Try our new research platform with insights from 80,000+ expert users
SonicWall Netextender Logo

SonicWall Netextender Reviews

Vendor: SonicWall
3.5 out of 5
Leave a review

What is SonicWall Netextender?

SonicWall Netextender provides secure remote access, supporting remote work with valuable features like two-factor authentication, low latency, and integration with Microsoft identity management.

Get the SonicWall Netextender Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about SonicWall Netextender, Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet FortiClient and more!
SonicWall Netextender is the #14 ranked solution in top Enterprise Infrastructure VPN solutions. PeerSpot users give SonicWall Netextender an average rating of 7.0 out of 10. SonicWall Netextender is most commonly compared to Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks: SonicWall Netextender vs Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks. SonicWall Netextender is popular among the small business segment, accounting for 47% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 14% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
SonicWall Netextender
September 2025
Get the report
Helped 868,759 peers since 2012

Featured SonicWall Netextender reviews

Read more reviews

SonicWall Netextender mindshare

As of October 2025, the mindshare of SonicWall Netextender in the Enterprise Infrastructure VPN category stands at 3.5%, down from 3.5% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Enterprise Infrastructure VPN Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
SonicWall Netextender3.5%
OpenVPN Access Server15.4%
Fortinet FortiClient10.1%
Other71.0%
Enterprise Infrastructure VPN

PeerResearch reports based on SonicWall Netextender reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryEnterprise Infrastructure VPNOct 4, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersOct 4, 2025Download
ComparisonSonicWall Netextender vs Fortinet FortiClientOct 4, 2025Download
ComparisonSonicWall Netextender vs OpenVPN Access ServerOct 4, 2025Download
ComparisonSonicWall Netextender vs Cisco Secure Client (including AnyConnect)Oct 4, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks4.26.4%92%64 interviewsAdd to research
Fortinet FortiClient4.010.1%92%101 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

SonicWall Netextender offers remote work capabilities, user-friendly setup, and excellent security features including integration with Microsoft Identity Management for secure access. It supports two-factor authentication, offers stability and easy configuration, and provides good control over routing. Users value its cost-effectiveness for SSL VPNs and its seamless SAML integration. It allows employees easy LAN access from home and is simple for non-tech-savvy users, supporting multifactor authentication and custom VPN ports.
  • "The SSL-VPN encryption has been fantastic for my organization's data confidentiality and integrity; we've done extensive testing with third-party cybersecurity testing while connected and it has passed with flying colors."
  • "The best features of the SonicWall Netextender were its ease of use."
  • "It can support multifactor authentication. Also, it is a very basic application."

Room for Improvement

Users experience challenges with SonicWall Netextender such as setup difficulties, cosmetic interface issues, lag, and connection problems. Multi-factor authentication and Mac OS support could be enhanced. Licensing across devices needs improvement to ease administrative tasks. Technical support requires better responsiveness, and reducing bandwidth consumption would be beneficial. Users express dissatisfaction with current functionality, noting the necessity for features like automated startup and AI integration for dynamic tasks such as accessing Office 365 without direct internet.
  • "If the customer starts with a two, three, four, or 500 meg connection and has a small unit, they have to replace the whole box when upgrading to a gig, so scalability there is atrocious."
  • "Sometimes you can get bounced around through the departments until you find the right one. Sometimes if you don't have the most current support contract or your license is out of date, they won't even talk to you."
  • "In future releases, introductions of AI features would be really helpful."

ROI

Users noted enhanced remote access capabilities and reported higher productivity. They experienced significant cost savings and improved security measures. Efficient connectivity led to reduced downtime, influencing increased satisfaction. Many found it simple to deploy and manage. Some cited robust performance, while others appreciated constant updates enhancing features and reliability. Businesses observed improved operational efficiency and better data protection.

Pricing

SonicWall Netextender offers a range of licensing options, including one, three, or five-year plans, with costs that remain competitive. Enterprises generally find the yearly licensing fees reasonable, with additional costs required for more users. The pricing structure includes a one-time base appliance cost and annual maintenance fees, making it comparable with other solutions. Many users appreciate that it often provides better value than alternatives like Palo Alto, Check Point, or Fortinet.
  • "Compared to others, it is cheaper. When we compare it with Palo Alto, Check Point, or Fortinet, it is a little cheaper."
  • "The solution is cheap itself, not too costly."
  • "The solution has a pretty good price."

Popular Use Cases

SonicWall Netextender allows remote access for external users, enabling VPN connections for client-to-site usage. Organizations deploy it to facilitate remote work, providing secure access to internal resources and file transfers, especially for users on Microsoft 365. It integrates with enterprise infrastructures across various industries like insurance, healthcare, and education, supporting both small and large remote teams. Some find it temperamental, specifically regarding LDAP authentication, but many use it for seamless remote connectivity.

Service and Support

SonicWall Netextender's customer service and support generally receive positive feedback, with many users finding the assistance satisfactory and responsive, especially at the first level. However, others experience variability, requiring persistence for effective help or encountering delays due to technical team's consultations. Some users avoid engaging with support due to self-reliance on documentation. Instances of long response times, lack of knowledge, and occasional difficulty in reaching the right department are noted. Overall, ratings average around seven or eight out of ten.

Deployment

SonicWall Netextender's initial setup is generally straightforward, involving simple next-next-next installation. Some users find it complex due to numerous options, yet appreciate the granular control. The process is quick, completed within a day, though relocating the VPN appliance requires a fresh deployment. Users recommend keeping the application updated. While average users may struggle, system administrators manage easily, finding it user-friendly once set up. Most agree it's simpler than many other VPNs.

Scalability

SonicWall NetExtender receives mixed feedback on scalability. It can handle increased users by adding licenses without rebooting, which is appreciated by some. Some note challenges in scaling with high user numbers, while others successfully scaled during peak times. Efficiency and flexibility are key concerns, with some finding it suitable for their needs, while others report issues even with a smaller user base. Experiences vary widely among different organizations.

Stability

SonicWall Netextender is known for its stability. It functions reliably, even with many users working remotely. Some encounters involve minor bugs that were addressed swiftly. Rarely, connection issues require device reboots. Security updates and advisories are prompt. Users have observed seamless performance with proper setup and updates. Issues mainly arise with outdated Windows versions like Windows 7. For most, Netextender offers consistent and dependable operation without significant disruptions.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our SonicWall Netextender Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business9
Midsize Enterprise2
Large Enterprise2
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business184
Midsize Enterprise72
Large Enterprise139
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Computer Software Company
14%
Educational Organization
8%
Comms Service Provider
7%
Outsourcing Company
6%
Manufacturing Company
5%
Construction Company
5%
Healthcare Company
5%
Financial Services Firm
4%
Wholesaler/Distributor
4%
University
4%
Legal Firm
4%
Real Estate/Law Firm
4%
Government
4%
Retailer
4%
Performing Arts
3%
Non Profit
3%
Recruiting/Hr Firm
3%
Energy/Utilities Company
2%
Insurance Company
2%
Hospitality Company
2%
Media Company
2%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
2%
Marketing Services Firm
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Non Tech Company
1%

Compare SonicWall Netextender with alternative products

Go!

Learn more about SonicWall Netextender

SonicWall Netextender facilitates secure client-to-site VPN connections for remote staff, integrating seamlessly with Microsoft identity management and using existing credentials like Active Directory. Its cost-effectiveness and detailed documentation attract enterprises in sectors such as insurance, healthcare, and education. Despite excellent control over routing, the intuitive setup could be improved, with users experiencing performance and licensing flexibility issues, especially with multi-factor authentication. While integration with SAML ensures seamless authentication, high bandwidth consumption and the outdated interface are mentioned for enhancement. Overall, SonicWall Netextender supports remote file transfers and access to Microsoft 365 portals, although additional features like automatic connection on startup and AI integration would address current user demands.

What features does SonicWall Netextender offer?
  • Remote Work Support: Facilitates secure connections for remote staff
  • Integration with Microsoft Identity Management: Connects effortlessly using existing credentials
  • Two-Factor Authentication: Enhances security during remote access
  • Low Latency and High Stability: Ensures uninterrupted remote connections
  • Cost-effectiveness: Attracts organizations with budget-friendly options
What benefits should users look for in reviews?
  • Secure Access: Reliable protection for remote file transfers
  • Ease of Setup: Quick deployment with minimal IT disruption
  • Flexible Integration: Utilizes existing credentials for seamless user experience
  • Documentation: Comprehensive guides for efficient setup and use

Enterprises from insurance, healthcare, and education sectors benefit from SonicWall Netextender by enabling secure remote or hybrid work. Companies facilitate efficient management of remote work, providing access to corporate resources from any location. Challenges include the authentication setup, but its support for remote access to Microsoft 365 and secure file transfers offer substantial utility for these industries.

Related questions

  • 135
What is the difference between "data protection in transit" vs "data protection at rest"?
  • 157
What are the best practices to prevent a Brute Force attack via remote access?
  • 44
Looking for a piece of advice and tips on the deployment of VPN concentrators for SD-WAN tunnels?
  • 31
When evaluating Enterprise Infrastructure VPN, what aspect do you think is the most important to look for?
  • 37
How does remote work influence DevOps?
  • 44
What tools do you use to make a remote work more efficient?
  • 36
What are your recommended best practices and tools to prevent cloud jacking in your organization?
  • 37
What enterprise infrastructure VPN solution do you use?
  • 31
Why is an enterprise infrastructure VPN solution important?
  • 47
Which offers a better VPN: Meraki or Azure?

Product Categories

Product Categories
Enterprise Infrastructure VPN

Popular Comparisons

Popular Comparisons
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks vs SonicWall Netextender
Fortinet FortiClient vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Fortinet FortiClient vs SonicWall Netextender
OpenVPN Access Server vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
OpenVPN Access Server vs SonicWall Netextender
Cisco Secure Client (including AnyConnect) vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Cisco Secure Client (including AnyConnect) vs SonicWall Netextender
Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81) vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81) vs SonicWall Netextender
Ivanti Connect Secure vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Ivanti Connect Secure vs SonicWall Netextender
Microsoft Azure VPN Gateway vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Microsoft Azure VPN Gateway vs SonicWall Netextender
Citrix Gateway vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Citrix Gateway vs SonicWall Netextender
AWS Direct Connect vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
AWS Direct Connect vs SonicWall Netextender
Cisco IOS SSL VPN vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Cisco IOS SSL VPN vs SonicWall Netextender
SonicWall SMA vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
SonicWall SMA vs SonicWall Netextender
SonicWall Connect Tunnel vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
SonicWall Connect Tunnel vs SonicWall Netextender
SonicWall Mobile Connect vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
SonicWall Mobile Connect vs SonicWall Netextender
Absolute Secure Access vs SonicWall Netextender Logo
Absolute Secure Access vs SonicWall Netextender
See all alternatives
 
SonicWall Netextender Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Director of Information Technology at a non-tech company with 1-10 employees4.5I used SonicWall Netextender primarily for remote work, finding it easy to set up and teach to non-tech users, especially with its multifactor authentication feature. There are no specific improvements needed, but addressing vulnerabilities swiftly is crucial.
Chief Operating Officer at Darress Tech5.0I've used SonicWall Netextender extensively for secure SSL VPN access to client networks; it's reliable, easy to use, supports multiple OSes, and provides detailed logging, though scalability can be costly with higher-speed connections.
Senior Network Security Engineer at ITCG SOlutions Pvt Ltd4.0As a system integrator, I find SonicWall Netextender easy to use and cost-effective, yet it lacks automatic startup and advanced AI features. Despite limitations in user-based configurations, it offers significant savings with long-lasting functionality.
Network Security Architect at a consultancy with 10,001+ employees3.0I use SonicWall NetExtender for enterprise private access and as a VPN solution. It's stable with good version releases, though it needs more functionality related to SaaS. We switched from Pulse Secure due to better features and competitive pricing.
Technical Alignment Manager at a computer software company with 51-200 employees4.5We use SonicWall Netextender for remote worker connections. Its valuable features include two-factor authentication and ease of use. The UI could be improved, but it remains more stable and user-friendly than previous solutions. It's securely integrated with Active Directory.
Head of Information Technology at Group Publishing, Inc.0.5I use SonicWall Netextender to access the Tally server and internal application servers. While it offers high availability and enterprise services, the product's reliability is lacking. Since it often doesn't work effectively, it isn't useful for our organization.
President at River Mill Data Management, LLC0.5No summary available
Exec Admin/IT/Accounting at JJW Construction.com4.5No summary available