Iris Session Analyzer vs VMware NSX comparison

NETSCOUT and VMware are both solutions in the Network Traffic Analysis (NTA) category. NETSCOUT is ranked #16, while VMware is ranked #8 with an average rating of 7.7. NETSCOUT holds a 0.7% mindshare in NTA, compared to VMware’s 2.3% 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

142 Views
34 Comparison Views

100% willing to recommend

VMware NSX

Read 102 VMware NSX reviews

175 Views
117 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: April 2025).

Buyer's Guide

Iris Session Analyzer vs. VMware NSX

April 2025

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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

Iris Session Analyzer

Ranking in Network Traffic Analysis (NTA)

16th

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

102

Ranking in other categories

Network Virtualization (2nd), Cloud and Data Center Security (3rd), Network Detection and Response (NDR) (9th), Network Automation (5th), Microsegmentation Software (1st)

Mindshare comparison

As of May 2025, in the Network Traffic Analysis (NTA) category, the mindshare of Iris Session Analyzer is 0.7%, up from 0.1% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of VMware NSX is 2.3%, 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

"A great feature is the memory utilization graph."

"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."

"NSX extends Layer-2 scalability on Layer 3, covering the vRO and extending the capability on Layer 3 by decapsulating using a new mechanism. NSX-V was designed to use with VMware products and Success 360, providing more flexibility toward different levels of cloud, containers, and components. NSX-T gives you the ability to stretch your network across different view locations. If you have multiple sites, you can connect them using NSX-T."

"Over the last two years, they've enhanced a lot, especially in regard to integration with OpenStack."

"The micro-segmentation and the ability to create policy rules are valuable."

"From a distributed firewall perspective, it's a solid solution."

"It operates on a logical level, providing a comprehensive and centralized way to manage your network resources."

"Some of the key features I find most valuable are the highly graphical user interface, virtualization of networks, and Microsoft application compatibility. It has all the functionality that we require."

"VMware NSX's overlay network is its most valuable feature, as it aligns with any network philosophy and allows for efficient addressing mechanisms. Additionally, the ability to extend the on-premise network into the provider space is beneficial. There are many features provided."

"During our experience, the solution has been stable."

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."

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

"There are sometimes mismatch in the control, the details and what you actually see on the transport note."

"It needs to be cheaper."

"We would like better integration with the standards on the market. For example, with OSPF, their integration in NSX is very low. It's not a full OSPF integration. It is too thin from a protocol perspective."

"The support needs improvement."

"One drawback is this solution requires a lot of other products in the VMware ecosystem to have a full end-to-end operation orchestration monitoring. You have to buy a lot of add-ons to fully utilize the functionality."

"Everybody needs a network to connect to, and VMware doesn't readily provide one."

"It's a good product, but the way that it has got so many multiple levels that need to be purchased makes it expensive and cumbersome."

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 implementation of VMware NSX can be cost-intensive, especially if an organization is looking for a comprehensive solution. The costs can vary based on factors like the level of conversation and discounts obtained during negotiations. Some government organizations, for instance, may find the prices relatively high, leading to concerns about budget hikes, especially when deploying the solution across the entire organization. Regarding maintenance and support, they are typically included in the standard licensing costs for enterprise-level businesses. While these costs can be significant, many companies opt for standard licensing to ensure they have access to necessary support and maintenance services."

"The solution is reasonable at the local level."

"The solution is free and the price for the support can be expensive."

"I would rate the pricing of VMware NSX as seven out of ten"

"The price of this product is too high."

"The price of VMware NSX is reasonable."

"You can scale NSX if you have the resources, but it's usually expensive and complex to scale up."

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

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

14%

Government

10%

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

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Compared 19% 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

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Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

Network Traffic Analysis (NTA)

April 2025

Download Iris Session Analyzer product report

Buyer's Guide

VMware NSX

April 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

April 2025

Free Report: Iris Session Analyzer vs. VMware NSX

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