Try our new research platform with insights from 80,000+ expert users
Cisco Secure Access Logo

Cisco Secure Access Reviews

Vendor: Cisco
4.2 out of 5
Leave a review

What is Cisco Secure Access?

Cisco Secure Access is a comprehensive Security Service Edge (SSE) solution (a key component of a SASE solution) that addresses the complexities of securing a hybrid enterprise. Cloud-delivered and grounded in zero trust, it delivers a unique blend of user simplicity and IT efficiency for frictionless, secure access to all applications—SaaS (with gen AI), private apps, and the internet—regardless of user location or device. Secure Access protects users, data, and devices against relentless, sophisticated, and constantly evolving threats including AI-driven attacks and identity breaches.

Get the Cisco Secure Access Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about Cisco Secure Access, Fortinet FortiGate, Cisco Umbrella and more!
Cisco Secure Access is the #9 ranked solution in top Web Security Gateways, #10 ranked solution in top ZTNA solutions, #10 ranked solution in top Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions, and #17 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give Cisco Secure Access an average rating of 8.4 out of 10. Cisco Secure Access is most commonly compared to Fortinet FortiGate: Cisco Secure Access vs Fortinet FortiGate. Cisco Secure Access is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 58% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 13% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Cisco Secure Access
October 2025
Get the report
Helped 872,655 peers since 2012

Featured Cisco Secure Access reviews

Read more reviews

Cisco Secure Access mindshare

Product category:
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)
As of October 2025, the mindshare of Cisco Secure Access in the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) category stands at 3.1%, up from 0.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Cisco Secure Access3.1%
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks15.3%
Netskope12.2%
Other69.4%
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

PeerResearch reports based on Cisco Secure Access reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategorySecure Access Service Edge (SASE)Oct 29, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersOct 29, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco Secure Access vs Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange PlatformOct 29, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco Secure Access vs Prisma Access by Palo Alto NetworksOct 29, 2025Download
ComparisonCisco Secure Access vs NetskopeOct 29, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Fortinet FortiGate4.2N/A92%574 interviewsAdd to research
Cisco Umbrella4.4N/A97%122 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

Cisco Secure Access offers valuable features such as authentication, DNS security, ISWC, and ZTNA. It provides excellent security management, remote user connectivity, and streamlined operation through a cloud-managed console. Organizations appreciate the platform's posture checking, secure access via HTTP2 and QUIC protocols, and threat protection against phishing and ransomware. Frequent updates ensure it remains up-to-date. Seamless integration with other platforms enhances its benefits, while easy navigation within the GUI simplifies management.
  • "Any tool that provides telemetry through logging is a particularly good fit for us because we have to really automate our monitoring."
  • "They've protected us from threats like phishing and ransomware."
  • "The impact Cisco Secure Access has on protecting my company from threats such as phishing and ransomware is significant."

Room for Improvement

Cisco Secure Access requires enhancements in security features and global coverage. Users find pricing high compared to competitors and describe the licensing as complex. Modernization with AI and improved integration is recommended. The process of raising support tickets is seen as cumbersome, impacting user experience. Difficulties during migration from Umbrella and challenges in adapting features from other brands are noted. Faster insights into risks and better utilization of existing features such as Cisco Talos are also desired.
  • "If the FTD devices themselves, the Firepower Threat Detection system, those are the firewalls themselves, the individual appliances, weren't so tightly coupled to FMC, I'd probably appreciate them as a product more."
  • "Throughout my experience with Cisco Secure Access, I have had some stability and reliability issues, including lagging when accessing the portal."
  • "The way that we're using Cisco Secure Access today, it doesn't scale with the growing needs of our organization, however, if we leveraged more of the cloud services, it would fit better."

ROI

Cisco Secure Access provides significant security benefits and cost reduction through license consolidation. Users highlight the integration advantage by consolidating multiple platforms into one interface. The importance of comprehensive financial analysis is emphasized, particularly understanding outages' costs. While some users experience reduced costs, others face challenges with too many access platforms, impacting perceived value. Transitioning from previous products leads to noticeable savings for many, although internal organizational issues can affect the full potential.

Pricing

Cisco Secure Access is considered a premium product, with prices ranging from 25,000 to 30,000 per year. Users report costs for monitoring, setup, and hardware add to the expense. While the tool offers competitive advantages and deal IDs, renewal costs can be high. Pricing complexity, especially in licensing, is noted as a challenge. Discounts, particularly in Asian markets, are insufficient, and in regions like Brazil, cost remains a significant concern.
  • "For what you get, it's a fair price in comparison to other products."
  • "It is confusing. When you look at the prices, you have different licensing and years of licensing that you have to purchase. Additionally, it's unclear what service you get from those licenses regarding end-user support. We have a representative who has to walk me through it every time."
  • "The pricing, setup costs, and licensing for Cisco Secure Access have been very competitive compared to other platforms. I believe that if Cisco continues to improve costs or offers something similar to a Cisco credit, it would attract more customers."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily use Cisco Secure Access for authentication and accounting services, securing security controls, and ensuring seamless connectivity. It provides essential protection for remote users without the need for VPNs. Prominent use includes managing access, securing data in the energy sector, and addressing customer requirements in BFSI. Key features such as Zero Trust Network Access, DNS functionality, and protection against malware and ransomware are highly valued for secure network access and management.

Service and Support

Customer service and support for Cisco Secure Access have been described as good, with some occasional delays. Teams find the resources beneficial and the support reliable, but accessing it can be complex. The assistance has met expectations, with dedicated account teams providing ease for larger enterprises. Quick responses and effective resolutions are appreciated. Some experience challenges in obtaining expert help promptly, influencing the ratings given, which range from eight to nine out of ten.

Deployment

The setup of Cisco Secure Access is consistently easy and smooth, with IT staff able to handle it without major issues. Many highlight the solution's straightforwardness and ease of deployment. Some noted the importance of effective communication with users to meet initial requirements smoothly. While there were some initial migration challenges, especially from Cisco Umbrella, having cloud deployment makes adding more solutions easier. Many suggest using third-party vendors and appreciate Cisco's support for hybrid deployment models.

Scalability

Cisco Secure Access demonstrates strong adaptability, rated highly by multiple users. It effectively meets the growing needs of organizations, supporting both internal networks and guest connections. While some see room for enhancements, most agree on its ability to scale efficiently, aligning with evolving requirements. Cloud functionalities, including DNS features, contribute to its scaling capabilities, though some suggest leveraging additional cloud services for optimal performance. Users appreciate continuous improvements, which influence their renewal decisions positively.

Stability

Users find Cisco Secure Access to be highly stable, with many rating its stability ten out of ten. They report no significant downtime, crashes, or performance issues. Some have noted occasional lag or slow response times, but these issues tend to resolve quickly. In Brazil, users hear no complaints about availability, although some minor connectivity glitches are noted. However, many conclude these as minor and quickly rectified, affirming the solution’s overall reliability.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Cisco Secure Access Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business6
Large Enterprise7
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business102
Midsize Enterprise53
Large Enterprise213
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
13%
Manufacturing Company
12%
Financial Services Firm
8%
Construction Company
7%
Healthcare Company
6%
Government
5%
Educational Organization
4%
Comms Service Provider
4%
Energy/Utilities Company
4%
Real Estate/Law Firm
4%
Retailer
3%
Outsourcing Company
3%
Insurance Company
3%
University
2%
Performing Arts
2%
Media Company
2%
Non Profit
2%
Leisure / Travel Company
2%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Transportation Company
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Legal Firm
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Hospitality Company
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Logistics Company
1%
Sports Company
1%
Mining And Metals Company
1%
Marketing Services Firm
1%
Engineering Company
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Paper And Forest Products
1%
Security Firm
1%

Compare Cisco Secure Access with alternative products

Go!

Learn more about Cisco Secure Access

Provides all core SSE components (ZTNA, SWG, CASB, and FWaaS) plus extended capabilities.

  • Includes VPN-as-a-Service (VPNaaS), data loss prevention (DLP), AI Assistant, visibility/control/guardrails for generative AI use, digital experience monitoring (DEM), reserved IP, remote browser isolation (RBI), DNS-layer security, flexible security enforcement (in cloud or on-premises), policy verification, and more.

  • Protects users as they seamlessly access resources and apps with no extra steps needed, regardless of protocol, port, or level of customization

  • Simplifies IT operations through a single client, single dashboard, single license, and unified policies.

  • Lowers risk with least privilege, granular controls backed with unmatched threat intelligence of Cisco Talos.

  • Eases interoperability with other products from Cisco and third-party vendors with common administrative controls, data structures, and policy management.

Robust integrations

  • Integrates with Cisco Identity Intelligence to protect against the startling increase in identity-based attacks.

  • Integrates with many SAML Identity Providers (IDPs) such as AD, Azure AD, Okta, Ping, etc.

  • Integrates with Cisco offerings including SD-WAN, Splunk, XDR, Thousand Eyes, third party technologies such as Menlo RBI, Chrome Enterprise Browser, and AppOmni for SSPM.

Cisco Secure Access customers

1. IBM 2. Microsoft 3. Amazon 4. Google 5. Apple 6. Cisco Systems 7. Oracle 8. Intel 9. HP Inc. 10. Dell Technologies 11. Verizon Communications 12. AT&T 13. Comcast 14. T-Mobile 15. Sprint 16. Vodafone 17. Orange 18. BT Group 19. Deutsche Telekom 20. Telefonica 21. Nokia 22. Ericsson 23. Samsung Electronics 24. Sony 25. Panasonic 26. LG Electronics 27. Siemens 28. General Electric 29. Ford Motor Company 30. General Motors 31. Toyota Motor Corporation 32. Volkswagen Group

Related questions

  • 53
What is the difference between point solutions (SD-WAN, NGFW, SWG, VPN) and SASE?
  • 35
What questions do you need to ask when choosing a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution?
  • 16
When evaluating Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), what aspect do you think is the most important to look for?
  • 19
Has anyone ever heard of secureaccess.com?
  • 23
What is the difference between SASE and SD-WAN?
  • 46
What is the difference between SASE and CASB?
  • 30
What SASE solution does your company use?
  • 37
Why is SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) important?
  • 17
What SASE solution do you recommend?
  • 23
Why is Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) important for companies?

Product Categories

Product Categories
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)
Secure Web Gateways (SWG)
Firewalls
Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB)
ZTNA
Domain Name System (DNS) Security

Popular Comparisons

Popular Comparisons
Fortinet FortiGate vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Fortinet FortiGate vs Cisco Secure Access
Cisco Umbrella vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Cisco Umbrella vs Cisco Secure Access
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks vs Cisco Secure Access
iboss vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
iboss vs Cisco Secure Access
Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform vs Cisco Secure Access
Cloudflare One vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Cloudflare One vs Cisco Secure Access
Netskope vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Netskope vs Cisco Secure Access
Cato SASE Cloud Platform vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Cato SASE Cloud Platform vs Cisco Secure Access
FortiSASE vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
FortiSASE vs Cisco Secure Access
Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81) vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81) vs Cisco Secure Access
Prisma SD-WAN vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Prisma SD-WAN vs Cisco Secure Access
Axis Security vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Axis Security vs Cisco Secure Access
Secure Access – DNS Defense vs Cisco Secure Access Logo
Secure Access – DNS Defense vs Cisco Secure Access
See all alternatives
 
Cisco Secure Access Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Manager, Network at Duracell International, Inc.4.0We use Cisco Secure Access for security and access management, appreciating its ease of use and reliability. Although integration with more third-party products would improve it, we've achieved great ROI after switching from Palo Alto and deploying it on Microsoft Azure.
Senior Architect at Sempra4.5In our energy business, Cisco Secure Access protects remote sites and data transfer with valuable features like a firewall for IDP and Zero Trust Network Access. Despite needing some improvements from competitors, it offers excellent security and better ROI than previous solutions.
Enterprise Architect at a manufacturing company with 10,001+ employees3.5My main use for Cisco Secure Access is remote access, valuing its posture checking and Zero Trust capabilities. However, we struggle with integration and licensing complexities. Improved ROI would require consolidating our access platforms rather than Cisco issues.
Director, Network Services at a healthcare company with 10,001+ employees4.0I use Cisco Secure Access primarily for secure network access due to past malware issues. While it works well without causing problems, understanding risk implications in healthcare is challenging. Achieving better ROI insights is essential for improvement.
System Engineer at a tech services company with 51-200 employees4.5Cisco Secure Access primarily serves our DNS functionality needs, offering strong protection against threats like phishing and ransomware. Despite some migration challenges from Umbrella, its cloud-based single-console management and integration with solutions like Splunk offer significant benefits.
IT Site Administrator at Acushnet Holdings Corp4.5In my experience, Cisco Secure Access effectively manages switching and wireless networks, offering a user-friendly GUI and robust protection against threats like phishing and ransomware. However, I find the licensing process to be confusing.
Systems Architect at Realtime Technical Solutions, LLC4.0I use Cisco products in secure, edge environments; while FTD's tight FMC coupling adds complexity, strong logging, central management, and substantial discounts make them viable. Support is excellent, and setup is manageable with good automation via logging tools.
Pre-Sales Solution Partner at a computer software company with 11-50 employees3.5I rely on Cisco Secure Access for securing local Internet breakouts with unified security policies, including DNS security and integrated secure web control. However, it needs better global coverage and modernization to compete with more advanced competitors.