Cisco Secure Access vs Google Cloud Identity-Aware Proxy comparison

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.

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.

Google Cloud Identity-Aware Proxy offers scalable, user-friendly identity management with efficient data processing and seamless integration, providing reliable access management and collaboration across platforms.

Identity-Aware Proxy by Google Cloud provides a secure and intuitive interface for managing user identities and controlling access to applications. It integrates with platforms like Amazon and Microsoft to facilitate real-time collaboration. With support for Kubernetes, CI/CD, and BigQuery, it enhances performance by enabling secure and efficient data processing. Users find the pricing appealing as it allows for flexible deployments. Despite its strengths, improvements are sought in user intuitiveness, enhanced security, and documentation. Challenges such as stability, regional availability, and data management persist, highlighting the need for more refined integration and storage options.

• Scalability: Adapts to varying demands efficiently
• User-Friendly Interface: Easy navigation across functionalities
• Robust Data Processing: Ensures high-speed data operations
• Efficient Security: Protects applications by verifying identities
• Cloud Integration: Supports Amazon and Microsoft platforms
• Flexible Deployment: Accommodates various use cases with Kubernetes and CI/CD

• Cost Efficiency: Attractive pricing plans for diverse needs
• Stability and Reliability: Consistent performance with minimal disruptions
• Enhanced Collaboration: Facilitates online teamwork across devices
• Seamless Application Security: Ensures secure access to tools and data

In industries leveraging Google Cloud Identity-Aware Proxy, companies manage identities to enhance security and streamline operations. Educational institutions apply its secure online teaching capabilities, while tech firms utilize its integration with CI/CD for deploying container platforms. Enterprises harness its potential for managing resources, automating processes, and hosting applications, ensuring seamless data access across devices for collaborative projects.