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Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) Reviews

Vendor: Cisco
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What is Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)?

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) offers comprehensive network access control and visibility, supporting features like 802.1X authentication, profiling, and posturing. It integrates with Microsoft and other Cisco products, facilitating robust security policies across distributed networks.

Get the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), Cisco Secure Firewall, Cisco Umbrella and more!
Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is the #1 ranked solution in top Network Access Control (NAC) solutions and top Cisco Security Portfolio solutions. PeerSpot users give Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) an average rating of 8.2 out of 10. Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is most commonly compared to Cisco Secure Firewall: Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) vs Cisco Secure Firewall. Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 57% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 12% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)
December 2025
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Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) video interviews

Watch a video interview with a real Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) user to learn how the Network Access Control (NAC) solution helped improve their organization. The video includes info about the challenges and benefits of implementing Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE).
Oct 7, 2024
Covers a wide range of potential solutions and has an easy-to-follow user interface
Ashley Mead - PeerSpot reviewer
Ashley Mead
Sr Network Consultant at CAE Technology Services Limited
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Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) mindshare

Product category:
Network Access Control (NAC)
As of December 2025, the mindshare of Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) in the Network Access Control (NAC) category stands at 22.8%, down from 28.7% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Network Access Control (NAC) Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)22.8%
Aruba ClearPass22.2%
Fortinet FortiNAC16.5%
Other38.5%
Network Access Control (NAC)

PeerResearch reports based on Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryNetwork Access Control (NAC)Dec 29, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) vs Aruba ClearPassDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) vs Fortinet FortiNACDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) vs Forescout PlatformDec 29, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Cisco Secure Firewall4.1N/A83%429 interviewsAdd to research
Cisco Umbrella4.4N/A97%122 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers
Last updated Dec 28, 2025

Valuable Features

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is valued for features such as compatibility with 802.1X, comprehensive network access control, and integration with Microsoft products. Other notable elements include profiling, posturing, BYOD management, TrustSec implementation, and granular policy enforcement. Its ease of use, enhanced security, guest access, and zero-trust architecture further amplify its efficacy in providing visibility and managing wired and wireless access seamlessly across various network environments.
  • "I have noticed measurable improvements in security and efficiency since implementing Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), as we have increased security significantly compared to before and everything has changed in security after we implemented it."
  • "Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) has simplified guest access management for us without compromising security for our organization."
  • "The policies allow us to enforce certain rules on the network to be able to screen our users more effectively."

Room for Improvement

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) faces several challenges that need attention. Users report that the setup and configuration are overly complex, with a steep learning curve and cumbersome troubleshooting. The interface lacks user-friendliness, and the upgrades are often problematic. Integration with third-party products is restrictive, complicating networking interfaces. Performance and stability issues persist, with resource-intensive processes and bugs noted. Improvements are also sought in documentation, reporting capabilities, hardware compatibility, and pricing structure.
  • "Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) could be improved by allowing us to switch back to the legacy license, as the new license model is more complicated, and Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) does not provide a legacy-based license."
  • "The log capacity in Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) could be enhanced because today natively on the ISE can only have a look at the logs from the day before."
  • "The integrations with the switches and the wireless controllers are not really straightforward. There is what they call the best practice for them, but it may not be what we have on-premise."

ROI

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) demonstrates a return on investment through enhanced security and operational efficiency. Organizations appreciate its ability to block threats, integrate seamlessly with existing systems, and reduce downtime. ISE's long-term reliability and reduction in manpower needs contribute to cost savings. The peace of mind it provides, along with decreased penalties and increased security compliance, further solidify its financial value, making it a valuable investment.

Pricing

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) offers three pricing tiers: basic, plus, and apex. Licensing is often perceived as complicated, and recent changes have shifted the model from perpetual to subscription-based, potentially increasing costs. Setup and support costs can add significant expenses, especially for large deployments. While some users find the pricing fair considering its extensive features, others deem it expensive relative to competitors. Enterprises may benefit from discounts and agreements, but smaller organizations might find it challenging.
  • "If you consider money only, Cisco ISE is not a cheap solution."
  • "The solution is not that cheap."
  • "I would rate the pricing an eight out of ten, one being cheap and ten being expensive."

Popular Use Cases

Companies use Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) primarily for network access control, wireless authentication, and segmentation. They implement it to ensure secure access by authenticating users and devices, manage BYOD policies, and authenticate VPN users. ISE integrates with Active Directory for user verification, manages policies for guest access, and enhances cybersecurity through zero trust and posture assessments, especially within large organizations, universities, and service providers.

Service and Support

Cisco Identity Services Engine customer service and support are widely appreciated, with many users highlighting responsiveness and expertise. The Technical Assistance Center (TAC) is frequently praised, though some report delays in response time and escalations. Many users benefit from Cisco's community forums and partner networks. Some express concern about repetitive troubleshooting steps or having to involve multiple specialists, but many rate their experience positively, commonly giving scores between six and nine out of ten.

Deployment

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)'s initial setup varies in complexity. Some find it straightforward by following documentation, while others encounter challenges requiring expert assistance. The time frame for deployment ranges from a few hours to several months, depending on infrastructure and expertise. Proper planning is crucial, with complexities arising in configurations. Users note that post-deployment stability can significantly enhance security. It often requires strategic collaboration and a thorough understanding of network systems for effective implementation.

Scalability

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) demonstrates high scalability, handling diverse environments effectively. Many users report seamless scaling across varied deployments and organizational sizes, emphasizing flexibility for both virtual and physical setups. Though generally efficient, some highlight challenges in complex architectures and the need for proper resource planning. With considerations for hardware and licensing, ISE accommodates growth, supporting extensive user bases while requiring careful initial design to avoid scalability constraints.

Stability

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) demonstrates significant stability. Many report it as highly reliable, functioning without interruptions, bugs, or glitches. While there are occasional challenges during updates or configuration, proper setup and maintenance enhance performance. Organizations find it reliable for diverse operations. However, some users encounter issues when managing very large user bases or during software upgrades. Generally, users appreciate its robustness and ongoing improvements in performance and dependability.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business34
Midsize Enterprise24
Large Enterprise70
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business727
Midsize Enterprise452
Large Enterprise1551
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
12%
Manufacturing Company
11%
Financial Services Firm
9%
Government
9%
Comms Service Provider
5%
Healthcare Company
5%
Educational Organization
4%
Retailer
4%
University
4%
Energy/Utilities Company
3%
Insurance Company
3%
Outsourcing Company
2%
Performing Arts
2%
Non Profit
2%
Media Company
2%
Real Estate/Law Firm
2%
Construction Company
2%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
2%
Transportation Company
2%
Hospitality Company
2%
Wholesaler/Distributor
2%
Legal Firm
2%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Logistics Company
1%
Marketing Services Firm
1%
Engineering Company
1%
Mining And Metals Company
1%

Compare Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) with alternative products

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Learn more about Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)

Cisco Identity Services Engine is a key player in network access control, offering centralized management and a user-friendly interface. It supports zero trust principles and provides strong authentication for wired and wireless networks. ISE's capabilities include granular security policies, enhanced device posturing, and seamless integration, bolstering security infrastructure. Users benefit from its dual authentication through EAP, simplifying access management across networks.

What are the key features of Cisco ISE?
  • 802.1X Authentication: Supports network security for authorized device access.
  • Profiling: Identifies devices for accurate policy enforcement.
  • Posturing: Evaluates device compliance for access decisions.
  • TACACS: Streamlines network device authentication and authorization.
  • Guest Access: Provides secure access to visitors.
  • Microsoft Compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with Microsoft environments.
What benefits and ROI should be considered?
  • Security Enhancement: Offers strong network security policies.
  • Operational Efficiency: Centralized management improves operational aspects.
  • Improved Compliance: Ensures adherence to industry standards.
  • Scalability: Supports growing network demands effectively.

In industries like finance, healthcare, and education, Cisco ISE is pivotal for securing wired and wireless networks, implementing BYOD policies, and managing user access. Organizations leverage ISE for effective authentication and authorization, while maintaining compliance with industry security standards.

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) was previously known as Cisco ISE.

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) customers

Aegean Motorway, BC Hydro, Beachbody, Bucks County Intermediate Unit , Cisco IT, Derby City Council, Global Banking Customer, Gobierno de Castilla-La Mancha, Houston Methodist, Linz AG, London Hydro, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Molina Healthcare, MST Systems, New South Wales Rural Fire Service, Reykjavik University, Wildau University

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Cisco ISE (Identity Services Engine) vs Fortinet FortiNAC: which solution is better and why?
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  • 108
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What is your experience with 802.1X when using EnGenius WAP/switch with Cisco ISE 2.1?

Product Categories

Product Categories
Network Access Control (NAC)
Cisco Security Portfolio

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Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Network and Technology Information Manager at Akkodis4.5I find Cisco ISE reliable and easy to use for RADIUS authentication and guest access, though log capacity and stability during upgrades could improve; overall, it integrates well with our Cisco environment and meets our needs effectively.
Cybersecurity Team Leader at EMAK For Integrated Solutions5.0I've used Cisco ISE for six months to enforce Zero Trust via network admission control and posture assessment, valuing its usability, integration, and stability, though I find the new licensing model more complex than the legacy version.
Ag Systems & Networks Head at UNBS4.0We use Cisco Identity Services Engine for network access control to isolate devices and enforce rules, enhancing visibility and security. However, integration with other vendors can be restrictive, needing workarounds. I've considered Juniper and D-Link switches.
Service Line Manager (Service Operations Expert) - Network Access Control at a pharma/biotech company with 10,001+ employees2.0I use Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) mainly for wireless authentication and device administration. While it excels in device administration, it falls short in network access control. It offers cost savings compared to Forescout but needs improvements in threat detection and profiling.
Technical Services Lead at Telenet Solutions4.5We use Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) for network access control, including LAN, WAN, and Wi-Fi. It enhances security through RADIUS authentication. However, hardware compatibility is limited outside Cisco products. The solution provides ROI by improving security and reducing downtime.
Manager Network Operations at RAND Corporation5.0We use Cisco ISE for various authentication tasks, benefiting from its unified interface and policy management. While its documentation needs improvement, it significantly saves us money. Alternatives, like Microsoft, lacked maturity, and Linux required sysadmin expertise.
Network Engineer at a financial services firm with 10,001+ employees4.5I use Cisco Identity Services Engine for AAA authentication, enabling AD login with a single username. While the solution simplifies management and access, the web UI requires improvement for better navigation, specifically in the left pane after updating to version 3.1.
Network Architect at Great Canadian Gaming Corp4.5We primarily use Cisco ISE for device authentication and are integrating 802.1X for enhanced security. It efficiently authenticates wired users and separates guest networks, although policy implementation could be streamlined. We've experienced a positive ROI through improved protection.