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Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365 comparison

Why PeerSpot?
Cisco and Microsoft are both solutions in the Email Security category. Cisco is ranked #23 with an average rating of 7.3, while Microsoft is ranked #2 with an average rating of 8.5. Cisco holds a 1.1% mindshare in Email Security, compared to Microsoft’s 5.1% mindshare. Additionally, 93% of Cisco users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 96% of Microsoft users who would recommend it.
Cisco Secure Email Threat D...
Read 16 Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense reviews
  • 2,730 Views
  • 2,730 Comparison Views
93% willing to recommend
Microsoft Defender for Offi...
Read 61 Microsoft Defender for Office 365 reviews
  • 18,434 Views
  • 12,904 Comparison Views
96% willing to recommend
 

Comparison Buyer's Guide

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Dec 3, 2024

Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense and Microsoft Defender for Office 365 compete in the email security space. Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense excels in customer support and pricing, while Microsoft Defender for Office 365 offers superior features, making it appealing for comprehensive security.

Features: Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense provides advanced threat protection, anti-spam filters, and detailed reporting. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is noteworthy for its integration with the Office suite and advanced threat intelligence, offering comprehensive protection against sophisticated threats. It enhances value through seamless security integration within the Microsoft productivity ecosystem.

Room for Improvement: Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense could improve by enhancing its integration capabilities with third-party platforms, providing more advanced phishing detection, and simplifying its user interface further. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 might benefit from offering more personalized support, addressing complex deployment challenges for non-Office 365 environments, and reducing its high initial setup costs.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense offers straightforward deployment and robust customer support, tailoring solutions for various environments. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is streamlined for existing Office 365 users but may require extra support for complex integrations. Its customer service is known for quick resolutions but may lack personalized support like Cisco.

Pricing and ROI: Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense provides competitive pricing with a focus on strong ROI through reliable security and excellent service. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 has potentially higher setup costs but justifies its pricing with rich features that integrate well with Microsoft infrastructures, leading to higher long-term ROI through enhanced productivity and security.

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To learn more, read our detailed Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense vs. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Report (Updated: September 2026).
Buyer's Guide
Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense vs. Microsoft Defender for Office 365
September 2026
Download the complete report
Helped 917,433 peers since 2012

Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:
 

Categories and Ranking

Cisco Secure Email Threat D...
Ranking in Email Security
23rd
Average Rating
8.0
Reviews Sentiment
6.7
Number of Reviews
16
Ranking in other categories
No ranking in other categories
Microsoft Defender for Offi...
Ranking in Email Security
2nd
Average Rating
8.4
Reviews Sentiment
6.8
Number of Reviews
61
Ranking in other categories
Email Archiving (2nd), Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) (3rd), Microsoft Security Suite (9th), Secure Email Gateway (SEG) (2nd)
 

Mindshare comparison

As of October 2026, in the Email Security category, the mindshare of Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense is 1.1%, up from 1.0% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is 5.1%, down from 11.0% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Email Security Mindshare Distribution
ProductMindshare (%)
Microsoft Defender for Office 3655.1%
Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense1.1%
Other93.8%
Email Security
 

Featured Reviews

GC
Glenn-Camilien
Senior Cybersecurity Engineer at a financial services firm with 11-50 employees
Provides robust email security features but requires improved modernization and complexity management
Modernization is an area that could be improved for Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense, as some features have lagged behind newer competitors, potentially offering more advanced analysis capabilities. The initial setup is not straightforward and requires expertise and time to master configurations such as spoofing and DLP. More control over backend functionalities and simplifying rule management could enhance user experience. The product's complexity at times results in redundant rule sets that are difficult to untangle, highlighting the need for streamlined management systems and a more user-centric approach to system configuration. Furthermore, the pricing might deter new users who could opt for alternative, more cost-effective solutions.
Read full review
Emeka Ndulu - PeerSpot reviewer
Emeka Ndulu
Cloud Solutions Architect at a tech services company with 201-500 employees
Improves threat visibility and response while reducing manual tasks and training users against phishing
I appreciate the attack simulation feature whereby I get to train users and educate them on how to identify phishing emails and spam emails, as well as the anti-spam protection. It gives me visibility into my threat environment and threat landscape to ensure that I am one step ahead of any likelihood of threats within my environment. I get to detect it and respond, so the threat intelligence is very effective. Microsoft security solutions save my time. It saves money because once I protect my environment, I don't lose money. It has decreased my detection time and my time to respond.
Read full review

Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:
 

Pros

"I would say it's very comprehensive, with multiple antivirus OEMs, virus encrypt features, encryption, and more."
"This solution is easy to use."
"Cisco's technical support is very good."
"Secure Email Threat Defense's scalability is good."
"The features and functionalities are much better than Microsoft's in-built Defender plan, and this product has helped us to protect our organization from any malware attack in the past."
"Currently, the ease of deployment is the low-hanging fruit for Cisco email security."
"Cisco Secure Email Cloud Mailbox can handle a complete portfolio, which is required to protect any kind of attack coming from emails. However, it does not have advanced phishing, but it is available through Cisco. If you compare Cisco Secure Email Cloud Mailbox with the competition, in the competition you have to have one or two solutions together to address the customer's requirement, whereas Cisco Secure Email Cloud Mailbox is addressing everything, such as web domain and email protection. If there is any kind of challenge it will come across through email."
"The solution is stable."
More Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense pros
"It definitely is a must for email protection and O365 app DLP, and combined with Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft Defender for Identity, and MCAS, it provides a holistic solution for threat protection, email protection, O365 apps protection, and DLP for both internal and external risks."
"Does a thorough job of examining email and URLs for malicious content."
"Defender has reduced the time our security team spends on tasks by 10 to 15 percent, allowing us to focus on other areas."
"There are several features that I consider valuable."
"I like its investigation capabilities, as that is what is most important to me. It is fairly simple with a user-friendly interface."
"The insights provided with Microsoft Defender for Office 365 are helpful because it comes with the E5 license, and by default, we can use a lot of capabilities."
"We use Microsoft Defender for its ability to integrate with existing business technologies, which is beneficial for protecting business areas."
"The product's scalability is good."
More Microsoft Defender for Office 365 pros
 

Cons

"We encounter issues while searching for missing emails."
"The product's complexity at times results in redundant rule sets that are difficult to untangle, highlighting the need for streamlined management systems and a more user-centric approach to system configuration."
"Customers will benefit greatly from monthly billing because the majority of customers today use the cloud, be it Office 365, or Google Cloud."
"The tool gives false positives and it needs to be more accurate. I would like to see AI as a new feature."
"The search area has room for improvement."
"Cisco Secure Email Cloud Mailbox can improve by adding advanced phishing, then the solution would become the best in the market. However, this could increase the price even more. Additionally, if CES with domain protection could be added it would be an even better solution."
"There is still room for improvement in terms of integrations with other Cisco tools and non-Cisco tools. There is also some room for improvement needed in terms of the reporting."
"This solution could be improved by integration with Sandbox."
More Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense cons
"There needs to be an improvement in integrating the product to work across multiple operating systems, and to have better support for non-Microsoft file types."
"It would be better if it were more scalable. It depends on the architecture, but we would like to make it more scalable for both data centers."
"Microsoft Defender for Office 365 could improve by giving customers information on techniques to prevent threats."
"We still see many false positives from time to time with Microsoft Defender for Office 365, so it would be good if we can reduce those false positives and provide better workflows for our end users, as sometimes they may not know what to do when they encounter a false positive."
"The UI needs to be more user-friendly."
"Microsoft Defender for Office 365 must improve the overall management style, including the GUI. It also needs to change the filters so that it is easy to whitelist and blacklist data."
"The certification training for Defender for 365 needs to be deeper and incorporate Sentinel. I took all the security courses except one, and Sentinel isn't included."
"One area for improvement is support, in terms of being able to reach them and, especially, technical support for configuration."
More Microsoft Defender for Office 365 cons
 

Pricing and Cost Advice

"The solution’s pricing is manageable."
"The feedback from vendors and customer is that it is expensive."
"It is expensive compared to other vendors."
"Cisco Secure Email Cloud Mailbox does not have any competition with Sophos, Trend Micro, or other vendors of the world. However, there is a pricing premium for the solution. One has to look at it from that angle that while they are buying Cisco, there will be a premium, and Cisco justifies that premium value. That's why they're charging a high price."
"Compared to other brands, Microsoft Defender for Office 365's pricing is competitive."
"The license is expensive because the cost is based on the number of users."
"For large enterprise organizations, they can definitely afford it, but for small and medium organizations, they might struggle to cover the expenses."
"Defender for 365 comes in various plans and licenses, along with other Microsoft security solutions. Purchasing this kind of package or security bundle gives good value for money, and that's what I recommend."
"The solution could be better by simplifying the business model of their licensing. It was hard to figure out how to get the licensing done for the environment, initially."
"I know that the product is incredibly expensive."
"The pricing has become expensive."
"The product is expensive."
More Microsoft Defender for Office 365 pricing and cost advice
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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews
Marketing Services Firm
11%
Outsourcing Company
9%
Healthcare Company
9%
Comms Service Provider
8%
Computer Software Company
11%
Manufacturing Company
10%
Financial Services Firm
8%
Comms Service Provider
7%
 

Company Size

By reviewers
Large Enterprise
Midsize Enterprise
Small Business
By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business4
Midsize Enterprise6
Large Enterprise7
By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business24
Midsize Enterprise11
Large Enterprise32
 

Questions from the Community

What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Secure Email Threat Defense?
Comparatively with other products, the pricing of Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense is normal. As a technical guide, I am not very aware of the pricing details.
See all answers
What needs improvement with Secure Email Threat Defense?
We have deployed Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense in two customer environments. It is still in development as a new product. Some customer requirements, such as sending logs to a Syslog server, ar...
See all answers
What is your primary use case for Secure Email Threat Defense?
We are working with Cloud Mail Gateway and on-premise mail gateways. We have worked with Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense.
See all answers
What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Microsoft Defender for Office 365?
My experience with pricing, setup, and licensing is that it's actually quite reasonable even on the licensing side as a standalone product. It's very competitive compared to what competitors are ch...
See all answers
What needs improvement with Microsoft Defender for Office 365?
I think Microsoft Defender for Office 365 can be improved by creating more educational pieces about not just looking for malware. We are seeing a lot more malware-less emails that Defender for Offi...
See all answers
What is your primary use case for Microsoft Defender for Office 365?
My main use cases for Microsoft Defender for Office 365 include email hygiene.
See all answers
 

Comparisons

Cisco Secure Email vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense Logo
Cisco Secure Email vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense
Compared 18% of the time
Check Point Anti-Spam and Email Security Software Blade vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense Logo
Check Point Anti-Spam and Email Security Software Blade vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense
Compared 16% of the time
Kiteworks vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense Logo
Kiteworks vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense
Compared 10% of the time
Comodo Secure Email Gateway vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense Logo
Comodo Secure Email Gateway vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense
Compared 8% of the time
Proofpoint Email Protection vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense Logo
Proofpoint Email Protection vs Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense
Compared 6% of the time
More Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense Competitors
Proofpoint Email Protection vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Logo
Proofpoint Email Protection vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365
Compared 5% of the time
Check Point Email Security (formerly Harmony Email & Collaboration) vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Logo
Check Point Email Security (formerly Harmony Email & Collaboration) vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365
Compared 4% of the time
Mimecast Advanced Email Security vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Logo
Mimecast Advanced Email Security vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365
Compared 3% of the time
Cisco Secure Email vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Logo
Cisco Secure Email vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365
Compared 3% of the time
Cofense Platform vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Logo
Cofense Platform vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365
Compared 1% of the time
More Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Competitors
 

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide
Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense
October 2026
Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense reportDownload Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense product report
Buyer's Guide
Microsoft Defender for Office 365
October 2026
Microsoft Defender for Office 365 reportDownload Microsoft Defender for Office 365 product report
 

Also Known As

Cisco Secure Email Cloud Mailbox, Cisco CMD, Cisco Cloud Mailbox Defense
MS Defender for Office 365
 

Overview

Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense offers robust email security with features like east-west traffic visibility and seamless SaaS deployment. It enhances cloud email protection by integrating Threat Grid sandboxing and AMP for malware defense, supported by Cisco Talos threat intelligence.

Enhancing email security for Microsoft 365 and cloud emails, Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense acts as an email gateway, blocking phishing, malware, and business email compromise. Users benefit from a centralized management console, efficient graymail administration, and strong filtering capabilities. Despite its strengths, it requires improvements in integration, spam detection accuracy, and enhances phishing protection.

What are the most important features of Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense?
  • East-West Traffic Visibility: Offers insight into email tenant interactions.
  • SaaS Application Deployment: Simplifies deployment processes.
  • Threat Grid Sandboxing: Provides advanced malware protection.
  • AMP Integration: Enhances malware defense capabilities.
  • Anti-Spam and Antivirus: Powered by Cisco Talos threat intelligence.
  • Cloud Mailbox Features: Includes robust email filtering and management.
What benefits or ROI should be evaluated in reviews?
  • Enhanced Security: Provides protection against advanced threats.
  • Operational Efficiency: Reduces reliance on help desk services.
  • User-Friendly Management: Streamlines email administration tasks.
  • Improved Email Filtering: Ensures effective threat blocking.

Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense is highly applicable in industries requiring stringent data protection, such as finance and healthcare. It serves cloud-based environments by closely monitoring email activity to prevent unauthorized access and breaches. Tailored deployment options cater to both on-premise and cloud architectures, allowing flexible integration in existing workflows.

Cisco

Microsoft Defender for Office 365 offers real-time email security, enhancing threat detection through integration within the Microsoft ecosystem. Its user-friendly interface and central management streamline operations, providing robust protection against phishing, ransomware, and malware.

Defender for Office 365 is focused on efficiently securing email communication by safeguarding against phishing, malware, and spam threats. With its strong integration with other Microsoft services, it is tailored to improve endpoint security and identity protection. Its centralized management tools simplify threat prioritization, while the automated threat response capabilities ensure swift actions against potential risks. Organizations leverage its capabilities to efficiently manage their cybersecurity efforts, particularly in remote work environments, while maintaining a secure system across Office 365 applications and Azure-hosted services.

What are the key features?
  • Real-time Email Protection: Continuously monitors and protects email communications.
  • Safe Attachments and Links: Scans attachments and links for potential threats.
  • Anti-Phishing Measures: Provides tools to detect and block phishing attempts.
  • Integration with Microsoft Services: Seamlessly connects with other Microsoft applications for enhanced security.
  • Automated Threat Responses: Activates immediate responses to detected threats.
What benefits should users expect from reviews?
  • Time Savings: Automates processes to reduce manual threat management efforts.
  • Improved Cybersecurity: Strengthens organizational defenses against various cyber threats.
  • Efficient Remote Work: Enhances protection for remote teams and virtual collaborations.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Extends protection across Office 365 and Azure services.

Implementations of Defender for Office 365 vary across industries, optimizing email security for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and education. In finance, it aids in protecting sensitive financial data from phishing and fraud. Healthcare benefits from secure communications, ensuring patient data privacy. Educational institutions use it to maintain secure virtual learning environments against cyber threats.

Microsoft
 

Sample Customers

Luiss University, Lone Star College, T-Systems, Magyar Telekom
Microsoft Defender for Office 365 is trusted by companies such as Ithaca College.
Buyer's Guide
Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense vs. Microsoft Defender for Office 365
September 2026
Free Report: Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense vs. Microsoft Defender for Office 365
Find out what your peers are saying about Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense vs. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 and other solutions. Updated: September 2026.
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