Akamai Enterprise Application Access vs Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform comparison

Akamai and Zscaler are both solutions in the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) category. Akamai is ranked #17 with an average rating of 9.0, while Zscaler is ranked #4 with an average rating of 8.4. Akamai holds a 1.5% mindshare in SASE, compared to Zscaler’s 9.5% mindshare. Additionally, 100% of Akamai users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 98% of Zscaler users who would recommend it.

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Feb 8, 2026

Akamai Enterprise Application Access and Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform compete in Zero Trust security. Akamai seems to have the upper hand due to its support and cost efficiency while Zscaler is favored for its comprehensive security features.

Features: Akamai Enterprise Application Access offers simple integration, single-sign-on support, and auto-scaling capabilities, enhancing user convenience and application security. Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange excels with its robust VPN features, internet access protection, and seamless connectivity, ensuring comprehensive security controls and user access management.

Room for Improvement: Akamai could improve by offering more advanced threat protection features, more refined analytics, and expanding integration options. Zscaler can enhance its cloud data loss prevention feature, optimize its performance during peak loads, and streamline its user experience for broader appeal.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Akamai Enterprise Application Access offers an easy deployment process and efficient customer service, aiding in smooth integration. Zscaler requires a bit more deployment effort but benefits from a responsive support team, assisting in efficient problem resolution.

Pricing and ROI: Akamai Enterprise Application Access provides competitive pricing, focusing on cost-effective ROI, which is appealing for budget-conscious organizations. Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange, though costlier, offers significant value through its extensive feature set, justifying the investment for feature-centric needs.

To learn more, read our detailed Akamai Enterprise Application Access vs. Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform Report (Updated: March 2026).

Buyer's Guide

Akamai Enterprise Application Access vs. Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

March 2026

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Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Categories and Ranking

iboss

Mindshare comparison

As of March 2026, in the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) category, the mindshare of iboss is 2.3%, up from 1.6% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of Akamai Enterprise Application Access is 1.5%, down from 1.6% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform is 9.5%, down from 11.7% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) Mindshare Distribution
Product	Mindshare (%)
Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform	9.5%
iboss	2.3%
Akamai Enterprise Application Access	1.5%
Other	86.7%

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

Featured Reviews

reviewer2701851

Managing Director

Enhances web security with a single pane of glass and flexible deployment

I don't see any need for improvement; one of the really good things about iboss as a company is that they listen to customer feedback. I have suggested enhancements, and they are responsive, making changes for the better, and they do a lot of testing. To improve iboss, although we haven't used it, we considered the VPN solution that comes with the highest tier licensing, which includes DLP and various other add-ons. We prefer using another product which automatically logs you back onto your network when turning on your PC. With iboss, the connection is manual, which doesn't meet our needs. Additionally, sizing can be tricky because, although the initial recommendations may seem adequate, actual usage may require more gateways than anticipated.

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Dan Escosar

Platform Manager at Globe Telecom

Centralized authentication streamlines global access with single sign-on and auto-scaling for seamless user experience

We use Akamai Enterprise Application Access for centralized authentication for our global customers. It provides a solution for consolidated authentication on our platform. We use the service to manage access for our global consumers, not for remote access for our employees My favorite part of…

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Zaheer_Khan

Cybersecurity Senior Program Manager at Dayforce

Secure access has improved remote work and has reduced vulnerabilities across our workforce

Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform probably needs to be more efficient because scanning takes a lot of time. Some vulnerabilities create issues, and when we wanted to identify the source of the vulnerabilities, specifically focusing on mobile ID and related areas, it was unable to provide assistance. However, according to discussions with Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform, they said that by the end of mid-2026, they are exploring these features, and probably those features can be incorporated or embedded into this particular system. That is the only major negative point.In terms of responses, Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform is good. In terms of controlling vulnerability, it is good. The only cons I have noticed is that it is a bit slower, and sometimes it is unable to identify the source. These are the key areas for improvement.

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Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Pros

"Because of iboss, I did not have to assign web filtering tasks to my techs on a daily basis."

"iboss is among the few products providing inline filtering where no application is needed on the device."

"The security aspect of the solution, particularly the malware behind it, is excellent. That's something that really helped us out. It's not just a simple proxy that just blocks the insights of potential threats that come on behind it. They do malware detection and that helps us a lot."

"It was a very easy product to install. It can be deployed very fast."

"Technical support is pretty sharp and very responsive."

"iboss is among the few products providing inline filtering where no application is needed on the device. It operates on the network side and is not device-based. This feature was one of the main reasons why we stayed with them for so long."

"From a use-case scenario, what I like the most is the plug-in. I like the fact that we can do the filtering of these devices offsite independent of the network they are connected to, and we do not have to have traffic coming back inside our network."

More iboss pros

"Application Access's most valuable feature is the accessibility of enterprise tech protection."

"The solution is very convenient and stable because you don't have to worry about attacks to public IPs or public networks."

"The capability of Akamai Enterprise Application Access is what you're looking for, it's giving you the service that you're looking for. It's simple and doesn't use an agent. It uses LCSD responders, and they have a lot of services around the globe. That's the reason that we were very interested in using it because it has a lot of coverage. This is because it's under the GDS umbrella."

"We've had a good ROI from Application Access."

"My favorite part of the Akamai Enterprise Application Access service is its SSO and auto-scaling capabilities."

"As a cloud-based service, it is very easily implemented."

"Its impressive scalability allows the combination of multiple dictionaries and using them as one engine, resulting in narrower data loss gaps."

"What I find most valuable in Zscaler Private Access is that it's a VPN, and its connectivity as a VPN is its most valuable feature."

"What I find most valuable in Zscaler Private Access is that it's a VPN. Its connectivity as a VPN is its most valuable feature."

"We don't need to connect anymore. It is automatically connected when you log on in Windows."

"It has some good data security and WIP features, providing secure Internet access."

"The user interface of Zscaler Private Access is excellent. With proper knowledge and expertise, one can efficiently handle intricate enterprise environments without feeling overwhelmed. This leads to exceptional productivity for managed service providers. The user experience is remarkably streamlined, enabling the management of even the most complex enterprise setups without any excessive complications."

"It's one of the easier products on the market as far as set-ups and deployments. Even across their whole product suite, they've made it pretty simple."

More Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform pros

Cons

"Regarding pricing, setup costs, and licensing, iboss is not cheap, and that's my only concern."

"Sometimes the agent stops working in iboss, and we have to reinstall the agent."

"The solution could be stronger on the integration side and offer more cloud applications like G Suite or Oracle."

"The reporting feature needs improvement. It doesn't give you the expected results. It is quite difficult to get the specific reports needed, and it is not as intuitive as the rest of the platform."

"The dashboards for local use could be better."

"The area I would like to see improvement in is the ability with in the reporter to navigate directly to the content the user is traversing. It is kind of there, but it's not perfect. Quite frequently, I receive links that lead me to pages with error messages."

"Sometimes, obviously, there are bugs."

"Its pricing could be better."

More iboss cons

"The solution has two agents so should combine its enterprise application and security access into one agent."

"The technical enablement sessions are quite limited, and Akamai could help by providing more of them."

"The pricing could be lower for Akamai Enterprise Application Access."

"We need another approach to bring the solution to the cloud. In addition to Access Management, we would like to see if we can jump into Directories. I think ADs are going to go away and everything is going to be cloud-based and minimize the use of ADs because of the cost and some other dependencies to the cloud. Every time you buy AD it is more hardware, and everything's changing to software. The network's changing, the applications are changing, and for IT it is hard to keep up with it."

"There are some performance issues with the solution once the module addition begins"

"There could be more DLP-related features. Additionally, there needs to be flexibility for integrating ISP features."

"Conflicts arise if you do not have the same management teams on the product."

"We would like to extend the SASE applications for Zscaler."

"The area that requires improvement is their support. The current support is lacking."

"We have issues with the tool's maintenance and networking. It should be able to work in offline mode as well."

"The pricing for Private Access seems to be on the expensive side, and I believe they should consider making it more competitive with other solutions."

"Zscaler Private Access's reporting is poor. We should have more insight into the reports regarding what is blocked and allowed."

More Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform cons

Pricing and Cost Advice

"It is probably in line with other solutions, but I do not deal with the financial side."

"It is expensive compared to one of its competitors."

"We have not priced the solution recently, but they were competitive with other vendors in the past."

"The overall pricing for iboss is very competitive and transparent."

"It is not expensive, and it is also not cheap. iboss is priced right in the sweet spot for the number of features it offers."

"We had the cost of purchasing a new appliance along with the implementation and licensing costs. However, the following year, the cost of just licensing was similar to what was paid the previous year for a new appliance along with the implementation and licensing costs."

"The price is great it is all-inclusive, they use an enterprise cost model. That's what we like compared to other users. This is one of the main attractions of Akamai Enterprise Application Access. It's already an enterprise cost model established with us for services."

"The license can be shared based on the number of active users."

"Licensing is based on user count."

"There is definitely an ROI."

"My company is a Zscaler Private Access partner, so the customers pay for the license fees."

"The pricing is quite high, especially when it comes to the gateway."

"The solution is expensive."

"The cost is expensive. It depends on the number of users."

"Zscaler DLP solution is expensive, with a fixed pricing structure that is billed annually and monthly. There are no additional costs for licenses."

"Zscaler SASE software is quite expensive compared to other solutions"

"The product is a bit expensive."

More Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform pricing and cost advice

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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

Financial Services Firm

11%

Computer Software Company

10%

Manufacturing Company

Comms Service Provider

Manufacturing Company

11%

Healthcare Company

Energy/Utilities Company

Computer Software Company

Financial Services Firm

13%

Computer Software Company

10%

Manufacturing Company

10%

Insurance Company

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	6
Midsize Enterprise	6
Large Enterprise	6

No data available

By reviewers
Company Size	Count
Small Business	16
Midsize Enterprise	12
Large Enterprise	42

Questions from the Community

What needs improvement with iboss?

For zero trust implementation, we encountered complexity issues, especially with a large infrastructure company Exxon...

See all answers

What is your primary use case for iboss?

Previously when I used iboss, we did the POC for iboss for ExxonMobil. Four or five people wanted to move from our ol...

See all answers

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for iboss?

Regarding pricing, setup costs, and licensing, iboss is not cheap, and that's my only concern. There are cheaper alte...

See all answers

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Akamai Enterprise Application Access?

The pricing could be lower for Akamai Enterprise Application Access.

See all answers

What needs improvement with Akamai Enterprise Application Access?

The pricing is a bit expensive for our market. Although it is cheaper compared to alternatives, Akamai Enterprise App...

See all answers

What is your primary use case for Akamai Enterprise Application Access?

We use Akamai Enterprise Application Access ( /products/akamai-enterprise-application-access-reviews ) for centralize...

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What is the better solution - Prisma Access or Zscaler Private Access?

We looked into Prisma Access before choosing Zscaler Private Access (ZPA). Palo Alto’s Prisma Access is a secure ac...

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What do you like most about Zscaler SASE?

The most valuable features of Zscaler Private Access are reliability, scalability, and availability.

See all answers

What needs improvement with Zscaler SASE?

The solution needs to improve a lot of aspects.

See all answers

Comparisons

Netskope vs iboss

Compared 10% of the time

Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks vs iboss

Compared 8% of the time

Fortinet FortiGate vs iboss

Compared 7% of the time

FortiSASE vs iboss

Compared 7% of the time

Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81) vs iboss

Compared 4% of the time

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Netskope vs Akamai Enterprise Application Access

Compared 11% of the time

Cloudflare One vs Akamai Enterprise Application Access

Compared 10% of the time

Microsoft Entra ID vs Akamai Enterprise Application Access

Compared 6% of the time

VMware VeloCloud SD-WAN vs Akamai Enterprise Application Access

Compared 6% of the time

Cato SASE Cloud Platform vs Akamai Enterprise Application Access

Compared 5% of the time

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Cato SASE Cloud Platform vs Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

Compared 8% of the time

Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks vs Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

Compared 4% of the time

FortiSASE vs Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

Compared 4% of the time

Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81) vs Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

Compared 4% of the time

Dtex Systems vs Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

Compared 2% of the time

More Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform Competitors

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

iboss

March 2026

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Buyer's Guide

ZTNA as a Service

February 2026

Akamai Enterprise Application Access report

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Buyer's Guide

Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

February 2026

Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform report

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Also Known As

iBoss Cloud Platform

Soha

Zscaler SASE, Zscaler DLP, Zscaler CASB, Zscaler CSPM, Zscaler Browser Isolation, Zscaler Posture Control

Overview

Iboss offers a comprehensive cloud-based security platform valued for its scalability and autonomous features, ensuring robust security with easy deployment and management capabilities.

Renowned for its robust security architecture, Iboss integrates seamlessly within diverse networks, delivering efficient granular filtering and advanced content categorization. Its single pane of glass console provides ease of management, allowing rapid scalability suitable for rapidly deploying environments. Operates in BYOD setups due to inline filtering without device installation. Integration with cloud-based applications enhances user control, and features like SASE, SSL inspection, and ChatGPT risk protection stand as highlights. Despite its strengths, users have pointed out areas for enhancement like direct navigation in reports, SSL decryption, and better cloud integration while having room to improve data loss prevention.

What are the most important features of Iboss?

Scalability: Supports rapid deployment across diverse networks.
SASE: A consolidated approach to secure access.
SSL Inspection: Ensures safe data transmission.
Granular Filtering: Detailed control over accessible content.
Single Pane Management: Unifies control through a centralized console.

What benefits should users consider in reviews?

Cost-effectiveness: Offers competitive pricing with robust features.
Autonomous Operation: Reduces management overhead.
Responsive Support: Provides assistance when needed.
Flexible Deployment: Available for both cloud and on-premises environments.

The usage of Iboss spans educational institutions, specifically K-12, to enforce internet policies, protect data, and support remote work environments. It provides web filtering and security frameworks to ensure safe browsing. Its platform-as-a-service model offers flexibility for both cloud-based and on-premises requirements, integrating seamlessly to deliver enhanced security features suitable for various deployment needs including zero trust, CASB, and network security for work-from-home setups.

iboss

Akamai Enterprise Application Access is a cloud-based solution that provides secure access to enterprise applications and data from any device, anywhere. It eliminates the need for traditional VPNs and allows organizations to easily manage access to applications and data for employees, partners, and customers. With its zero-trust approach, it ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive information, reducing the risk of data breaches.

Akamai

Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange enhances security with seamless cloud-based connectivity and VPN-less operation, offering integration with multiple identity providers and advanced security features, suitable for remote work environments.

Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange provides secure, adaptive connectivity without traditional VPNs, allowing organizations to replace legacy systems and bolster remote work security. The platform offers cloud-based protection, single sign-on, dynamic URL categorization, and scalable solutions. While advanced security features like DLP and threat protection enhance data protection, users may face issues with speed, connectivity, and some customization options. Integration challenges, latency due to multi-tenant hosting, reporting delays, and licensing costs require consideration. It supports secure internet access and private application security, ensuring traffic control and data compliance.

What are the key features of Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange?

VPN-less Connectivity: Enables secure remote access without traditional VPNs.
Cloud-based Security: Offers scalable protection utilizing cloud infrastructure.
Single Sign-On: Integrates with multiple identity providers for streamlined access.
Dynamic URL Categorization: Provides real-time URL filtering to enhance security.
Advanced Threat Protection: Detects and mitigates sophisticated threats effectively.
Customizable Policies: Allows tailored security protocols to fit unique requirements.
Comprehensive DLP: Protects sensitive data through robust data loss prevention.
Integration Capabilities: Connects seamlessly with cloud services and applications.

What are the benefits of using Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange?

Enhanced Security: Delivers consistent protection regardless of user location.
Improved Compliance: Ensures adherence to data protection regulations.
Streamlined Access: Simplifies connectivity to private and cloud applications.
Scalability: Supports expanding organizational demands with cloud scalability.
Real-time Visibility: Provides instant insights into security incidents and network traffic.

Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange is deployed across industries to secure remote access and enforce zero trust principles. Organizations in finance, healthcare, and technology sectors utilize it for secure internet access and visibility into cloud applications, enhancing performance and compliance in dynamic environments.

Zscaler

Sample Customers

More than 4,000 global enterprises trust the iboss Cloud Platform to support their modern workforces, including a large number of Fortune 50 companies.

Bugcrowd, InPowered, Spirent Communications

Siemens, AutoNation, GE, NOV

Buyer's Guide

Akamai Enterprise Application Access vs. Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

March 2026

Free Report: Akamai Enterprise Application Access vs. Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform

Find out what your peers are saying about Akamai Enterprise Application Access vs. Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange Platform and other solutions. Updated: March 2026.

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