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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 Software delivers a sophisticated set of security capabilities for a comprehensive, layered security approach throughout your network infrastructure. Cisco IOS security technologies help to defend critical business processes against attack and disruption, protect privacy, and support policy and regulatory compliance controls.
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 #14 ranked solution in top Intrusion Detection and Prevention Software and #24 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 large enterprise segment, accounting for 38% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 26% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Cisco IOS Security
October 2025
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Cisco IOS Security mindshare

Product category:
Firewalls
As of October 2025, the mindshare of Cisco IOS Security in the Firewalls category stands at 0.3%, up from 0.2% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Firewalls Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Cisco IOS Security0.3%
Fortinet FortiGate20.4%
OPNsense11.0%
Other68.3%
Firewalls

PeerResearch reports based on Cisco IOS Security reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryFirewallsOct 10, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersOct 10, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco IOS Security vs Fortinet FortiGateOct 10, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco IOS Security vs Netgate pfSenseOct 10, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco IOS Security vs OPNsenseOct 10, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Fortinet FortiGate4.220.4%92%575 interviewsAdd to research
Netgate pfSense4.310.8%93%217 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

Cisco IOS Security offers valuable features such as AAA, VPN, IPsec, and firewall capabilities. It excels in scalability, stability, and user-friendliness, supporting extensive integration and automation. It provides robust security features, including IPsec, Intrusion Prevention Systems, and Application Visibility and Control. Cisco IOS Security includes high compatibility, ease of use, and reliable technical support, making it preferable for various enterprises. Its comprehensive security includes DNS services, network access control, and endpoint protection.
  • "Cisco IOS Security's threat detection features are effective from the point of real-time insights and alerts."
  • "I recommend Cisco IOS Security for other organizations."
  • "This solution, called Network Access Controller, handles authentication, authorization, and accounting for devices accessing the network."

Room for Improvement

Cisco IOS Security requires improvements in user interface simplicity, performance stability, and enhanced security features. Integration flexibility with non-Cisco solutions and easier setup processes are needed. Licensing costs can be prohibitive for small to medium-sized businesses. Managing ACLs is complex, and automatic IPS signature updates lag behind competitors. Zone-based firewall conversions impact CPU utilization negatively. Enhanced cloud integration and better automated threat response are also necessary. Improvements in dashboard statistics and centralized reporting are desired.
  • "Cisco changes their licensing policy quite frequently, which is becoming confusing and complicated."
  • "Pricing can be reduced. I rate the current price for the product a four out of ten."
  • "While I do not have specific recommendations for improvement, pricing can be reduced."

ROI

Companies report a positive ROI from Cisco IOS Security, noting significant returns with improvements in routing efficiency. It enhances business growth without calculating specifics, offering valuable ease in management and cost savings. It contributes to reduced attacks and provides ongoing protection, aiding with its subscription model. Users appreciate its security and stability. One entity rated the ROI at 1800%, while another estimates at least 30%, indicating widespread acknowledgment of its financial benefits.

Pricing

Cisco IOS Security is generally priced on the higher side and primarily targets medium to large enterprises. Users report costs around $75,000 USD annually with a subscription or annual licensing model, though longer-term contracts offer reduced rates. Licensing options include smart and perpetual licenses, available from one to ten years. Some users find it expensive compared to alternatives like Sophos and Fortinet. Cisco recently introduced affordable SMB options, but still, pricing remains a significant factor.
  • "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

Organizations primarily use Cisco IOS Security for firewall protection, VPN connectivity, secure data centers, and network security. It facilitates endpoint security by verifying device compliance, particularly in environments like insurance and retail. Users highlight its role in routing and switching, with capabilities for cloud-based services and threat prevention. The system aids in managing enterprise security, integrating with other Cisco tools, ensuring connectivity between locations, and protecting against unauthorized access.

Service and Support

Cisco IOS Security support is often praised for proficiency and responsiveness, yet some users report delays and complex processes. Many find support skilled and helpful, awarding high ratings. However, slow response times and challenges with new acquisitions affect satisfaction. Users appreciate the skilled team and diverse support channels but desire improved localization and faster issue resolution. Cisco stands out for its overall competence but faces competition from faster cloud service providers.

Deployment

Initial setup of Cisco IOS Security varies based on expertise level. Some found it straightforward with step-by-step guidance, while others faced challenges with complex configurations and dependencies on Cisco equipment. Timeframes ranged from hours to weeks depending on deployment complexity and environment specifics. Users noted the need for skilled personnel and training. Clear, comprehensive documentation aids deployment, though integration with other systems and unique protocols can complicate the process for those inexperienced with Cisco products.

Scalability

Cisco IOS Security is considered scalable for enterprises, with many users noting its effectiveness in large environments. While some mention it's tailored and may require additional hardware, it meets enterprise needs well. Users appreciate its capacity to accommodate thousands of users. However, some note that scaling might involve costs and is dependent on network equipment compatibility. It’s popular among various-sized businesses, with some stating it provides a full enterprise package.

Stability

Cisco IOS Security is generally considered stable by users. Many find it reliable, with minimal bugs, glitches, or crashes. It operates smoothly even with extensive daily use. Some encountered stability issues initially, especially if not using Cisco gear, but these are not widespread. Banks and other large organizations run it continuously without significant downtime. Some rate its stability highly, although a few noted it can improve further. It's particularly stable when properly configured.
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 Business17
Midsize Enterprise9
Large Enterprise13
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business37
Midsize Enterprise43
Large Enterprise48
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
26%
Government
9%
Manufacturing Company
8%
Outsourcing Company
7%
Comms Service Provider
5%
Educational Organization
4%
University
4%
Healthcare Company
4%
Non Profit
4%
Financial Services Firm
4%
Performing Arts
3%
Construction Company
2%
Retailer
2%
Hospitality Company
2%
Media Company
2%
Real Estate/Law Firm
2%
Legal Firm
2%
Renewables & Environment Company
2%
Transportation Company
2%
Venture Capital & Private Equity Firm
2%
Wholesaler/Distributor
2%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Energy/Utilities Company
1%
Insurance Company
1%
Logistics Company
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Engineering Company
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Training & Coaching Company
1%

Compare Cisco IOS Security with alternative products

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Learn more about Cisco IOS Security

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.
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.
Operations Specialist - MX Operations at Bank Alfalah Limited3.5No summary available
Senior Network Associate at AMCON, Inc.4.0Cisco IOS Security is integral to our network, providing ease of use with helpful hotkeys for command recall. However, upgrading iOS could be simplified, allowing seamless integration without external tools, making network management more efficient.
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.
Sr. Datacenter Solutions Architect at Pacer4.0We use Cisco IOS Security primarily for firewalls and security, valuing its stability. However, their products are expensive, even at lower configurations, and they are slow to introduce new features compared to other brands.