ThreatLocker Zero Trust Platform Reviews

We use this solution for Zero Trust application installations, as well as ringfencing those applications and elevating administrative rights.

ThreatLocker Zero Trust Endpoint Protection Platform cuts down on ticket times for a couple of my employees. They are able to get tickets done faster. Elevation helps with that, and throwing a computer in learning mode is super easy for them, so it just works in their workflow.

They are able to get the work that they need to do faster because they are not being bogged down with needless tickets.

It has helped free up our IT team’s time for other projects or tasks. On average, it has saved about two hours a week of work time.

ThreatLocker Zero Trust Endpoint Protection Platform is not difficult. It is easy for IT teams to use. They just need to install an agent.

ThreatLocker Zero Trust Endpoint Protection Platform has not consolidated any of our tools. It has just added to our stack and helps us sleep at night.

ThreatLocker Zero Trust Endpoint Protection Platform has not saved us costs because purchasing the agents costs money, but it helps in generating revenue because it is another thing that we can add to contracts to help our clients be more secure. I do not do the finances for the company, but I know it produces revenue because we are keeping the product.

ThreatLocker Zero Trust Endpoint Protection Platform is great for blocking access to unauthorized applications. We test it for when we need it. We have never come across any issues. Cyber Heroes are great. They resolve many issues that we find in a matter of minutes.

I really enjoy ringfencing and elevation features. It makes my life easier because I do not have to get on a computer to elevate a prompt to allow users to run something they run every day as an admin. 

They have a good foothold in the game right now. They are doing everything right, and as long as they keep improvising and adapting, they will continue to overcome. I cannot suggest anything that they are not already doing. They should keep adding features as they have been.

We have used the solution for a little bit over a year.

It is excellent. They are constantly pushing out updates. They are always putting out webinars and keeping everyone informed. They are great.

Scalability is easy. Their policies, the grouping of the policies, and the way the hierarchy works for all of their policies are excellent.

The customer service is a ten out of ten. It cannot get better.

We did not use any previous solutions.

We have a hybrid environment. We are an MSP, and we have 40 different clients. We adopt the environment they come with. We use Microsoft Azure Cloud.

The setup was easy. It was just deploying the agent and letting it learn for 21 days. It then just goes, and you do not hear much from it after that. It is super simple. The only time you hear from it after that is when there is a new application or it is not a built-in.

We have a technical representative from ThreatLocker who assists us.

It is the fact that I am sleeping at night. I know that my systems are secure. They are not going anywhere. Nothing is happening to them. Any policy I put in place is a policy that stays in place, and it knows it is going to protect my system.

It is a great platform all around. It has great support. People developing it know what they are doing. They see a future. They see a path, and they are going down it. I like it. I like what I see. 

Overall, I would rate ThreatLocker Zero Trust Endpoint Protection Platform a ten out of ten.

We have deployed it across many clients, including a major client in the caretaking business. They need to be protected well. I am quite satisfied with the product.

I use the product to monitor what users can or cannot do, with variations for each type of customer. We are starting to consolidate all clients into one comprehensive map.

The portal is easy to use and provides a centralized region for management, which is beneficial.

It helped us to consolidate security products. We previously worked with another product but switched to ThreatLocker. It eliminated the need for another product, as ThreatLocker combines multiple functionalities. We used to have antivirus, but if you can block computers from doing anything, the virus has no chance or very little chance.

The endpoint protection itself is very valuable because that is the primary feature I am using. We deal with a lot of users who are not always aware of what they are doing while using their computers for business. In the caretaking business, you have several people who are not IT-minded. Phishing emails or things like that can happen very easily.

It is a comprehensive platform that allows you to do a lot of things. We are not using all the things yet, but it keeps our clients safe, which is the main service we aim to deliver as an IT partner.

The company should strive to stay ahead of all the developments happening externally. If their progress accelerates more rapidly than the ongoing changes outside, it would prove advantageous.

I have been using the solution for more than a year. 

The stability is satisfactory.

It is scalable.

Customer service is good. The Cyber Hero program ensures there is always someone available to help. It was one of the reasons to go with this solution.

Positive

We worked with Enable. We changed it because our company saw ThreatLocker at a convention. They were convinced that the product would do better.

The setup was straightforward. We utilized another platform to deploy ThreatLocker, and this eased the process.

We implemented it ourselves.

I do not deal with pricing, but I assume it is cost-effective for us. We choose a solution based on functionality and affordability.

We did not evaluate other products.

It is easy to use, but we are having some difficulties as we are still learning how to best deploy it for our customers and adjust the endpoints so that they can work efficiently and do whatever they need to do. Even though you put machines in learning mode, it requires finetuning. For some business clients, it is okay, but other clients, particularly the smaller ones, have to be able to do a lot of things. It can be difficult to have that balance.

It has not helped reduce our help desk tickets. We are still in learning mode, and after we are fully knowledgeable, we will be able to see some ticket reductions.

I would rate it eight out of ten. Nobody deserves a ten.

We are a managed service provider offering comprehensive network and security monitoring for other service providers. We remotely monitor our clients' systems, many of which utilize ThreatLocker. This application allows us to provide end-to-end technical support, including proactive protection against malicious scripts and applications. ThreatLocker prevents unauthorized installations and execution of potentially harmful programs, such as PowerShell or CMD scripts, by blocking them in real-time. Essentially, it's a comprehensive security application that logs events, captures data, and aids in recovery and analysis, enabling us to understand and respond to security incidents effectively.

We have deployed ThreatLocker in the Azure and AWS clouds for some of our customers, while others utilize it in a hybrid model.

Administrators can easily approve or deny requests using their ThreatLocker allow list. With full access, an administrator can enable learning mode or create exclusions for any user, allowing them to execute specific files or actions within their user space.

The software provides superior visibility into end-user software approval requests compared to other EDR applications I've encountered. Real-time scanning is available when an exclusion occurs, and the software captures comprehensive logs of all activity on the machine.

We use allowlisting once a user access request is submitted. We verify the reason for the request and, once verified, we send an email notification to the requesting user. After approval through the ThreatLocker console, the user can access and execute the requested resources.

ThreatLocker has significantly improved numerous techniques that mitigate vulnerabilities and viruses initiated on the back end of a network. This prevents recurring attacks that utilize script files or various hacking methods by stopping them at the network level.

Previously, users with installation privileges often installed various third-party applications without oversight. ThreatLocker prevents unauthorized application execution, requiring users to submit installation requests. Since most users are reluctant to request third-party applications, this policy significantly reduces the volume of help desk tickets related to software installation and troubleshooting.

ThreatLocker helps consolidate applications and tools.

ThreatLocker's most valuable feature is its scanning capability, which executes all types of executable files. Rather than denying specific applications, it denies all applications originating from the back end, providing comprehensive protection.

ThreatLocker would benefit from incorporating an antivirus feature or comprehensive 24-hour log monitoring, a valuable enhancement for both business and enterprise-level users.

I have been using ThreatLocker Protect for approximately seven to nine months.

I haven't experienced any performance or stability issues with ThreatLocker.

ThreatLocker is highly scalable and useful for real-time protection.

ThreatLocker's technical support process could be streamlined by reducing the number of steps required to reach a human agent. Currently, users must navigate through multiple chatbot interactions before being connected, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Neutral

The initial setup involves deploying the solution through an agent procedure within cloud platforms. Configuration is done according to system administrator instructions, and policies are set accordingly.

A team of five is involved in deploying and configuring ThreatLocker, as well as monitoring its use.

The measurable benefits of using ThreatLocker include ensuring real-time protection of organizational resources and maintaining user authentication and protection levels to reduce risks. It fosters business growth by securing the business module.

I rate ThreatLocker Protect eight out of ten.

There is no maintenance required by the customers.

The endpoint value typically falls within the range of 300 to 450 per MSP, although this can vary depending on the client. Larger enterprise-level clients may have up to 500 endpoints.

I recommend purchasing the exact number of agent subscriptions needed for the environment to avoid unnecessary expenditures.

We provide IT security or cybersecurity services to our customers. ThreatLocker is a key component of our security stack, and we roll it out to every one of our customer's endpoints. It's not an optional component, but a must-have because we are strong proponents of zero trust.

We provide remote monitoring and management services, which can be considered remote IT security for our clients. Our clients have minimal interaction with ThreatLocker Protect directly. It is one of the security tools we install on their systems to secure their networks and end devices. More importantly, it allows us to manage and control the specific applications and services running on their endpoints.

For instance, we can maintain a pre-approved list of applications that are allowed to run in the environment, while preventing unauthorized applications from executing. Even for permitted applications, we implement additional security measures.

ThreatLocker's unique capabilities are particularly evident in its handling of Adobe Acrobat, a common PDF reader. PDFs can be exploited by malicious actors, or hackers, to gain access to systems. Typically, a user clicks on a PDF, it opens, and without their knowledge, malicious code executes on the system, interacting with other components to enable hacker access.

With ThreatLocker, we can restrict Adobe Acrobat to only accessing the official Adobe update servers on the internet, preventing it from accessing any other websites. Additionally, we can restrict Adobe's access to other applications and underlying files on the computer, preventing hackers from utilizing the program to compromise the system.

ThreatLocker is a cloud-based endpoint protection platform that utilizes endpoint agents installed on each device. The deployment of these agents can be automated through Microsoft Intune or RMM, depending on the specific scenario. The ThreatLocker portal is also cloud-based, and once the agent is installed, it communicates directly with the ThreatLocker cloud. One of the key advantages of ThreatLocker is the instantaneous implementation of changes made in the cloud to the endpoints. This ensures that devices are always protected with the latest security policies.

Administration of Allowlisting is incredibly simple, and ThreatLocker provides numerous methods for approving applications and ensuring their legitimacy. One of ThreatLocker's strengths is its dedicated team that continuously monitors applications for changes. For instance, Microsoft's infamous "patch Tuesday" releases require thorough vetting of all patches. If not vetted, ThreatLocker will block them. ThreatLocker's team proactively prevents these issues by adding validated applications to the system. Occasionally, an unpopular application may slip through their team's detection. In such cases, the process for blocking is straightforward. Upon receiving an alert, we can examine the application and its characteristics, including its files. Directly from ThreatLocker, we can verify the application against known repositories that track applications based on their hash or unique Digital DNA to determine if it's a registered application with a known location. Additionally, we can check for any malicious characteristics. Based on this assessment, we can take two actions: either approve the application or utilize ThreatLocker's newly introduced virtual sandbox environment. With a simple click, we can isolate the blocked file in a virtual environment. ThreatLocker creates a separate Windows screen, copies the file over, and executes it within the environment for two purposes. The first is for capturing the file's signatures and any missing elements. The second is for observing the file's behavior in a controlled environment.

Software approval requests for end users are simple. The end user will typically see a small box, which can be customized. We can create a custom appearance or use the ThreatLocker standard box that appears and states that the application has been blocked. There is a box where users can justify the application and explain why they need it. They can then request approval. This is their interaction in terms of requesting approval. On the backend, either the Cyber Heroes or our team will review and approve everything. If the application is approved, the users will receive another small box in the lower right-hand corner of the screen stating that the app has been approved and can now be run. The box will have a button that users can click to run the previously blocked application.

The combination of Allowlisting and Ringfencing is a key advantage of ThreatLocker, particularly in preventing applications from accessing unauthorized internet sources or tampering with sensitive system programs. Allowlisting explicitly permits specific applications to run, while Ringfencing imposes additional restrictions on their behavior. This layered approach ensures that applications can only execute authorized actions and cannot escalate privileges or compromise system integrity. Allowlisting simplifies application control by eliminating the need to define granular permissions for each application. Instead, administrators can simply check a few boxes to whitelist trusted applications. However, for more advanced configurations, ThreatLocker provides granular control over application permissions. Ringfencing acts as a safeguard, akin to guardrails along a mountain road. Just as guardrails prevent vehicles from plunging over the edge, Ringfencing prevents applications from engaging in unauthorized or malicious activities. This additional layer of protection provides peace of mind and enhances overall security.

Establishing trust is crucial, and with Allowlisting, we have a thorough vetting process to ensure applications meet the necessary security criteria. We first evaluate whether the application is truly needed in the environment or what its purpose is. Additionally, we can identify who initiated the request. Furthermore, ThreatLocker's portal provides access to historical data on applications, including file hashes, which act as unique digital DNA. This allows us to verify whether the application is in its original form and check for any known threat advisories. This comprehensive information empowers us to make informed decisions about whether to Allowlist or deny an application based on our findings. Additionally, we can sandbox the application to observe its behavior in a controlled environment and detect any malicious activities. This rigorous vetting process ensures that only trustworthy applications are Allowlisted.

ThreatLocker allows us to maintain consistent environments by providing a central repository that tracks which applications are authorized to run. This simplifies application management and ensures that only approved applications are installed. Additionally, ThreatLocker enables us to control bloatware, which can often contain vulnerabilities. We can prevent bloatware from executing within our environment, further enhancing security. ThreatLocker's zero-trust architecture, including application control, ringfencing, and other features, strengthens our overall security posture. With ThreatLocker, we no longer need to worry excessively about end users clicking on malicious emails, as the embedded code cannot execute due to the restrictions we have implemented. Overall, ThreatLocker's zero-trust architecture is mandatory across all clients in our environment. It is not an optional security measure; it is essential for doing business with us. ThreatLocker empowers us to control our environment and ensure comprehensive security.

ThreatLocker has helped us reduce our helpdesk tickets by preventing rogue applications from running in our environment. This significantly reduces the overhead associated with managing tickets. With ThreatLocker, we have complete control over which applications are allowed to run, so we don't have to worry about users clicking on something they shouldn't. Occasionally, we do receive requests from end users who are trying to run blocked applications, such as games. These requests are denied and do not become tickets. Overall, ThreatLocker has significantly improved the standardization of our environments and reduced the overhead associated with managing user-related tickets. It has given us complete control over which applications can run in our environment, and we rarely have any end-user-related tickets as a result.

Many tickets are created due to an inconsistent or non-standardized user environment. Users encounter differences in software configurations between systems, leading to curiosity and clicking on unfamiliar items. In the current era where 96 percent of security incidents originate from phishing email clicks, we have clear evidence, supported by metrics, of the impact and consequences of such actions within client environments. By standardizing the environment and utilizing a common system like ThreatLocker, which enables whitelisting, blacklisting, or implementing guardrails, the number of tickets and user-generated noise can be significantly reduced.

Our current security stack is very lean and well-integrated. Whenever I attend a trade show or conference with vendor halls, I'm always approached by vendors trying to sell me something. ThreatLocker already does what they're offering, so there's no need for additional purchases. From a cost perspective, ThreatLocker has allowed us to consolidate and save significantly. Additionally, without ThreatLocker, we would likely need six or seven different tools to achieve the same level of security, further reducing costs.

We use ThreatLocker's Allowlisting to whitelist specific applications and prevent unauthorized software from running.

We utilize Ringfencing to establish guardrails around implementations, ensuring that applications operate within defined boundaries.

We leverage network access control to granularly control interactions between computer systems and servers. This enables us to restrict communication between specific applications, even within a locked-down environment.

We employ storage control to impose additional security measures on data storage. This includes controlling access to network shares, network files, and folders, as well as USB storage devices. We can whitelist specific devices based on their serial numbers or allow access based on predefined conditions.

We rely on ThreatLocker's Cyber Hero support, which provides exceptional assistance and responsiveness. At any time, we can initiate a chat session and receive immediate support. If the issue requires escalation, it is promptly handled.

Cyber Hero support also plays a crucial role in vetting application updates. When a user attempts to install or update an application, and the update has not been approved from a security standpoint, it is blocked by ThreatLocker. A notification is presented to the user, informing them of the block and providing an option to justify the application's need. These requests are then reviewed by ThreatLocker's Cyber Hero support team, who evaluate them against our security criteria and make an informed decision to allow or deny the application.

We utilize ThreatLocker's elevated control feature for applications that require administrator-level access. We avoid granting full administrative privileges to end users, as this elevates the risk of compromise if the device is infiltrated. Instead, elevated control allows us to precisely define the execution conditions for specific applications, such as QuickBooks updates. By verifying the application's signature and certificate, we can enable the update to run with administrative privileges while restricting the user's overall administrative access.

Integrating ThreatLocker with other products is simple and only requires a few clicks. ThreatLocker's deployment is also very straightforward. The company provides extensive and well-written online documentation, which is continuously being improved. They also offer a variety of training resources, including university courses, training videos, webinars, and conferences. I have no complaints about the level of support and knowledge transfer provided by the company. ThreatLocker is also developing a new reporting tool, which I had the opportunity to beta test. The company has also been showcasing the new reporting tool at conferences. The new reporting tool provides a level of detail that is unmatched by any other product on the market.

From a reporting perspective, enhancing the ability to customize reports would be beneficial. This could include the option to export reports to a Word document for further tailoring, allowing users to add their own executive summaries and additional content.

I have been using ThreatLocker Protect for five and a half years.

ThreatLocker's development team is capable of releasing beta versions of upcoming releases. Our organization has a policy against deploying beta code due to potential stability and security issues. We don't want to inconvenience our customers or use them as guinea pigs. Overall, ThreatLocker has been a stable platform. However, the threat landscape changes rapidly, and even vetted releases can have minor glitches, such as applications being categorized differently. This can sometimes have adverse effects. However, ThreatLocker's team is very responsive and quickly addresses any issues we bring to their attention.

I haven't identified any inherent limitations or restrictions, or let's say, a ceiling. I'm aware that ThreatLocker is deployed in large corporations around the world. So, they can accommodate organizations of all sizes, from single-person entities to Fortune 500 companies. It's undoubtedly scalable. When I evaluate scalability, I consider not only the number of endpoints and various supported components but also the ability to adapt to the evolving threat landscape. ThreatLocker has certainly been doing that with the introduction of new products and services, as well as the continuous evolution of the platform as a whole.

ThreatLocker is the only company where, regardless of the time of day or whether it's a holiday, I can get immediate support by just jumping into the portal, clicking on the chat, and having someone respond. And it's not just a bot; it's a real Cyber Hero who is ready to assist. They even offer the option to request a Zoom link so that we can have a face-to-face meeting to explain our scenarios and share our screens. If the Cyber Hero is unable to resolve the issue, there are two additional levels of support available online 24/7. We've dealt with many vendors, but we've never experienced this level of support.

Positive

The implementation process was relatively straightforward. ThreatLocker provides us with granular control over almost every aspect of the system, which is one of its key advantages. Upon initial installation, ThreatLocker enters a learning mode where it identifies and catalogs all applications within the environment. We can then determine when to transition ThreatLocker from learning mode to full secure mode, with options ranging from one day to 30 days. In our case, the transition to full secure mode was relatively seamless. We completed the learning phase and had ThreatLocker fully operational within 30 days.

We utilize Microsoft Azure and Intune to manage the majority of our services. In this instance, we employed a PowerShell script provided by ThreatLocker, tailored to our specific environment, and deployed it via Intune. Intune ensures that every device is enrolled. Upon defining and adding the PowerShell script, Intune automatically distributes it to the endpoints, completing the installation process. The deployment process is simple.

We don't require many people for the deployment of ThreatLocker.

ThreatLocker has been instrumental in our ability to standardize and secure our environments, enabling us to replicate them consistently. This standardization has significantly reduced overhead, as we no longer need to rebuild the infrastructure for each new client or prospect. Furthermore, the controlled environment that ThreatLocker has facilitated resembles a well-policed community, where crime rates are low, residents are content, and property values are rising. In contrast, an uncontrolled environment akin to one with inadequate law enforcement would result in chaos. Consequently, ThreatLocker has allowed us to operate efficiently and effectively, minimizing support tickets, eliminating security concerns, and ultimately contributing to our profitability.

Today, the term "zero-trust bubble" is used to describe the growing number of vendors offering zero-trust security solutions. However, I've observed that the IT security industry, as a whole, tends to over-hype new technologies with acronyms and buzzwords without fully understanding their implications. When I examine the current zero-trust landscape and compare it to other security bubbles like endpoint detection and response, secure access service edge, and so on, I find ThreatLocker's pricing to be reasonable for the services it provides.

Previously, we had not implemented any solutions for zero trust because it was a relatively new concept at the time. We were exploring various options to gain more granular control over applications running on separate networks within our environment. Our goal was to standardize and normalize these applications while preventing the execution of unauthorized applications or scripts. However, we were unable to find any solutions that met our specific requirements. When we were introduced to ThreatLocker, we evaluated other available solutions and found that ThreatLocker offered the most comprehensive feature set.

There was nothing else in the market at the time that was doing what ThreatLocker was doing or even attempting to do anything with Zero Trust. The CEO and co-founder visited my office and provided me with an in-depth explanation of the product, its vision, and its future plans. This was sufficient for me because, first and foremost, what matters most to me, especially in the security industry, is having personal connections with my vendors. I don't want to be just another customer. I specifically want to know that I have people I can call on my speed dial when something goes wrong. And that's the kind of relationship I have with ThreatLocker.

I would rate ThreatLocker Protect nine out of ten. There are many security products available today that companies like mine utilize, and some of these products could be replaced with ThreatLocker. However, ThreatLocker is one of those tools that I consider indispensable to our security stack. We have such a strong conviction about this because we understand its capabilities and have seen its effectiveness firsthand. While a significant portion of our work is proactive security, we have also been called upon by companies who have experienced ransomware attacks. In these situations, we have been able to assist them in their recovery efforts. If these companies had ThreatLocker in place, they would not have been vulnerable to these attacks. This reinforces our unwavering belief in the value of ThreatLocker.

We implemented ThreatLocker from the outset within our environments. Therefore, it's difficult for me to compare it to previous solutions as it has become an integral part of our security framework. When I interact with colleagues who don't use ThreatLocker, I hear a lot of complaints, particularly regarding ticketing and the time wasted on text-based communications. I would say that the vast majority of these issues could be avoided if they had ThreatLocker in place.

The company as a whole has experienced and addressed all the concerns that have been raised. Firstly, they are continuously developing and enhancing their product offerings, which include not only the product itself but also the accompanying knowledge base and support structure. Most recently, we have been beta testing their latest portal upgrade, which is remarkably impressive. Ultimately, if I were forced to reduce my security stack to just one or two tools, ThreatLocker would undoubtedly be among them.

Occasionally, a less popular application pushed by a publisher may be flagged by ThreatLocker. In such instances, customers may inquire about the issue. However, once the reasoning behind the flag and the importance of our application vetting process to safeguard their environment are explained, the concerns typically subside.

ThreatLocker's user interface has undergone a significant transformation since its inception. The new beta portal, which we now have access to, is a vast improvement over the original portal. It is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, fulfilling all of its intended purposes. In terms of UI customization, I see little room for improvement. One area where I always seek enhancements is integration with third-party products, particularly PSA platforms. We utilize ConnectWise Manage, now known as ConnectWise PSA, and it seamlessly integrates with ThreatLocker. During a recent client audit, I compared the actual numbers to the PSA's reports, and everything matched up perfectly. When I consider ThreatLocker as a whole, I am impressed with not only the product itself but also the company's culture and commitment to innovation. They continuously invest in thought leadership initiatives, such as webinars, training programs, the ThreatLocker University, and their annual conference. These efforts demonstrate their dedication to providing their customers with the best possible experience. I have no specific wishlist items for ThreatLocker. I am genuinely satisfied with their product and overall approach.

We began realizing immediate value from ThreatLocker, as it provided us with the ability to view blocked applications, scripts, or files within the environment through its unified audit feature. This allowed us to quickly identify and eliminate unwanted software from our environment. Additionally, we could revisit applications that had been vetted or cataloged and decide to block them if they were no longer deemed necessary. Overall, the time to value for ThreatLocker was within the first 30 to 45 days.

ThreatLocker is used by all of our clients and on all of our endpoints. We currently have over 250 endpoints protected by ThreatLocker.

From a maintenance standpoint, ThreatLocker is relatively straightforward. While application signatures inevitably change, the most frustrating aspect is the lack of consistent code signing by software publishers. Despite the current cybersecurity emphasis and efforts to minimize risk, it's baffling that reputable software developers often fail to sign their code. This necessitates an additional vetting process to verify the code's authenticity and ensure it hasn't been tampered with. One of ThreatLocker's strengths is its audit service. Upon request, their system engineers conduct a thorough audit of our client's environment via a Webex or Zoom session. They examine what's being blocked, what's not, our configurations, best practices adherence, and potential changes. This proactive approach ensures we're on the right track and adhering to best practices.

First and foremost, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the clients' environments and develop a tailored strategy for each one before implementing ThreatLocker. A one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective as every client environment has its unique set of applications and requirements. Thorough education is key. When rolling out ThreatLocker, we spend a considerable amount of time educating our customers about its purpose, functionality, and potential impact. We address their concerns and explain the rationale behind the restrictions. This education process should be ongoing for end customers. In the technology industry, there is a tendency to focus on the latest bells and whistles, neglecting the importance of educating end users about the benefits and implications of new technologies. This oversight can hinder the successful implementation of security solutions like ThreatLocker. It is essential to dedicate sufficient time to educating end users to ensure a smooth and effective rollout.
Know the environment. Before implementing ThreatLocker, thoroughly document and understand the client's environment. Initially, run ThreatLocker in learning mode to capture all applications used in the environment. Fine-tune the policy. Before switching to secure mode, collaborate with a Cyber Hero or solutions engineer to identify and address potential application conflicts or redundant applications. Leverage ThreatLocker University. Encourage the team to participate in ThreatLocker University training to gain in-depth product knowledge. Test in the environment first. Before deploying ThreatLocker to clients, thoroughly test it in your own environment to gain familiarity and expertise. ThreatLocker is not suitable for every organization. It is not intended for those who lack a serious commitment to security or are unwilling to invest the time and effort required to properly vet and configure the product for their specific environment. ThreatLocker is most effective for organizations that are willing to take advantage of its comprehensive features and dedicated support to tailor the solution to their unique needs. Remember, the success of ThreatLocker implementation depends on thorough planning, education, and a commitment to security.

I primarily use it for protecting my clients.

I can sleep well at night. At the end of the day, it provides me with peace of mind.

It has helped to eliminate other security solutions. We do not need as many. We do not use many because we can trust the solution. We were using Sophos. That is completely gone. We are using Penetrates as well because it works very well with ThreatLocker.

It has been great at blocking access to unauthorized applications. It is almost perfect. We deal with developers who use a lot of tools. From a security standpoint, it is very important because we know what is going on. It gives us more visibility.

It has not reduced helpdesk tickets. It has probably increased them by blocking applications and doing its job, resulting in people raising more tickets to know why they cannot use certain things.

It has not freed up the IT team’s time for other projects or tasks, but it is doing its job. It is a good one.

The Zero Trust factor is valuable because it blocks everything. That helps us to stay ahead of bad actors. We do not have to be in recovery mode. 

It is light. It does not give that weird heaviness. It just works. 

So far, it has been great. The Cyber Hero support system is excellent. I have no complaints, but a little bit more Mac support would be great.

It is very easy, but having a dashboard so that we can visualize more might be helpful.

I have used the solution for about a year.

It is great. We have had no issues so far.

It seems great, but we are still growing. We will know in a year.

Cyber Hero's support is excellent, allowing me to talk to a live person, which is significant. It has been amazing.

Positive

We had a bad experience with Sophos. We have industrial printers that we use, and they would just lock in. There was no visibility. We did contact Sophos, but they did not have any solution. The manufacturer also did not have a solution. We just could not figure it out. It was hindering the production.

The initial setup was seamless and very easy. We use Datto RMM.

We implemented it ourselves.

We are still small. We are still growing, so we are not at the stage to know about the ROI or any reductions in the operational costs.

So far, it has been great. I have no complaints. Of course, everybody wishes it was cheaper.

It does what it is supposed to do. Just knowing that it works as intended is reassuring. There are a lot of other EDR software, but you do not know if they are doing their job. With ThreatLocker, I can tell that it works.

I would rate it a ten out of ten.

We use ThreatLocker for application allowlisting to enhance security. This is particularly beneficial in school environments, where it prevents students from bypassing security measures by downloading unauthorized applications like VPNs and elevation control, enabling specific local users to gain temporary administrator privileges when running designated applications.

ThreatLocker utilizes a cloud-based system where an agent is deployed on a server or workstation, either on-premise or in a cloud environment like Azure. This agent connects to the ThreatLocker cloud for management and security functionalities.

ThreatLocker simplifies the process for administrators to approve or deny requests. Built-in applications streamline approvals as ThreatLocker manages all associated rules. If a built-in application exists, administrators simply select and allow it. However, if a built-in application is not available, administrators can select from various parameters to create a customized rule. Overall, ThreatLocker provides a relatively easy and efficient approval process.

We use ThreatLocker's ringfencing feature to implement the principle of least privilege. This allows us to control applications like Microsoft Word and Chrome by permitting them to run while restricting potentially malicious actions, such as Word executing PowerShell scripts. This granular control enhances the security of our environment by limiting what applications can do.

ThreatLocker enhances security by verifying the trustworthiness of all access requests, regardless of origin. Its built-in checks ensure applications match their claimed identities, such as confirming that "Word" is indeed Microsoft Word. Additionally, ThreatLocker provides a testing environment to execute executables and scripts in a virtual machine, verifying their legitimacy. Finally, integration with VirusTotal allows for hash analysis, providing further validation. These combined checks offer a robust system for confirming the authenticity of user application requests.

We saw the benefits of ThreatLocker quickly, especially during security incidents. For example, we had a customer where ThreatLocker successfully blocked a threat actor's attempts to install malware and exfiltrate data using legitimate tools. This immediate visibility is crucial, particularly in environments like schools where students might use various unapproved Chrome extensions. ThreatLocker allows for swift action, like blocking ten different VPN extensions, preventing further unauthorized activity.

ThreatLocker has allowed us to consolidate applications by deciding which ones we permit, such as choosing between Firefox or Chrome, while not permitting Opera or Brave. This means we only focus on two browsers for patching and security purposes. It helped us to immediately identify and block unnecessary Chrome extensions in schools, like VPN extensions. We have experienced quick visibility into what students are trying to use and gained more control over our applications.

I find the application control valuable. ThreatLocker provides visibility into user activity and application usage, empowering organizations to define acceptable applications and web browsers. Additionally, elevation control eliminates the need for local administrators by streamlining privilege elevation for specific applications and updates, resolving the challenges customers previously faced with managing local admin rights.

A valuable addition to ThreatLocker would be a column in the audit page displaying a VirusTotal score for each file. This would allow for quick identification of potentially malicious files during allowlisting. Currently, ThreatLocker has a risk scoring system, but integrating VirusTotal results would provide more granular insight. This would enable users to efficiently assess the safety of audited files and prioritize those flagged by multiple antivirus engines for further investigation.

I have been using ThreatLocker for about two years.

The system is generally stable, with one exception during a customer demo where the portal froze and some applications failed to load.

ThreatLocker is scalable. We have customers with ten endpoints to thousands of endpoints. It scales well across different customer sizes and requirements.

ThreatLocker's customer support is exceptionally fast, typically connecting me with a representative within a minute of submitting a ticket and enabling a Zoom call within three to five minutes. While the support team demonstrates knowledge about ThreatLocker, they occasionally provide hasty answers without proper verification, leading to subsequent revisions.

Positive

The initial setup was easy and well-supported by ThreatLocker's documentation and training.

Most new onboardings require approximately 21 days of learning mode before transitioning to secure mode. Therefore, it typically takes about 21 days to a month for an environment to reach secure mode.

I am the one responsible for all the ThreatLocker deployments.

The implementation was completed in-house.

I handle the technical aspects, while my manager deals with pricing. Although the pricing seems good, there have been inconsistencies in contract negotiations. What we are told during calls sometimes differs from what is communicated later causing frustration.

We considered CyberFOX, but it prioritized elevation over allowlisting. ThreatLocker remains the only effective allowlisting tool we've found.

I would rate ThreatLocker nine out of ten.

The agent can be set to update automatically, which is the default setting. ThreatLocker handles the maintenance of the agents. Once in secure mode, the primary maintenance task is approving new application requests from users.

I am one of two internal support staff for our company of approximately 60 employees. We manage roughly 80 devices, including servers and similar equipment, and utilize ThreatLocker Protect for internal support only. We do not resell this product.

Approving or denying software requests is a simple process for administrators. We have a well-defined workflow, and one of the most convenient aspects is how it handles individual user and computer requests. The beauty of ThreatLocker Protect lies in its ability to approve individual requests while also offering broader deployment options. For example, if a work operation requires specific software and John Smith initiates the request, I can not only approve it for him but also wildcard it. This means that if another member of the same team or someone else in the company wants the same software, they don't need to submit a new request; it's automatically approved based on the initial approval for John Smith. This saves everyone time and simplifies the process.

The visibility into software requests from users is perfect.

We leverage ThreatLocker's Ringfencing technology, which has proven highly effective in our security strategy. While it allows us to whitelist specific applications, it critically prevents those applications from exceeding their authorized access. Even if an approved program theoretically could access PowerShell, the command line, Regedit, or other restricted features, Ringfencing intervenes and blocks such attempts. This granular control is crucial for maintaining a strong security posture.

The need for establishing trust for every access request, regardless of its origin, is crucial. Before implementing ThreatLocker, we faced a significant issue. A department member needed a specific program, so he downloaded it from a third-party site instead of the official source. Unfortunately, the site was riddled with malware. Unaware of this danger, he downloaded and installed the program. Three of us spent two days not just cleaning up the mess, but also verifying that the malware hadn't infiltrated our network. This is where ThreatLocker shines. Even if a trusted program like "Program A" is installed from the official source, ThreatLocker can be configured to only allow future requests from the program's parent company with a valid signed certificate. Any request for the same program from an unauthorized third-party source with an unverified certificate gets automatically blocked. This is truly a powerful feature.

ThreatLocker Protect has significantly reduced our help desk tickets. We used to be bombarded with repetitive requests, particularly software update approvals. The ability to use wildcards for both users and versions in ThreatLocker is fantastic. Previously, when new versions of software were released (e.g., Software A version 1.1), we'd receive up to 15 separate requests for approval. Thankfully, ThreatLocker allows us to whitelist both users and versions. Once we approve Software A from the authorized vendor for version 1.0, we can create a wildcard rule that automatically approves future updates (1.1, 1.2, etc.) from the same vendor. This eliminates the need for manual intervention, saving me an incredible 80 percent of my time. ThreatLocker Protect is truly a game-changer!

ThreatLocker Protect helps our staff focus on other projects.

We saw the value of ThreatLocker Protect shortly after deployment, but it's important to understand how the initial stage works. After signing up and installing the program, the machines enter a learning mode. During this period, ThreatLocker observes and analyzes the software on our devices, identifying common applications and their components (DLLs and EXEs). This learning phase typically lasts around 30 days. While we might not see immediate results during learning mode, it's crucial as it lays the foundation for secure operation. Our first audit review, conducted ten days after deployment, revealed a large number of identified applications because the system was still learning. However, our assigned systems engineer provided excellent explanations and handled the back-end processes seamlessly, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This is one of the program's key strengths. While ten days might seem like a short time to realize the value, it's important to remember the learning phase is essential for effective protection. The automatic learning environment and subsequent transition to secure mode ensure a smooth and efficient deployment process.

I'm deeply impressed with ThreatLocker Protect, and I've been in IT for over 40 years, including four years as a school administrator and teacher. The software is incredibly intuitive and easy to use, even for non-technical users. The interface is clean and well-organized, making it simple to navigate and find what we need. The support team is truly exceptional. They are responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. Whether it's a quick question or a complex issue, they are always available to assist. My wait time has never exceeded 15 seconds, and resolutions are typically within five minutes. They even offer regular audit reviews to proactively identify and address any potential problems. ThreatLocker University provides comprehensive, self-paced training that is easy to follow and understand. It empowers users to effectively utilize the software and maximize its benefits. Overall, ThreatLocker Protect stands out for its intuitive design, exceptional support, and comprehensive training. It's a fantastic product backed by a remarkable company culture, making it a true pleasure to use.

The snapshots used in the ThreatLocker University portal are outdated snippets and have not been updated in conjunction with the portal itself.

I have been using ThreatLocker Protect for two years.

We have never had stability issues with ThreatLocker Protect.

ThreatLocker Protect is easily scalable.

The technical support is great.

Positive

Deploying ThreatLocker was surprisingly straightforward. Their documentation guides users through the process clearly, offering multiple options for deployment. From traditional MSI installers to EFCs, users have the flexibility to choose the method that best suits their needs.

It took just five minutes to deploy the software on a single machine. However, for the network-wide rollout, we opted for a cautious, phased approach to minimize potential conflicts. Out of our 60 machines, we selected 10-15 users or computers as a test group. After pushing the update to this initial group, we monitored closely for any red flags or issues. As no problems arose, we gradually added more computers to the deployment in 15-user increments until everyone was covered. This approach, while slower, allowed us to identify and address any potential issues before impacting the entire network.

While two of us were involved in the deployment planning, the actual execution was carried out by one individual. Once they started rolling out the machines, I joined in to monitor the results and provide support. It's worth noting that this single person successfully deployed the software to 60 machines.

The implementation was completed in-house.

ThreatLocker's pricing seems justifiable. We get a lot of value for what we pay, with excellent support, the program itself, and everything related to it being top-notch. If my CTO ever suggested dropping it due to budget constraints, I'd be concerned. While I don't have access to the exact cost, even if it was around five thousand dollars annually, I'd suggest reallocating that amount from my salary to keep ThreatLocker Protect. That's how strongly I believe in the program's effectiveness.

I would rate ThreatLocker Protect ten out of ten.

ThreatLocker Protect is not a significant CPU consumer. We've had it for over three years, and while there have been a few minor conflicts with other programs, they were easily resolved. This is to be expected with any software.

I have a biweekly call with an analyst from ThreatLocker, and they treat our organization, which has only 60 computers, the same way they treat businesses with 4,000 computers.

ThreatLocker Protect is incredibly easy to install. I highly recommend engaging their system engineer for assistance. Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions, no matter how simple they may seem. The ThreatLocker support team is known for its patience and willingness to help. They're happy to answer anything you ask, regardless of your initial perception of the question's importance. So, feel free to be open and honest with them; they'll treat you with the utmost respect.

We're an IT service provider that acts as an IT department for companies that don't have one. We take over a company's IT infrastructure, look after, manage, and secure it. ThreatLocker is a part of our security stack. 

We've got multiple products and vendors that we use, and ThreatLocker is a tool we provide to clients who need it. We use it to control access, block specific programs or activities, and manage things like USBs and other devices. For example, if no one's allowed to use the USB device on the computer, we can do that with ThreatLocker.

ThreatLocker has freed up help desk staff for other projects by saving us time. We don't need to do workarounds to get things to work. It's effortless to deploy. We send out the software to the machines as we would any other piece of software, and it automatically sets up everything in the portal. It works most of the time without the need to configure anything manually.

Adopting ThreatLocker has helped us consolidate solutions. For example, we previously used another product for USB blocking, local administrator access, and things like that. Now, we have that functionality built into ThreatLocker. We can deploy different policies to machines to do other things. And I think there's a community where people can make policies for all the tools. Those solutions were separate paid products, so eliminating them reduced our operational costs. 

The most valuable feature is probably the ability to block programs from running. ThreatLocker has some built-in features that make it super easy. You can also contact their support within the program. If you're having issues, you can click on that button and connect with someone in five to 10 seconds. 

It's easy for administrators to manage requests through ThreatLocker. It's set up so we can get notifications in our ticketing system. Every notification ThreatLocker sends contains a link that we can click. We sign in, look at the options, and select the one we need to apply.

The process is straightforward from the end users' perspective. If they try to run something that they're not allowed to run, they get a popup saying that in plain English. There's a little button they can click to cancel it or request access. If they request access, they're asked why they want to run this and then they click send. That's all they need to do. They don't have to call anyone.

ThreatLocker's ring-fencing capabilities are excellent. I haven't seen any other products that do it. It's certainly not built into Windows. It's quite good, but it could be a bit more granular with the options that it gives you. However, the existing options are enough to cover 90 percent of scenarios.

The solution is effective for establishing trust for requests. For every request that comes in, it tells you who sent it and the reason why. It also gives you a breakdown of the application the user wants to run, and it'll tell you things like the company that published it. It also has links that will take you to a virus-scanning website that has scanned the file in the past, so we can see straight away if it's trustworthy or not.

The portal can be a little overwhelming at times from an administration point of view. It displays a lot of information, and it's all useful. However, sometimes there is too much on the screen to sift through, especially if you're trying to diagnose a client's problem with a piece of software. Maybe something has stopped working since they updated it, and we need to see if ThreatLocker is blocking a component of that software. 

We must look through the logs, and there's an awful lot of information to go through. It has many options to filter out that information, and it becomes much easier once you've had some training. Still, there is so much information on the screen. 

I have used ThreatLocker Protect for around two or three years.

Yeah. Never never noticed it. So Yeah.

I can imagine it's very scalable. Yeah. We've got it, like, clients many two people up to, like, fifty. So, yeah, it seems for it's got I think, obviously, you can go much much higher I

I rate ThreatLocker support 10 out of 10. They're quick and helpful. Whenever I've had a problem, they've fixed it for me. They have this Cyber Heroes feature, which is a button built into the solution that connects you to support within seconds. I've only used it a few times, but they have been spot-on every time. 

Positive

The deployment was straightforward, but we had a lot of hand-holding from the ThreatLocker team, and they did regular review meetings with us to ensure we're on track. We would do a Zoom meeting where a guy would go through it and do a lot of the work for us.

It doesn't take long to set ThreatLocker up for a client. It takes around 30 minutes to add the client to the portal, get the software, and deploy it to the machine. After that, we let it run in learning mode. It runs in the background for about a week. That part is automated, so we don't need to do anything. Once that's done, we probably spend an hour or so just looking through what it found and ensuring everything's all settled. After deployment, it doesn't require much maintenance aside from keeping everything up to date. 

I can't complain. Cheaper would always be nice, but I think it's reasonable compared to other software in the cybersecurity market.

I don't think there was anything else on the market that does all the same things as ThreatLocker. If there was, I was unaware of it. 

I rate ThreatLocker eight out of 10. Before implementing ThreatLocker, you should consult one of the company's support engineers. Don't try to do it by yourself because there's a lot of information there. They've got some excellent documentation, but I personally like to be shown how to do it.