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Cisco Secure Access Reviews

Vendor: Cisco
4.2 out of 5
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What is Cisco Secure Access?

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.

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Cisco Secure Access is the #2 ranked solution in top Domain Name System (DNS) Security solutions, #5 ranked solution in CASB solutions, #7 ranked solution in top ZTNA solutions, #7 ranked solution in top Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions, #8 ranked solution in top Web Security Gateways, and #17 ranked solution in best firewalls. PeerSpot users give Cisco Secure Access an average rating of 8.4 out of 10. Cisco Secure Access is most commonly compared to Fortinet FortiGate: Cisco Secure Access vs Fortinet FortiGate. Cisco Secure Access is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 55% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a manufacturing company, accounting for 11% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Cisco Secure Access
February 2026
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Cisco Secure Access mindshare

Product category:
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)
As of February 2026, the mindshare of Cisco Secure Access in the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) category stands at 3.5%, up from 1.0% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Cisco Secure Access3.5%
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks12.3%
Cato SASE Cloud Platform10.2%
Other74.0%
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

PeerResearch reports based on Cisco Secure Access reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategorySecure Access Service Edge (SASE)Feb 8, 2026Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersFeb 8, 2026Download
ComparisonCisco Secure Access vs Prisma Access by Palo Alto NetworksFeb 8, 2026Download
ComparisonCisco Secure Access vs NetskopeFeb 8, 2026Download
ComparisonCisco Secure Access vs Cato SASE Cloud PlatformFeb 8, 2026Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Fortinet FortiGate4.2N/A92%581 interviewsAdd to research
Cisco Umbrella4.4N/A97%122 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers
Last updated Feb 7, 2026

Valuable Features

Cisco Secure Access stands out for its robust security features like authentication, DNS security, and Integrated Secure Web Control. It offers seamless connectivity with Zero Trust Network Access and easy management via a cloud console. The integration capabilities, threat protection, posture checking, and AI-driven policy management enhance security. Users appreciate Data Loss Prevention, Cloud-delivered Firewall, and single platform integration for streamlined operations. Its intuitive GUI and rapid updates ensure comprehensive protection and efficiency.
  • "What I appreciate about Cisco is that everything they do is precise and works well without any issues."
  • "I find it an amazing product, and as it is an upgrade for Umbrella, it has all the good sides of Umbrella while removing some bad sides."
  • "The product is giving whatever you need from a customer point of view."

Room for Improvement

Cisco Secure Access requires enhancements in security features and global coverage. Customers find the pricing high and the licensing complex. Integration with tools like Carbon Black and better global management are needed. The transition process from Umbrella poses challenges. A steeper learning curve is noted and support ticket processes are cumbersome. Robustness for large enterprises is lacking, and although its AI capabilities are useful, they are not standout features compared to competitors.
  • "However, the cost of Cisco's products and licensing is high, and mid-size or smaller businesses typically cannot afford Cisco Secure Access."
  • "For pricing, I consider this one of the few drawbacks of Cisco; Cisco is known for its high pricing, so I would give them a six."
  • "TAC engineers just exit the call once their shift timing ends."

ROI

Cisco Secure Access delivers significant returns by providing enhanced security and reducing costs through license optimization. Users benefit from system integration, which combines multiple platforms into a single interface, improving operational efficiency. The AI features aid in faster threat detection, decreasing manpower needs. While some users face challenges due to multiple access platforms, overall, Cisco Secure Access remains a preferred choice for its robust integration and cost-effectiveness in resource management.

Pricing

Enterprise users report that Cisco Secure Access pricing is high, averaging $25,000-$30,000 annually, with additional costs for monitoring and setup. Although marked as premium, users recognize competitive pricing advantages through Cisco deal IDs. However, complexities in licensing and renewal costs pose challenges, especially in regions like Asia and Brazil. Discounts are occasionally offered, but a more flexible pricing model could attract companies with smaller user bases. Existing product relationships can provide cost advantages.
  • "For what you get, it's a fair price in comparison to other products."
  • "It is confusing. When you look at the prices, you have different licensing and years of licensing that you have to purchase. Additionally, it's unclear what service you get from those licenses regarding end-user support. We have a representative who has to walk me through it every time."
  • "The pricing, setup costs, and licensing for Cisco Secure Access have been very competitive compared to other platforms. I believe that if Cisco continues to improve costs or offers something similar to a Cisco credit, it would attract more customers."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily utilize Cisco Secure Access for seamless connectivity, security controls like Secure Security Control for local internet breakouts, and Zero Trust Network Access for secure connections without traditional VPNs. Key features include DNS and web security filtering, Secure Web Gateways, Cloud Security Brokers, and Firewall as a Service. Companies in energy and BFSI sectors use it for remote user security. It enhances secure access management and integrates with identity providers like Azure Entra ID.

Service and Support

Customers indicate that Cisco Secure Access offers strong customer service and technical support. The service is fast, responsive, and backed by knowledgeable teams. Delays on intricate support systems and complicated ticket processes are noted. Many appreciate the quick resolution times and resources provided. While access sometimes requires specialized knowledge, the global reach and reliability are well-acknowledged. Users value the effective response and communication through Cisco's TAC.

Deployment

Cisco Secure Access's initial setup is often described as easy and straightforward. Users appreciate its smooth deployment and comprehensive documentation. Effective communication with customers is crucial, and while initial configuration might require attention, experience simplifies future setups. Some users utilize third-party vendors or hybrid cloud models. Challenges mentioned include managing outside FMC products and occasional migration issues. Most find setup manageable with basic IT knowledge and note the benefit of cloud-based integration.

Scalability

Cisco Secure Access demonstrates strong scalability, with multiple organizations highlighting its ability to accommodate growing user demands. Many users praise its effectiveness in managing increased connections and its seamless adaptation through cloud functionalities. There are reports indicating that scaling is implemented easily, even for internal networks with complex configurations. High adaptability and quick deployment are noted advantages, with few users suggesting minor improvements. Some indicate a seamless scalability experience, especially when utilizing additional cloud services.

Stability

Users consistently rate Cisco Secure Access's stability high, giving it nine or ten out of ten. Many have not encountered significant issues like downtime, crashes, or performance glitches. Occasional problems involve endpoint interactions, not the vendor itself. Despite minor hiccups such as lag or response variability, it recovers quickly. Cisco's reputation for stability is affirmed by strong performance under high data usage. Connectivity is robust, with redundancy ensuring accessibility.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Cisco Secure Access Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business7
Midsize Enterprise1
Large Enterprise10
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business132
Midsize Enterprise70
Large Enterprise243
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Manufacturing Company
11%
Computer Software Company
10%
Financial Services Firm
7%
Construction Company
6%
Healthcare Company
6%
Comms Service Provider
5%
Educational Organization
5%
Government
5%
Outsourcing Company
4%
Energy/Utilities Company
4%
Real Estate/Law Firm
3%
University
3%
Insurance Company
3%
Retailer
3%
Marketing Services Firm
2%
Media Company
2%
Transportation Company
2%
Performing Arts
2%
Leisure / Travel Company
2%
Non Profit
1%
Legal Firm
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Hospitality Company
1%
Mining And Metals Company
1%
Sports Company
1%
Logistics Company
1%

Compare Cisco Secure Access with alternative products

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Learn more about Cisco Secure Access

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.

Cisco Secure Access customers

1. IBM 2. Microsoft 3. Amazon 4. Google 5. Apple 6. Cisco Systems 7. Oracle 8. Intel 9. HP Inc. 10. Dell Technologies 11. Verizon Communications 12. AT&T 13. Comcast 14. T-Mobile 15. Sprint 16. Vodafone 17. Orange 18. BT Group 19. Deutsche Telekom 20. Telefonica 21. Nokia 22. Ericsson 23. Samsung Electronics 24. Sony 25. Panasonic 26. LG Electronics 27. Siemens 28. General Electric 29. Ford Motor Company 30. General Motors 31. Toyota Motor Corporation 32. Volkswagen Group

Related questions

  • 93
What is the difference between point solutions (SD-WAN, NGFW, SWG, VPN) and SASE?
  • 63
What questions do you need to ask when choosing a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution?
  • 45
When evaluating Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), what aspect do you think is the most important to look for?
  • 51
Has anyone ever heard of secureaccess.com?
  • 52
What is the difference between SASE and SD-WAN?
  • 65
What is the difference between SASE and CASB?
  • 60
What SASE solution does your company use?
  • 63
Why is SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) important?
  • 49
What SASE solution do you recommend?
  • 72
Why is Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) important for companies?

Product Categories

Product Categories
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)
Secure Web Gateways (SWG)
Firewalls
Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB)
ZTNA
Domain Name System (DNS) Security

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Cisco Secure Access Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Network Operations Engineer at Redex IT Limited4.0I've used Cisco Secure Access for five years; it's stable, scalable, and feature-rich, but expensive and has a steep learning curve. Support is excellent, though high costs limit appeal for smaller businesses despite its strong performance.
Manager, Network at Duracell International, Inc.4.0We use Cisco Secure Access for security and access management, appreciating its ease of use and reliability. Although integration with more third-party products would improve it, we've achieved great ROI after switching from Palo Alto and deploying it on Microsoft Azure.
Solution Architect at Velocis Systems4.0I’ve found Cisco Secure Access to be simple, secure, and well-documented, making it suitable for hybrid deployments. While ThousandEyes has strong capabilities, its pricing model is flawed. Cisco TAC support is good but needs improvement during shift changes.
Sr. Cloud Security Architect at a tech services company with 11-50 employees3.5Cisco Secure Access is a scalable, VPN-replacement solution that integrates well in Cisco environments, offers strong support and cloud features, but faces challenges with non-Cisco migrations and could improve AI differentiation and third-party integrations.
Senior Architect at Sempra4.5In our energy business, Cisco Secure Access protects remote sites and data transfer with valuable features like a firewall for IDP and Zero Trust Network Access. Despite needing some improvements from competitors, it offers excellent security and better ROI than previous solutions.
Enterprise Architect at a manufacturing company with 10,001+ employees3.5My main use for Cisco Secure Access is remote access, valuing its posture checking and Zero Trust capabilities. However, we struggle with integration and licensing complexities. Improved ROI would require consolidating our access platforms rather than Cisco issues.
Director, Network Services at a healthcare company with 10,001+ employees4.0I use Cisco Secure Access primarily for secure network access due to past malware issues. While it works well without causing problems, understanding risk implications in healthcare is challenging. Achieving better ROI insights is essential for improvement.
Presales System Engineer at Logicom Sales Inc4.0I've found Cisco Secure Access easy to manage and effective for SMBs, with strong features like DLP and CASB, though pricing is high and enterprise-level robustness and Meraki integration could be improved.