Cisco Secure Access vs FortiSASE comparison

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.

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.

FortiSASE offers AI-based threat detection and centralized management, ensuring robust security through features like Secure Web Gateway and SD-WAN. It's appreciated for ease of deployment, scalability, and support for global workforces, with potential for cost-saving cloud management.

FortiSASE integrates tightly with the Fortinet ecosystem, providing comprehensive cybersecurity features such as a firewall-as-a-service and deep packet inspection. It facilitates Zero Trust Network Architecture, replacing traditional VPNs for secure remote access. The platform enhances IT management capabilities by supporting micro-segmentation and protecting endpoint devices. Despite excellence in these areas, FortiSASE faces challenges in application segmentation security, agent reliability, and data classification. Criticisms include underwhelming GUI design, licensing complexity, and mobile device support. Improvements in agent installation, cloud management, and automation are priorities for expanding efficacy.

• AI-based Threat Detection: Provides proactive threat management to safeguard networks.
• Centralized Management Console: Enables streamlined IT operations and oversight.
• Secure Web Gateway: Protects against web-based threats ensuring safe internet usage.
• Firewall-as-a-service: Delivers firewall capabilities without on-premises hardware.
• SD-WAN: Offers optimized application performance across diverse network types.
• Deep Packet Inspection: Inspects traffic for threats and compliance violations.
• Posture Assessment: Assesses device security to enhance network protection.
• VPN: Ensures encrypted remote access for users across locations.
• Tenant Control: Manages multiple tenants efficiently, reducing administrative overhead.

• Scalability: Efficiently supports growing business needs with flexible architecture.
• Cost Savings: Reduces infrastructure expenses and operational costs.
• End-to-End Visibility: Provides comprehensive insight into network performance.
• Ease of Deployment: Simplifies introduction and implementation across environments.
• Brand Presence: Leverages Fortinet's strong market position and credibility.
• Global Support: Facilitates secure remote worker and branch operations worldwide.

Enterprises deploying FortiSASE in specific industries benefit from its ability to integrate cloud security, safeguard branch operations, and reduce latency to corporate data centers. Its robust features support industries needing secure connectivity for remote users and micro-segmentation to protect sensitive data and resources. Users find it helpful in managing access to corporate applications and reducing reliance on traditional VPNs, streamlining operational efficiencies and enhancing security postures.