEAR Business WiFi, Juniper Mist, and Ubiquiti UniFi.

Integrations – 20%

To calculate scores for this category, we considered if the enterprise Wi-Fi supports direct integration with third-party tools for network management and monitoring, security information and event management (SIEM), identity and access management (IAM), and cloud services and applications. We also considered support for custom integrations.

Criterion winners: HPE Aruba WLAN, Juniper Mist, and Sophos Wireless.

Customer support – 15%

We checked the availability of 24×7 customer support services to compute scores for this category. We verified whether support is accessible via live chat, phone, and email, and if the vendor has an active user community and in-depth documentation. Customer feedback is also taken into account in calculating the scores for this criterion.

Criterion winners: HPE Aruba WLAN and Juniper Mist.

Ease of use – 15%

For ease of use, we factored in the user-friendliness of the enterprise Wi-Fi’s software as well as the simplicity of its configuration/setup for all users, regardless of technical expertise. We looked into feedback from independent sources to find out how users feel about the solution.

Criterion winners: Cisco Meraki MR, Cambium Enterprise Wi-Fi, Juniper Mist, and Sophos Wireless.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who needs an enterprise Wi-Fi solution?

Enterprise Wi-Fi solutions are important for businesses and organizations that operate in environments where a substantial number of users rely on wireless connectivity, such as corporate offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

These solutions are also valuable if your business involves extensive data transmission, multiple devices accessing the network concurrently, or demands stringent security measures.

What are good office Wi-Fi solutions?

Based on our extensive evaluation, NETGEAR Business WiFi and Juniper Mist are the top two best office Wi-Fi solutions in terms of core features.

Bottom line: Keep your business connected with the top Wi-Fi solutions

The top enterprise Wi-Fi solutions on this list are designed to give you an idea of the top players in the market and what you should expect from commercial Wi-Fi solutions. In selecting the best enterprise Wi-Fi for your business, don’t forget to check its security features, scalability, customer support quality, integration capabilities, and ease of use, in addition to its speed and cost.

This guide serves as a reference to help you decide which solution to choose for your organization, depending on your budget, business size, and specific needs.

Enterprise Wi-Fi solutions and network switches work together to enhance your organization’s connectivity. Read our guide on the best network switches to find out our top recommendations and further bolster your network infrastructure.

The post Top 9 Enterprise Wi-Fi Solutions for Businesses in 2024 appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

A network switch connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). It forwards data to specific devices, optimizing data traffic and enhancing network performance. In a business setting, network switches foster seamless communication, file sharing, and resource access among computers, servers, and other networked devices.

Here are our recommendations for the best network switch available in 2024:

• Cisco Catalyst 9000: Best overall network switch
• Zyxel MG-108: Best for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs)
• Linksys LGS116P: Best for small office/home office (SOHO) networks
• NETGEAR MSM4352: Best for large enterprises needing high availability
• TP-Link TL-SG3452XP: Best for multi-cloud networks
• TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg: Best for energy efficiency
• Ubiquiti Unifi Switch 48-Port Gigabit Managed Network: Best for large-scale deployments
• Juniper EX2300: Best for branch and remote offices
• D-Link DGS-1100-24PV2: Best for scalability

Top network switch comparison

The table below shows a side-by-side comparison of the best network switch products on the market today. It gives you a clear overview of their management types, number of ports, speed, pricing, and warranty.

Cisco Catalyst 9000

Best overall network switch

Overall rating: 4.5/5

• Cost: 2/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Scalability and performance: 5/5
• Ease of installation: 5/5

The Cisco Catalyst 9000 Series is a collection of versatile switches that facilitates different business operations, ensuring a secure experience and delivering high speeds.

This network switch family stood out as the best ethernet switch overall because of its robust set of features and topnotch speed and performance. It provides a broad range of bandwidth and scalability to accommodate both large and small data experiences. Moreover, the series leverages enhanced power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality and advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and (machine learning (ML) for continuous zero-trust security.

Product design: The Cisco Catalyst 9000 Series has a common design, both internally and externally. Internally, it uses a common ASIC, the Cisco UADP, providing flexibility for packet handling. Externally, the hardware is stackable and can be mounted in standard server racks or network cabinets.

However, it is worth noting that the product is heavy and bulky, which may consume a significant amount of space.

Product development: Cisco recently introduced the Cisco Catalyst 1200 and 1300 Series switches for small and medium businesses in the Asia-Pacific region. These innovations simplify the process of setting up networks and managing security. They also accelerate digital transformation for SMBs and reduce complexity for resource-strapped operations teams.

Why we picked Cisco Catalyst 9000

We picked Cisco Catalyst 9000 Series because of its powerful yet flexible switching capabilities. It brings high-speed connectivity with support for multi-gigabit and 10-gigabit Ethernet. In addition, its modular design and scalability make it adaptable to various network sizes and requirements, making it a future-proof choice.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Cisco doesn’t publish prices on their page, contact their sales team for full pricing details.

Features

• Optimized energy efficiency.
• 400G interfaces.
• Silicon One ASICs.
• Full mGig and UPOE+ ports.
• Converged switching and routing.
• Continuous zero-trust security.
• Programmable x86 multi-core CPU.
• Open IOS XE.
• Application hosting.
• Model-driven APIs.
• Programmable pipeline.
• Secure containers.
• Modular patching.
• Flexible tables.
• Supports PoE and PoE+.
• Advanced Quality of Service (QoS).

Zyxel MG-108

Best for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs)

Overall rating: 3/5

• Cost: 3.5/5
• Core features: 2/5
• Customer support: 4/5
• Scalability and performance: 3.25/5
• Ease of installation: 5/5

The Zyxel MG-108 is a multi-gigabit switch that caters well to SMBs with its ports that optimize the performance of multi-gig bandwidth and devices. It also supports multiple speeds and can effectively accommodate a range of networks.

Despite these advanced features, the Zyxel MG-108 remains an affordable entry point into multi-gig networking, making it a cost-effective solution for SMBs aiming to upgrade their network performance. The device’s plug-and-play functionality eliminates complex configuration, saving valuable time and resources for growing businesses.

Product design: The Zyxel MG-108 is compact and lightweight. It can fit perfectly on a desktop or in a standard rack. It also has fanless design for silent and stable operation.

Product development: Zyxel released SMB switches with PoE scheduling to help businesses reduce energy costs. This feature lets you schedule switches to power-down during non-working hours. The vendor aims to help SMBs drive efficiency and sustainability, especially in the face of rising energy prices.

Why we picked Zyxel MG-108

We selected Zyxel MG-108 because it is a viable network switch for businesses seeking to boost their network performance without breaking the bank. Aside from being economical, it also supports multiple speeds (100M, 1G, 2.5G), allowing it to handle several devices and varying network speeds.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Zyxel MG-108 is priced at $138.87 on the Zyxel website.

Features

• 8 multi-gigabit ports supporting up to 2.5 gigabit (100M/1G/2.5G).
• Upgrade network speed to 2.5 times without additional cabling fee.
• Plug-and-play.
• Fanless design.
• Provides 25/40 Gbps switching capacity.
• Auto-negotiation.
• MAC address table supporting up to 16,000 entries.
• Energy efficient.
• Compact design.
• Supports jumbo frames up to 12 KB.
• Desktop and wall mountable.

Linksys LGS116P

Best for small office/home office (SOHO) networks

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 2.25/5
• Core features:3.25/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Scalability and performance: 4.25/5
• Ease of installation: 5/5

The Linksys LGS116P is a robust, unmanaged switch that is an excellent choice for SOHO networks, primarily due to its solid support for PoE+.

With 16 gigabit Ethernet ports, this switch gives you ample room for network expansion. The PoE+ feature allows VoIP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras to receive both power and data from a single Ethernet cable, simplifying the installation process and reducing clutter. This is particularly beneficial in SOHO networks where multiple devices are often spread across a small area.

Product design: The Linksys LGS116P has a sleek and space-saving form, making it easy to fit into any workspace. It’s also wall-mountable, providing flexibility in placement. The switch has a metal casing for protection and clearly labeled ports, easing the setup process.

Product development: Linksys updated its Privacy Pledge, reinforcing its commitment to user privacy and security. The updated pledge guarantees that Linksys products and apps do not track user activity or sell personal information. These changes aim to provide a secure online experience, improving trust and peace of mind for Linksys customers.

Why we picked Linksys LGS116P

We chose Linksys LGS116P because it offers great value for its price, thanks to its reliable performance and sophisticated features. It has gigabit transfer speeds, supports QoS, and meets the Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) 802.3az standard, reducing power consumption without sacrificing performance.

***Insert Fig C – Linksys LGS116P product image***

Pros and cons

Pricing

The Linksys LGS116P costs $220.99.

Features

• 16 gigabit Ethernet ports.
• PoE+ support.
• Plug-and-play.
• Supports QoS.
• Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE)
• Minimizes transfer times and streams high-bandwidth files.
• Auto-sensing ports.
• Wall mountable.

NETGEAR MSM4352

Best for large enterprises needing high availability

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 1.5/5
• Core features: 4.75/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Scalability and performance: 5/5
• Ease of installation: 5/5

The NETGEAR MSM4352 is a high-performance, scalable switch suitable for large enterprises. It’s part of NETGEAR’s edge to core stackable platform, which ranges from 1 to 100Gb. This enables non-stop forwarding (NSF) and hitless failover across the stack, making it ideal for businesses needing high availability and resilience in their network infrastructure.

Furthermore, this switch includes 44 ports that support 2.5Gb Ethernet, 4 ports supporting 10-gigabit Ethernet, and 4 uplinks supporting 25Gb Ethernet. This enables high data transfer speeds that large enterprises with heavy network traffic need.

Product design: The NETGEAR MSM4352 has a rack-mountable design, meant to be placed in a server room or data center. With a weight of 16 lbs, it is relatively heavy, making it more challenging to handle and install the hardware compared to lighter, more compact switches.

Product development: NETGEAR continues to provide  innovative networking solutions for small and mid-sized businesses with its launch of its MS108TUP Smart Switch. This product equips SMBs with modern switch functionality for improved network performance, flexibility, and efficiency.

Why we picked NETGEAR MSM4352

Its comprehensive features and high speed made us pick NETGEAR MSM4352 as one of our recommended network switch products. This switch has an automatic configuration that auto-connects with other M4350 (and M4250) switches, making it easy to expand your network as your needs grow. In addition, it supports different traffic types and VLANs, and has Layer 3 feature set with static, policy-based, and dynamic routing.

Pros and cons

Pricing

NETGEAR doesn’t display pricing details on their website. Contact a NETGEAR representative for a quote.

Features

• 44 2.5G and 4 10G/Multi-gig PoE++ ports with 4 25GBASE-X SFP28 uplinks.
• 550W internal power supply providing 194W of PoE budget.
• 2 slots for modular power supplies.
• Any APS350Wv1, APS600Wv2, APS920Wv1, or APS2000Wv1 can be used.
• Expandable PoE budget.
• Virtual chassis stacking provides NSF and hitless failover.
• Layer 3 feature set includes static, policy-based, and dynamic routing.
• NETGEAR IGMP Plus, AV user interface, and Engage Controller speed up AV installations.
• Lifetime next business day hardware replacement.

TP-Link TL-SG3452XP

Best for multi-cloud networks

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 1/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 4.25/5
• Scalability and performance: 4.25/5
• Ease of installation: 5/5

The TP-Link TL-SG3452XP is a business-grade switch that’s part of the TP-Link’s JetStream series, equipped with 48-gigabit Ethernet ports and four 10G SFP+ slots. These features ensure fast and reliable connections to servers and other switches.

What makes the TL-SG3452XP suited for multi-cloud networks is its seamless integration with Omada’s software-defined networking (SDN) platform. This platform offers centralized cloud management, enabling remote and centralized control of the entire network from multiple locations from a single interface. The switch is a good fit for businesses that need seamless wireless and wired connections.

Product design: The TL-SG3452XP has a sturdy, metal casing and might seem substantial when compared to other network switches. However, for a switch with its capacity and features, these specifications are standard. It’s designed to fit into 19-inch server racks, and its weight of 5.5 kg (12 lbs) adds to its stability.

Product development: TP-Link’s future plans emphasize the importance of the Smart Home Ecosystem, a comprehensive solution for home automation. This vendor is also investing in developing the ColorProTM Night Vision technology, which promises to redefine security solutions. These strategic areas of focus underscore TP-Link’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions for your evolving needs.

Why we picked TP-Link TL-SG3452XP

We selected TL-SG3452XP because of its rich feature set, including its support for a complete lineup of L2 and L2+ features, such as static routing, enterprise-level QoS, and IGMP snooping. It also has extensive security strategies to help protect LAN area investment. Moreover, it brings standalone management capabilities through its web interface, CLI (Console Port, Telnet, SSH), SNMP, RMON, and Dual Image.

Pros and cons

Pricing

TP-Link doesn’t show prices for the TL-SG3452XP. Get in touch with their sales department to get to know more.

Features

• 10G uplink with four 10 Gbps SFP+ slots.
• PoE+ output with 500 W power budget.
• Centralized cloud management.
• L2 and L2+ features.
• Robust security strategies.
• Standalone management.
• Batch configuration.
• Batch firmware upgrading.
• Intelligent network monitoring.
• Abnormal event warnings.
• Reboot schedule.

TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg

Best for energy efficiency

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 4.5/5
• Core features: 2.75/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Scalability and performance: 4.25/5
• Ease of installation: 5/5

TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg delivers high-speed connectivity with 24 gigabit ports and stands out for its energy efficiency. This network switch uses GREENnet technology to adjust power consumption based on network traffic and link status, reducing power usage by up to 70% and promoting a sustainable network infrastructure.

Aside from being energy efficient, TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg has a 48 Gbps switching capacity, facilitating smooth data traffic flow and minimizing network bottlenecks. The switch also supports jumbo frames for the transmission of larger Ethernet frames up to 10KB.

Product design: TEG-S24Dg has metal housing that contributes to its long-lasting performance. It is also lightweight and fits well on a desktop, optimizing space utilization. Additionally, the switch has a built-in universal power supply, reducing cable clutter.

Product development: TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg replaced the TEG-S24Dg versions v1.0R and v2.0R to keep up with advancements in technology and changes in market demand. This new version has additional CB and UL/CUL certifications to the CE and FCC that the old versions had. These certifications indicate compliance with safety and operational standards in many regions.

Why we picked TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg

We included TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg as one of the best network switches because its high performance, energy efficiency and user-friendly design make it a valuable addition to any SMB network.

Pros and cons

Pricing

The TEG-S24Dg costs $104.49 on the TRENDnet website.

Features

• GREENnet technology reduces power consumption by up to 70%.
• 24 gigabit ports.
• 48Gbps forwarding capacity.
• Jumbo frame support.
• Fanless design.
• Internal universal power supply.
• Plug-and-play
• Complies with IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3x, IEEE 802.3ab, and IEEE 802.3az1.

Ubiquiti Unifi Switch 48-Port Gigabit Managed Network

Best for large-scale deployments

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 1.75/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 2.75/5
• Scalability and performance: 5/5
• Ease of installation: 5/5

The Ubiquiti Unifi Switch 48-Port Gigabit Managed Network features 48 gigabit Ethernet ports and four 1G SFP Ethernet ports, providing a total non-blocking throughput of 70 Gbps for high-performance networking. This switch is particularly suitable for large-scale deployments needing high data transfer rates.

One of the key features of this switch is its PoE support, which lets the switch supply power to connected devices over the Ethernet cables, reducing the need for separate power supplies. It also supports QoS features, streamlining the prioritization of different types of network traffic. Additionally, this product has built-in security features, such as access control lists (ACLs), authentication, port security, VLAN security, and secure remote access.

Product design: The switch is rack-mountable and is suitable for installation in server rooms. It has a sturdy steel casing, increasing durability. Its port and indicator layout on the front panel enables easy network connections monitoring and management.

Product development: Ubiquiti has recently introduced Network 8.0R, featuring a revamped UI for streamlined management. This update brings a host of improvements, like a new Port Manager that boosts control and visibility over individual ports. It also includes VLAN tagging visualization and shows you with a clear overview of VLAN configurations per port. This advancement offers greater control and insights into network segmentation, contributing to more efficient management and troubleshooting processes.

Why we picked Ubiquiti Unifi Switch 48-Port Gigabit Managed Network

We chose Ubiquiti Unifi Switch 48-Port Gigabit Managed Network for its high performance, comprehensive feature set, and security. This switch gives network administrators the tools they need to secure their networks and manage access effectively.

***Insert Fig G – Ubiquiti Unifi Switch 48-Port Gigabit Managed Network product image***

Pros and cons

Pricing

The Unifi Switch 48-Port Gigabit Managed Network is priced at $399.00 on Ubiquiti’s website.

Features

• 48 gigabit Ethernet ports
• PoE.
• UniFi Controller integration.
• VLAN support.
• Layer 2 switching.
• Rack-mountable design.
• Fanless design.
• Link aggregation.
• QoS settings.
• Energy-Efficient Ethernet (EEE).
• Loop prevention and detection.
• Port mirroring.
• Secure shell (SSH) support.
• Jumbo frame support.

Juniper EX2300

Best for branch and remote offices

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 2/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Scalability and performance: 5/5
• Ease of installation: 3.25/5

The Juniper EX2300 switches are well-suited for branch and remote offices due to their compact and scalable design. The switches in this series come in a form factor that is conducive to environments where space may be limited, making them an ideal fit for deployment in branch offices.

Despite their compact size, these switches offer scalability to accommodate the growing network needs of branch offices over time. It has high-speed connectivity with flexible uplink options for fast and reliable data transfer. Aside from this, the EX2300 series addresses security concerns prevalent in branch and remote offices with ACLs, port security, and support for network segmentation to prevent unauthorized access to the network infrastructure.

The EX2300 series brings redundant power options and link aggregation, increasing network resilience and minimizing downtime in the event of failures. It also includes the Junos OS to simplify network management tasks for remote administrators.

Product design: The EX2300 has a modern, compact design that is ideal for crowded wiring closets and access locations with space or power constraints. It is only one rack unit deep and has a low acoustic profile.

Product development: Juniper has progressively updated the EX2300 over time. Some models can now use PoE standards 802.3af Class 3 and 802.3at PoE+, which means they can provide power to different network devices. In addition, EX2300 switches now support cloud-based operations and are zero touch provisioning (ZTP) enabled. This promotes seamless onboarding, configuration, and management via Juniper Mist Wired Assurance.

Why we picked Juniper EX2300

On top of its advanced features, we picked the Juniper EX2300 series because of its reliable performance. It maintains high-performance with low latency and ensures efficient data transfer within the network. Furthermore, the switch supports Virtual Chassis technology for organizations that prioritize virtualization. This allows multiple interconnected switches to operate as a single, logical device.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Juniper Networks doesn’t post pricing details for the EX2300 switches on their page. Contact their sales team for detailed prices.

Features

• 24 gigabit Ethernet ports.
• Layer 2 and Layer 3 support.
• PoE/PoE+ support.
• Supports VLAN configurations for network segmentation.
• QoS features.
• MAC limiting, DHCP snooping, and DAI (Dynamic ARP Inspection.
• Operates on the Junos OS.
• Unified in-service software upgrade (ISSU).
• Juniper Virtual Chassis technology.
• Juniper Sky Enterprise integration.
• Port security.
• Web-based GUI and a CLI.
• Loop detection and prevention.
• Energy efficient.

D-Link DGS-1100-24PV2

Best for scalability

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 4/5
• Scalability and performance: 5/5
• Ease of installation: 3.25/5

The D-Link DGS-1100-24PV2 is a 24-port gigabit PoE Smart Managed switch with features to meet the needs of diverse networking environments. It has 24 gigabit Ethernet ports, including 12 PoE+ ports, giving high-speed wired connectivity and power for different devices.

One of the key strengths of the DGS-1100-24PV2 is its scalability. With a web-based management interface and smart managed features, the switch enables administrators to easily configure, monitor, and scale the network without the complexity of fully managed solutions. The inclusion of QoS and support for link aggregation further increases its scalability, making sure of appropriate resource allocation and more bandwidth as the network expands.

Product design: The DGS-1100-24PV2 is space saving and can be installed in a rack or placed on a desktop. This switch also has a fanless design, so it operates silently.

Product development: D-Link has broadened its product range with the launch of the DMS-106XT Multi Gigabit Unmanaged switch. This model delivers multi-gigabit connectivity to further enhance wired connections. A notable feature of this switch is its Turbo Mode, which intelligently prioritizes latency-sensitive applications for optimal performance.

Why we picked D-Link DGS-1100-24PV2

The D-Link DGS-1100-24PV2 is one of the best network switch products on our list because of its scalability, reliability, and D-Link’s overall brand reputation. The switch supports QoS, which prioritizes network traffic to keep critical network applications running at top performance. It also features Static MAC, allowing you to create a MAC allowlist for specific ports and protect your business network. What’s more, it comes with a lifetime warranty, demonstrating D-Link’s commitment to product quality and long-term customer confidence.

Pros and cons

Pricing

The DGS-1100-24PV2 costs $229.99 on D-Link’s official page.

Features

• 24 gigabit Ethernet ports.
• 12 PoE+ ports.
• 100W PoE budget.
• Auto surveillance VLAN.
• Auto voice VLAN.
• Bandwidth control.
• QoS features.
• Static MAC.
• Loopback detection and cable diagnostics.
• IGMP snooping.
• D-Link Network Assistant Utility (DNA) web-based interface for switch configuration.
• Fanless design.
• Energy efficient.
• Compact and rackmountable.

Key features of a network switch

Some of the most important features to consider when choosing the best network switch for your business include port density, data transfer speed, VLAN support, QoS, and PoE.

Port density

Port density refers to the number of ports or Ethernet interfaces the network switch has and determines how many devices can be directly connected to the switch.

High port density is important for scalability in growing networks, allowing for the accommodation of more devices without adding infrastructure. It also contributes to efficient resource utilization and reduces network complexity by consolidating devices.

Data transfer speed

Data transfer speed, measured in megabits or gigabits per second (Mbps/Gbps), signifies the data transmission rate between devices connected to the switch.

Faster data transfer speeds effectively support data-intensive applications and large file transfers. Higher speeds, such as 1 Gbps and 10 Gbps, contribute to smooth data transmission, preventing network congestion.

VLAN support

The VLAN support feature enables network segmentation into multiple virtual networks, with each VLAN operating separately. This provides isolation and control over network traffic, bolstering overall security and network organization.

VLAN support is critical in business settings where different departments or user groups call for separate network segments.

Quality of Service (QoS)

Quality of Service (QoS) encompasses a set of technologies and protocols that prioritize specific types of network traffic.

It is particularly valuable in environments with varying applications and bandwidth requirements. QoS also helps maintain consistent and high-quality experience for real-time applications like VoIP.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

Power over Ethernet (PoE) lets the network switch deliver both data and electrical power over the same Ethernet cable. As a result, devices like IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones can receive power and data over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation and eliminating the need for additional wires and power sources.

In a business environment, this feature facilitates the deployment of devices in locations with limited power outlets or where a clean and organized cabling infrastructure is necessary.

How we evaluated network switches

In order to find the best network switch, we meticulously examined and compared several network switches in the market today. We considered five major criteria in our assessment: cost, core features, customer support, scalability and performance, and ease of installation.

We evaluated the performance of each network switch for every criteria and rated them accordingly. Then we calculated their total scores.

Cost – 20%

For the Cost category, we considered the pricing range of each switch, its warranty, and pricing transparency of the network switch company.

Criterion winner: TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg

Core features – 40%

To grade the core features, we factored in port density, data transfer speed, management type, PoE, QoS, VLAN support, energy efficiency, and built-in security capability.

Criterion winners: Cisco Catalyst 9000, Ubiquiti Unifi Switch, and Juniper EX2300.

Customer support – 10%

To compute the scores for this criteria, we checked if each vendor offers several customer support options, like live chat, phone, email, active community, and in-depth documentation or knowledge base. We also verified if real-time assistance is available to customers 24/7.

Criterion winners: Cisco Catalyst 9000, NETGEAR MSM4352, Linksys LGS116P, and Juniper EX2300.

Scalability and performance – 15%

We measured scalability and performance separately for this category:

For scalability, we gauged the features offered by the network that will allow them to handle significant network growth. This includes scalability, PoE, QoS, and security features.

To evaluate performance, we checked the transfer speeds and latency of each network switch and researched any connectivity issues from numerous user reviews.

Criterion winners: Cisco Catalyst 9000, NETGEAR MSM4352, Ubiquiti Unifi Switch, and Juniper EX2300.

Ease of installation – 15%

We used two different methods to assess the ease of installation for managed and unmanaged switches.

For managed switches, we studied multiple user reviews from independent sources to determine if the network switch is easy to set up with clear instructions, and doesn’t need specialized knowledge.

For unmanaged switches, we checked if the switch has a plug-and-play functionality, eliminating complex networking configuration. We also reviewed customer feedback to find out if the switch is easy to install from the users’ perspectives.

Criterion winners: Cisco Catalyst 9000, NETGEAR MSM4352, Ubiquiti Unifi Switch, Linksys LGS116P, TRENDnet TEG-S24Dg, and TP-Link TL-SG3452XP.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is the leader in network switches?

After our rigorous assessment, we concluded that the leader in network switches when it comes to overall capability is Cisco Catalyst 9000.

In terms of business growth, the leader in network switches is Cisco according to MarketsandMarkets.

What is the most complex network switch?

Based on our research, the most complex switches are Juniper EX2300 and D-Link DGS-1100-24PV2. Users find these switches challenging to set up and configure.

Do home networks need robust network switches?

For small home networks with a few devices, a basic unmanaged switch is usually adequate. However, if your network involves bandwidth-intensive activities, like online gaming, 4K streaming, or multiple simultaneous video calls, investing in a more robust or managed switch, such as Cisco or NETGEAR, may be beneficial.

Bottom line: Choosing the best switch for your network

There are several factors you have to consider in choosing the best network switch for your needs. Aside from finding the fastest Ethernet switch, you also have to take cost, customer support quality, scalability, and ease of installation into consideration.

This recommendation for best network switches serves as a guide to help you find the most trusted enterprise networking companies and switches that can meet your requirements.

Read our recommendation on the best network security software and tools for enterprises to effectively protect your networks from unauthorized access, data breach, and cyber threats.

The post 9 Best Network Switches for 2024: Speed and Features Compared appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Investing in an SMB firewall is a proactive step that bolsters the overall security posture of growing businesses, minimizing the risks associated with cyberthreats and ensuring business continuity.

Here are our top recommendations for best firewalls for small and medium business networks:

• Perimeter 81: Best overall firewall for small and medium businesses
• SonicWall TZ: Best for advanced security and operational simplicity
• Palo Alto Networks: Best for complete visibility and control
• pfSense: Best free, open source firewall
• Sophos XGS: Best for flexible deployment and protection
• Cisco Meraki MX: Best for remote work
• Fortinet FortiGate: Best for hybrid cloud environments
• Zscaler Cloud Firewall: Best for multi-cloud environments

Top SMB firewall software comparison

The comparison table below shows the key differences between SMB firewalls. It gives a summary of the type of firewall product, the available firewall appliance selection, features, and pricing transparency to help you choose the best firewall for small business enterprises:

Perimeter 81

Best overall firewall for small and medium businesses

Overall rating: 4.75/5

• Cost: 4.25/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 4/5
• Integrations: 4.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Perimeter 81’s Firewall as a Service (FWaaS) delivers advanced security features, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO) integration, strong encryption, automatic Wi-Fi protection, and malware protection. It also works seamlessly with various cloud IaaS environments, on-premises firewalls, routers, or SD-WAN devices, making it a flexible and adaptable solution for businesses of all sizes.

As a cloud-based solution, Perimeter 81 FWaaS eliminates the need for physical hardware, reducing costs and easing deployment. It is also scalable, allowing businesses to adjust their security measures as they grow. The solution is manageable from anywhere, at any time, promoting convenience and flexibility.

Recent product development:

Check Point Software Technologies acquired Perimeter 81 in August 2023. Check Point will integrate Perimeter 81’s capabilities into its Infinity architecture for a unified security solution across the network, cloud, and remote users. Perimeter 81 is ideally positioned to enhance Check Point’s secure SASE solution.

Why we picked Perimeter 81

Perimeter 81 emerged as our best overall firewall for small business enterprises and medium organizations because it has a comprehensive feature set, wide variety of integrations, and reliable customer support. On top of that, it offers flexible pricing options and is fairly easy to set up and manage.

Its simple user interface (UI) promotes a seamless experience even for non-technical users to navigate and perform tasks, like creating, managing, and securing custom networks that span across multiple regions. Its ability to integrate with major identity providers and support for various VPN protocols make it a versatile solution that can cater to a wide range of business needs.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Perimeter 81 offers the following pricing plans for its FWaaS. It is one of the few vendors who displays pricing information on their page.

• Premium: $12 per user per month (minimum of 10 users).
• Premium Plus: $16 per user per month (minimum of 20 users).
• Enterprise: Contact sales.

Features

• Firewall as a Service (FWaaS).
• Zero trust network access (ZTNA).
• Traffic filtering rules.
• Encrypted tunneling.
• Malware protection.
• Web filtering.
• Split tunneling.
• Agentless access.
• Multi-factor authentication (2FA/MFA).
• Bank-level AES-256 encryption and individual user-to-app SSL connections.
• Automatic Wi-Fi protection.
• DNS filtering.
• Device posture check.
• Monitoring dashboard.
• Site-to-site interconnectivity.
• Ensures zero trust access across iOS and Android devices as well as PC, Linux, and Mac desktops.
• Granular control allows you to Segment Layer 3 and 4 access based on user or group identity, using network policy rules.

SonicWall TZ

Best for advanced security and operational simplicity

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 4.75/5
• Customer support: 3.5/5
• Integrations: 4/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

The SonicWall TZ series is a robust line of next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) providing a unique blend of sophisticated security features and operational simplicity. It has cutting-edge capabilities, such as Real-Time Deep Memory Inspection (RTDMI) technology, advanced firewall protection, and multilayer malware protection.

RTDMI proactively detects and blocks unknown mass-market malware in real-time. This, coupled with threat prevention and integrated security solutions, boosts protection against a wide array of threats. Its firewall security offers network management, anti-spam, and a real-time sandbox. Furthermore, its multilayer malware protection eradicates known, new, and updated ransomware variants, and can roll back endpoints to their prior clean state.

Despite its advanced features, the SonicWall TZ series gives importance to operational simplicity. Features like Zero-Touch Deployment streamline the installation and operation process, while the single-pane-of-glass management feature allows for centralized control of all firewall operations. In terms of design, SonicWall TZ  balances modern security and ease of use, making it a compelling choice for businesses seeking a reliable and manageable network security solution.

Recent product development:

SonicWall acquired Solutions Granted, Inc. (SGI), a top Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP), expanding its line of cybersecurity solutions. These combined solutions will leverage the latest in AI to provide a differentiated service.

Why we picked SonicWall TZ

We picked SonicWall TZ because of its user-centric design and around-the-clock protection against persistent cyberattacks. Its network firewall can defend your organization from malware, ransomware, viruses, intrusions, botnets, spyware, trojans, worms, and other malicious attacks.

Aside from that, SonicWall’s clear and intuitive UI can help you quickly understand the status of the firewall, potential security incidents, and other relevant information.

Pros and cons

Pricing

SonicWall doesn’t publish pricing information on their page. Get in touch with their sales department for more details.

Features

• Advanced threat prevention with deep memory inspection.
• Multi-core, parallel-processing hardware architecture.
• Secure SD-WAN.
• Integrated PoE/PoE+ support.
• SonicExpress App onboarding.
• Real-Time Deep Memory Inspection (RTDMI).
• Capture Advanced Threat Protection (ATP).
• Single-pane-of-glass management and reporting.
• SSL/TLS decryption and inspection.
• Application usage control across the network.
• Connect from virtually any operating system (OS).
• Detects and removes hidden threats over its VPN connection.
• Anti-malware.
• Application identification.
• Enhanced dashboard.
• Intrusion prevention.
• Content filtering.

Palo Alto Networks

Best for complete visibility and control

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 2/5
• Integrations: 4.5/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

Palo Alto Networks NGFW brings advanced threat prevention, URL filtering, and application visibility and control. One of its standout features is its use of machine learning (ML) capabilities to protect your organization against a vast majority of unknown file and web-based threats instantly. This NGFW adapts and provides real-time protection, offering a level of security that is hard to match.

Palo Alto Networks NGFWs leverage key technologies built into PAN‑OS natively, namely App‑ID, Content‑ID, Device-ID, and User‑ID, to give complete visibility and control of the applications across all users and devices in all locations all the time. Additionally, it can extend visibility to unmanaged IoT devices without the need to deploy additional sensors.

That said, it has an elaborate UI that could make it harder to perform configurations.

Recent product development:

Palo Alto added a feature in August 2023 to further expand its NGFW’s capabilities. Its newly enhanced Capacity Analyzer uses ML models to anticipate resource consumption nearing its maximum capacity and raise alerts in advance to flag potential capacity bottlenecks. This proactive approach makes sure that you receive early notifications about possible capacity constraints, so you can take preemptive action to safeguard your business operations.

Why we picked Palo Alto Networks NGFW

We selected Palo Alto Networks NGFW for its scalability and broad integration capabilities. These NGFWs are deployable in various environments, including on-premises and cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, letting SMBs grow and adapt their network security as their business needs change. Moreover, its integration with different third-party tools, like cloud platforms and third-party VPN clients delivers flexibility in securing your network.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Palo Alto Networks doesn’t offer pricing information on their website. To know more, contact their sales team.

Features

• Advanced threat detection.
• Complete visibility and control of the applications in use across all users and devices.
• Protects against unknown file and web-based threats instantly.
• Automated policy recommendations.
• IoT security.
• Threat prevention and DNS security.
• URL filtering.
• Data filtering.
• File blocking.
• WildFire malware analysis prevents zero-day exploits and malware.
• Built-in GlobalProtect VPN.
• User-ID and Device-ID.

pfSense

Best free, open source firewall

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 5/5
• Core features: 3.75/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Integrations: 3.5/5
• Ease of use: 3.5/5

pfSense, developed and maintained by Netgate, is a free, open-source firewall with a wide range of features, such as stateful packet inspection, IP/DNS-based filtering, anti-spoofing, captive portal guest network, time-based rules, and connection limits. It also comes with NAT mapping, policy-based routing, concurrent IPv4 and IPv6 support, and configurable static routing.

What sets pfSense apart from other SMB firewalls is its versatility and cost-effectiveness. You can deploy it with limited hardware resources, making it a low-cost solution for SMBs. In addition, its open-source nature allows for a high degree of customization, enabling it to support numerous use cases.

While pfSense’s UI is designed to be user-friendly, setting up and configuring the software requires a certain level of technical skills. This entails an understanding of networking concepts, firewall rules, and VPNs.

If you’re new to pfSense, there are many resources available to help you get started, including the official documentation, community forums, and several online tutorials. However, if you’re setting up a complex network or you’re not comfortable with these concepts, it might be a good idea to consult with a network professional to avoid security risks.

Recent product development:

Netgate continuously updates pfSense community edition, with the latest update just released recently. This update includes OpenSSL upgrade, introduces Kea DHCP as a feature you can opt into, and enhances SCTP support. Since 2008, Netgate has been the steward of pfSense and has provided resources for its development.

Why we picked pfSense

We selected pfSense because of its affordability and flexibility. Since it is free to use and modify, it could bring a significant advantage for SMBs operating on a tight budget. The solution is also customizable to meet the specific needs of different networks, from basic network security to complex protection. So, whether you’re looking for the best firewall for small business ventures or for startups with financial constraints, pfSense could be an ideal choice.

Pros and cons

Pricing

pfSense has free and paid versions. The pricing for paid plans are as follows:

• Premium: $129 per year
• (Cloud) pfSense on AWS: From $0.01/hr to $0.40/hr

Contact Netgate for additional details.

Features

• Stateful packet inspection.
• IP/DNS-based filtering blocks web traffic from entire countries.
• Built-in anti-spoofing capabilities.
• Captive portal guest network.
• Supports time-based rules.
• Allows you to set connection limits.
• NAT mapping (Inbound/Outbound).
• Policy-based routing.
• Concurrent IPv4 and IPv6 support.
• Configurable static routing.

Sophos XGS

Best for flexible deployment and protection

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 4.75/5
• Integrations: 4/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

The Sophos XGS Series firewall gives comprehensive protection for SMBs through deep learning technology for advanced threat prevention and synchronized security that integrates firewall and endpoint defense.

Additionally, Sophos XGS firewalls have built-in web and email protection, network visibility, and flexible deployment options. They also use a pioneering form of ML to detect known and unknown malware without relying on signatures. Together, these features can effectively defend against different cyberthreats, making Sophos firewalls a reliable solution for network security.

The UI design of Sophos XGS presents an all-in-one view of different security aspects, like system status, traffic insights, user and devices, active firewall rules, and alerts. This detailed design, although informative, may be overwhelming to some users.

Recent product development:

Sophos has incorporated a new feature called Active Threat Response in its Sophos Firewall v20. This feature offers an immediate and automated reaction to active threats. Analysts from Sophos XDR and MDR can directly send threat intelligence to firewalls from Sophos Central. This allows the firewalls to instantly coordinate defenses without requiring manual intervention or creating new firewall rules.

Why we picked Sophos XGS

Aside from its rich feature set, we picked Sophos XGS because it gives you flexible deployment options. You can choose from hardware, software, virtual, or cloud deployments to fit your specific network requirements, budget, and IT environment. Furthermore, having multiple deployment options lets you scale your security solutions in line with your business growth.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Sophos doesn’t reveal information about their payment models on their pricing page. Reach out to their sales department to get a quote.

Features

• Deep packet inspection (DPI).
• Encrypted traffic.
• Zero-day and ML protection.
• Cloud sandbox.
• Web protection.
• Synchronized security.
• Active threat protection.
• Application control.
• Web control.
• Content control.
• Business application defense.
• Email and data protection.
• SD-WAN.
• Central SD-WAN orchestration.
• Site-to-site VPN.
• Remote access VPN.
• Wireless controller.
• Enterprise-grade networking for NAT, routing, and bridging.
• Network segmentation.
• Dashboard and alerts.
• Central management.

Cisco Meraki MX

Best for remote work

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Integrations: 3.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Cisco Meraki MX is a unified threat management (UTM) and software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) with a wide array of sophisticated firewall services. Alongside site-to-site VPN, it has intrusion prevention capabilities powered by SNORT, a Cisco-developed system. It also includes content filtering, anti-malware protection, and geo-based firewalling features.

Meraki MX comes with features particularly beneficial for remote work, like employee onboarding, secure cloud access, quick BYOD set-up, and data protection. Its cloud-based management also facilitates remote system management, configuration, and installation, which are crucial for remote work scenarios. Moreover, the Meraki Systems Manager accelerates remote employee onboarding with seamless provisioning. This means new employees can quickly get set up with the tools they need to work from home.

The Meraki dashboard displays complete network and application data, making it easier for IT teams to monitor and manage the network remotely. It has a simple and straightforward UI that streamlines network administration tasks. It allows you to track all Meraki products in a single, consolidated dashboard.

Recent product development:

Cisco Meraki introduced its Colorblind Assist Mode, adjusting the dashboard colors to make it easier for customers who are colorblind or have low vision issues to view information at a glance. It also has updates for remote network traffic analysis flow improvement and network security enhancement.

Why we picked Cisco Meraki MX

We chose the Cisco Meraki MX series for its extensive features and accessibility. These features include application layer filtering, customizable security policies, and advanced logging and reporting capabilities, all of which cater to a wide range of network requirements. The Meraki MX series’ cloud-based platform further enhances accessibility, enabling your distributed workforce to securely access a reliable connection to your corporate resources from any location.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Cisco Meraki has a product catalog with pricing details on hardware appliances and estimates. For full pricing information, contact their sales team.

Features

• Cloud-managed IT.
• Comprehensive product portfolio.
• Access point range and signal strength maximization.
• Adaptive security.
• Cloud networking dashboard.
• UTM and SD-WAN solution.
• Full traffic visibility.
• Remote work support.
• Customer experience analysis.
• Lets you adjust traffic limits and block websites per user or network for productivity and compliance.

Fortinet FortiGate

Best for hybrid cloud environments

Overall rating: 4.5/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 4.5/5
• Integrations: 4.75/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

FortiGate, a high-performance firewall and network security platform, forms the backbone of Security Fabric, Fortinet’s solution for multi-cloud security. It provides a vast array of security and networking capabilities, such as comprehensive stateful inspection, packet filtering, DPI, and intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS). Additionally, it offers application layer filtering, antivirus and antimalware protection, and web content filtering, among other features.

FortiGate is a good fit for hybrid cloud environments as it has solid security features that can protect the communication between on-premises and cloud-based resources. It also supports various deployment modes, including an extensive selection of hardware appliances, virtual appliances, and cloud-native instances. In addition, this NGFW brings dynamic micro- and macro-segmentation to prevent the lateral spread of malware, which is particularly imperative in hybrid environments.

FortiGate has a user-friendly and clear UI design that gives an overview of everything from your network to logs and reports. It also has charts that help you understand risks at a glance and controls that allow you to sort data the way you prefer.

Recent product development:

Fortinet’s strategic expansion with Digital Realty, a global leader in data center, colocation, and interconnection services, marks a significant step forward in its commitment to providing robust and scalable security solutions. This partnership enhances Fortinet’s ability to deliver its Universal Security Architecture (USG) across Digital Realty’s extensive network of data centers worldwide. This means that as a Fortinet customer, you can scale your security infrastructure for optimal protection regardless of your organization’s size.

Why we picked Fortinet FortiGate

We chose Fortinet FortiGate for its ability to simplify management processes without sacrificing efficiency. It provides centralized control and visibility into suspicious activities, anomalies, and advanced threats. Moreover, its SSL-inspection feature does not slow down network speed, eliminating compromise between security and performance.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Fortinet doesn’t show pricing information for FortiGate. Contact their sales team for complete pricing information.

Features

• NGFW with unified management for hybrid mesh firewall.
• Deep visibility and security.
• AI/ML security and enterprise networking convergence.
• Integrated SD-WAN, switching and wireless, and 5G features.
• Centralized management console.
• SSL/TLS inspection scans encrypted traffic.
• Application control.
• Intrusion prevention.
• Multi-layered security.
• Robust integration.
• Highly-customizable security policies.
• Various customer support options.

Zscaler Cloud Firewall

Best for multi-cloud environments

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Integrations: 4.5/5
• Ease of use: 4.25/5

Zscaler Cloud Firewall is a cloud-based solution that forms an integral part of the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange. It offers comprehensive security for users, data, and devices, providing real-time visibility and control over network traffic. This firewall supports granular control, allowing centralized policy management for all users and traffic. It also integrates seamlessly with other Zscaler services for a unified security approach.

Zscaler Cloud Firewall’s architecture promotes scalability and ease of management. It lets you protect users, data, and devices no matter where they are. This makes it particularly suitable for multi-cloud environments, where traditional hardware firewalls may struggle to deliver consistent protection across diverse platforms and locations.

With a minimalistic and modern design, Zscaler’s UI facilitates quick access to key features, such as rule configurations, analytics, and firewall controls. The logical organization of menus and the use of visual elements contribute to a seamless user experience, making it accessible for admins to implement firewall policies effortlessly.

Recent product development:

In November 2023, Zscaler unveiled major updates to its Zero Trust Exchange platform to bolster cloud workload security. Notable features include the ability to create custom security groups on AWS through user-defined tags, real-time resource discovery, and multi-session VDI security inspection for public cloud deployments. Additionally, Zscaler expands its cloud coverage to include Google Cloud Platform, Azure China Regions, and AWS GovCloud with FedRAMP certification, expanding its solutions across major public cloud providers.

Why we picked Zscaler Cloud Firewall

We picked Zscaler Cloud Firewall because its cloud-first approach enables scalability and centralized management for consistent security policies across multi-cloud deployments, which is especially important today, where remote work continues to grow.

Pros and cons

Pricing

According to Zscaler’s pricing page, its firewall solution is included in Transformation and Unlimited plans in Zscaler for Users Editions and Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA) Editions. However, it doesn’t publish actual pricing information on their page. Get in touch with their sales team to learn more.

Features

• Cloud-based protection.
• Zero trust security.
• SSL Inspection.
• Real-time protection.
• Centralized policy management for all users and traffic.
• User-based policies.
• Global coverage.
• Traffic inspection.
• Bandwidth control.
• Advanced attack detection.
• Secures direct-to-internet connections elastically for all hybrid and branch traffic.
• Always-on cloud IPS and custom signature.
• Secure DNS.
• Identifies and intercepts evasive and encrypted cyberthreats using non-standard ports.
• User- and app-aware threat protection with dynamic, follow-me policies on and off the corporate network.
• Creates flexible access policy to cloud services and PaaS/IaaS.

Key features of SMB firewall software

Core features of an SMB firewall includes stateful inspection and packet filtering, intrusion detection and prevention, VPN support, application layer filtering, and logging and reporting.

Stateful inspection and packet filtering

Stateful inspection and packet filtering are crucial to a firewall as they form the first line of defense in network security, making sure that only safe and necessary traffic gets through. This not only protects the network and its data, but also optimizes network performance by eliminating unwanted traffic.

Stateful inspection actively scrutinizes the context of ongoing connections and permits or restricts traffic flow depending on the connection’s state. On the other hand, packet filtering evaluates individual packets against a set of predefined rules. It ensures that only legitimate connections are established and minimizes the chances of unauthorized access to sensitive business data.

Intrusion detection and prevention system (IDPS)

Intrusion detection and prevention system (IDPS) monitors network or system activities for suspicious behavior or known attack patterns. It strengthens the firewall’s effectiveness by offering an additional layer of security that goes beyond basic access control. IDPS actively mitigates detected threats and provides real-time prevention, decreasing the risk of data breaches and protecting the integrity of business operations.

VPN support

Good virtual private network (VPN) support enables secure communication over the internet by encrypting data transmissions between connected devices. This firewall feature is vital for safeguarding remote access, protecting confidential business communications, and guaranteeing the privacy of sensitive data.

Application layer filtering

Application layer filtering examines data at the application layer of the OSI model. It controls application usage, mitigating risks from unauthorized or non-business-critical applications, and maintains network efficiency. This feature not only boosts security, but also optimizes network performance, reduces potential cyberthreats, and supports efficient network resource utilization.

Logging and reporting

The firewall’s logging and reporting feature records network activities and generates detailed reports so network administrators can monitor traffic, spot patterns, detect anomalies, and troubleshoot issues. This feature gives visibility into network activities, aids in identifying and mitigating security threats promptly, and presents compliance evidence, thereby maximizing the firewall’s effectiveness.

How we evaluated SMB firewall software

To ensure a data-driven evaluation for this best small business firewall review, we meticulously compared and scrutinized different SMB firewall solutions. Five major criteria make up our assessment. These include cost, core features, customer support, integrations, and ease of use.

We measured each firewall provider’s performance against each of these criteria and scored them based on their effectiveness. We then aggregated the scores for each SMB firewall software provider.

Cost – 20%

To compute the scores for this criteria, we considered each company’s pricing model, transparency, and the availability of a free trial, as well as its duration. We favored free trials over money-back guarantees, as they usually allow potential buyers to test the service without making any initial payments.

Criteria winner: pfSense

Core features – 40%

For core features, we examined the range of features each SMB firewall offered as a built-in capability. We measured features such as stateful inspection and packet filtering, IDPS, VPN support, application layer filtering, web content filtering, antivirus and malware protection, logging and reporting, centralized management, customizable security policies, and user authentication and access control. We took the extensiveness of hardware appliance selection into consideration, if applicable.

Criteria winners: Perimeter 81, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet FortiGate, and Zscaler Cloud Firewall.

Customer support – 10%

We factored in the availability of live chat, phone, and email support, active community, and in-depth documentation or knowledge base to all users across all payment tiers to calculate the scores for customer support. We also considered customer support knowledge and response times.

Criteria winner: Sophos XGS

Integrations – 20%

For integrations, we assessed the number of third-party integrations each SMB firewall directly integrates with. We primarily focused on relevant solutions, like identity providers, SIEM systems, authentication systems, cloud services, endpoint security solutions, and VPN solutions. We also checked if the firewall integrates with threat intelligence feeds and supports custom integrations.

Criteria winner: Fortinet FortiGate

Ease of use – 10%

To determine scores for this criteria, we considered the ease of deployment and management of the SMB firewall solutions for users of different technical skill levels.

Criteria winners: Perimeter 81, SonicWall TZ Series, Cisco Meraki MX, and Fortinet FortiGate

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Cloud firewall vs. traditional firewall for small business

Choosing between a cloud firewall and a traditional firewall for small business enterprises isn’t a straightforward decision. It depends on several factors, like your business needs, budget, IT resources, and work setup. Here’s a quick comparison to give you an idea:

In some cases, a combination of both or a hybrid approach might be the best option. It’s important to evaluate your specific situation and consult with a cybersecurity expert before making a decision.

What are the different types of SMB firewalls?

There are many different types of SMB firewalls, like UTM firewalls, NGFWs, software firewalls, hardware firewalls, and cloud-based firewalls or FWaaS:

• Unified threat management (UTM) firewalls: UTM firewalls are all-in-one solutions with multiple security features, such as antivirus, intrusion detection/prevention, and content filtering.
• Next-generation firewalls (NGFWs): Advanced firewalls do more than the traditional packet filtering firewall, incorporating features like application-layer filtering and threat intelligence.
• Software firewalls: Installed on individual servers or computers to control traffic at the software level, like Windows Firewall.
• Hardware firewalls: Physical devices placed between the internal network and the internet to filter and monitor traffic. They generally include additional security features.
• Cloud-based firewalls or firewall-as-a-service (FWaaS): Offered as a service, these firewalls secure cloud-based applications and services. They are best suited for SMBs relying on cloud infrastructure.

Bottom line: Choosing the best firewall for your business

To choose the best firewall for small business ventures, you must consider several factors, including your enterprise needs, the structure of your business, available IT resources, and your budget. Finding the right firewall for your organization can help you take proactive measures to safeguard your growing business from potential threats and maintain the trust and confidence of your customers.

We have created this best small business firewall review to guide you in making the right decision. It will provide you with sufficient information to determine which SMB firewall is most compatible with your organization.

With a firewall in place, don’t neglect supporting documentation! Read our quick guide to establishing a firewall policy for your organization, complete with free, downloadable template.

The post 8 Best Firewalls for Small & Medium Business (SMB) Networks appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

A mobile virtual private network (VPN) establishes a secure and encrypted connection between a mobile device and a private network to prevent unauthorized access and ensure privacy. In an office setting, it allows employees to connect to corporate resources safely from any location.

Mobile VPNs are particularly important for businesses with remote workforces relying on mobile devices, like smart phones and tablets to access public Wi-Fi networks.

Here are our picks for the best Mobile VPN solutions in 2024:

• ProtonVPN for Business: Best overall mobile VPN.
• Windscribe: Best free mobile VPN with unlimited online protection.
• NordLayer: Best for businesses with multiple locations.
• Surfshark: Best for businesses with remote work locations.
• Private Internet Access: Best for data protection.
• ExpressVPN: Best for high-speed connections.
• CyberGhost VPN: Best cost-effective solution for small teams.
• TorGuard VPN: Best for secure P2P file sharing.

Top mobile VPN software comparison

This comparison table gives an overview of the different attributes of each mobile VPN solution. It shows the maximum number of simultaneous device connections the VPNs allow, App Store and Google Play Store ratings, availability and duration of free trial, as well as pricing details:

Proton VPN for Business

Best overall mobile VPN

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 4.5/5
• Core features: 4.75/5
• Customer support: 2.75/5
• Integrations: 3.75/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Proton VPN stands out as the best VPN for mobile on our list due to its comprehensive suite of features for network security and private internet access. It can meet the needs of businesses in various industries since it offers protection for remote, hybrid, or traveling employees and leasing of dedicated servers and IP addresses.

What sets Proton VPN apart is its advanced security features, including built-in protection against man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks. Its apps operate over hostile networks and will proactively warn you if they detect MITM attack attempts.

This mobile VPN provider also delivers private gateways, organization management, and customized solutions for different organizations.

• Jurisdiction: Switzerland
• Platforms: Android, iOS, ChromeOS, Windows, MacOS, Linux
• Server locations: 65+ countries

Pros and cons

Pricing

Aside from offering a free version, Proton VPN has 1 month, 1 year, and 2 year pricing options for the following plans:

• VPN Essentials: $6.99 per user per month
• VPN Business: $9.99 per user per month
• VPN Enterprise: Contact sales

Features

• Always-on kill switch.
• Split tunneling.
• DNS protection.
• NetShield Ad-Blocker stops malware, ads, and website trackers.
• VPN Accelerator increases your VPN speeds.
• Secure Core defends against network-based attacks.
• Stealth VPN protocol evades detection and allows you to bypass most firewalls and VPN blocking methods.
• Strong encryption using AES-256 or ChaCha20.
• Multi-platform support.
• No-logs policy.
• IP leak protection.
• Lets users change VPN protocols.
• Uses alternative routing to unblock servers.

Windscribe

Best free mobile VPN with unlimited online protection

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 5/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 2.75/5
• Integrations: 2.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Windscribe is the best free VPN for unlimited online protection because of its broad set of features and firm dedication to user privacy, even for its free version. Its free plan includes servers in 11 countries and up to 10GB of data every month — with an unlimited number of simultaneous connections.

This VPN’s advanced R.O.B.E.R.T. feature blocks IPs and domains on all devices and uses high-grade encryption with AES-256 cipher with SHA512 auth and a 4096-bit RSA key. It guarantees that your online activities remain secure.

Lastly, Windscribe’s ability to unblock geo-restricted content is a significant advantage for businesses that operate internationally, as it lets you access global content and services.

• Jurisdiction: Canada
• Platforms:  Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome, Firefox, FireTV, Mac, Huawei
• Server locations: 63 countries

Pros and cons

Pricing

Windscribe offers monthly, yearly, and custom pricing:

• Monthly: $9.00/user/month
• Yearly: $5.75/user/month
• Build A Plan: Starting at $1.00/location/month (minimum $3 per month)

Connect with their sales department for additional pricing details.

Features

• Minimal logging.
• Uses AES-256 encryption with SHA512 auth and a 4096-bit RSA key.
• Static IPs.
• IP masking.
• Port forwarding.
• Split tunneling.
• Built-in firewall.
• Secure hotspot.
• Creates proxy gateway.
• Ad blocking.
• Changes your timezone.
• Keeps track of cookies that are set, and deletes them on tab close.
• Randomly rotates your user agent to reduce the chance of basic fingerprinting.
• Blocks WebRTC to prevent leaks outside of the tunnel.
• Spoofs your GPS to the location of the connected proxy.
• R.O.B.E.R.T. feature blocks IPs and domains of your choice on all devices.
• Auto Pilot feature automatically picks the best location for you.
• Double hopping lets you route your internet traffic through any 2 servers on the Windscribe network.

NordLayer

Best for businesses with multiple locations

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 3/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

NordLayer is a network access security solution based on Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Zero Trust frameworks. With its global server pool and seamless integration capabilities, it is particularly well-suited for businesses with multiple office locations. Additionally, the solution is highly scalable, which is crucial for enterprises with several branches. It brings a dedicated business VPN, so your whole team can safely access company resources remotely, connect to any public Wi-Fi, and explore region-specific content. 

The solution has a range of features including SaaS security for internet, network, and resource access, AES-256 encryption, user authentication and management, and network monitoring. NordLayer also includes a ThreatBlock feature that blocks harmful websites and advertisements. Adhering to a strict No-Logs Policy, this mobile VPN guarantees that it does not log any of your online activities.

While NordLayer doesn’t offer a free trial, it provides a money-back guarantee, allowing you to explore its features at zero risk.

• Jurisdiction: Panama
• Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux
• Server locations: 33 countries

Pros and cons

Pricing

NordLayer offers the following pricing plans:

• Lite: $8 per user per month
• Core: $11 per user per month
• Premium: $14 per user per month

For custom pricing for large enterprises, contact NordLayer’s sales department.

Features

• Site-to-site VPN.
• Dedicated IP.
• DNS filtering.
• Virtual private gateways.
• Shared gateways.
• NordLynx.
• Network segmentation.
• Smart remote access.
• Custom DNS.
• Threat prevention.
• Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).
• Split tunneling.
• Device posture check.
• Always-on VPN.
• VPN gateway.
• Cloud firewall.
• ThreatBlock.
• Single sign-on (SSO).
• Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA).
• Cloud access security brokers (CASBs).
• Secure web gateways (SWGs).
• Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaas).

Surfshark

Best for businesses with remote work locations 

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 3/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Integrations: 3.75/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Surfshark has a comprehensive suite of online privacy and security solutions catering to both individual and business needs. It is ideal for enterprises with remote employees, especially because of its NoBorders mode that allows you to operate in regions with internet censorship. In addition, its unlimited device connections makes it a suitable choice for organizations with a large number of employees or devices.

The platform brings features such as malware protection, ad-blocking, and split tunneling. It also has unique privacy features like a private DNS on each server and a camouflage mode that ensures even your internet provider can’t tell you’re using a VPN.

• Jurisdiction: Netherlands
• Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and various smart TVs
• Server locations: More than 100 countries

**Insert Fig C – Surfshark interface**

Pros and cons

Pricing

Surfshark has different pricing plans for 1 month, 12 month, and 24 month subscriptions:

• Surfshark Starter (with 3 free months): $1.99 per user per month
• Surfshark One (with 4 free months): $2.69 per user per month
• Surfshark One+ (with 5 free months): $3.99 per user per month

Features

• Alternative ID.
• Antivirus.
• Organic search results without ads or trackers.
• Secure VPN.
• Ad blocker.
• Cookie pop-up blocker.
• Private search engine.
• Webcam protection.
• Anti-spyware and malware protection.
• Real-time email breach alerts.
• Real-time credit card and ID breach alerts.
• Personal data security reports.
• Personal detail generator.
• Masked email generator.
• Removes your data from databases (available in USA, CA, UK, and EU).

Private Internet Access

Best for data protection

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 3/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Integrations: 0/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN specializes in data protection and uses 128-bit or 256-bit AES as encryption ciphers to prevent ISPs and other prying eyes from monitoring your activity. This makes PIA beneficial for businesses that handle sensitive data, such as tech companies, financial institutions, and healthcare organizations.

Furthermore, PIA empowers businesses to bypass geographical restrictions, making it an excellent choice for global businesses. It operates under a strict no-logs policy, meaning it doesn’t track, store, record, or sell your browsing data. By masking your IP address and encrypting your data, PIA helps shield your business from potential data breaches and cyber threats.

• Jurisdiction: USA
• Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux
• Server locations: 91 countries

Pros and cons

Pricing

Private Internet Access has three pricing plans:

• 1 month: $11.95 per user per month
• 1 year: $3.33 per user per month
• 3 years + 4 months free: $1.98 per user per month

Features

• Masks IP address.
• No logs policy.
• VPN encryption.
• Split tunneling.
• Unlimited device connections.
• Unlimited bandwidth.
• Router VPN.
• Block ads, trackers, and malware.
• Advanced kill switch.
• Allows you to set your VPN to connect automatically on certain network types.
• Channels traffic through an additional server to boost defense.
• Adds a layer of SSL encryption for data to look like regular web traffic
• DNS leak protection.
• Port forwarding.

ExpressVPN

Best for high-speed connections

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 3/5
• Core features: 4.25/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Integrations: 2.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

ExpressVPN is a versatile VPN service provider that’s more focused on individual use rather than enterprise. However, businesses can still benefit from its rich feature set, including capabilities for secure file sharing, accessing geo-restricted content, and split tunneling. Some of its standout features include IP address masking and its proprietary Lightway Protocol.

ExpressVPN has high-speed connections, thanks to its Lightway Protocol feature. This VPN protocol is lightweight and connects quickly, often in just a fraction of a second. On top of that, it uses less battery, making it suitable for high-intensity tasks that require fast internet access, such as videoconferencing, large file transfers, or real-time collaboration.

While ExpressVPN doesn’t have a free trial, it provides you with a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can enjoy a risk-free period to try out the service.

• Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands
• Platforms: iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux, routers, game consoles, and smart TVs
• Server locations: 105 countries

Pros and cons

Pricing

ExpressVPN offers the following pricing plans:

• 1 month: $12.95 per user
• 6 months: $9.99 per user per month
• 12 Months + 3 months free: $6.67 per user per month

Features

• Global server locations.
• IP address masking.
• Multi-platform support.
• Split tunneling.
• Network lock kill switch.
• Private DNS.
• AES-256 encryption.
• No logs policy.
• Block ads, trackers, and harmful sites.
• Lightway Protocol enables faster, more secure, and more reliable VPN experience.
• Speed test feature lets you choose the fastest server location for your network.

CyberGhost VPN

Best cost-effective solution for small teams

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 3/5
• Core features: 4.25/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Integrations: 2.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

CyberGhost VPN primarily serves individual users but also extends its capabilities to businesses. The solution comes with a wide array of features, including a verified no-log policy, a vast network of servers, military-grade encryption, and dedicated servers. Moreover, it promotes comprehensive anonymity with its IP masking and using RAM-only servers.

This VPN is a good choice if you’re looking for a cost-effective mobile VPN for your small team. It lets you connect up to seven devices simultaneously with one subscription. Aside from savings, having a limited number of connected devices will make it easier for you to monitor usage of your team, manage renewals, and maintain overall account control.

CyberGhost VPN has a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, so your team can thoroughly test the solution before making a commitment.

• Jurisdiction: Romania
• Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, MacOS, Amazon Firestick, Android TV, Chrome, and Firefox
• Server locations: More than 90 countries

Pros and cons

Pricing

CyberGhost VPN offers the following pricing plans:

• 1 month: $12.99 per user
• 6 months: $6.99 per user per month
• 2 years + 4 months free: $2.03 per user per month

Features

• Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption.
• Automatic kill switch.
• Unlimited bandwidth and traffic.
• Ad/malicious content blocking.
• Multi-platform support.
• DNS and IP leak protection.
• No logs VPN.
• Offers a token-based IP address of your own.
• Wipes server data with every reboot for added security.
• Split tunneling.

TorGuard Business VPN

Best for secure P2P file sharing

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 3/5
• Core features: 4.75/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Integrations: 0/5
• Ease of use: 4.25/5

TorGuard VPN is an adaptable business VPN solution with additional security features, like P2P file sharing, stealth mode, private VPN cloud, and the ability to circumvent stringent internet censorship. It’s compatible with multiple platforms and native programs, too.

TorGuard’s built-in P2P file sharing can effectively handle transferring large datasets, multimedia files, or backups across different locations. It also supports P2P traffic on numerous servers in its network. Furthermore, its port forwarding feature enhances connection speeds by facilitating direct connections between P2P peers, accelerating the file transfer process. This solution follows a strict no-logs policy, so your organization’s data stays private.

• Jurisdiction: USA
• Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac
• Server locations: 50+ countries

Pros and cons

Pricing

TorGuard VPN offers the following pricing options for businesses:

• Business VPN Starter: $32 per user per month
• Business VPN Small: $69 per user per month
• Business VPN Medium: $110 per user per month
• Business VPN Large: $169 per user per month

Features

• Dedicated IP VPN.
• WireGuard VPN.
• Bank-grade 256-bit encryption.
• No-logs policy.
• Kill switch.
• STunnel feature overrides geolocation restrictions and VPN barriers.  
• Multiple security protocols.
• P2P file sharing.
• Private email.
• User management.
• IP management.
• Isolated secure network.
• Port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxy.

Key features of mobile VPN software

To meet the varied needs of different organizations, a mobile VPN software should come with a range of key features that boost security and privacy and improve overall user experience. These features include multi-platform compatibility, simultaneous connections, encryption protocols, server location options, and kill switch functionality.

Multi-platform compatibility

Businesses with employees using mobile devices typically have diverse device ecosystems, with team members using multiple platforms like iOS, Android, and Windows. Multi-platform compatibility ensures that you can seamlessly deploy the VPN across all these devices, maintaining consistent security measures without requiring separate solutions for each platform. This simplifies IT management, reduces complexity, and streamlines uniform application of security standards.

Simultaneous connections

Aside from using different platforms, employees may also use several devices simultaneously, such as a laptop, smartphone, and tablet. Simultaneous connections allow employees to protect all their devices under a single VPN subscription for cost-effectiveness and flexibility. This feature makes sure your business can maintain safe connections on many devices without getting individual VPN accounts, promoting convenience and adherence to security policies.

Encryption protocols

The choice of encryption protocols directly impacts the security of data you transmit between mobile devices and corporate servers. Strong encryption, such as OpenVPN, IPSec, or IKEv2, safeguards against eavesdropping and unauthorized access. This guarantees that confidential information is secure and compliant with industry standards, preventing data breaches and potential legal consequences.

Server location options

Server location options enable employees to connect to servers that are geographically closer to them. This minimizes latency and optimizes connection speed, providing a smoother and more efficient VPN experience, mostly when accessing resources hosted in different regions. Furthermore, it lets employees connect to another server if one server goes down, minimizing downtime and disruptions.

Kill switch functionality

The kill switch is a fail-safe mechanism to minimize the risk of data exposure when employees are accessing public Wi-Fi or untrusted networks during travel or remote work scenarios. In the event of a VPN connection failure, it immediately cuts off the device’s internet access, preventing data leaks and ensuring that all traffic only travels through the encrypted VPN tunnel.

How we evaluated mobile VPN software

To determine the best mobile VPN, we carefully assessed and compared different VPN service providers. Our evaluation was built around five major criteria: cost, core features, customer support, integrations, and ease of use.

We gauged each provider’s capability on each of the criteria and scored them accordingly. We then computed the total scores for each mobile VPN provider.

Cost – 25%

To calculate the scores for this criteria, we checked availability of free trials and their duration. We prioritized free trials over money-back guarantees as free trials often don’t require potential buyers to make upfront payments.

We also considered multiple pricing options offered to prospective clients, as well as free versions and the extensiveness of capabilities that come with it.

Criteria winner: Windscribe

Core features – 40%

For the core features, we checked if the mobile VPNs support strong encryption protocols, like OpenVPN, IKEv2, or WireGuard and have a diverse server network. We also examined their kill switch, split tunneling, multi-platform support, IP leak protection, and ad and malware blocking capabilities. No-logs policies, the number of simultaneous connections, and protocol options for customizations are also taken into consideration.

Criteria winners: Surfshark and Private Internet Access

Customer support – 15%

In determining the customer support scores, we took into account several factors. These included the availability of live chat, phone, and email support, as well as the presence of an active community and comprehensive documentation or knowledge base.

Furthermore, we considered the hours during which real-time assistance is available. We also verified if all support options are accessible to all users, regardless of their payment plan.

Criteria winners: Private Internet Access and TorGuard Business VPN

Integrations – 10%

While many mobile VPN services function as a standalone solution, we included integrations in our evaluation because this key attribute enables smooth collaboration between the VPN service and critical business security tools and systems. We checked the number of third-party apps each mobile VPN service readily integrates with and their support for custom integrations.

Criteria winner: NordLayer

Ease of use – 10%

For ease of use, we gathered feedback from several independent sites and forums to find out if the mobile VPN is easy to use and implement for users of varying technical skill levels.

Criteria winners: All of our top mobile VPNs ranked well in this category

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the best VPN to use on your phone?

There’s no single answer to the question of which is the best VPN for mobile to use on your phone, as it depends on your needs, preferences, and features that are most important to you. However, here are some of our top recommendations:

Best mobile VPN for iPhone

Surfshark has a rating of 4.8 on the App Store, the highest among the VPN providers we evaluated. iPhone users specifically praised its effectiveness, speed, affordability, and customer support quality.

Best mobile VPN for Android

Proton VPN and Private Internet Access both got 4.5 star ratings on Google Play Store. Users are happy with Proton VPN’s stability, speed, and Stealth mode features, while PIA users are particularly satisfied with the app’s simplicity, reliability, and unlimited connections.

Best free mobile VPN for both Android and iOS

Only ProtonVPN offers a free app for both Android and iOS devices. It has 4.6 and 4.5 ratings on the App Store and Google Play Store respectively. Proton VPN comes with a wide range of valuable mobile VPN features, and users find it easy to install and manage.

What are business use cases for mobile VPNs?

Business use cases for mobile VPNs include data protection, malware defense, connectivity for distributed teams, field work, and access control:

• Data protection: Mobile VPNs encrypt data transmitted between the mobile device and the office network, safeguarding sensitive information from hackers, even when sent over public Wi-Fi networks.
• Malware defense: These tools can protect mobile devices from malicious software and cyberthreats by encrypting data and preventing unauthorized access to private information.
• Connectivity for distributed teams: VPN services facilitate safe employee connection to corporate networks from anywhere, allowing them to access files, applications, and other resources remotely.
• Field work: Employees who work in the field can perform tasks and access resources securely as mobile VPNs support their secure connections to the business network.
• Access control: You can use mobile VPNs to enforce geographic access restrictions so that employees can only access certain resources or data from specific locations.

What’s the difference between ZTNA and VPN?

While both ZTNA and VPN secure network connections, they employ distinct approaches to achieve this goal. The table below shows the key differences between ZTNA and VPN:

A note on VPN ownership

Many VPNs are owned by a few large companies. For example, Kape Technologies, formerly known as Crossrider, owns ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access. Together with the company’s history, this approach to conglomeration raises trust concerns for some issues.

Briefly, here is the history of Crossrider/Kape:

• 2011: Crossrider developed a framework for creating cross-browser extensions. Some users took advantage of the platform to create adware and malware targeting macOS and Windows systems.
• 2016: The company was unable to control the abuse and decided to shut down this service.
• 2017: It shifted its focus to online security and purchased CyberGhost.
• 2018: Crossrider rebranded to Kape Technologies. According to its CEO Ido Erlichman, they made this to break free from the “strong association to the past activities of the company.”
• 2019: Kape Technologies acquired Private Internet Access.
• 2021: The company also acquired ExpressVPN.

It’s also worth noting that Kape owns some VPN review sites such as vpnMentor and WizCase. On these sites, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, PIA are listed as the top VPNs.

Despite these concerns, we stand by our recommendations. We have thoroughly and independently evaluated and assessed each product that appears on our list of top mobile VPNs, and determined that all three of these VPNs are among the top in their field. However, for users with advanced privacy needs or those concerned with trust and monopolization issues, other choices on this list may be a better fit.

Bottom line: Mobile VPNs keep your data protected anywhere it goes

Not all mobile VPNs offer the same features, performance, or compatibility, and the best choice for your business will greatly depend on the needs of your organization and what you want to prioritize — whether it be platforms supported, server locations, or number of simultaneous connections allowed.

Just like selecting the best VPN for your business, choosing the right mobile VPN will have a direct impact in successfully protecting your mobile devices, corporate data, and privacy from cyberthreats. This guide is designed to give you the information you need to make a practical decision based on your specific requirements. It will help you navigate the options and select a mobile VPN that aligns with your needs.

Using a mobile VPN is just one of the ways you can enhance your mobile security, but its effectiveness can be further bolstered when integrated with a mobile device management (MDM) solution. Read our recommendations on Top MDM Software and Tools to uncover the most trusted vendors today.

The post 8 Best Mobile VPNs for Every Use Case in 2024 appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Businesses are under constant attack from cybercriminals, and the threat of a data breach is always looming. If you don’t have the time or resources to build and manage your own in-house Security Operations Center (SOC), you need to find a managed security service provider (MSSP), also known as a cybersecurity managed services provider. MSSPs manage and maintain your IT security so you can focus on your core business.

Below are our picks for the top managed security service providers in 2023, to help you select the best option for your business.

• Fortinet: Best for integrated security solutions across devices and networks.
• Check Point: Best for extensive cybersecurity across diverse environments.
• Accenture: Best for worldwide cybersecurity and MSSP services.
• SecureWorks: Best for proactive threat intelligence and incident response.
• IBM: Best for AI-enhanced managed security services.
• Cisco: Best for comprehensive network and endpoint security.
• Trustwave: Best for in-depth security and compliance monitoring.
• Ascend Technologies (Switchfast Technologies): Best for customized IT and cybersecurity for growing businesses.
• Nomic (Sentinel IPS Managed Network Security Services): Best for cutting-edge network security and collective threat intelligence.
• Cybriant: Best for holistic cybersecurity services with emphasis on threat protection.

Top managed security service providers (MSSP) comparison

Our comparison table provides a quick overview of the key features and pricing for the top 10 MSSPs. It allows you to easily compare and contrast the services offered by each provider, helping you make informed decisions based on your specific security needs and budget considerations.

Fortinet

Best for integrated security solutions across devices and networks

Fortinet excels in providing integrated MSSP solutions, offering a comprehensive range of services that include advanced threat protection, intrusion prevention, and security-driven networking. Its MSSP solutions are designed to deliver a simplified, end-to-end security infrastructure. This makes it ideal for businesses seeking a cohesive and efficient approach to network security.

The MSSP’s unified management console and AI-driven security operations are particularly beneficial for organizations looking to streamline their security management and response capabilities.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Pricing varies based on business size and network connectivity.
• Managed firewall services range from $150 to $300 per month.
• FortiGate pricing starts at $250 for small offices, up to $300,000 for large enterprises.

Features

• Fortinet ensures comprehensive network protection and operational efficiency.
• Zero-trust model for rigorous identity verification and minimized threats.
• Scalable cloud security solutions for public, private, and hybrid clouds.
• AI-enhanced threat detection and response for proactive security.
• Broad range of integrated, automated digital environment security solutions.

Check Point

Best for extensive cybersecurity across diverse environments

Check Point is a leader in cybersecurity, offering a full MSSP suite tailored to various customer sizes and use cases. Its MSSP solutions are renowned for reducing the risk of cyberattacks through comprehensive protection against a wide range of threats such as malware, ransomware, and zero-day threats.

Check Point’s MSSP services are ideal for businesses seeking extensive and automated security solutions. Its service offering is backed by responsive technical support and scalable virtualized systems.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Firewalls range from $499 for small offices to several hundred thousand dollars for high-end systems.
• Check Point Harmony pricing starts at $11 per user per month.

Features

• Secures the network with real-time prevention.
• Unified management and security operations.
• Secures users and access for remote devices.
• Secures the Cloud with a unified security platform.

Accenture

Best for worldwide cybersecurity and MSSP services

Accenture Security is a top-tier MSSP, offering advanced cyber defense and applied cybersecurity solutions. With a global reach in over 50 countries, Accenture’s MSSP services are comprehensive, covering everything from infrastructure management to cloud security.

The company’s approach to MSSP is deeply integrated with their commitment to continuous learning, diversity, and high performance, making them a prime choice for organizations seeking a global and holistic approach to cybersecurity management.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Per-device pricing for MSSP services.
• Customized pricing for Managed Endpoint Detection and Response (MEDR).

Features

• Integrated security in AWS Cloud Foundation.
• Full spectrum of MSSP services, including on-premises and cloud infrastructure management.

SecureWorks

Best for proactive threat intelligence and incident response

SecureWorks provides a diverse range of security management services, focusing on both proactive security assessments and reactive incident response. Its offerings include threat hunting, vulnerability, and ransomware readiness assessments, alongside penetration testing and application security testing, ensuring comprehensive coverage for clients. The company’s incident response services are readily accessible through an emergency breach hotline, catering to urgent security needs.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Pricing information is not published on their website. Reach out to Sales for more information. 

Features

• SecureWorks offers Taegis XDR, an advanced threat detection and response platform that provides a unified view across endpoints, networks, and cloud environments.
• The company leverages its Counter Threat Unit for global threat intelligence, keeping abreast of emerging cybersecurity threats.
• Rapid incident response services are available for mitigating and investigating security incidents.
• Comprehensive managed security services include managed firewall, IDS/IPS, and vulnerability management.
• SecureWorks provides tailored cloud security solutions for public, private, and hybrid cloud environments.

IBM

Best for AI-enhanced managed security services

IBM Managed Security Services offers a full spectrum of security services, including threat management, cloud, infrastructure, data, identity, and response management, tailored to augment existing security programs.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Pricing information is available on request.

Features

• IBM integrates Watson for Cyber Security, employing AI and machine learning for enhanced threat detection and security analytics.
• The company offers global threat monitoring through its extensive network for real-time threat analysis worldwide.
• Specialized cloud security services ensure secure cloud migration and management.
• IBM’s range of integrated security services covers identity and access management, data protection, and encryption.
• A dedicated security incident response team handles and mitigates complex cyber incidents.

Cisco

Best for comprehensive network and endpoint security

Cisco stands out in the managed security service provider industry, offering robust protection against cyberattacks both on and off the network. Its solutions are designed to thwart threats before they can infiltrate networks or endpoints, ensuring comprehensive security coverage.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Cisco Multi-Site Orchestrator (MSSO): Specific pricing information for Cisco Multi-Site Orchestrator, now known as Cisco Nexus Dashboard Orchestrator, is not publicly available.
• Cisco Duo Security Solutions: Cisco Duo offers a range of pricing tiers, starting with a free option for up to 10 users. The tiered pricing includes Essentials at $3 per user per month, Advantage at $6 per user per month and Premier at $9 per user per month.

Features

• Cisco provides end-to-end network protection, securing both on and off-network environments.
• Unified security management through a single portal for all Cisco security products and services.
• Cisco Duo offers zero trust security solutions suitable for in-office, remote, or hybrid work environments.
• Flexible payment options are available, including a consumption-based model with no minimums or upfront fees.
• Cisco’s range of security products includes licenses for various security solutions and hardware like network switches and access points.

Trustwave

Best for in-depth security and compliance monitoring

Trustwave specializes in Security and Compliance Monitoring services, designed to assist security professionals in monitoring and detecting threats. Utilizing the Trustwave platform, clients can submit Log Data from supported devices for comprehensive collection, correlation, storage, investigation, and reporting.

Pros and cons

Pricing

•  Available upon request.

Features

• Trustwave Fusion Platform offers centralized security and compliance monitoring for enhanced visibility and control.
• The company provides MDR services for proactive security threat monitoring.
• Specialized database security services are available for database protection and compliance.
• Trustwave offers advanced email security solutions to protect against email-based threats and phishing attacks.
• Services for penetration testing and vulnerability management help identify and mitigate IT environment vulnerabilities.

Ascend Technologies

Best for customized IT and cybersecurity for growing businesses

With over two decades of experience, Switchfast Technologies, now part of Ascend Technologies, stands as a leading Managed Services Provider (MSP) in the United States. The company’s high client satisfaction rates are a testament to its comprehensive suite of MSP services, including robust managed security solutions. The strategic acquisitions of Infogressive and Doextra CRM Solutions have further enhanced Ascend’s capabilities, making it a top-tier MSSP in the industry.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Available upon request.
• Free 20-minute consultation offered.

Features

• Comprehensive perimeter security with managed firewall, IDP, ATP, and WAF.
• Advanced email security against phishing and malware, including spam filtering and encryption.
• Thorough vulnerability management with automated and manual remediation processes.
• Endpoint security for all devices, featuring antivirus, antispyware, and HIDS/HIPS.
• 24/7 MDR service covering SIEM, threat hunting, and advanced detection.

Nomic (Formerly Sentinel IPS)

Best for cutting-edge network security and collective threat intelligence

Nomic Networks, previously known as Sentinel IPS, has been a significant player in the cybersecurity field since 1995. The company is acclaimed for its pioneering Network Cloaking technology and its role in leading the Collective Intelligence Network Security (CINS Army) initiative. This initiative is a collaborative effort among network security professionals to share and combat cybersecurity threats.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Available upon request.
• Option for an instant demo.

Features

• Network Cloaking technology for enhanced perimeter security and efficient threat mitigation.
• Sentinel Outpost utilizing CINS Threat Intelligence Gateway for proactive defense against inbound attacks and malware.
• Internal Intelligence for complete network visibility and vulnerability detection.
• Hybrid MDR service integrating technology, personnel, and processes for preemptive security issue resolution.
• Advanced Vulnerability Assessment with cutting-edge scanning solutions for public network security.

Cybriant

Best for holistic cybersecurity services with emphasis on threat protection

Cybriant stands out in the cybersecurity industry with its extensive suite of managed services, tailored to offer comprehensive and customizable security solutions. The company’s expertise is evident in its broad client base, spanning over 1,400 clients globally. Cybriant’s services range from Mobile Threat Defense to LIVE Monitoring and MDR, making it a versatile choice for organizations seeking robust cyber protection.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Available upon request.
• Free 30-day trial of MDR service offered.

Features

• CybriantXDR integrates machine learning and AI with expert monitoring for preemptive malware detection and elimination.
• Managed SIEM provides enterprise-wide visibility, including on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments, for rapid incident detection and response.
• MDR offers round-the-clock monitoring and incident response services.
• Vulnerability Management includes continuous scanning, patching, and reporting.
• Mobile Threat Defense with Standard and Advanced services for mobile device security against common and high-risk threats.
• Application Security ensures robust protection for enterprise applications.

Key features of managed security service provider services

MSSPs offer a range of features that cater to the diverse needs of enterprises in their quest for robust cybersecurity. While some features are well-known necessities, others are unique differentiators that can significantly enhance a company’s security posture.

Integrated Security Solutions

In the MSSP sector, Integrated Security Solutions refers to a cybersecurity approach that involves combining multiple aspects of security to establish a unified defense mechanism. The integration covers elements such as network security, endpoint protection, cloud security, identity management and threat intelligence.

The primary advantage of integrated security solutions lies in their capacity to offer a holistic view of an organization’s security posture. This enables effective detection, analysis and response to potential threats.

In an integrated setup, security tools and services operate in synergy rather than being isolated. They share information and insights with one another. This interconnectedness ensures that weaknesses identified in one area can be promptly addressed by strengths found in another area. Consequently the risk of breaches is significantly reduced.

For example, if a threat is identified at the network level, integrated systems can automatically initiate measures across endpoints and cloud environments. This not only enhances overall security but also simplifies management processes since organizations can oversee their entire security landscape through a single interface.

When selecting an MSSP provider it is recommended to prioritize those that offer integrated security solutions. By doing so, all facets of your cybersecurity will be adequately covered and able to function harmoniously together. As cyberthreats become increasingly sophisticated and interconnected in nature, this integration provides a robust defense mechanism against them.

Integrated solutions also have the advantage of being more economical in the long term as they eliminate the necessity for multiple security tools that are different from one another along with the costs associated with managing them separately. Essentially, integrated security solutions embody an strategic approach to cybersecurity, which is crucial, for contemporary businesses dealing with a range of ever changing digital risks.

Advanced Threat Protection

Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) is a critical feature offered by MSSPs. It involves the use of sophisticated tools and techniques to detect, analyze and respond to emerging cyberthreats that traditional security measures might miss. ATP often includes:

• Real-time monitoring
• Behavioral analysis
• Machine learning algorithms

These identify and mitigate threats such as zero-day attacks, ransomware, and advanced persistent threats (APTs). For businesses, ATP is vital as it provides a proactive stance against evolving cyberthreats, ensuring that their data and resources remain secure from sophisticated attacks.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR)

MDR services are a step beyond traditional monitoring, offering 24/7 surveillance of a company’s IT environment. MDR includes the identification of threats, immediate response to incidents, and ongoing support to remediate and recover from attacks.

MDR utilizes a combination of technology and human expertise to provide a comprehensive security approach. The significance of MDR lies in its ability to offer businesses peace of mind, knowing that their networks are continuously monitored and protected against cyberthreats — thus allowing them to focus on their core operations.

Vulnerability management

Vulnerability management is a proactive feature that involves the regular scanning, identification, and remediation of security vulnerabilities within an organization’s network. This feature is critical for maintaining the integrity and security of IT systems. It helps in preempting potential breaches by patching identified vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers.

For businesses, this means enhanced security posture and reduced risk of data breaches, ensuring compliance with various regulatory standards and safeguarding their reputation.

Cloud security

As more businesses migrate to cloud environments, cloud security has become an indispensable feature of MSSPs. This service includes the protection of data, applications, and infrastructures involved in cloud computing. Features like encryption, access control, and secure data storage are part of this offering.

Cloud security is vital for businesses operating in the cloud as it ensures their data is protected against unauthorized access and other cyberthreats, while also maintaining compliance with data protection regulations.

Compliance management

Compliance management assists businesses in adhering to industry standards and regulatory requirements related to cybersecurity. MSSPs provide tools and expertise to ensure that a company’s security policies and procedures are in line with legal and regulatory frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI-DSS.

This feature is significant for businesses as it not only helps in avoiding legal penalties but also plays a crucial role in building trust with customers and partners by demonstrating a commitment to data security and privacy.

Benefits of working with MSSPs

There are many reasons why you should consider using an MSSP. Here are some of the most common reasons:

• Lack of time or resources: One of the most common reasons businesses use managed security services is that they lack time or personnel to manage their cybersecurity program effectively. When you outsource your IT security to an MSSP, you can free up your internal team to focus on other priorities.
• Focus on your core business: Another common reason companies use managed security services is to allow them to focus on their core business instead of IT security. By outsourcing your IT security, you can ensure that your cybersecurity program is in good hands while focusing on running your business.
• Around-the-clock monitoring and protection from cyberthreats: Cyberthreats don’t take a break, nor does a managed security service provider. MSSPs provide around-the-clock monitoring and protection from cyberthreats, so you can rest assured that your business is protected.
• Improve your company’s compliance posture: Many businesses use managed security services to improve their company’s compliance posture. By outsourcing your IT security, you can ensure that your cybersecurity program is up to date with the latest compliance requirements.
• Access to unique expertise and tools: Managed security service providers have access to special knowledge and tools that you may not have access to in-house. This can help you improve your cybersecurity program and better protect your business.
• Scalability: Managed security services are scalable, so you can increase or decrease the level of service you receive based on your needs. This allows you to tailor your managed security services to meet the specific needs of your business.

How to choose the best MSSP for your business

There are a variety of factors that go into selecting an MSSP that’s appropriate for your business’s unique needs, constraints, and use cases.

• Industry: When choosing an MSSP, it is important to consider the unique security needs and industry-specific challenges of your business. For organizations in highly regulated sectors, such as healthcare or finance, selecting an MSSP that specializes in comprehensive infrastructure management is vital to ensure adherence to stringent regulations. These providers are adept at navigating complex compliance landscapes, offering peace of mind and robust security.
• Size and scale: Large enterprises with extensive security requirements might prefer MSSPs that offer a wide range of advanced, all-encompassing services. Small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) may benefit more from MSSPs that offer tailored solutions, striking a balance between advanced security and budget constraints. These providers understand the nuances of smaller operations and can offer personalized services that align with specific business needs. Finally, businesses with a strong focus on cloud-based infrastructures should look for providers with a robust cloud security offering.
• Cost and ROI: While cost is a significant consideration, it’s essential to evaluate the overall value an MSSP brings to your organization. Look for providers that offer competitive pricing — but also consider the long-term benefits and scalability of their services.
• Vendor reputation: Finally, the reputation and customer feedback of an MSSP are crucial indicators of their reliability and effectiveness. Opt for providers that have a proven track record of consistent performance and comprehensive cybersecurity solutions. Your choice should align with both your immediate security needs and your long-term business goals, ensuring a partnership that enhances your cybersecurity posture and supports the growth of your enterprise.

How we evaluated MSSP services

Our evaluation of MSSPs was a meticulous and multifaceted process, aimed at providing a comprehensive and unbiased overview of the leading companies in the industry. The primary source of our information was the official websites of the companies themselves. This direct approach ensured that we gathered the most accurate and up-to-date details about their services, features, and company ethos.

To supplement this primary data, we delved into secondary sources, including customer reviews and other reputable online resources. These sources provided valuable insights into user experiences, service effectiveness and customer satisfaction levels.

We then collated all of that information to evaluate each provider for the breadth, depth, quality, and dependability of their offerings, as well as their reputation, cost transparency, and customer support availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a managed security service provider?

Managed security service providers (MSSPs) are a type of IT outsourcing that takes on various IT security-related responsibilities and reduces internal staffing requirements for clients. Managed security services can include any number of cybersecurity services depending on a provider’s abilities and the client’s unique requests.

MSSPs, in general, help to monitor IT compliance and network security 24 hours a day, seven days a week. By deploying required updates and handling security incidents, MSSPs can alleviate the pressure on in-house IT departments. With the assistance of a competent provider, businesses can reduce the burden on their internal IT teams.

A growing number of businesses are outsourcing IT services, including security, to a managed service provider. According to an analysis by Mordor Intelligence, the Global Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry was worth $161.37 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to reach $311.32 billion by 2027, with a CAGR of 12.44% over the period.

Organizations typically hire consultants to assess security requirements and decide whether key activities would benefit from onboarding an MSSP.

Who should use an MSSP?

The primary candidates for MSSP services are businesses that recognize the importance of robust cybersecurity but may lack the in-house expertise, resources, or infrastructure to manage it effectively. This includes companies in sectors where data security is paramount, such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce.

However, the utility of MSSPs extends beyond these sectors, encompassing any organization that operates with sensitive data or relies heavily on digital operations.

For SMBs, MSSPs are particularly beneficial. These businesses often face the same security threats as larger corporations but without the same level of resources to combat them. An MSSP can provide SMBs with access to advanced security tools and expertise, leveling the playing field against cyberthreats.

Larger organizations, on the other hand, might opt for MSSP services to complement and enhance their existing security measures. In industries where compliance and regulatory requirements are stringent, MSSPs offer the added advantage of ensuring that businesses meet these standards, thereby mitigating legal and financial risks.

In essence, any organization seeking to fortify its cyber defenses, ensure compliance, and focus on its core business activities can benefit from partnering with an MSSP.

How to evaluate a managed security service provider?

Despite the maturity of the MSSP market, providers and clients don’t always have successful engagements. The problem comes down to poor shortlisting, unrealistic service expectations, and a lack of transparency around pricing models. Here are some factors you should consider when evaluating managed security service providers:

• Response to your Request for Proposal (RFP): The best way to make sure the provider understands your business and its specific needs is to outline your requirements in an RFP. Check how they respond to your RFP and whether they have responded to your specific requirements.
• Experience and reputation: Ask for references from other clients who have used the managed security services of the provider. In addition, check out reviews such as this one and other reputable sites.
• Technical capabilities: Ensure the MSSP has the technical capabilities to meet your specific needs. This includes the tools, processes, and people required to deliver the services you need.
• Solution design: The MSSP should be able to provide a detailed solution design that meets your specific requirements. This solution design should be backed up by experience and references.
• Service Level Agreement (SLA): The SLA sets forth the expectations and responsibilities of both parties. It outlines the nature of the service and how it is delivered, payment and billing terms, uptime guarantee, and what happens in the case of a service outage or contract dissolution.
• Backups, business continuity, and disaster recovery plans: Ensure the MSSP has a robust backup, business continuity, and disaster recovery plan. You should test this plan regularly to ensure it works as expected.
• Support response time: For all intents and purposes, an MSSP is an extension of your IT department. As such, the provider should have a fast and responsive support team. In addition, they should have an omnichannel support system that includes phone, email, and chat.
• Pricing policies: Some MSSPs have notoriously convoluted pricing models. Before signing a contract, understand the provider’s pricing policies. Never base your decision solely on price, though: focus on the long-term value you get for the price you pay.

Bottom line: Treat your MSSP as a security partner for the long haul

Selecting an MSSP is a pivotal decision today where cyberthreats loom large. Our evaluation, anchored in a blend of direct company data and customer feedback, is designed to empower enterprises with the knowledge to make informed choices. It underscores the importance of matching specific needs with an MSSP’s strengths, ensuring that the chosen cybersecurity partner is not just a provider, but a guardian in the ever-changing landscape of digital security.

Thinking of keeping your cybersecurity in house? Here are the best network security tools and software for enterprises to build out their security stack.

The post Top 10 Managed Security Service Providers (MSSP) for 2024 appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Network security solutions comprise software tools that protect computer networks from unauthorized access, cyber attacks, and data breaches. These solutions safeguard sensitive information, uphold data integrity, and maintain private communications within an organization.

The following are our picks for the best network security software:

• BitDefender GravityZone: Best price and best for web security (Read more)
• ESET Protect Platform: Best for network attack protection (Read more)
• TitanHQ: Best for email and DNS security (Read more)
• Malwarebytes: Best for malware detection and removal (Read more)
• Kaspersky: Best for endpoint protection (Read more)
• Avast Business: Best for growing businesses (Read more)
• Sophos: Best for ransomware defense (Read more)
• Trend Micro: Best for threat detection and vulnerability intelligence (Read more)
• SolarWinds: Best for managed service providers (MSPs) (Read more)
• Perimeter 81: Best for cloud-based networks (Read more)

Top network security software comparison

The table below shows an overview of what each network security software offers beyond firewall, web security, and malware protection. It presents data on network monitoring and visibility, built-in data loss prevention (DLP), resource consumption, and impact on speed:

BitDefender GravityZone

Best price and best for web security

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 4.5/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Performance and reliability: 3/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.5/5
• Ease of use: 3.25/5

BitDefender’s GravityZone is a comprehensive cybersecurity platform you can deploy on-premises or have hosted by BitDefender. You can also opt for a combination of both. The platform offers risk assessment and mitigation to help businesses understand cybersecurity risks. It comes with Extended Detection and Response (XDR) to provide enhanced threat detection and visibility.

GravityZone responds to security incidents automatically and guides you for fast containment of attacks. Additionally, it includes advanced capabilities, such as hardening and risk analytics, anti-ransomware, application control, exploit defense, fileless attack defense, and machine learning (ML) technology to detect sophisticated threats.

Pros and cons

Pricing

BitDefender has different pricing options for small businesses and medium to large enterprises, as well as MSPs:

Small businesses

• GravityZone Business Security Premium: $286.99 per year for 5 devices, including 2 servers and 8 mailboxes
• GravityZone Business Security: $129.49 per year for 5 devices, including 2 servers
• Small Business Security: $20.99 per year for 1 device, including 1 server

Medium and large businesses

• GravityZone Business Security Enterprise
• GravityZone Business Security Premium
• GravityZone à la carte

Contact their sales team to learn more.

Features

• Presents insight into cybersecurity risks associated with endpoint configuration and user actions.
• Leverages XDR to defend endpoints and for enhanced threat detection and visibility.
• Automatic and guided responses to security incidents for fast containment of attacks.
• Reduces the attack surface through hardening and risk analytics.
• Automatic backup of target files.
• Prevents malware and zero-day attacks
• Anti-exploit technology.
• Preventive ML technology specifically designed to detect complex threats and cybersecurity attacks on execution.
• Offers quick triaging alerts and supports incident investigation though its attack timeline and sandbox output.
• Human and endpoint risk analytics uncovers, prioritizes, and automatically enables hardening actions to remedy configuration risks.

ESET PROTECT Platform

Best for network attack protection

Overall rating: 4.25/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 4.25/5
• Performance and reliability: 4.25/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 4.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

ESET PROTECT Platform delivers real-time visibility for on-premise and off-premise endpoints as well as full reporting. It brings a range of features, including ransomware prevention, zero-day threats detection, botnet protection, and automatic updates.

The platform also has access controls and permissions, activity monitoring and tracking, alerts and notifications, anomaly and malware detection, and anti-spam features.

ESET’s solutions are designed to be lightweight and have minimal impact on system performance, making them suitable for various IT environments. The ESET PROTECT Platform allows businesses to shield their networks and data, ensure business continuity, and comply with regulations.

Pros and cons

Pricing

ESET doesn’t display pricing for their solutions. Contact their sales team for pricing information.

Features

• Inspects incoming packets and blocks attempts to infiltrate the computer at the network level.
• Provides automatic updates at each endpoint.
• Advanced protection for data passing through all general servers, network file storage, and multi-purpose servers.
• Protects against infiltration by botnet malware, preventing spam and network attacks launched from the endpoint.
• Offers access controls and permissions.
• Activity dashboard that gives a quick overview of the network’s security status.
• Monitors network activity with a record of events.
• Zero-day threat detection.
• Alerts/notifications.
• Anomaly and malware detection.
• Anti-spam features.

TitanHQ 

Best for DNS and email security

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 1.75/5
• Core features: 2.5/5
• Performance and reliability: 5/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

TitanHQ provides a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions focusing on network security, particularly for email and web protection. Its products SpamTitan, WebTitan, SafeTitan, EncryptTitan, and ArcTitan collectively deliver an integrated solution.

• SpamTitan is an advanced spam protection tool that blocks spam, viruses, malware, and ransomware. It uses ML and heuristics to defend against evolving threats.
• WebTitan is a DNS security and content filtering tool that delivers proactive protection from malicious web threats and attacks. It also maintains adherence to corporate web usage policies by blocking access to certain categories of websites.
• SafeTitan is a Security Awareness Training (SAT) tool that powers human layer protection by delivering contextual training in real-time.
• EncryptTitan is a full-featured encryption system suitable for both MSPs and enterprises that facilitates secure exchange of information via email.
• ArcTitan is a cloud-based email archiving tool that reduces the cost and complexity of archiving emails and satisfying discovery requests. It also enhances Office 365 email search and storage functionality.

Pros and cons

Pricing

TitanHQ doesn’t directly list product pricing on its website but states that its pricing model is based on a per-user approach. They also offer monthly pricing options to cater to specific needs and budgets.

Get in touch with their sales team for full pricing details.

Features

• Triple threat, multi-layered cybersecurity.
• Protecting against spam and web threats with cloud-based email archiving.
• Blocks spam, viruses, malware and ransomware.
• Email spam filtering.
• Advanced threat protection uses Bayesian auto learning and heuristics to defend against evolving threats.
• Security Awareness Training (SAT).
• Unlimited phishing simulations.
• DNS security and content filtering.
• Proactive protection from malicious web threats and attacks.
• Data loss prevention and regulatory and legal compliance.
• Enhances Office 365 email search and storage functionality.
• Full featured encryption system.
• Secure information exchange via email.

Malwarebytes

Best for malware detection and removal

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 3/5
• Core features: 3.25/5
• Performance and reliability: 2.5/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 2.75/5
• Ease of use: 4.25/5

Malwarebytes offers a single agent with simple management. It includes endpoint detection and response (EDR) which uses unique anomaly detection ML to detect both known and unknown threats across Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms. In addition, it offers managed detection and response (MDR) services that hunt down hidden threats based on suspicious activity and past IOCs, reducing dwell time and potential impact of hidden threats.

Furthermore, Malwarebytes provides DNS filtering that blocks access to known suspicious web domains and has in-depth virus scanning that finds threats other software misses.

The solution’s network isolation restricts device interactions, preventing unauthorized access from potential attackers and malware from establishing outbound connections. Malwarebytes also offers centralized management, flexible push-install options, and asset management to deploy solutions, track, manage, and monitor endpoints.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Malwarebytes offers for per-device pricing plans:

• Core
• Advanced
• Elite
• Ultimate

Plans start $69 per endpoint per year with a minimum of 3 devices. Reach out to the Malwarebytes sales department to know more.

Features

• Integrated protection through a user-friendly single agent.
• EDR using unique anomaly detection ML.
• MDR services.
• DNS filtering with customizable rules and set up notifications.
• In-depth virus scanning.
• Virtual private network (VPN) for safe and private online browsing.
• Push-install options and asset management to safeguard endpoints.
• Blocks ads, scams, and trackers.
• Protects against clickbait and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).

Kaspersky

Best for endpoint protection

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Performance and reliability: 2.5/5
• Integrations: 3.25/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Kaspersky network security solutions reduce exposure to cyberattacks through endpoint hardening and boost productivity with cloud-enabled controls. Its Endpoint Security for Business stands out with its special features that defend against fileless threats.

The platform streamlines security management with a unified console. Moreover, its agile protection technologies and multi-layered protection approach based on ML technology and threat intelligence ensure effective security. Kaspersky also offers straightforward migration from third-party endpoint protection, making the transition seamless.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Kaspersky has different pricing plans for SMBs and large enterprises.

SMB pricing starts at $202.50 (per year for 5 users).

Kaspersky doesn’t publish prices for enterprise plans — contact their sales department for more details.

Features

• Multi-layered, next-generation threat protection like application, web, and device controls.
• Vulnerability and patch management.
• Data encryption.
• Robust password policies.
• Real-time protection against online threats, monitors for suspicious files and programs, and detects and prevents attacks.
• Multi-level adaptive endpoint protection, automated threat defense, and systems hardening for mixed environments.
• Computer protection against network and phishing attacks.
• Unified console for simplified security management.
• Post-execution behavior detection and ML technologies.
• Straightforward migration from third-party endpoint protection.
• VPN and firewall.
• Web and device control.
• Asset management.
• System isolation.
• Malware detection.
• Incident reports.

Avast Business

Best for growing businesses

Overall rating: 3.75/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 3.75/5
• Performance and reliability: 2.5/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Ease of use: 3.25/5

Avast Business optimizes network security by delivering all its services from the cloud. This approach reduces costs, such as WAN expenses, and eliminates the need to deal with network appliances.

The solution performs full inline inspection of SSL and internet traffic to all ports and protocols, updating global threat feeds in real time. It also includes device and policy management, centralized alerts and notifications, real-time commands, network discovery, and remote deployment.

Avast provides anti-malware and antivirus protection to keep devices and data safe against cyberattacks. It shields businesses against viruses, ransomware, spyware, zero-second threats, and Wi-Fi network vulnerabilities.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Avast offers three pricing plans for small businesses:

• Essential Business Security: $29.67 per device per year
• Premium Business Security: $37.40 per device per year
• Ultimate Business Security: $45.42 per device per year

These plans include up to 100 devices. For organizations with over 100 devices, contact the Avast Business sales team.

Features

• Full SSL inspection across all ports and protocols.
• Complete inline inspection of SSL and internet traffic.
• Updates global threat feeds in real time.
• Built-in device and policy management.
• Remote access and support tools.
• Anti-malware and antivirus.
• Protects against ransomware, spyware, zero-second threats, and Wi-Fi network vulnerabilities.
• Secure internet gateway.
• CyberCapture blocks unknown files and new threats.
• App behavior monitoring.
• Mail and web activity shields.
• Security browser extension.
• Anti-spam.
• Sandbox for running untrusted or unknown apps in a safe environment.

Sophos

Best for ransomware defense

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Performance and reliability: 2.5/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 4.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Sophos brings a range of network security tools to protect businesses from various cyberthreats. Its solutions include Sophos Firewall Security for network defense and Sophos Wireless for cloud-managed Wi-Fi. The platform also brings Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) for better segmentation, security, and visibility.

For businesses looking to automate their network security and management workflows, Sophos Central APIs are available. In addition, Sophos’ Extended Detection and Response (XDR) lets businesses identify and respond to threats across multiple security services.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Sophos doesn’t publish pricing details for any of its solutions. Reach out to their sales team for complete pricing details.

Features

• Next-gen firewall.
• Cloud-managed Wi-Fi with high-performance scalability, synchronized security threat detection, and network access control.
• Cloud-managed network access layer switches to connect, power, and control device access at the LAN edge.
• Enhanced segmentation, security, and visibility over traditional remote-access VPN.
• Secure SD-WAN VPN connectivity with zero-touch deployment.
• Deep Packet Inspection (DPI).
• TLS 1.3 inspection.
• Zero-day and ML protection.
• Web protection.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA).

Trend Micro

Best for threat detection and vulnerability intelligence

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Performance and reliability: 3/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Ease of use: 4.25/5

Trend Micro delivers solutions for effective protection for the entire IT environment, including users, devices, applications, and networks. These solutions come with a variety of features, like hardware for data-intensive data centers, virtual appliances for branch offices, and SaaS-based solutions that integrate seamlessly with AWS and Azure to streamline cloud operations. Additionally, they offer detection and response functionalities across multiple security layers.

What sets Trend Micro’s network security solutions apart is their adaptability. For instance, they offer secure access service edge (SASE) capabilities for real-time risk assessments of the connections between users, devices, and applications. This feature is particularly useful in minimizing risk and maintaining a secure network environment.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Trend Micro doesn’t give out pricing details on their website, though they do offer a handy (if highly complex) pricing calculator for estimates. For more information, you can get in touch with their sales team.

Features

• Protects against known, unknown, and undisclosed network vulnerabilities.
• Automatically enables threat intelligence.
• Runtime protection for virtual, physical, cloud, and container workloads.
• Zero Trust Secure Access.
• XDR.
• Uses bug bounty program Trend Micro (ZDI) to accelerate protection against threats.
• Customizable deployment options.
• VPN.
• Ransomware rollback.
• File encryption.
• Performs dark web scans.
• Endpoint security.
• Delivers 360 degrees of visibility.
• Built-in SASE capabilities

SolarWinds

Best for managed service providers (MSPs)

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 1.75/5
• Core features: 3.5/5
• Performance and reliability: 2.25/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 4.75/5
• Ease of use: 3.25/5

SolarWinds has an extensive suite of network security tools to help businesses of all sizes protect their networks from threats. It excels in providing real-time visibility into network firewall security, monitoring firewall changes, and creating custom filters for specific firewall events. It also offers scheduled configuration backups and a configuration comparison tool, which are necessary for maintaining compliance and ensuring the availability of backups.

SolarWinds’ network performance monitoring and network configuration management capabilities help detect, diagnose, and resolve network performance issues. Additionally, its IP address management and switch port management features prevent IP conflicts and keep track of device connections, enhancing network security. SolarWinds is ideal for managed services providers (MSPs) wanting to provide scalable, reliable, and secure network management services.

Pros and cons

Pricing

SolarWinds offers subscription and perpetual licensing but doesn’t display pricing information. Contact their sales team to find out more.

Features

• Monitors firewall activity to quickly identify anomalous activities.
• Allows users to create custom filters that highlight specific firewall events.
• Supports scheduled configuration backups.
• Configuration Comparison Tool lets users identify changes between two different backups.
• Inventory and Auditing capabilities.
• Automates network configuration management, including firmware upgrades.
• Comprehensive network performance monitoring.
• Network configuration management prevents network outages and improves network performance.
• IP Address Manager (IPAM) enables centralized IP address management that can prevent IP conflicts.
• User Device Tracker (UDT) supports switch port management.
• VoIP and Network Quality Manager (VNQM) monitors the performance of VoIP calls and logs quality issues for security and reliability of VoIP communications.

Perimeter 81

Best for cloud-based networks

Overall rating: 3.25/5

• Cost: 1.25/5
• Core features: 2.75/5
• Performance and reliability: 4.25/5
• Integrations: 5/5
• Customer support: 3.25/5
• Ease of use: 4.25/5

Perimeter 81 offers cloud network security services that give unified access to remote servers, control access to infrastructure resources, and establish secure connections between the internet, private clouds, and public cloud providers. It combines network and application security capabilities within the cloud security model for complete coverage for both network and cloud applications.

This platform is built to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. One of its notable features is its ZTNA model, which makes sure that only authorized users can access network resources. Several advanced features complement this capability, including Firewall as a Service (FWaaS), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), and malware protection.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Perimeter 81 offers multiple pricing plans:

• Essentials: $8 per user per month. Includes basic features.
• Premium: $12 per user per month. Includes advanced features.
• Premium Plus: $16 per user per month. Includes layered security for larger organizations. 
• Enterprise: For businesses with over 50 employees. Pricing for this plan is available upon contacting the Perimeter 81 sales department.

Features

• ZTNA for creating adaptive least-privilege access policies based on device, identity, role, and location.
• Firewall as a Service (FWaaS).
• SWG controls web access and stops malware with a multi-layered approach for device and cloud protection.
• Maintains encrypted connections to private internal resources and unencrypted connections to the open internet simultaneously.
• Agentless Access to third-party contractors and other personnel who need limited application access with private connections for individual applications.
• Bank-level AES-256 encryption and individual user-to-app SSL connections.
• Ensures Zero Trust access across iOS and Android devices as well as PC, Linux, and Mac desktops.
• Web filtering.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Automatic Wi-Fi protection.
• DNS filtering.
• Device posture check.
• Cloud management console.
• Monitoring dashboard.

Key features of network security software

There are several types of network security tools and technologies that form a comprehensive network security platform. These include firewalls, antivirus/anti-malware, network monitoring and visibility, identity and access management, encryption and data protection, web security, detection and response, vulnerability scanning and patch management, and SIEM. Having high performance and reliability is also an important feature of network security software.

Firewalls

Firewalls are a fundamental component of a network security software that control and track the flow of network traffic. They function as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, and enforce predefined security rules to prevent unauthorized access and potential cyber threats.

Essentially, firewalls serve as the first line of defense, mitigating the risk of cyberattacks and securing the integrity of networked systems.

Antivirus and anti-malware

Antivirus and anti-malware guard against malicious software threats. They detect, quarantine, and remove various types of malware, including viruses, worms, Trojans, and spyware. By continuously scanning files, emails, and other data for known malware signatures and behavioral patterns, antivirus programs help stop the spread of infections and protect sensitive information.

Antivirus and anti-malware tools block harmful software that could compromise data confidentiality and disrupt network operations.

Network monitoring and visibility

Network monitoring and visibility features give real-time insights into network activities. Monitoring detects anomalies and potential threats early, allowing rapid responses. Visibility offers in-depth understanding of network behavior, aiding in incident response, performance optimization, policy enforcement, and compliance management.

Together, monitoring and visibility contribute to a proactive security posture by swiftly uncovering and addressing security incidents and optimizing overall network performance.

Identity and access management (IAM)

Identity and access management (IAM) tools control and manage user access to network resources. These tools guarantee that only authorized individuals have appropriate access privileges, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and insider threats.

By providing centralized control over user identities, authentication, and authorization, IAM tools boost security and streamline user management.

Encryption and data protection

Encryption and data protection play a pivotal role in the success of DLP within network security. Encryption safeguards the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information, while DLP extends this defense by actively monitoring data, detecting policy violations, and preventing unauthorized access or data leaks.

Encryption, data protection, and DLP mechanisms create a strong defense against threats, ensuring a solid approach to safeguarding sensitive data.

Vulnerability scanning and patch management

Vulnerability scanning finds gaps in a network, allowing for proactive threat mitigation. Patch management, on the other hand, promotes prompt action against known vulnerabilities by applying patches and updates. These features help fortify the network against potential exploits, reduce the attack surface, and minimize the window of opportunity for cyber criminals to exploit vulnerabilities.

Security information and event management (SIEM)

By aggregating and analyzing data from various sources, SIEM elevates the overall security posture by detecting and responding to potential threats in real-time, improving the resilience of the network against cyberthreats.

SIEM solutions facilitate centralized monitoring, analysis, and correlation of security events across the network and allows organizations to meet compliance requirements.

High performance and reliability

High performance and reliability are also critical features in a network security solution due to their impact on overall system efficacy. Minimal resource utilization makes sure that the software operates smoothly without significantly slowing down network speed.  Reliability enables continuous and consistent security operations, decreasing downtime and potential security gaps.

How we evaluated network security software

To find the best network security software and tools for the year 2023, we systematically assessed different vendors. Our approach involved evaluating six key aspects of every software solution: cost, core features, performance and reliability, customer support, integrations, and ease of use.

We delved into the effectiveness of each software in meeting the standards set by these categories. We then assigned scores based on our evaluation and calculated the scores for each solution.

Cost – 20%

To evaluate the costs, we considered the pricing transparency and availability of free trials and their duration. We also checked if the provider offers multiple pricing models/options and gives businesses the opportunity to choose a plan that will suit their needs.

Criterion winner: BitDefender GravityZone

Core features – 25%

For the core features, we verified if the network security software has the following features as built in capabilities: firewall, intrusion detection and prevention, vulnerability scanning and patch management, identity and access management, network monitoring and visibility, antivirus and malware protection, encryption and data protection, web security, detection and response, and SIEM.

Criterion winners: Bitdefender GravityZone, Kaspersky, Sophos, and Trend Micro

Performance and reliability – 10%

To measure each vendor’s performance and reliability, we researched their resource consumption, scalability, and impact on network speed.

Criterion winners: ESET PROTECT Platform, Perimeter 81, and TitanHQ

Customer support – 20%

We determined if each provider offers the following support options to their customers: live chat, phone, email, community, documentation.

We also factored in the availability of these options to all users regardless of payment tiers, their hours of availability, and the response times according to actual users.

Criterion winner: SolarWinds

Integrations – 15%

For integrations, we examined the number of third-party solutions the solutions directly integrate with. We also considered the support for custom integrations.

Criterion winners: BitDefender GravityZone, Malwarebytes, Avast Business, Sophos, Trend Micro, ESET PROTECT Platform, SolarWinds, and Perimeter81

Ease of use – 10%

We looked into various user feedback to gauge the user-friendliness of the network security tools. We assessed whether each software was easy to install and manage for users of different levels of technical expertise.

Criterion winners: Kaspersky, Sophos, and ESET PROTECT Platform

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a network be completely secure?

No network can be considered completely secure because cybersecurity is dynamic and constantly evolving, with new threats and vulnerabilities emerging all the time. However, you can implement robust security measures to significantly reduce the risk of breaches.

What tool is the best for defending a network?

Ultimately the best tool for defending your network is going to depend on the variety of factors that add up to your own unique use case. Networks are complex and multifaceted, and network security no less so.

That being said, based on our rigorous research, the security solutions best for the widest range of network defense use cases are tied between BitDefender GravityZone and ESET PROTECT Platform. Both tools provide a broad set of native features to protect nearly every aspect of your network and systems.

Are there free network security solutions?

Yes, there are many free network tools and services available today, including the following:

For a more comprehensive list of free cybersecurity tools and services, check out recommendations from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) page.

Bottom line: Choosing the best network security solution for your business

Choosing the right network security software can have a huge effect on the efficiency of your business operations. It’s not just about selecting the most advanced solution, but the one that best fits your specific needs and context.

Consider factors such as the size of your network, the nature of your data, and of course, your budget. Don’t hesitate to sign up for free trials to experience firsthand what the software can do for your organization. Look for solutions that offer a good balance between sophisticated features and usability.

The goal of network security is not to achieve complete security — which is impossible — but to manage and minimize risk to an acceptable level. It’s a continuous process that involves monitoring, improvement, and adaptation to new threats.

There is a broad selection of tools you can use to further strengthen your network security. Explore our article on types of network security solutions to implement to learn more.

The post 10 Best Network Security Software and Tools for Enterprises appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Effective patch management ensures that operating systems and software receive regular updates containing security patches and bug fixes, reducing the risk of cyberattacks and vulnerabilities. Patch management software solutions also promote compliance with mandates like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS).

Investing in patch management software is a cost-effective way to protect your company’s assets, maintain productivity, and safeguard its reputation.

Here are our top picks for the best patch management software for 2023:

• Automox: Best overall patch management solution. (Read more)
• ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus: Best for comprehensive patch management. (Read more)
• SolarWinds Patch Manager: Best for large networks and virtual environments. (Read more)
• Acronis: Best for integrated cyberthreat protection and patch management. (Read more)
• Avast Business Patch Management: Best for Windows-centric environments. (Read more)
• NinjaOne Patch Management: Best for open-source and cloud-based patch management. (Read more)
• Atera: Best for managed service providers (MSPs). (Read more)
• Kaseya: Best for patching on- and off-network devices across multiple operating systems. (Read more)

Top patch management software comparison

The comparison table below presents the best patch management software solutions for 2023. It gives a summary of their patch deployment efficiency, supported platforms, core features, and third-party integrations:

Automox

Best overall patch management solution

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 3.25/5
• Core features: 4.75/5
• Customer support: 3/5
• Integrations: 4.5/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Automox is a cloud-based IT operations platform that provides a comprehensive suite of services, including patch management. This feature is not sold separately but is integrated into the overall platform. Automox’s patch management fully automates the process of updating endpoints across various operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Furthermore, this patch management software solution supports third-party patching for many tools and platforms, like Adobe, Java, Firefox, and Chrome. It also facilitates cloud-based deployment and management, enabling device updates from any location and eliminating the need for VPNs or servers for patching.

Pros and cons

Pricing

While Automox displays limited pricing information on their website about their monthly and annual contracts, they offer some details on their pricing plans:

• Basic: Includes multi-OS patching, patch automation, single sign-on, and standard support.
• Standard: Includes everything in Basic, plus advanced automation features, software management, device configuration, API access, and third-party software patching.
• Pro (Formerly Complete): Includes everything in Standard, with multi-zone management, automated vulnerability remediation, and remote control.

The vendor also has a per-device pricing model starting at $2 per month per device. If you want to know more, visit their pricing page.

Features

• Accessible cloud-native architecture.
• Supports patch management across multiple operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux.
• Facilitates third-party patch management.
• Worklets feature empowers IT professionals to create, automate, and enforce any custom task on endpoints irrespective of location or domain membership.
• Uses generative AI to automate IT operations.
• Enables setting individual permissions for specific users and groups.
• Extensive reporting capabilities.
• Automatically patches endpoints every time a device is connected to the Internet.

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus

Best for comprehensive patch management

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 5/5
• Core features: 3.25/5
• Customer support: 3.75/5
• Integrations: 4.75/5
• Ease of use: 3.75/5

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus simplifies patch detection, testing, and deployment on multiple operating systems and third-party applications by allowing you to devise and supervise all the facets of patch management from a centralized console.

This software ensures complete patch compliance across your network by automating all the stages of patch management. It gives organizations flexible patch deployment policies, the ability to decline unwanted or problematic patches, and granular insightful reporting.

Patch Manager Plus offers automated patch deployment for Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints, with patching support for over 950 third-party updates across more than 850 third-party applications. It’s available both on-premises and in the cloud.

Pros and cons

Pricing

ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus has different pricing depending on the type of deployment:

• Cloud deployment

Monthly subscription: Starts at $34.50 per month.

Annual subscription: Starts at $345 per year.

• On-premises deployment

Annual license: Starts at $245 per year.

Perpetual license: Starts at $735.

The pricing varies based on the number of computers and servers, as well as the plan (Professional or Enterprise) that you choose. Get in touch with their sales team to know more.

Features

• Performs automated patch management.
• Offers cross-platform support.
• Supports third-party application patching.
• Delivers flexible deployment policies.
• Users can test and approve patches.
• Admins can decline patches and/or applications.
• Ensures patch compliance.
• Generates insightful reports.
• Enables remote patch management for a work-from-home setup.

SolarWinds Patch Manager

Best for large networks and virtual environments

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 4.5/5
• Core features: 3.75/5
• Customer support: 4/5
• Integrations: 2.5/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

SolarWinds Patch Manager is an automated patch management software specializing in large networks and virtual environments. With prebuilt and pretested packages, Patch Manager delivers a vetted and reliable solution for scalable automated patch management.

Patch Manager uses Microsoft WSUS as a building block for more sophisticated automation of patch management operations. It also allows admins to generate automated alerts and patch reports on a customized schedule.

Moreover, to ensure software scan security, this patch management solution can also deploy Wake on LAN to reactivate sleeping devices when a scan is scheduled and to turn them back off once the scan is complete.

Patch Manager can augment the conventional capabilities of WSUS and SCCM to make patch management more scalable. It supports monitoring of patches for virtual machines, applications, and software like Adobe and Java alongside Windows-based software patches traditionally managed by SCCM. It also aids companies in mitigating software vulnerabilities with real-time security monitoring and detailed security compliance reports.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Solarwinds has two licensing options for Patch Manager:

• Subscription licensing: Starts at $2,187.
• Perpetual licensing: Starts at $4,357.

Contact their sales team for additional pricing information.

Features

• Performs Microsoft and third-party patch management.
• Comes with remote software deployment tools.
• Conducts application, security, and remote patch management.
• Supports virtual patching for endpoint security.
• Delivers compliance reports.
• Prevents failed Oracle Java updates.
• WSUS alternative.
• SCCM alternative.
• Extends SCCM software inventory management.
• Improve hardware update management.

Acronis

Best for integrated cyberthreat protection and patch management

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 2.25/5
• Core features: 4.25/5
• Customer support: 4.5/5
• Integrations: 4.25/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

Acronis Patch Management is an integral part of Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, a complete solution that combines anti-malware protection, data backup, and endpoint protection management. It is a special offering that brings proactive protection against the latest cyberthreats by automating the patch management process.

Acronis Patch Management identifies systems and applications that are at risk from known threats and works to plug these security gaps. It is worth noting that Acronis Patch Management is not sold as a standalone product, but is included as part of the broader Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud suite. This integrated approach eliminates protection gaps and enables seamless remediation, reducing the need to juggle multiple solutions.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Acronis Patch management is included in the Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, which is available in two pricing models:

• Per-workload: Based on the total number of workloads (physical servers, workstations, virtual machines) and the native cloud storage used.
• Per-GB: Based on the total cloud and local storage used.

Aside from this information, Acronis does not publish actual pricing on its site and encourages getting in touch with its sales department.

Features

• Launch immediate updates and patching via customizable options, or manually.
• Supports prioritization of critical assets and schedules the remainder for off-peak times to avoid interruption.
• Registers and tracks exceptions for patches of selected applications.
• Provides an updated inventory of patches with names, new version of applications, common vulnerabilities and exposures (CVEs), patch severity and importance, and affected applications.
• Performs automated scanning.
• Enables severity-based prioritization.
• Offers filtering options.
• Allows exceptions for vulnerabilities.
• Central management.

Avast Business Patch Management

Best for Windows-centric environments

Overall rating: 3.25/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 3.25/5
• Customer support: 4/5
• Integrations: 2.25/5
• Ease of use: 3.75/5

Avast Business Patch Management optimizes the process of keeping your devices updated with the latest features and security patches from over 150 software vendors. It automatically retrieves patches for Windows and third-party applications directly from vendors. It gives you the flexibility to schedule and deploy patches at your preferred times, or manually deploy on-demand to groups and individual devices.

This patch management software comes with an intuitive dashboard that allows users to manage all patches and view summaries of applied, missing, and failed patches. You can configure which software vendors, products, and severity of patches you would like to scan and install. Additionally, you can create exclusions for applications you do not want to patch.

Avast Business Patch Management generates detailed patch scan results, including specific updates, bulletin links, release dates, and descriptions. It brings reports to help determine the health and security of device software and applications. You will also receive notifications about missing patches on your device and patch deployment failures.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Avast Business Patch Management is available on a per-device per-year pricing. Prices start at $16.42 per device per year.

Contact the Avast sales team for more information.

Features

• Automatically retrieves patches for Windows and third-party applications.
• Supports scheduling and deploying patches at set times, as well as manual deployment on-demand to groups and individual devices.
• The dashboard provides a centralized location for managing all patches and viewing summaries of applied, missing, and failed patches.
• Offers customizable patches.
• Allows the establishment of exceptions for applications not requiring patches.
• Gives in-depth information about missing patches.
• Sends patch notifications whenever it detects a new patch missing from a device or has failed to deploy.

NinjaOne Patch Management

Best for open-source and cloud-based patch management

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 2.25/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 2/5
• Integrations: 4.25/5
• Ease of use: 3.75/5

NinjaOne Patch Management automatically creates, tests, and deploys patches across various endpoints. Healthcare, government, education, legal, and finance sectors commonly use this tool to maintain compliance with cybersecurity standards.

This patch management software solution offers network automation, reporting, visibility, and remediation as its main features. It minimizes manual intervention by identifying, downloading, and deploying patches on its own. Moreover, it simplifies reporting by collecting information on a single platform.

NinjaOne Patch Management lets managed service providers (MSPs) and IT departments patch any device from a single console. It also supports open-source patch management and cloud-based patch management.

This software aids in mitigating security risks by identifying and preventing security vulnerabilities, too. It delivers tech support for software issues and fine-tunes software functions.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Aside from the information that NinjaOne Patch Management follows pay-per-device pricing, this vendor doesn’t show other pricing details on their page. Reach out to their sales department to find out more.

Features

• In-depth reporting capabilities.
• Displays complete visibility into the entire IT portfolio.
• Identifies and fixes issues almost instantly to return systems to normal.
• Supports patch management for various operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux Distros, such as Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, CentOS, and RedHat.
• Facilitates patch roll-backs in case of patching issues.
• Enables patch management for off-VPN or remote devices.
• Clear error reporting and tools to remediate failed patches.
• Actionable patch reporting with CVEs and CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) data.

Atera

Best for managed service providers (MSPs)

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 3.75/5
• Core features: 5/5
• Customer support: 3/5
• Integrations: 4/5
• Ease of use: 3.75/5

Atera’s Patch Management is a crucial component of the software’s integrated IT management solution designed for IT professionals and MSPs, and allows them to schedule updates for each endpoint. As a result, hardware, software, and operating systems are always up-to-date with the latest security patches, mitigating potential cybersecurity threats and maintaining system integrity.

Atera’s Patch Management also has detailed reports that bring insights into the patch status of all managed systems. This information can be invaluable for uncovering vulnerabilities and verifying that all systems are running the most current and secure versions of their software. 

Atera has designed its Patch Management to integrate seamlessly with its other services, forming a holistic IT management platform, rather than being a standalone product.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Atera Patch management is available in four pricing plans:

• Professional Plan:
  • $149 per month per technician if billed annually, or $169 per month if billed monthly. 
  • For individuals wanting to monitor and manage their corporate networks and Windows devices.
• Expert Plan:
  • $169 per month per technician if billed annually, or $199 per month if billed monthly. 
  • For smaller teams needing to monitor and manage multiple operating systems and networks.
• Master Plan:
  •  $199 per month per technician if billed annually, or $239 per month if billed monthly. 
  • For teams that need faster, more automated troubleshooting and remediation with advanced collaboration capabilities.
• Enterprise Plan:
  • For departments requiring enterprise-grade services and integrations. 
  • Contact Atera’s sales team for the pricing for this plan.

Features

• Next-generation patch management system aims to save time each cycle.
• Users can create schedules for each endpoint for hardware, software, and OS.
• Offers multiple reports on patching posture, which users can utilize to directly install missing patches.
• Users can create software bundles once and deploy them for repeatable tasks, such as onboarding or setting up a new user in a specific department.
• One-click onboarding feature applies changes to newly installed devices at once.
• Enables users to schedule programmed patch management software tasks.
• Users can search for patches based on customer, knowledgebase, description, or agent.
• Always updated with Microsoft patches.
• Automated patching.

Kaseya

Best for patching on- and off-network devices across multiple operating systems

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 1.75/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Integrations: 4.25/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

Kaseya’s patch management automates the process of updating all Windows machines with the latest patches and gives you the flexibility to determine how and when to apply updates on each machine. This patch management solution is a feature within the Kaseya VSA Software Management module.

Kaseya VSA delivers a unified patching solution for Mac and Windows operating systems, and deploys hundreds of third-party software titles. It leverages peer-to-peer technology to distribute patches, decreasing the bandwidth needed for downloading and installing them.

Users can remediate software vulnerabilities with this fully-automated, sleep-proof patch management. With 200+ third-party titles within VSA, you can patch all on- and off-network devices including Windows, Mac, and Linux. 

In addition, Kaseya VSA can wake up Windows machines in the middle of the night, install patches, and turn them off again; empowering you to achieve near-perfect patch compliance. VSA’s patch vetting process limits zero-day disruptions and offers easy governance via policy, profiles, and organizations. 

Pros and cons

Pricing

Kaseya doesn’t publish any pricing details on their website. Contact their sales department for pricing information.

Features

• Finds all devices and monitors operating details to know what needs patching.
• Sets up automated patch deployment, controlling patches for deployment, as well as when and how to match specific business needs.
• Automatically selects a day and time for patch deployments to machines/groups/organizations.
• Provides flexibility in managing system reboots after patch deployment.
• Prevents patch installation on the machines during a certain time frame.
• Supports denial of a specific patch or block a specific update to a subset of machines, overriding the default patch classification.

Key features of patch management software

Patch management software is a network security tool with a prominent role in keeping network systems secure and up-to-date. Essential features that a patch management software must have include efficient patch deployment, automated patch detection, cross-platform compatibility, deployment scheduling, and patch prioritization:

Efficient patch deployment

Two key aspects drive efficient patch deployment: a low failure rate and minimal user intervention.

Efficient deployment of patches means that software minimizes the chances of patch installation failures. The patch management software should keep systems secure and operational, cutting down the need for large-scale troubleshooting and remediation.

Furthermore, this feature substantially lightens the load on users and IT administrators. The best patch management software must allow users to carry on with their work without frequent interruptions from manual patching tasks, ultimately boosting productivity and ensuring smooth business operation.

Automated patch detection

Automated patch detection is another vital feature because it lets the software automatically scan a system or network for missing patches and updates, protecting and updating systems without relying on manual checks.

Without automated patch detection, IT staff would need to directly examine and identify missing patches on each system, a time-consuming and error-prone process that leaves room for security gaps.

Cross-platform compatibility

Cross-platform compatibility enables the patch management software to work effectively across a variety of operating systems and environments — a necessary feature because many organizations have mixed IT infrastructures with different operating systems.

Broad cross-compatibility will make sure that the software can scan, download, and deploy patches seamlessly on various platforms. Without this capability, organizations would need different patch management tools for each operating system, which would be inefficient and challenging to manage.

Deployment scheduling

Organizations can apply patches and updates outside of regular working hours and prevent disruptions to daily operations with deployment scheduling features. This capability is particularly valuable for businesses that rely on uninterrupted productivity.

Administrators can use deployment scheduling to set the installation process to occur during non-working hours, like in the evening or on weekends.

Patch prioritization

Patch prioritization lets organizations focus on addressing the most serious vulnerabilities first. This is another critical feature because not all patches are of equal importance, and it’s not feasible to apply them all simultaneously.

By prioritizing patches based on their severity and potential impact, your organization can allocate your resources effectively, promptly mitigating the most damaging risks.

How we evaluated patch management software

We conducted a meticulous evaluation process to find the best patch management software solutions for 2023. Our evaluation was structured around five major categories, including cost, core features, customer support, integrations, and ease of use.

We analyzed each software’s proficiency in meeting the criteria across all categories and assigned scores accordingly. Then, we calculated a cumulative score for each solution.

Cost – 20%

For this category, we considered the availability and duration of free trials, as they offer users a chance to assess the software’s suitability. We also examined the presence of multiple pricing models, enabling organizations to tailor their investments to their specific needs.

Pricing transparency was another factor, as clear and readily available pricing information helps organizations make informed decisions about the financial aspects of each patch management software solution.

• Criteria winner: ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus

Core features – 25%

In the Core Features category, we assessed the fundamental capabilities of patch management software, such as efficient patch deployment, automation, accurate patch identification, and support for third-party patching. We also examined each software’s functionality for patch reporting, patch history, patch testing, vulnerability management, and cross-platform support.

• Criteria winner: Automox

Customer support – 15%

For rating customer support, we focused our evaluation on the availability and quality of different support options. We checked if live chat support was available for real-time assistance and if phone support was accessible 24/7 to all users, regardless of their payment tiers.

We used responsiveness and efficiency as primary criteria for email support. The vibrancy of the user community also mattered to us, as an active community can enhance the overall support experience by offering valuable insights and solutions. We looked into the depth of the documentation and knowledge base to make sure users have access to complete and current resources for addressing common queries and troubleshooting issues on their own.

• Criteria winner: Kaseya

Integrations – 20%

While we understand that some vendors may prioritize their own suite of products over direct third-party integrations, we want to underscore the continued significance of third-party integrations in ensuring the adaptability of patch management software within diverse IT environments. With this in mind, our Integrations evaluation comprised several factors.

First, we assessed whether the software supported third-party integrations across a spectrum of key areas, like operating systems, endpoint management systems, vulnerability assessment tools, asset management software, security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and remote desktop software.

In addition, we considered the software’s ability to integrate with custom scripts and APIs, giving users the flexibility to configure the software to their unique requirements. We also measured the ease of integration, recognizing that a seamless integration process is integral to the overall user experience.

• Criteria winner: ManageEngine Patch Manager Plus

Ease of use – 20%

In this category, our assessment was based on real user feedback from independent sources. We sought to determine the user-friendliness of each patch management software solution, considering users with varying technical expertise.

We analyzed feedback regarding software implementation, installation, use, and administration. This approach sheds light onto the software’s practicality, intuitiveness, user interface, and overall user experience.

• Criteria winner: Automox

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Agent-based patch management vs. agentless patch management

There are two primary approaches to patch management: agent-based and agentless or non-agent-based, and each has its unique characteristics and advantages. The table below highlights the key differences between these approaches:

Note that many vendors, such as ManageEngine and Acronis, provide both agent-based and agentless patch management options, so you can choose the type that best suits your business’s needs.

What are patch management best practices?

Patch management best practices include the following:

• Establishing a patch management policy.
• Automating patch deployment.
• Prioritizing critical vulnerabilities.
• Testing patches thoroughly.
• Creating a rollback plan.
• Regularly monitoring systems.

Bottom line: Choosing the best patch management software for your business can be a game-changer

Patch management is more than a routine IT task; it’s an integral aspect of safeguarding your organization against an ever-expanding array of cyberthreats and network security vulnerabilities. Neglecting it can have severe consequences, from security breaches to operational disruptions. Making the right choice in patch management software can be a game-changer for your business.

Each of the top solutions we’ve covered comes with its unique features and benefits. Take advantage of free trials and demos to find out which software best suits your organization. Keep up with the latest patch management trends. Your decision will directly impact the security, resilience, and productivity of your organization.

With the right patch management software, you’ll not only safeguard your business from potential threats but also create a strong IT infrastructure that fosters growth and innovation.

Take your cybersecurity to the next level by combining the best patch management software with the leading vulnerability management solutions.

The post 8 Best Patch Management Software Solutions for 2023 appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

This process is a crucial part of managing network security. Once network vulnerability scanners find vulnerabilities, network admins can then take steps to fix them, bolstering network defense.

Network vulnerability scanning tools empower organizations to proactively reduce the risk of data breaches, service disruptions, and unauthorized access. Additionally, network vulnerability scanning software enables organizations to comply with regulatory requirements, gain insights into their security posture, and allocate resources effectively.

The network vulnerability scanning process may also incorporate manual testing in certain cases to uncover complex or non-standard vulnerabilities. Regular scanning aids organizations in maintaining a strong security posture, adapting to evolving threats, and keeping up with software updates.

How network vulnerability scanning works

Network vulnerability scanning is a structured procedure that begins with network assessment and discovery, followed by scanning scope definition, scanner selection, and culminates in the identification and mitigation of network vulnerabilities.

1. Network assessment and discovery

The process starts by identifying and cataloging all devices and systems connected to your network. This inventory includes servers, workstations, routers, firewalls, and other network components.

2. Scanning scope definition

Defining the scope involves determining which assets and services to include in your scan and deciding whether the IT team will conduct the scanning process internally or externally.

3. Scanner selection

Once you define the scope, you must choose an appropriate vulnerability scanning tool or software. This tool should align with the defined scope and have an updated database of known vulnerabilities.

4. Network vulnerability scanning

After selecting a scanner, the actual scanning process begins. The network vulnerability scanning tool methodically checks the network assets within the defined scope for known vulnerabilities. It does this by sending test requests and analyzing responses from network assets to pinpoint potential security weaknesses.

5. Risk mitigation and remediation

Following the scanning phase, network admins or security professionals review the results thoroughly and categorize vulnerabilities based on their severity. This categorization — which often includes labels like critical, high, medium, or low risk — guides subsequent actions.

Your organization can then implement measures to mitigate and remediate the identified vulnerabilities. This may entail applying security patches or reconfiguring systems to reinforce security measures and reduce the risk of unauthorized access or security breaches.

Common vulnerabilities network scans identify

Network scans typically identify vulnerabilities like outdated software, weak passwords, unpatched security, open ports, misconfigured security settings, missing security updates, weak encryption, insecure services and protocols, vulnerable third party components, and denial of service (DoS) vulnerabilities.

• Outdated software: Network scans search for software, operating systems, or firmware lacking the latest security updates, making them susceptible to known exploits.

• Weak or default passwords: They detect systems and devices that still use easily guessable or default login credentials, posing a significant security threat.

• Unpatched security: These scans spot unaddressed vulnerabilities in both software and hardware, which cyberattackers could leverage to compromise a system.

• Open ports: Network vulnerability scans locate open or improperly configured network ports, which can potentially serve as entry points for unauthorized access and attacks.

• Misconfigured security settings: They uncover devices or services with misconfigured security settings, such as granting open access to sensitive directories or incorrectly applied firewall rules, creating security loopholes.

• Missing security updates: Network vulnerability scanners help find and flag missing security updates and patches, which, if not applied, expose systems to known vulnerabilities.

• Weak encryption: They spot weak encryption algorithms and protocols that can undermine the security and privacy of data during transmission and storage.

• Insecure services and protocols: Network scans highlight services and protocols with known security vulnerabilities, making them prime targets for exploitation.

• Vulnerabilities in third-party components: These scans spot vulnerabilities in third-party components, like plugins or libraries, which can be gateways for attackers to infiltrate the system.

• Denial of Service (DoS) vulnerabilities: Network vulnerability scans also detect systems or services at risk of DoS attacks, which can disrupt operations by overwhelming them with malicious traffic or requests.

How to perform a network vulnerability scan

To conduct a vulnerability scan on your network, you need to define your scope, select a scanner, build a plan, initiate the scan, analyze the results, mitigate and remediate, regularly scan, and maintain proper documentation.

1. Define your scope

Clearly outline which network assets and services you want to assess in your vulnerability scan. Decide whether it’s an internal or external scan.

2. Select a scanning tool

Choose a suitable vulnerability scanning tool that aligns with your defined scope and objectives.

3. Prepare and plan

Develop a plan specifying your scan objectives, schedule, and any specific requirements. Inform relevant teams about the plan.

4. Initiate the scan

Launch the scanning tool, configure it according to your scope, and initiate the network vulnerability scan to uncover known vulnerabilities.

5. Analyze the results

Examine the scan results, categorize vulnerabilities by severity, and prioritize urgent ones for immediate action.

6. Mitigate and remediate

Take measures to address identified vulnerabilities, such as updating necessary systems, deploying patches, or fixing system configurations.

7. Perform regular scanning

Schedule routine vulnerability scans to account for new vulnerabilities and maintain a strong security infrastructure.

8. Documentation and reporting

Maintain records of scan results and actions taken. Furthermore, create reports detailing the vulnerabilities detected and the steps for mitigation.

Examples of vulnerability scanners

There are various types of network vulnerability scanners for different purposes. These include web application scanners, authenticated scanners, passive scanners, continuous monitoring scanners, and cloud-based vulnerability scanners.

Web application scanners

These are a subset of vulnerability scanners focusing on vulnerabilities specific to web applications rather than addressing vulnerabilities in the broader network.

Authenticated scanners

This type of network vulnerability scanner specializes in assessing vulnerabilities that require authentication to access.

Passive scanners

Passive scanners are a unique type of network vulnerability scanners that monitor network traffic passively but don’t actively scan for vulnerabilities.

Continuous monitoring scanners

These are network vulnerability scanners that zero in on continuous, ongoing scanning to identify changes and new vulnerabilities.

Cloud-based vulnerability scanners

These mainly scan for vulnerabilities in cloud environments but may also encompass broader cloud security assessments.

Different vulnerability scan methods

There are several network vulnerability scanning methods, each designed to detect network weak points. These techniques include remote scanning. agent-based scanning, credential-based scanning, non-credential-based scanning, passive scanning, and active scanning.

Remote scanning

This is the universal approach where a scanner sends packets to the target network from a remote location to identify vulnerabilities.

Agent-based scanning

For this method, target devices have agents that constantly monitor and report vulnerabilities back to a central console.

Credential-based scanning

Credential-based scanning employs tools that use valid usernames and passwords to access target systems for a more detailed assessment.

Non-credential-based scanning

Cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers commonly use this technique to scan for vulnerabilities without using login credentials or access privileges. This simulates how an unauthorized attacker might search for weaknesses in a system or network from an external standpoint, where access is limited to what’s publicly visible without authenticated entry.

Passive scanning

This scanning approach involves the passive monitoring of network traffic to collect information about devices, software, and configurations without actively probing the target systems.

Network vulnerability scanning approach

There are two different types of network vulnerability scanning approaches: external and internal vulnerability scans. This table provides a concise comparison between the two, highlighting their differences in scope, perspective, methodology, purpose, and primary focus.

8 best practices for scanning networks for vulnerabilities

Best practices for scanning networks for vulnerabilities include gaining proper authorization, keeping an updated inventory, using the right tools, segmenting and isolating systems, scanning regularly, performing credential-based scanning, prioritizing findings, and documenting and reporting results.

1. Gain proper authorization

Always obtain explicit authorization from the network owner or administrator before conducting any vulnerability scans. Unauthorized scanning can lead to legal and security issues.

2. Keep an updated inventory

Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all devices, systems, and software on the network. This helps in understanding the scope and reduces the chances of missing vulnerabilities.

3. Use the right tools

Choose a reliable and up-to-date network vulnerability scanning tool. You should regularly update these tools to incorporate the latest threat intelligence and vulnerability databases.

4. Segment and isolate

Isolate and segment critical systems from less critical ones. This reduces the attack surface and the potential harm during the scanning process.

5. Schedule regular scans

Set up recurrent, scheduled scans rather than scanning haphazardly to ensure consistent network monitoring for vulnerabilities.

6. Use credential-based scanning

When possible, use credential-based scanning to gain deeper insights into the target systems and obtain a more accurate picture of vulnerabilities by accessing internal configurations.

7. Prioritize findings

Not all vulnerabilities are equally urgent. Implement a process for prioritizing and addressing vulnerabilities based on their severity and potential impact.

8. Document and report

Keep a detailed documentation of the scanning process, including the results, remediation steps, and any changes made. Generate in-depth reports to communicate findings with relevant stakeholders.

Top 3 network vulnerability scanning tools

There is a broad selection of network vulnerability scanning tools in the market today. Many of these tools come with rich features and capabilities that can help your organization assess and strengthen its cybersecurity posture. Here are a few of the best network vulnerability scanning tools in 2023:

Qualys Vulnerability Management, Detection, and Response (VMDR)

Qualys VMDR is a powerful tool for managing vulnerabilities in complex IT environments, which can be challenging to secure. The platform stands out for its ability to give additional threat and risk context, helping to identify high-risk network vulnerabilities. This transparency in the rating algorithm facilitates prioritization and alignment among security and IT stakeholders, leading to swift risk remediation.

One key feature of Qualys VMDR is its integration of asset visibility with vulnerability management, offering organizations a clear view of their global assets. It equips enterprises with insight into cyber risk exposure, simplifying the prioritization of vulnerabilities, assets, or asset groups based on business risk.

However, Qualys VMDR requires technical expertise for optimal use. Nonetheless, it excels in providing threat context and asset monitoring, making it valuable for organizations aiming to fine-tune their cybersecurity posture.

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus scans and discovers exposed areas on all local and remote office endpoints, as well as roaming devices, to offer you a thorough 360-degree view of your security exposure. It is second to none in network vulnerability scanning and detects known or emerging vulnerabilities across workstations, laptops, servers, web servers, databases, virtual machines, and content management systems.

This solution combines vulnerability scanning, patch management, and security configuration management into one tool, unifying the detection and resolution of security risks from a central location.

However, ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus does not auto-approve vulnerability patches, which means users must manually approve them. Additionally, immediate patch deployment in the system lets you select only up to 50 clients.

The strengths of ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus greatly outweigh its minor weaknesses, establishing it as an invaluable asset in maintaining network security.

SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection

SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection, a component of the Network Configuration Manager, enables easy scanning of network devices’ firmware for reported Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs), maintaining network security and compliance. Network automation is its main feature, allowing for quick deployment of firmware updates to network devices.

The tool effectively prevents unauthorized network configuration changes with its configuration change monitoring and alerting functionalities. Another notable strength is its capability to audit network routers and switches for policy compliance, consistently checking configurations for any non-compliant changes.

But like other network vulnerability scanning tools, SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection has weaknesses. For instance, its level of dashboard customization may not match that of some competitors, potentially affecting your ability to tailor the tool to your specific needs. In addition, the platform does not have a free version. Nevertheless, with its significant capabilities in network vulnerability scanning and management, it remains an excellent choice in the industry.

Bottom line: Scan networks for vulnerabilities

Network vulnerability scanning is an indispensable practice for defending your digital infrastructure. It’s a proactive, all-inclusive approach to detecting and addressing vulnerabilities, enabling continuous monitoring and compliance with regulatory standards. By adopting this process as an ongoing security measure and remaining vigilant, you can safeguard your network from potential threats and ensure its long-term security.

A network vulnerability scan is now a high-priority practice for maintaining strong security. It allows you to understand vulnerabilities, prioritize them based on risk, and take the necessary steps to remediate them.

Regular network scanning helps your organization stay one step ahead of potential threats and promotes timely detection and risk mitigation. Remember, the ultimate objective is to shrink the attack surface to its minimum, creating a fortress so robust that it becomes virtually impenetrable for attackers.

Read our complete guide to the best network vulnerability scanning tools, carefully selected and reviewed for a variety of use cases.

The post What Is Network Vulnerability Scanning? Complete Guide appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

Network vulnerability scanning software also contributes to cost savings, ensures compliance requirements to various regulations and industry standards, and enables business continuity by minimizing the chances of network disruptions caused by security incidents.

Investing in network vulnerability scanning software can foster customer trust, as it showcases a commitment to security and can lead to more business opportunities.

Here are our selections for the best network vulnerability scanning tools for 2023:

• Qualys Vulnerability Management (VMDR): Best overall network vulnerability scanning software. (Read more)
• SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection: Best for large-scale network performance monitoring and management. (Read more)
• Tenable Nessus: Best for comprehensive network and web application scanning. (Read more)
• Nmap: Best free, open source network vulnerability scanning software. (Read more)
• ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus: Best for IT management, including network and security. (Read more)
• Burp Suite: Best for web application security testing. (Read more)

Top network vulnerability scanning software comparison

Below is a comparison table with an overview of what each vulnerability scanning software has to offer:

Qualys Vulnerability Management (VMDR)

Best overall network vulnerability scanning software

Overall rating: 4/5

• Cost: 2/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 5/5
• Integrations: 4.25/5
• Ease of use: 3.75/5

Qualys VMDR is a key element of the Qualys suite, which offers a range of security solutions.

The primary function of Qualys VMDR is to scan your IT infrastructure for vulnerabilities by leveraging the Qualys Knowledgebase. This Knowledgebase continuously updates with thousands of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) to make sure you’re always aware of the latest threats.

The tool provides detailed insights into your cyber risk exposure, allowing you to prioritize vulnerabilities based on business risk. This makes it easier for security and IT teams to align their efforts and quickly remediate risks.

In addition to vulnerability scanning, Qualys VMDR also offers asset visibility, giving IT teams a clear view of their global IT assets, both known and unknown. This integrated approach helps organizations measure their true risk and track risk reduction over time.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Qualys VMDR has free (Community Edition) and paid versions. Its pricing depends on your selection of Cloud Platform Apps, the number of network addresses (IPs), web applications, and user licenses.

However, Qualys does not publish pricing details on its site and encourages customers to reach out to its sales team.

Features

• Asset discovery and inventory.
• Automatically scans internal and external networks.
• Adds threat and risk context to identify high-risk vulnerabilities.
• Performs risk scoring for suspicious activity and vulnerabilities.
• Delivers pre-built and custom reports and dashboards.
• Security testing tools.
• Ensures compliance with network security standards.
• Workflow automation.
• Perimeter scanning.

SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection

Best for large-scale network performance monitoring and management

Overall rating: 3/5

• Cost: 2.5/5
• Core features: 3.25/5
• Customer support: 4.5/5
• Integrations: 2/5
• Ease of use: 3.75/5

SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection, a feature of the Network Configuration Manager, specializes in enhancing network security and compliance. It scans network devices’ firmware for reported CVEs, helping to identify potential network vulnerabilities. The tool also uses network automation to quickly deploy firmware updates, so devices are always up-to-date.

If it detects vulnerabilities in multiple devices, it allows users to build, test, and administer a configuration change to all affected devices. It also delivers configuration backups and monitors configurations for changes, alerting users of any modifications and identifying the login ID used to make the change.

In addition, SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection blocks malicious IPs, patch vulnerabilities, and presents real-time actionable insights from your servers, endpoints, and applications.

Pros and cons

Pricing

SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection provides two licensing options:

• Subscription-based license: Starts at $1,894.
• Perpetual license: Starts at $3,671.

Get in touch with their sales team for a direct quote.

Features

• Scans network devices’ firmware for reported CVEs.
• Utilizes network automation to rapidly deploy firmware updates to network devices.
• Continuously audits configurations for any change affecting device compliance.
• Fast configuration updates.
• Builds configuration backups and monitors configurations for change, sending alerts on any configuration changes and the login ID used to make the change.
• Supports remediation script creation.
• Configuration change monitoring and alerting.
• Device configuration auditing.

Tenable Nessus

Best for comprehensive network and web application scanning

Overall rating: 3.5/5

• Cost: 1.75/5
• Core features: 4.5/5
• Customer support: 3.5/5
• Integrations: 3/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

Nessus, developed by Tenable Network Security, is a network vulnerability scanner that allows organizations to find vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and malware that attackers could exploit to penetrate their networks.

This network vulnerability scanning software works by testing each port on a computer, determining what service it is running, and then testing this service for any potential vulnerabilities. This thorough approach lets Nessus provide a detailed assessment of potential security risks.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Nessus Tenable has a free version and two paid versions.

Nessus Essentials: This is available as a free download for students and educators and scans up to 16 IPs3.

Nessus Professional (Pro):

• 1 Year: $3,390 or $3,790 with advanced support.
• 2 Years: $4,660 or $5,460 with advanced support.
• 3 Years: $6,811.50 or $8,011.50 with advanced support.

Nessus Expert:1 Year: $4,990 or $5,390 with advanced support.

You can request a price quote from Tenable by getting in touch with their sales team.

Features

• Performs automated and scheduled security audits.
• Identifies security weaknesses in local and remote hosts.
• Conducts simulated attacks to uncover vulnerabilities.
• Detects missing security updates and patches.
• 500 prebuilt policies for exhaustive scans.
• Runs detailed scans on web applications.
• Scans and assesses your external attack surface.
• Facilitates scanning cloud infrastructure.

Nmap

Best free, open source network vulnerability scanning software

Overall rating: 2.75/5

• Cost: 5/5
• Core features: 2.5/5
• Customer support: 2/5
• Integrations: 1.5/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

Nmap, short for “Network Mapper,” is a powerful and versatile open-source tool used for network discovery and security auditing. Security experts and ethical hackers typically use this vulnerability scanning tool.

Nmap uses scripts to scan for known weaknesses that cybercriminals could potentially leverage. These scripts are sets of instructions that the system executes. While Nmap comes with some scripts, you have the option to write your own scripts using a language known as Lua.

Pros and cons

Pricing

• Free and open source

Features

• Quickly identifies all devices, including servers, routers, switches, and mobile devices on a single or multiple networks.
• Scans and discovers open ports in a network.
• Pinpoints services running on a system, including web servers, DNS servers, and other common applications.
• Detects application versions with reasonable accuracy, aiding in identifying existing vulnerabilities.
• Presents detailed information about the operating system running on devices for penetration testing.
• Includes a scripting engine that allows users to write scripts for network discovery and vulnerability detection.
• Graphical user interface called Zenmap to show visual mappings of a network for better usability and reporting.

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus

Best for IT management, including network and security

Overall rating: 3.25/5

• Cost: 3.25/5
• Core features: 3.75/5
• Customer support: 4/5
• Integrations: 0.25/5
• Ease of use: 5/5

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus is an integrated vulnerability management and compliance solution that has end-to-end coverage of threats and vulnerabilities. It has built-in remediation and works across multiple operating systems.

The tool provides continual visibility into your security exposure, threat assessment, and vulnerability remediation from a single console. It can scan and discover exposed areas of all your local and remote office endpoints as well as roaming devices.

This vulnerability scanning software prioritizes vulnerabilities based on exploitability, severity, age, affected system count, and the availability of the fix. Additionally, it comes with patch management to customize, orchestrate, and automate your entire patching process. 

Moreover, ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus can harden web servers by supplying details on the cause, impact, and remedies of web server security flaws. It also audits high-risk software to identify and uninstall unsafe software from your endpoints.

Pros and cons

Pricing

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus is available in free and paid versions.

• Free version: Ideal for small businesses with up to 20 workstations and five servers.
• Professional: Annual subscription price of $695 for 100 workstations.
• Enterprise: Annual subscription price of $1195 for 100 workstations.

More pricing details are available here.

Features

• Discovers network devices, scans for firmware vulnerabilities, and remediates identified threats.
• Out-of-the-box policies to comply with over 75 CIS benchmarks, instantly identifies violations, and gives detailed remediation insights.
• Patch management for multiple Operating Systems and 250+ 3rd-party applications.
• Discovers network devices.
• Scans for firmware vulnerabilities.
• Keeps track of configuration drifts and deploys secure configurations.
• Identifies and mitigates zero-day vulnerabilities with prebuilt, tested scripts.
• Detects and remediates expired SSL, inappropriate web root directory access, and other web server flaws.
• Analyses and uninstalls unsafe, unauthorized, and unsupported software.
• Performs antivirus audit.
• Monitors the ports in use and processes running and uncovers unintended ports that may be activated by malware or unknown applications.

Burp Suite

Best for web application security testing

Overall rating: 3/5

• Cost: 3.5/5
• Core features: 3.75/5
• Customer support: 3/5
• Integrations: 2.25/5
• Ease of use: 2.5/5

Burp Suite, an extensive platform developed in Java by PortSwigger, mainly concentrates on web application security penetration testing. It stands out in this context due to its unique features and strengths. Notably, the Burp Scanner, an essential part of the suite, is a robust automated tool that actively detects and exploits vulnerabilities in web applications.

What sets the Burp Scanner apart is its ability to mimic a human user’s actions, navigating through challenges like CSRF tokens and dynamic content. It demonstrates remarkable versatility, handling a wide array of API definitions and the large-scale complexity of modern web applications, even in less-than-ideal internet conditions.

Proactively sending numerous requests to the target application, the Burp Scanner excels at identifying and exploiting common vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, XSS, and CSRF. Over 70,000 users from more than 16,000 organizations actively attest to its reliability by placing their trust in this tool.

Pros and cons

Pricing

Burp Suite has a free edition with basic features for manual security testing. For more features, two paid versions are available:

• Burp Suite Professional: $449 per user per year.
• Burp Suite Enterprise: $9,236 per year which includes five concurrent scans. Each additional concurrent scan will cost $659 per year.

Visit their pricing page for more details and discounts.

Features

• Intercepts and manipulates HTTP traffic between a web application and the client.
• Automated vulnerability scanning capabilities for identifying common web application security issues quickly.
• Web spidering tool that automatically navigates through a website, discovering and mapping its structure.
• Its Intruder tool automates the process of testing multiple payloads or inputs on a target.
• Its Repeater tool enables manual and iterative testing of individual requests.
• Collaborative testing features that facilitate communication among security professionals.
• Extensibility through BApps.
• Automated Out-of-band Application Security Testing (OAST) for finding a wider range of vulnerabilities.
• DOM Invader for simplified testing of DOM XSS vulnerabilities.
• Token strength assessment.
• Advanced/Custom automated attacks for deploying custom sequences of HTTP requests containing multiple payload sets.
• Automatically modifies HTTP messages.

Key features of network vulnerability scanning software

Network vulnerability scanning tools must have reliable scanning capabilities, accurate vulnerability detection, scheduled scanning, remediation guidance, and asset management features for them to work efficiently.

Broad scanning capabilities

A vulnerability scanning tool that features broad coverage thoroughly assesses an organization’s entire IT infrastructure. It scrutinizes network devices, software applications, and operating systems. By ensuring comprehensive coverage, the tool actively detects every potential vulnerability. This reduces security blind spots and minimizes the risk of exploitation.

Accurate vulnerability detection

Accurate vulnerability detection is critical for eliminating false positives and false negatives. It provides assurance that the identified vulnerabilities are legitimate security risks, which saves valuable time and resources. Reliable detection also helps in prioritizing and addressing the most urgent vulnerabilities first, improving overall security.

Scheduled scanning

Scheduled scanning automates the process, making it regular and consistent. This consistency is imperative for staying ahead of evolving threats and new vulnerabilities. By setting up regular scans, your organization can detect and address security weaknesses promptly, reducing the window of opportunity for potential attackers.

Remediation guidance

Network vulnerability scanning tools that bring remediation guidance are invaluable because they don’t just identify issues; they also offer actionable recommendations for fixing them. This guidance simplifies the process of resolving vulnerabilities, even for users who may not have extensive cybersecurity expertise, which ultimately leads to a more secure network.

Asset management

Asset management is vital for understanding the organization’s digital landscape. It helps in tracking all devices and software in use. This knowledge is foundational for effective vulnerability management as it guarantees that no asset goes unmonitored, letting you address vulnerabilities across the entire infrastructure.

How we evaluated network vulnerability scanning tools

We conducted extensive research and analysis to identify the top network vulnerability scanning tools for security teams in 2023.

First, we categorized our assessment into five primary areas: cost, core features, customer support, integrations, and ease of use.

We then broke down each criterion to define specific requirements and expectations for an ideal network vulnerability scanning software.

Afterward, we assessed and scored each tool based on its ability to meet the sub-criteria within each category. Finally, we computed the total scores for each software.

Cost – 20%

For this criteria, we considered a range of financial aspects to provide a clear understanding:

We assessed the duration of any available free trial, the availability of a free version of the software, as well as the usability of the free version without needing to transition to a paid plan.

Additionally, we considered the diversity of pricing models offered by the vendor, including subscription-based, perpetual licensing, and pay-as-you-go options. To complete this assessment, we examined the actual pricing and cost of the tool compared to competitors in the market.

• Category winner: Nmap

Core features – 25%

This category encompasses an in-depth assessment of various significant aspects of network vulnerability scanning, including scanning capabilities, vulnerability detection accuracy, built-in scanning scheduling, remediation guidance, penetration testing features, asset management, patch management capabilities, vulnerability management as a service features, vulnerability database update frequency, and the extensiveness of compliance support.

These factors collectively shape the core functionalities and capabilities of the network vulnerability scanning tools we evaluated, delivering a holistic view of their capability in addressing security challenges.

• Category winners: Qualys VMDR, Tenable Nessus

Customer support – 15%

In assessing customer support, we carefully examined the available support options, which include Live Chat, Phone, Email/Ticketing system, Community/Forums, and Knowledge Center/Documentation.

Our evaluation extended to factors such as the accessibility of each support type to all users, irrespective of their paid or free status. We also took into account the activeness of community resources and documentation. Moreover, we considered response times to check if customer support is prompt.

• Category winners: Qualys VMDR, SolarWinds Network Vulnerability Detection

Integrations – 20%

For integrations, we analyzed each network vulnerability scanning tool’s compatibility with a range of third-party tools, including Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Systems, Ticketing and Issue Tracking Systems, Configuration Management Databases (CMDBs), Threat Intelligence Feeds, Patch Management Systems, Cloud Security Platforms, Network Scanners and Discovery Tools, and Web Application Scanners.

We also examined the tool’s support for custom integrations to measure flexibility for specific organizational needs. User feedback played a key role in our research, particularly regarding the ease of integration, offering insights into the practicality of connecting the tool with existing systems and applications.

• Category winners: Qualys VMDR

Ease of use – 20%

In our evaluation of ease of use, we explored the tool’s overall user experience, with a keen focus on its adaptability and simplicity in both deployment and operation.

We considered how approachable the tool is for users with varying levels of technical expertise, aiming to ensure that it has an intuitive and accessible experience. This criterion allowed us to determine the tool’s practicality across a diverse user spectrum.

• Category winners: ManageEngine, Tenable Nessus

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is vulnerability scanning software?

Vulnerability scanning software is a specialized cybersecurity tool that probes an organization’s IT infrastructure, including network devices, software applications, and operating systems. Its main role is to systematically detect and assess weaknesses or vulnerabilities that malicious entities could exploit.

The software pinpoints these vulnerabilities and empowers organizations to enhance their security by addressing and rectifying these issues. This proactive identification and mitigation process reduces security blind spots and minimizes the risk of exploitation.

What are examples of common network vulnerabilities?

Common network vulnerabilities include:

• Unpatched or outdated software.
• Weak or default passwords.
• Insufficient access control.
• Misconfigured network services.
• Lack of encryption.
• Open ports and services.
• Phishing attacks.
• Denial-of-service (DoS) attacks.
• Inadequate firewall rules.
• Social engineering threats.

Bottom line: Network vulnerability scanning software is your security backbone

Network vulnerability scanning tools act as the critical backbone of any organization’s cybersecurity strategy. The extensive range of vulnerabilities, from common weaknesses to the most sophisticated exploits, calls for the use of reliable and advanced scanning software to safeguard sensitive information, systems, and networks.

Just like choosing other network security tools for your organization, selecting the right network vulnerability scanning software is a decision you should make with utmost care and consideration. Prioritize broadness, accuracy, and frequency of updates to make sure it can deal with emerging threats.

By making informed, strategic choices and investing in robust, up-to-date software, you can effectively fortify your network’s defenses, ensuring a safer and more secure digital future.

Vulnerability scanning is just the first step in securing your network. Dive deeper into the process with our guide to vulnerability management, and be sure to review our network vulnerability assessment checklist.

The post 6 Best Network Vulnerability Scanning Tools for Security Teams in 2023 appeared first on Enterprise Networking Planet.

With the constantly rising complexity of IT environments and as cyberthreats continue to increase, choosing the right IAM tool becomes even more high-stakes.

To help you make such an important decision, here are our picks for the top 8 IAM tools and software in 2023:

• Okta: Best for an extensive network of integrations (Read more)
• JumpCloud: Best for cloud-based directory service (Read more)
• Auth0: Best for customizability and flexibility (Read more)
• Microsoft Entra ID: Best for Microsoft ecosystem (Read more)
• Ping Identity: Best for a balance of user experience and security (Read more)
• SecureAuth IdP: Best for adaptive authentication (Read more)
• OneLogin: Best for simplified access management (Read more)
• CyberArk: Best for IDaaS and privileged access management (Read more)

Top IAM software comparison

Before diving into individual reviews, let’s compare these IAM tools based on key features that are most relevant to potential users.