SonicWall Netextender Reviews

Name: SonicWall Netextender
Brand: SonicWall
Rating: 3.3 (13 reviews)

3.3 out of 5

13 reviews
66% willing to recommend

What is SonicWall Netextender?

SonicWall Netextender provides secure remote access, supporting remote work with valuable features like two-factor authentication, low latency, and integration with Microsoft identity management.

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SonicWall Netextender is the #15 ranked solution in top Enterprise Infrastructure VPN solutions. PeerSpot users give SonicWall Netextender an average rating of 6.6 out of 10. SonicWall Netextender is most commonly compared to Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks: SonicWall Netextender vs Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks. SonicWall Netextender is popular among the small business segment, accounting for 45% 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

SonicWall Netextender

July 2025

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Featured SonicWall Netextender reviews

JayPrajapati

Senior Network Security Engineer at ITCG SOlutions Pvt Ltd

In the past, customers wanted an application that could run directly upon starting the PC, automatically connecting to the firewall. We were not able to do it in NetExtender. This was something customers wanted, but we couldn't provide due to NetExtender's limitations. I feel NetExtender might have rolled out this feature. In future releases, introductions of AI features would be really helpful. For example, we faced a situation where a customer wanted to allow Office 365 access without any kind of internet, just through the local internet. Office 365 has multiple dynamic IPs and URLs that can be updated daily, making it difficult to allow. If there were an AI-based solution that could bring those URLs and new IP addresses to the firewall and add them to the rule, that would be very helpful. That is just one scenario; there are multiple things AI could help with.

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Bharath Kumar Gajula

Network Security Architect at Capgemini

Our company used Pulse Secure. Pulse Secure was getting outdated, and we were looking for an alternative option, and then this turned out to be an improvement towards green in most of the POCs we did at first. My company opted for this solution because it can individually perform. Basically, we don't require load balancers and all those additional feature sets or additional devices that might be required. The solution can handle the certificate, DNS queries, and all that stuff individually. And the other reason might be the cost. The solution's pricing is pretty competitive compared to other vendors here.

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Gary Downey

Technical Alignment Manager at a computer software company with 51-200 employees

The tool was a huge benefit during COVID-19 when everyone had to work from home. We had a little jump in front of most businesses because we had Netextender set up, and it allowed most of our workers to continue doing business as usual whenever they had to work from home.

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SonicWall Netextender mindshare

As of August 2025, the mindshare of SonicWall Netextender in the Enterprise Infrastructure VPN category stands at 3.7%, up from 3.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Enterprise Infrastructure VPN

PeerResearch reports based on SonicWall Netextender reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	Enterprise Infrastructure VPN	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Comparison	SonicWall Netextender vs Fortinet FortiClient	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Comparison	SonicWall Netextender vs OpenVPN Access Server Enterprise	Aug 18, 2025	Download
Comparison	SonicWall Netextender vs Cisco Secure Client (including AnyConnect)	Aug 18, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks	4.2	6.7%	92%	64 interviews Add to research
Fortinet FortiClient	4.0	12.0%	92%	99 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

SonicWall Netextender offers remote work capabilities, user-friendly setup, and excellent security features including integration with Microsoft Identity Management for secure access. It supports two-factor authentication, offers stability and easy configuration, and provides good control over routing. Users value its cost-effectiveness for SSL VPNs and its seamless SAML integration. It allows employees easy LAN access from home and is simple for non-tech-savvy users, supporting multifactor authentication and custom VPN ports.

"The best features of the SonicWall Netextender were its ease of use."
"It can support multifactor authentication. Also, it is a very basic application."
"The solution provides high availability."

Room for Improvement

Users experience challenges with SonicWall Netextender such as setup difficulties, cosmetic interface issues, lag, and connection problems. Multi-factor authentication and Mac OS support could be enhanced. Licensing across devices needs improvement to ease administrative tasks. Technical support requires better responsiveness, and reducing bandwidth consumption would be beneficial. Users express dissatisfaction with current functionality, noting the necessity for features like automated startup and AI integration for dynamic tasks such as accessing Office 365 without direct internet.

"Sometimes you can get bounced around through the departments until you find the right one. Sometimes if you don't have the most current support contract or your license is out of date, they won't even talk to you."
"In future releases, introductions of AI features would be really helpful."
"The product does not work well."

ROI

Users noted enhanced remote access capabilities and reported higher productivity. They experienced significant cost savings and improved security measures. Efficient connectivity led to reduced downtime, influencing increased satisfaction. Many found it simple to deploy and manage. Some cited robust performance, while others appreciated constant updates enhancing features and reliability. Businesses observed improved operational efficiency and better data protection.

Pricing

SonicWall Netextender offers a range of licensing options, including one, three, or five-year plans, with costs that remain competitive. Enterprises generally find the yearly licensing fees reasonable, with additional costs required for more users. The pricing structure includes a one-time base appliance cost and annual maintenance fees, making it comparable with other solutions. Many users appreciate that it often provides better value than alternatives like Palo Alto, Check Point, or Fortinet.

"Compared to others, it is cheaper. When we compare it with Palo Alto, Check Point, or Fortinet, it is a little cheaper."
"The solution is cheap itself, not too costly."
"The solution has a pretty good price."

Popular Use Cases

SonicWall Netextender allows remote access for external users, enabling VPN connections for client-to-site usage. Organizations deploy it to facilitate remote work, providing secure access to internal resources and file transfers, especially for users on Microsoft 365. It integrates with enterprise infrastructures across various industries like insurance, healthcare, and education, supporting both small and large remote teams. Some find it temperamental, specifically regarding LDAP authentication, but many use it for seamless remote connectivity.

Service and Support

SonicWall Netextender's customer service and support generally receive positive feedback, with many users finding the assistance satisfactory and responsive, especially at the first level. However, others experience variability, requiring persistence for effective help or encountering delays due to technical team's consultations. Some users avoid engaging with support due to self-reliance on documentation. Instances of long response times, lack of knowledge, and occasional difficulty in reaching the right department are noted. Overall, ratings average around seven or eight out of ten.

Deployment

SonicWall Netextender's initial setup is generally straightforward, involving simple next-next-next installation. Some users find it complex due to numerous options, yet appreciate the granular control. The process is quick, completed within a day, though relocating the VPN appliance requires a fresh deployment. Users recommend keeping the application updated. While average users may struggle, system administrators manage easily, finding it user-friendly once set up. Most agree it's simpler than many other VPNs.

Scalability

SonicWall NetExtender receives mixed feedback on scalability. It can handle increased users by adding licenses without rebooting, which is appreciated by some. Some note challenges in scaling with high user numbers, while others successfully scaled during peak times. Efficiency and flexibility are key concerns, with some finding it suitable for their needs, while others report issues even with a smaller user base. Experiences vary widely among different organizations.

Stability

SonicWall Netextender is known for its stability. It functions reliably, even with many users working remotely. Some encounters involve minor bugs that were addressed swiftly. Rarely, connection issues require device reboots. Security updates and advisories are prompt. Users have observed seamless performance with proper setup and updates. Issues mainly arise with outdated Windows versions like Windows 7. For most, Netextender offers consistent and dependable operation without significant disruptions.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our SonicWall Netextender Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

15%

Educational Organization

Comms Service Provider

Outsourcing Company

Construction Company

University

Financial Services Firm

Manufacturing Company

Legal Firm

Wholesaler/Distributor

Government

Healthcare Company

Retailer

Real Estate/Law Firm

Performing Arts

Non Profit

Insurance Company

Recruiting/Hr Firm

Energy/Utilities Company

Media Company

Hospitality Company

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Consumer Goods Company

Non Tech Company

Compare SonicWall Netextender with alternative products

Learn more about SonicWall Netextender

SonicWall Netextender facilitates secure client-to-site VPN connections for remote staff, integrating seamlessly with Microsoft identity management and using existing credentials like Active Directory. Its cost-effectiveness and detailed documentation attract enterprises in sectors such as insurance, healthcare, and education. Despite excellent control over routing, the intuitive setup could be improved, with users experiencing performance and licensing flexibility issues, especially with multi-factor authentication. While integration with SAML ensures seamless authentication, high bandwidth consumption and the outdated interface are mentioned for enhancement. Overall, SonicWall Netextender supports remote file transfers and access to Microsoft 365 portals, although additional features like automatic connection on startup and AI integration would address current user demands.

What features does SonicWall Netextender offer?

Remote Work Support: Facilitates secure connections for remote staff
Integration with Microsoft Identity Management: Connects effortlessly using existing credentials
Two-Factor Authentication: Enhances security during remote access
Low Latency and High Stability: Ensures uninterrupted remote connections
Cost-effectiveness: Attracts organizations with budget-friendly options

What benefits should users look for in reviews?

Secure Access: Reliable protection for remote file transfers
Ease of Setup: Quick deployment with minimal IT disruption
Flexible Integration: Utilizes existing credentials for seamless user experience
Documentation: Comprehensive guides for efficient setup and use

Enterprises from insurance, healthcare, and education sectors benefit from SonicWall Netextender by enabling secure remote or hybrid work. Companies facilitate efficient management of remote work, providing access to corporate resources from any location. Challenges include the authentication setup, but its support for remote access to Microsoft 365 and secure file transfers offer substantial utility for these industries.