What is our primary use case?
Our primary use case for
Cisco Secure Access is seamless connectivity for users, whether they are inside our corporate network or accessing it externally over the internet. The users do not have to switch on VPNs and reconnect. They can directly connect to
Cisco Secure Access using
Zero Trust Network Access (
ZTNA) and access all resources as if they are inside the corporate network.
What is most valuable?
The main feature I appreciate in Cisco Secure Access is the ZTNA feature, which provides excellent connectivity for remote users. We have been using
Cisco Umbrella for several years, and this additional feature of ZTNA has enhanced our connectivity experience significantly. Seamless connectivity, whether inside or outside the corporate network, is a standout feature. It eliminates the hassle of switching on VPNs and provides a direct connection to resources via Cisco Secure Access.
What needs improvement?
At this moment, I am unable to comment on areas for improvement as we are just starting to work with the solution. However, I find that the complex procedure for raising support tickets is a significant drawback. Previously, sending an email would automatically create a ticket, but now it requires accessing specific portals, making the process complicated.
For how long have I used the solution?
We have been using Cisco Secure Access for only a month since it is not yet fully deployed.
What was my experience with deployment of the solution?
Even a basic IT person can deploy the policies for Cisco Secure Access, making it a very user-friendly and efficient setup. We have deployed it for about one hundred users so far, with a target of one thousand users.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
I rate the stability of Cisco Secure Access as ten out of ten.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
I would rate the scalability nine out of ten. There is always room for improvement.
How are customer service and support?
Having been associated with Cisco for more than fifteen to twenty years, I find it increasingly difficult to get tech support these days. Although Cisco is reliable, the process to raise a support ticket has become more complex, requiring specific user accounts and access to specialized platforms.
How would you rate customer service and support?
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
Having tested only
FortiGate and Sophos before, I prefer Cisco Secure Access based on my experience. I find Cisco provides a better experience.
How was the initial setup?
The setup for Cisco Secure Access is straightforward and can be accomplished easily by IT staff with basic knowledge. The deployment process is smooth and does not pose any major issues.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
Cisco is known for being a premium product, and its pricing reflects this. Although competitive, a more flexible pricing model could attract more companies, especially those with smaller user bases.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
Solutions such as
FortiGate, Zscaler, Palo Alto, and Sophos provide similar security access features. However, based on my evaluation, Cisco Secure Access offers a more favorable experience.
What other advice do I have?
In terms of overall rating, I give Cisco Secure Access a nine. I would definitely recommend it to other users.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
Public Cloud
If public cloud, private cloud, or hybrid cloud, which cloud provider do you use?
Other
*Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer: Partner
