Best Secure Web Gateways

Best Secure Web Gateways

Quick answer: The Best Secure Web Gateway in 2024 is Perimeter 81!

In today’s digital landscape, where cybersecurity threats are ever-evolving, businesses and organizations require robust solutions to protect their networks and data.

Secure Web Gateways (SWGs) have emerged as indispensable tools for safeguarding against web-borne threats, ensuring secure online access, and maintaining data integrity.

This comprehensive guide explores the best Secure Web Gateways available, offering insights into their features, benefits, and why they are crucial in today’s cybersecurity landscape. Discover how SWGs can fortify your digital defenses and keep your organization’s online environment secure.

1. 7 Best Secure Web Gateways March 2024

With so many SWG platforms on the market, narrowing down our list was quite challenging. Nevertheless, we only picked the best out of the best, so make sure to check them out!

1.1 – Perimeter 81 – Best Overall Secure Web Gateway

perimeter81 secure web gateway

Perimeter 81’s Secure Web Gateway is a comprehensive cloud-based security solution tailored for businesses seeking advanced web protection. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

  1. Robust Web Filtering System: Perimeter 81’s web filtering efficiently blocks malicious attacks from third-party websites, which is essential for protecting business networks from online threats.

  2. Advanced Threat Detection: The platform excels in identifying and blocking fake websites, particularly those mimicking popular social media platforms, using advanced intelligence to detect threats.

  3. Customizable Web Access Policies: System administrators can tailor web access policies for office computers, enabling control over access to potentially harmful or inappropriate websites. This feature is crucial for maintaining a safe and productive online work environment.

  4. Logging of Blocked Access Attempts: The service logs attempts to access blocked sites, providing valuable insights into potential security risks and user behavior, even for remote employees.

  5. Flexible Plans Based on User and Device Count: Perimeter 81 offers plans that are scalable based on the number of employees and devices, making it suitable for businesses of various sizes.

  6. Demo and Money-Back Guarantee: They provide a free demo and a 30-day money-back guarantee, offering peace of mind and risk-free evaluation for potential users.

  7. Always-On Web and VPN Protection: The platform includes always-on protection on the web and a VPN service, ensuring continuous security for network traffic.

  8. Automatic Wi-Fi Support Feature: The Automatic Wi-Fi Support feature helps to monitor and secure network connections, enhancing safety when using public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

  9. Sophisticated Interface and Great Customer Service: The service boasts a sophisticated interface, making it user-friendly, and is known for providing excellent customer service.

However, there are some limitations:

  • Lack of Email Protection Support: One notable drawback of Perimeter 81 is the absence of email protection support, which might be a concern for businesses looking for an all-encompassing security solution.

In summary, Perimeter 81’s Secure Web Gateway is highly recommended for businesses of all sizes looking for flexible, advanced web security solutions. Its robust filtering, threat detection capabilities, and customizable access policies make it a strong contender in the web security space. The demo and money-back guarantee provide an opportunity to assess the service without commitment. However, businesses requiring integrated email protection may need to supplement Perimeter 81 with additional solutions.

Perimeter 81

1.2 CleanBrowsing – Best Free Secure Web Gateway

CleanBrowsing secure web gateway

CleanBrowsing stands out as a secure web gateway solution, especially for budget-conscious businesses and educational institutions. It offers a unique approach to internet safety via DNS filtering. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

  1. DNS Resolver for Enhanced Web Security: CleanBrowsing’s primary function as a DNS resolver focuses on assessing the security and validity of web pages before allowing access. This DNS-level checking helps protect against malware, infectious content, and fake websites.

  2. Integration with User’s Browser: The service integrates seamlessly with the user’s browser through basic DNS server settings. It ensures secure browsing by cross-referencing URLs with its DNS server, offering an additional layer of security.

  3. Network-Wide Application Through Router: CleanBrowsing can be configured network-wide via the router, extending its protection to all devices connected to the network. This feature is particularly useful for businesses and schools looking to enforce uniform web access policies.

  4. Global Server Distribution for Speedy Service: With distributed servers in various data centers around the world, CleanBrowsing ensures fast and nearly invisible service, minimizing disruption to the user experience.

  5. Free Service with Optional Paid Plans: The platform is free of charge, making it accessible for small businesses, schools, and home networks. It also offers three additional paid plans for users who need more advanced features.

  6. Customizable Website Blocking: Users can block different types of websites or specific categories, making it suitable for environments like schools that require compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA).

  7. Compatibility with Various Network Hardware: CleanBrowsing works effectively with different network hardware, particularly routers, facilitating easy setup and implementation.

  8. Phishing Protection: The service helps block phishing attempts and links found in potentially malicious emails, enhancing overall network security.

However, there are some limitations:

  • Lacks Some Advanced Features: As a free service, CleanBrowsing doesn’t offer proactive checks or blocks for web pages not explicitly requested by the user, which could leave gaps in network security.

  • Best Suited for Small Scale Use: The platform is most suited for small businesses, home operations, and educational institutions rather than large enterprises looking for comprehensive web security solutions.

In summary, CleanBrowsing is an excellent option for users seeking a cost-effective, DNS-based web filtering solution. Its user-friendly approach, combined with effective phishing protection and customizable website blocking, makes it suitable for small businesses and educational settings. However, larger businesses or those requiring more proactive and advanced web security features may need to look for additional solutions.

CleanBrowsing

1.3 McAfee – Best Secure Web Gateway for Zero-Day Malware

McAfee secure web gateway

McAfee’s Secure Web Gateway (SWG) is a comprehensive security solution, leveraging the company’s long-standing expertise in antivirus and anti-malware protection. It’s particularly well-suited for businesses seeking robust web security with customizable features. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

  1. Customizable Compliance Policies and Rules: McAfee SWG enables administrators to create tailored compliance policies, effectively managing employee access to specific websites. This customization is crucial for maintaining corporate security standards and preventing access to potentially harmful content.

  2. Advanced URL and Content Filtering: The solution offers advanced content filtering capabilities, efficiently blocking URLs and content suspected of posing threats. This level of filtering is essential for protecting against various online risks.

  3. Protection Against Zero-Day Malware: McAfee excels in blocking a wide range of threats, including zero-day malware, which is particularly challenging for businesses due to its unknown nature. Leveraging AI and intelligent filtering, McAfee provides proactive protection against emerging threats.

  4. Support for Remote Workers: The Client Proxy feature ensures that remote workers remain compliant with company policies, a significant advantage in the increasingly common remote work environments.

  5. Seamless Integration with Other McAfee Tools: McAfee SWG integrates smoothly with other McAfee products, including their secure VPN service, allowing for a cohesive security ecosystem.

  6. Comprehensive User Interface: The platform’s interface is user-friendly, making it easier for employees to navigate and comply with security protocols without compromising productivity.

  7. Inbound and Outbound Protection: McAfee provides robust protection for both inbound and outbound web traffic, ensuring comprehensive security coverage.

  8. Reporting and Risk Management Tools: The service includes effective reporting and risk management capabilities, enabling businesses to monitor and respond to security incidents efficiently.

  9. Flexible Plans with a Free Trial: McAfee offers a free trial and flexible pricing plans, allowing businesses to choose a solution that best fits their specific security needs and budget.

However, there are some limitations:

  • May Require Integration with Other McAfee Products: For the best results, businesses might need to integrate SWG with other McAfee products, which could entail additional costs or complexities.

  • Learning Curve for Comprehensive Features: The comprehensive nature of McAfee’s SWG might require a learning curve for administrators and users to fully utilize all its features.

In summary, McAfee’s Secure Web Gateway is highly recommended for businesses seeking a robust, customizable web security solution from a reputable provider. Its advanced threat protection, support for remote workers, and integration capabilities make it a strong contender in the web security space. However, the need for integration with other McAfee products and the potential learning curve should be considered when implementing this solution.

MacAfee

1.4 Zscaler Web Security – Best Secure Web Gateway for Email Protection

ZScaler secure web gateway

Zscaler Web Security is a comprehensive cloud-based secure web gateway solution, well-suited for businesses seeking advanced security features, particularly in email protection. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

  1. Individual Email Protection: Zscaler offers individual email protection, a feature that is not commonly found in many secure web gateway solutions. This is especially beneficial for organizations that handle a high volume of emails and require robust spam and phishing protection.

  2. Dedicated Firewall and Advanced URL Filtering: The platform includes a dedicated firewall and advanced URL filtering capabilities, essential for safeguarding against various online threats and malicious websites.

  3. Antivirus and DNS Filtering: Zscaler’s antivirus component, supplemented with DNS filtering, enhances network security by blocking downloaded threats and preventing access to harmful sites.

  4. Protection Against Network-Wide Threats: In case of a detected threat on one computer, Zscaler quickly prevents its spread across the local network and other connected devices, ensuring comprehensive network protection.

  5. Cloud-Based with Frequent Updates: Being cloud-based, Zscaler benefits from a vast threat intelligence database that receives daily updates, keeping the system informed about emerging cyber threats.

  6. SSL Traffic Inspection: The SSL traffic inspection feature is crucial for businesses with significant online activity, as it ensures secure browsing and protection against hackers.

  7. Robust Spam Filter and Phishing Protection: The sophisticated spam filter can detect phishing attempts and block harmful links in emails, which is vital for preventing security breaches via email communications.

  8. Data Loss Prevention and File Recovery: Zscaler’s features extend to preventing data loss and offering file recovery options, adding an extra layer of security for business data.

  9. Comprehensive Antivirus with Threat Intelligence Feeds: The feature-rich antivirus with 60 threat intelligence feeds provides a robust defense mechanism against a variety of cyber threats.

However, there are some limitations:

  • Complex Setup and Integration: Setting up and integrating Zscaler into an existing network can be time-consuming and challenging, which might require additional resources or expertise.

  • Elusive Pricing Information: Obtaining specific pricing information requires contacting the sales department for an individual quote, which may be inconvenient for some prospective customers.

In summary, Zscaler Web Security is recommended for businesses looking for a secure web gateway solution with exceptional email protection, robust antivirus features, and advanced threat intelligence. Its cloud-based nature and comprehensive security measures make it a strong contender in the market. However, potential users should consider the complexity of setup and the need to obtain pricing information directly from the company.

Zscaler Web Security

1.5 Symantec  – Best Secure Web Gateway for Data Loss Prevention

Symantec secure web gateway

Symantec Web Security, as part of its Secure Gateway offerings, is a robust cloud-based solution particularly suited for medium to large businesses focused on comprehensive web security and data loss prevention. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

  1. Strong Focus on Data Loss Prevention: Symantec places a significant emphasis on preventing data loss, an essential feature for businesses that handle sensitive information.

  2. Effective Website Filtering and Blocking: The platform excels in filtering and blocking access to malicious websites, providing a critical barrier against various online threats.

  3. Advanced Protection Against Spam and Phishing: Symantec Secure Gateway offers robust protection against spam emails and phishing attempts, crucial for safeguarding email communications in any organization.

  4. Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB): The inclusion of a CASB enhances the platform’s capabilities in threat prevention and secure cloud application usage.

  5. User Authentication and Encrypted Traffic Inspection: The ability for system administrators to authenticate users and inspect encrypted traffic adds another layer of security, ensuring that only authorized personnel have network access.

  6. Global Intelligence Network Utilizing Machine Learning: Symantec’s use of machine learning and image recognition in its Global Intelligence Network helps detect a wide range of threats and cyberattacks. This network analyzes over 1.2 billion web requests, providing extensive and up-to-date threat intelligence.

  7. AI-Driven Protection: The AI-driven components of Symantec’s platform are adept at blocking harmful websites and reporting malicious activity, as well as safeguarding client databases.

  8. Suitable for Large Businesses with Diverse Cloud Infrastructure: The solution is particularly effective for large organizations that distribute their IT infrastructure across various cloud services.

  9. Tailored for Comprehensive Cloud Security Needs: As a comprehensive cloud solution, Symantec Web Security is designed to meet the complex security requirements of businesses heavily invested in cloud-based operations.

However, there are some limitations:

  • Accessing Demo and Pricing Information: To access a demo and obtain pricing details, interested parties must fill out a form, which may be a bit cumbersome for some.

  • Need for Enhanced Reporting Features: While Symantec provides robust security features, enhanced reporting capabilities would add value, especially for businesses that rely on detailed policy compliance and security analytics.

In summary, Symantec Web Security is highly recommended for medium to large businesses seeking a cloud-based secure web gateway solution with a strong focus on data loss prevention, advanced email protection, and AI-driven security capabilities. Its comprehensive approach to web security makes it a top contender in the market. However, the process to access demos and pricing, as well as the potential need for more detailed reporting features, should be considered.

Symantec

1.6 Netskope – Best Secure Web Gateway for Web Developers

Netskope secure web gateway

Netskope is a cloud-based secure web gateway solution that stands out for its advanced security measures and AI-driven approach, catering to the needs of web developers, businesses, and startups in the digital era. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

  1. Robust Cloud-Hosted App Protection: Netskope ensures that cloud-hosted applications are safeguarded against malicious content, a crucial feature for businesses heavily reliant on cloud services.

  2. Effective Traffic Monitoring and Threat Identification: The platform is adept at monitoring traffic, identifying fake websites, and combating impersonation attempts, enhancing overall web security.

  3. Customizable Policy Controls: Netskope allows users to customize policy controls, providing flexibility to tailor security settings according to specific organizational needs.

  4. Data-Centric Security Approach: The service adopts a data-centric approach to security, ensuring that data protection is at the forefront of its defense strategy.

  5. AI and ML for Threat Detection: Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), Netskope is capable of detecting behavioral threats and proactively responding to them, thereby preventing potential cyberattacks.

  6. Advanced Tools for Online Threat Protection: Netskope offers a suite of advanced tools for next-generation protection against online threats, securing websites and applications effectively.

  7. Malware Prevention and Cloud App Management: The platform prevents malware attacks and manages the use of other hosted cloud applications and microservices, offering comprehensive cloud security.

  8. Seamless Integration with Apps: Netskope provides solutions that enable seamless integration with various applications, ensuring consistent security across different platforms.

However, there are some limitations:

  • Need for Demo or Pricing Quote: Accessing a demo or obtaining a pricing quote is necessary, which may be a barrier for some potential users who prefer immediate access to pricing and product details.

In summary, Netskope is highly recommended for businesses and independent web developers seeking a robust, AI-driven secure web gateway solution, particularly those heavily invested in cloud-hosted applications. Its customizable policy controls, advanced threat detection capabilities, and data-centric security approach make it a strong contender in the cloud security space. However, the process to access demos and pricing should be considered when evaluating the platform.

Netskope

1.7 Cisco Umbrella – Best Secure Web Gateway in a Bundle

Cisco Umbrella

Cisco Umbrella is a comprehensive cloud-based secure web gateway solution from Cisco, a well-established player in the computer network industry. It’s especially suitable for medium and large businesses that require robust online security measures. Here’s why it’s a good choice:

  1. Integrated Anti-Malware and Antivirus: Cisco Umbrella goes beyond standard web security features by including high-end anti-malware and antivirus software, offering an additional layer of protection against online threats.

  2. Cloud-Based URL Filtering and Monitoring: The platform provides cloud-based URL filtering and monitors for suspicious content, crucial for preventing access to malicious websites and protecting the network.

  3. Protection Across All Employee Devices: Whether employees work remotely or in the office, Cisco Umbrella extends its protection to all devices, ensuring consistent security coverage.

  4. Comprehensive Security Package: The solution includes a cloud-based firewall, DNS security, resolver, Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and more, making it a comprehensive tool for various security needs.

  5. Advanced Traffic Inspection and Monitoring: Cisco Umbrella utilizes proxy servers for traffic inspection, logging, and monitoring. This is particularly valuable for businesses dealing with large amounts of web traffic.

  6. SSL and TLS Traffic Inspection: The ability to inspect SSL and TLS encrypted internet traffic is essential in the current landscape where most web traffic is encrypted.

  7. Granular Policy Control: The service offers granular policy control, allowing businesses to tailor their security settings to specific requirements and preferences.

  8. URL Logging, Monitoring, and Blocking: Cisco Umbrella provides URL logging and monitoring, and it can block URLs containing malicious content, enhancing network security.

  9. File Inspection and Sandboxing: The platform’s file inspection and sandboxing capabilities are key for detecting and isolating advanced threats.

  10. 14-Day Free Trial: Cisco offers a 14-day free trial, allowing potential users to evaluate the service before committing financially.

However, there are some limitations:

  • Pricing Based on Specific Needs: Pricing for Cisco Umbrella varies based on specific requirements, which might require businesses to contact Cisco directly for a quote, potentially delaying the decision-making process.

In summary, Cisco Umbrella is highly recommended for medium to large businesses in need of a robust, all-encompassing secure web gateway solution. Its comprehensive security features, including advanced malware protection and traffic inspection capabilities, make it a strong contender in the market. However, businesses should consider contacting Cisco for specific pricing information and evaluating their needs during the free trial period.

Cisco Umbrella

2. What Is a Secure Web Gateway?

A secure web gateway (SWG) is a robust online security platform designed to protect against a range of online threats, including malware, viruses, and cyberattacks. It acts as a vigilant guardian for your online content and downloads, ensuring they are free from malicious elements.

Businesses, especially those with a substantial number of employees and various connected devices, rely on SWGs to safeguard their devices and enforce compliance among employees. In today’s digital landscape, where encrypted traffic accounts for approximately 72% of network traffic, monitoring and thwarting malicious content and intentions are crucial.

A dependable SWG should offer fundamental antivirus features, such as online content filtering and malware scanning. It excels at blocking access to malicious URLs and safeguarding against encrypted web traffic threats. Moreover, SWGs empower business owners to establish customized policies for employee web access, effectively preventing access to potentially harmful content.

3. Things to Consider When Looking for a Secure Web Gateway

Searching for the right Secure Web Gateway (SWG) for your business can be a daunting task, especially with the multitude of options available in the market. However, certain key factors can help you identify a suitable SWG platform that aligns with your business needs.

Here are the essential features to look for in a reliable SWG:

  1. Malware Protection: It should independently search for and protect against online malware threats.

  2. Email Integration: The SWG should seamlessly integrate with your email system and offer robust spam filters to safeguard against phishing and email-targeted threats.

  3. Content Monitoring and Control: The SWG should effectively monitor and control the content displayed on computers and browsers within your enterprise.

  4. Spoofing Detection: It should be capable of detecting spoofing and impersonation attempts.

  5. Trial or Demo Option: While it may not be free, a reputable SWG should provide a free trial or demo option for business owners to evaluate its suitability.

  6. Zero-Day Malware Detection: It should have the ability to detect and prevent zero-day malware threats.

  7. Value for Price: A good SWG offers a balance between pricing and the inclusion of various security-enhancing features.

For small businesses with budget constraints, prioritizing the security and privacy of your company and its equipment is paramount. Maintaining strong security practices enhances trust with clients and stakeholders. Cloud-based SWGs are currently the top choice, as they efficiently protect against online threats. Read on to discover our recommendations for the best secure web gateways.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

There are a lot of SWGs on the market, which is why the choice is often challenging. We searched the commonly asked questions about what SWGs are and how to choose them and listed our answers below.

4.1 What Is The Difference Between Secure Web Gateway and Browser Isolation Software?

Secure web gateways (SWG) and browser isolation software are often confused, but they serve distinct purposes. An SWG empowers users to filter and block inappropriate and malicious content while enforcing company policies. In contrast, browser isolation software acts as an additional layer of protection, isolating users from potentially harmful web content.

4.2 What Are Some Benefits of Secure Web Gateways?

There are numerous reasons why businesses, regardless of their size should use a secure web gateway.

  • They allow you to enforce the policy of your company to the digital level.
  • Reduces the cost of IT management.
  • Provides a good user experience instead of using a bunch of separate tools to ensure security while browsing the web.
  • It helps with risk management and reduces the overall risk to the sensitive data in the company.
  • It works on the application level, unlike the traditional firewall that operates at the packet level.
  • Prevents your employees to fall victim to phishing strategies and fraud

4.3 Is Firewall Considered a Secure Web Gateway?

Yes and no. Yes because their function is quite similar in the sense that the firewall will search the traffic that gets downloaded to the system and check for traces of malicious activity.

However, as mentioned earlier, unlike a firewall which can only track the packets and allow or deny them, a secure web gateway uses different protocols on the application layers in order to detect malicious activity.

4.4 How Does Secure Web Gateway Work?

SWGs operate anywhere from private homes to offices and data centers. You can say that secure web gateways work in different ways. They work as firewalls, proxies, and even antivirus, depending on the bundle you choose.

It monitors user-initiated traffic online and intercepts the packages that could potentially bear malicious content. It uses different web protocols in order to scan the incoming traffic as it enters the private gateway and blocks the URLs that could pose threat to the user’s system or network.

4.5 Should Small Business Invest In Secure Web Gateway?

Every business that works with sensitive data and wants to maintain confidential information about their business and their customers should invest in a secure web gateway.

Traditionally, many companies run only on-premises systems, which made them isolated into their network, mostly safe from online threats.

Still, nowadays, businesses are automated and data-driven which calls for more robust ways of operation online. Most data is secured online on the cloud, which is why it’s of utmost importance to deploy a good cloud solution that will keep your internet traffic secure, as you’re growing as a business.

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