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Cisco IOS Security Reviews

Vendor: Cisco
4.0 out of 5
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What is Cisco IOS Security?

Cisco IOS Security integrates advanced VPN capabilities, IPsec security, and firewall features, ensuring scalable and reliable protection suitable for enterprise networks.

Get the Cisco IOS Security Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about Cisco IOS Security, Fortinet FortiGate, Netgate pfSense and more!
Cisco IOS Security is the #16 ranked solution in top Intrusion Detection and Prevention Software and #39 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give Cisco IOS Security an average rating of 8.0 out of 10. Cisco IOS Security is most commonly compared to Fortinet FortiGate: Cisco IOS Security vs Fortinet FortiGate. Cisco IOS Security is popular among the small business segment, accounting for 41% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 15% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Cisco IOS Security
May 2026
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Cisco IOS Security mindshare

Product category:
Firewalls
As of May 2026, the mindshare of Cisco IOS Security in the Firewalls category stands at 0.5%, up from 0.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Firewalls Mindshare Distribution
ProductMindshare (%)
Cisco IOS Security0.5%
Fortinet FortiGate16.0%
OPNsense8.9%
Other74.6%
Firewalls

PeerResearch reports based on Cisco IOS Security reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryFirewallsMay 3, 2026Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersMay 3, 2026Download
ComparisonCisco IOS Security vs Fortinet FortiGateMay 3, 2026Download
ComparisonCisco IOS Security vs Netgate pfSenseMay 3, 2026Download
ComparisonCisco IOS Security vs Sophos FirewallMay 3, 2026Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Fortinet FortiGate4.216.0%92%592 interviewsAdd to research
Netgate pfSense4.38.3%94%221 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

Cisco IOS Security users highlight its scalability, ease of use, robust VPN capabilities, user-friendly interface, stability, and integration with management tools. Key features include AAA, VPN, IPsec, content filtering, intrusion prevention, and port security. It is praised for high compatibility with open protocols, effective threat detection, and centralized network management. Many appreciate its integrated firewall features and minimal maintenance. The security features contribute significantly to network protection and efficiency.
  • "It is more stable and less expensive than other firewalls."
  • "The software offers plenty of security solutions that can work in the most sophisticated enterprise but also works well for small/mid-range enterprises."
  • "We are using Cisco IOS Security for endpoint security, for example, spyware, firewall, database and application protection."

Room for Improvement

Cisco IOS Security faces challenges in user interface complexity, ACL management, and integration with non-Cisco equipment. Users experience performance and connectivity issues, particularly with WAN and zone-based firewalls. Licensing and cost are considered high compared to competitors. The system lacks robust automation, seamless cloud integration, and user-friendly management tools. Monitoring, reporting, and IPS features are also cited as needing improvement, while better synchronization and enhanced active-active capabilities are suggested for future updates.
  • "While Cisco IOS Security is stable and scalable, I would like to see it improved to be even better."
  • "Some additional features could be improved. For example, the licensing for DNA environments could be better."
  • "It's a good device yet it's not a market leader. There are better options for customers to choose from."

ROI

Cisco IOS Security is appreciated for its effective return on investment, enhancing time management and reducing costs. User responses highlight improved security measures, boosts in organizational efficiency, and positive financial returns. The subscription model is especially praised, and Cisco's longstanding reputation adds to its perceived value. The competition from vendors like Fortinet, Palo Alto, and Check Point is acknowledged, but satisfaction levels remain high, with ROI estimations reaching up to 1800%.

Pricing

Cisco IOS Security is targeted at medium to large enterprises with various licensing options, including yearly and multi-year plans. Pricing is generally considered expensive, with some users noting it is higher than competitors like Sophos and Fortinet. Subscriptions can be costly, but longer-term commitments may offer cost savings. Although they introduced more affordable SMB options, the solution primarily supports enterprise-scale needs, and pricing is a crucial consideration for price-sensitive clients.
  • "You can get a better price if you commit to a longer-term license. Three years, five years, or even seven or ten years will be cheaper than a three-month or one-year term."
  • "The solution's pricing is very good."
  • "The product is expensive."

Popular Use Cases

Cisco IOS Security is used for routing, switching, VPNs, endpoint security, and firewalls. It provides identity control for endpoints, network segmentation, and secure connectivity for enterprise, data centers, and cloud environments. Users employ it for threat prevention, secure management, and compliance with industry standards like HIPAA and PCI. It supports features like intrusion protection, device hardening, and cryptographic functionalities, ensuring secure, flexible network infrastructure for diverse sectors.

Service and Support

Cisco IOS Security customer service and support receive mixed feedback. Many praise the responsiveness, expertise, and 24/7 availability, giving high ratings. However, some users express frustration over slow response times, especially for issues requiring immediate attention. Support quality varies, with satisfaction depending on regional service and scale of operations. Users with direct vendor channels and premium support experience better service. New acquisitions might face a learning curve, impacting support effectiveness temporarily.

Deployment

Initial setup experiences with Cisco IOS Security vary widely. Some find it straightforward and manageable within hours to a week, while others face complexity requiring Cisco expertise and training. Specific configurations, like TAC servers and integration with non-Cisco devices, can complicate the process. Deployment time frames differ, ranging from a day to several weeks, depending on requirements. Experience and knowledge significantly influence ease of setup and deployment efficiency.

Scalability

Cisco IOS Security is often found to be scalable, accommodating diverse enterprise needs. While some note constraints in scalability due to hardware requirements, many appreciate its ability to suit various organizational sizes. Users report good functionality across branches and remote locations, with scalability features adapted for enterprise requirements. Organizations emphasize its capacity to accommodate a wide range of users efficiently, with varied opinions on associated costs and integration with existing infrastructure.

Stability

Many noted Cisco IOS Security as highly stable, rating it nine or ten out of ten. While some reported minor stability issues and missing functionalities, especially without Cisco gear, most described it as reliable without crashes, bugs, or glitches. It is favored for its consistent performance, with users experiencing minimal downtime over extended periods. Regular updates and improvements further enhance its reliability for varied customer bases.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Cisco IOS Security Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business18
Midsize Enterprise9
Large Enterprise13
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business65
Midsize Enterprise42
Large Enterprise50
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
15%
Construction Company
9%
Manufacturing Company
8%
Comms Service Provider
8%
Financial Services Firm
7%
Outsourcing Company
6%
Government
6%
Marketing Services Firm
6%
University
4%
Healthcare Company
4%
Performing Arts
3%
Wholesaler/Distributor
3%
Educational Organization
3%
Non Profit
3%
Retailer
3%
Transportation Company
2%
Venture Capital & Private Equity Firm
1%
Media Company
1%
Religious Institution
1%
Renewables & Environment Company
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Logistics Company
1%
Newspaper
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Hospitality Company
1%
Training & Coaching Company
1%
Legal Firm
1%
Energy/Utilities Company
1%
Insurance Company
1%
Real Estate/Law Firm
1%

Compare Cisco IOS Security with alternative products

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Learn more about Cisco IOS Security

Cisco IOS Security offers comprehensive firewall integration, robust AAA capabilities, and encryption, empowering organizations with a reliable network environment. EEM provides flexibility and programmability, while integrated threat detection, intrusion prevention, and centralized management enhance its security profile. Despite its reliability, challenges include complexity in configuration, high pricing, and confusing licensing policies. Performance issues and the need for enhanced integration, automation, and better monitoring tools are areas for improvement.

What are the key features of Cisco IOS Security?
  • VPN Capabilities: Ensures secure remote connectivity.
  • IPsec Security: Offers robust encryption for data protection.
  • Firewall Integration: Enhances network defense with built-in firewalls.
  • AAA Capabilities: Provides secure authentication, authorization, and accounting.
  • Threat Detection: Identifies and mitigates threats proactively.
What benefits should organizations look for in reviews?
  • Reliability: Recognized for its stable network performance.
  • Scalability: Supports growing network demands seamlessly.
  • Comprehensive Security: Offers robust protection against diverse cyber threats.
  • Ease of Configuration: Facilitates efficient network setup and management.

Industries leverage Cisco IOS Security to protect against zero-day attacks, deploy secure VPNs, and facilitate network access control and compliance checks. Organizations utilize its features for firewalls, routing, and switching, integrating technologies like Cisco ICE and TrustSec to enhance security across enterprise environments.

Cisco IOS Security was previously known as IOS Security.

Cisco IOS Security customers

Arup Group, Brunel University London, City of Biel, Gobierno de Castilla-La Mancha, K&L Gates , New South Wales Rural Fire Service, Offshore Northern Seas, Transplace

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Product Categories

Product Categories
Firewalls
Intrusion Detection and Prevention Software (IDPS)

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Cisco IOS Security Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Head of Cyber Defense Department and Network Technologies Department at Verso Altima4.5I've used Cisco IOS Security for 18 years; it's stable, scalable, and feature-rich, though licensing is confusing and support quality has declined. Despite high costs, ROI is good, especially when leveraging Cisco’s broader ecosystem and integration capabilities.
Partner/Owner and Director of Human Resources at Up arrow Systems4.0I recommend Cisco IOS Security for most enterprise-level customers as it effectively manages authentication and authorization for network access. While pricing could be improved, its Network Access Controller offers valuable features like device profiling, with a 30% ROI.
Senior Consultant at Velocis Systems5.0I focus on Cisco Secure Firewall, especially for zero-day attacks and malware. Email security is crucial since it's a primary threat vector. Cisco's security products are strong but not widely recognized compared to competitors like Palo Alto.
System Engineer at Ha-Meem Group5.0We use Cisco IOS Security primarily as a firewall for protection. The most valuable features include DNS service and shell self-service. However, we've encountered challenges with licensing issues, leading to costly upgrades and delays in policy creation.
Manager Hospitality Services at Swisscom4.0I use Cisco IOS Security for network security and find its stability satisfactory and technical support helpful. However, updates are time-consuming and costly. I haven't considered other solutions, and there's no specific ROI information provided.
Network Administrator at Bank of Abyssinia4.0We use Cisco IOS Security to protect our infrastructure with firewalls and security panels, benefiting from its intrusion feature. The setup process can be time-consuming, especially when applying security policies. Overall, the investment is worthwhile.
Operations Specialist - MX Operations at Bank Alfalah Limited3.5I find Cisco IOS Security stable with good local support in Pakistan. However, policy deployment to FMC is slow, taking eight minutes, which creates undesirable downtime and makes FirePOWER updates cumbersome, impacting its overall rating.
Network Architect at Syriatel Mobile Telecom4.0I found that Cisco IOS Security offers impressive stability and performance with its wide range of features and a flawless VPN connection portal. However, some GUI modules are costly, and licensing could improve as alternatives offer scalable solutions at lower prices.