Iris Session Analyzer vs VMware NSX comparison

NETSCOUT and VMware are both solutions in the Network Traffic Analysis (NTA) category. NETSCOUT is ranked #15, while VMware is ranked #8 with an average rating of 7.6. NETSCOUT holds a 0.7% mindshare in NTA, compared to VMware’s 2.2% mindshare. Additionally, 100% of NETSCOUT users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 88% of VMware users who would recommend it.

Iris Session Analyzer

Read 2 Iris Session Analyzer reviews

146 Views
17 Comparison Views

100% willing to recommend

VMware NSX

Read 105 VMware NSX reviews

160 Views
19 Comparison Views

88% willing to recommend

Iris Session Analyzer

VMware NSX

Comparison Buyer's Guide

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Aug 6, 2024

VMware NSX and Iris Session Analyzer compete in the realm of network virtualization and session analysis, respectively. VMware NSX appears to have the upper hand due to better integration and support, while Iris Session Analyzer excels in real-time data insights.

Features: VMware NSX is known for its extensive network virtualization features, advanced security policies, and reliable virtualization solutions. Iris Session Analyzer stands out for real-time session analytics, comprehensive monitoring tools, and immediate session insights.

Room for Improvement: VMware NSX users report a need for simplified configuration processes, better documentation, and improvements in ease of use. Iris Session Analyzer needs more streamlined installation procedures, enhanced customization options, and should focus on flexibility and installation efficiency.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: VMware NSX users find the deployment process sophisticated but well-supported by robust customer service. Iris Session Analyzer's deployment is straightforward but user support can be inconsistent.

Pricing and ROI: VMware NSX is perceived as higher in cost but users report high ROI due to its rich feature set and strong support. Iris Session Analyzer is considered cost-effective, with users acknowledging good ROI attributed to its effective session analysis features.

To learn more, read our detailed Iris Session Analyzer vs. VMware NSX Report (Updated: June 2025).

Buyer's Guide

Iris Session Analyzer vs. VMware NSX

June 2025

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Helped 859,129 peers since 2012

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

Iris Session Analyzer

Ranking in Network Traffic Analysis (NTA)

15th

Average Rating

8.0

Number of Reviews

Ranking in other categories

No ranking in other categories

VMware NSX

Ranking in Network Traffic Analysis (NTA)

8th

Average Rating

8.0

Reviews Sentiment

6.9

Number of Reviews

105

Ranking in other categories

Network Virtualization (2nd), Cloud and Data Center Security (2nd), Network Detection and Response (NDR) (9th), Network Automation (6th), Microsegmentation Software (1st)

Mindshare comparison

As of June 2025, in the Network Traffic Analysis (NTA) category, the mindshare of Iris Session Analyzer is 0.7%, up from 0.2% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of VMware NSX is 2.2%, up from 0.7% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Network Traffic Analysis (NTA)

Featured Reviews

Muhammad Anas

Assistant Manager NOC and Infrastructure at NiFT

Provides a memory utilization graph and shows disk space and uplink utilization but could include smart navigation in next release

The solution is deployed on-premises. There are more than 20 people who use this solution in my organization. They're infrastructure engineers, network engineers, and information security engineers A great feature is the memory utilization graph. It shows utilization, disk space utilization,…

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DanielBass

Senior IT Strategy Consultant at a financial services firm with 1,001-5,000 employees

Improves network security with micro-segmentation but setup is complex

I value the ability to dynamically configure our network on the fly using VMware NSX. This flexibility is a huge advantage because it allows us to avoid static configurations that come with traditional hardware setups. Additionally, the micro-segmentation feature is beneficial for adhering to strict security regulations from our security department.

Read full review

Quotes from Members

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

Pros

"The feature that I have found the most useful is the decode of packets. It gives us a variety of information that helps us in figuring out what to look at. The networks are getting really complex, and without the information that we get from Iris Session Analyzer, we couldn't do our job. Its graphical user interface is also very easy to use and intuitive."

"A great feature is the memory utilization graph."

"The we can actually extend Layer 2 networking across datacenters, and also Layer 3 networking, which comes along with it."

"The initial setup is easy and takes between one and five days."

"The initial setup was straightforward. You just have to click it and follow the manuals."

"It does have capabilities of micro-segmenting a network, being able to create smaller segments of various types of applications separated by various tiers."

"The initial setup is straightforward."

"The most valuable features for us at this early stage are the interface and the integration with existing VMware solutions."

"VMware NSX has the ability to create networks in software."

"The interface is intuitive enough."

More VMware NSX pros

Cons

"They can increase flexibility in the search engine. Basically, I go with the information I have at the time. If I could just type in the parameter that I want to search for and its value, it might be easier than having to do the groundwork upfront before I can get my traces."

"Sometimes the network analyzer will show that a server is down when it's actually working."

"The setup is complex and should be made easier."

"Just being more knowledgeable about the different functions."

"If there are other solutions already in place, it can be difficult to implement."

"An area for improvement in VMware NSX is that it uses up more resources and is heavy on the network. What I'd like to see in the next release of the solution is more automation."

"We would like tenant segmentation available in future releases."

"The support from VMware NSX could improve."

"It lacks full knowledge of physical side of the network topology."

"It isn't easy to deploy."

More VMware NSX cons

Pricing and Cost Advice

"I don't know what the cost to buy the solution was, but I doubt if it's a significant part of the budget as far as the maintenance and support are concerned."

"The product pricing ranges from medium to expensive. I rate the pricing a seven out of ten."

"Pricing and licensing could be improved as we are a government entity. Lower pricing could always help."

"The price is based on the virtual desktop infrastructure(VDI) side and also is dependant on the size of the environment. The price is expensive and it could attract more purchasers in smaller organisations if it was reduced."

"Our customers have definitely complained about its cost. It's expensive. I'd rate it a nine out of ten in terms of pricing where ten represents a high price. There are other products out there that are equally expensive."

"We have saved man-hours and decreased our security exposure."

"There is a license required for this solution and there is also a support license available. The price of the solution could be better."

"The solution is reasonable at the local level."

"If five is a good price and one is a high price, I would rate the price a one out of five."

More VMware NSX pricing and cost advice

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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

No data available

Computer Software Company

16%

Financial Services Firm

13%

Government

Manufacturing Company

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

No data available

Questions from the Community

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What are the biggest differences between Cisco ACI and VMware NSX?

There are some very major differences between both the Products and to name a few. -Cisco ACI have physical network gear (9K Switches) where the Code runs in ACI Policy Mode & the UCS server wh...

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What are the biggest differences between Cisco ACI and VMware NSX?

Once you know your way around the Cisco ecosystem, using Cisco ACI is not so difficult. It is a global product, so when you change one interface, changes are automatically reflected on every switch...

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What do you like most about VMware NSX?

The product has valuable features for security and network extension.

See all answers

Comparisons

No data available

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Compared 20% of the time

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Compared 18% of the time

Akamai Guardicore Segmentation vs VMware NSX

Compared 16% of the time

Cisco Secure Workload vs VMware NSX

Compared 8% of the time

Cisco ACI vs VMware NSX

Compared 7% of the time

More VMware NSX Competitors

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

Network Traffic Analysis (NTA)

May 2025

Download Iris Session Analyzer product report

Buyer's Guide

VMware NSX

May 2025

Download VMware NSX product report

Also Known As

No data available

VMware Nicira, Lastline Defender

Overview

Iris Session Analyzer (ISA) uncovers and analyzes the specific calls and sessions that fail to deliver required performance.

NETSCOUT

VMware NSX is a sophisticated solution utilized for micro-segmentation, network security, software-defined networking, and private cloud construction. It aids in the transition from physical to virtual infrastructure, ensuring efficient network virtualization and security of production workloads.

VMware NSX empowers organizations to manage network functions, implement distributed firewalls, and enhance security within virtual environments. Crucial for disaster recovery and load balancing, it supports cloud-native application development and enterprise clients. Its ease of use, scalability, and seamless integration with existing VMware solutions ensure streamlined network management and swift deployment. Despite its extensive features, areas like pricing, routing functionality, and compatibility with certain platforms require attention.

What are the key features of VMware NSX?

Ease of Use: Simplifies network management with an intuitive interface.
Scalability: Adapts to growing infrastructure needs seamlessly.
Micro-Segmentation: Enhances security by dividing networks into smaller, manageable segments.
Integration: Seamlessly works with existing VMware solutions and third-party applications.
Dynamic Routing: Optimizes network traffic efficiently.
Security Options: Offers robust firewall features and security measures.
Automation: Facilitates quick deployment through comprehensive automation capabilities.
High Bandwidth: Ensures high-performance network operations.

What benefits and ROI should users look for?

Enhanced Network Security: Superior protection for virtual environments.
Efficient Disaster Recovery: Reliable support for business continuity.
Reduced Deployment Time: Fast implementation and configuration.
Improved Network Management: Centralized and streamlined control of network resources.

VMware NSX is widely implemented across industries such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. Organizations in these sectors utilize it to bolster security, enhance network efficiency, and support cloud-native applications. By extending on-premise networks into provider spaces and managing virtual access networks, VMware NSX significantly optimizes infrastructure operations.

VMware

Sample Customers

xtel communications, banco votorantim, petronas

City of Avondale, Lumeta, Kroll Ontrack, Heartland Payment Systems, Baystate Heallth, Exostar, Tribune Media, iGATE, NTT Communications, Synergent, California Natural Resources Agency, Bloomington Public Schools, Columbia Sportswear, Join Experience S.A, Schuberg Philis

Buyer's Guide

Iris Session Analyzer vs. VMware NSX

June 2025

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