Cisco Secure Access vs Microsoft Defender for Business
Cisco Secure Access
umbrella.cisco.comMicrosoft Defender for Business
microsoft.comSide by side
| Figure | Cisco Secure Access | Microsoft Defender for Business |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | $0.25/mo |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | — |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 4 | 4 |
| Spec score · Cloud Access Security Broker Software | 8.8 (#1) | 8.5 (#2) |
| Headquarters | San Jose, California, United States | Redmond, Washington, United States |
| Integrations | Documented integrations include Chrome Enterprise Browser, Microsoft Intune, Jamf Pro, ServiceNow or Splunk event delivery, Microsoft Edge for Business, Island, ISE, Catalyst SD-WAN, Cisco Identity Intelligence and threat-intelligence feeds. | The product integrates with Microsoft 365 Lighthouse and can work with remote monitoring and management tools and professional services automation software. |
| Management | Cisco provides a cloud-managed console, unified client, centralized policy creation, AI-assisted policy generation and aggregated reporting. | Administrators use the Microsoft Defender portal to configure the product, monitor devices and detections, view policies, and manage security recommendations. |
| Support | Subscriptions include SWSS Enhanced support with 24x7 cloud-security support, software updates, onboarding and adoption assistance; Premium adds prioritized handling and an assigned expert. | Microsoft's Defender for Business documentation provides a guide for getting help or contacting support. |
Plans
Cisco Secure Access
- DNS Defense free trialFree
- Cisco Secure Access subscriptionPriced on request
- Secure Access AdvantagePriced on request
- Secure Access EssentialsPriced on request
Microsoft Defender for Business
- Microsoft Defender for Business$3 a month
- Microsoft Entra Internet Access$5 a month
- Microsoft Entra Suite$12 a month
- Microsoft Defender for Business$3 a year
In their own words
Cisco Secure Access
Cisco Secure Access is a cloud-delivered Security Service Edge solution that protects access to internet, SaaS, and private applications. It combines zero trust network access, Secure Web Gateway, CASB, Firewall as a Service, DNS security, Data Loss Prevention, Remote Browser Isolation, and digital experience monitoring. CASB provides visibility and control over SaaS use, including detection of unsanctioned applications. ZTNA grants application-specific access using identity, device posture, and contextual policy, with access denied by default. Controls for generative AI applications and agents are intended to help identify shadow AI and reduce sensitive data exposure. Administration uses a cloud-managed console for centralized policy creation and aggregated reporting. Listed integrations include Microsoft Intune, Jamf Pro, ServiceNow, Splunk, Cisco ISE, browsers, and Cisco services; identity-provider examples include Active Directory, Azure AD, and Okta. Subscriptions are licensed per covered user, with price depending on user count and term; no price is listed. A 14-day trial is available. Subscriptions include 24x7 technical support, software updates, and onboarding assistance. Cisco describes the service for organizations securing users, devices, applications, and AI agents across office, home, and remote settings.
Microsoft Defender for Business
Microsoft Defender for Business has no write-up on Specifiction yet; its figures are above.