12 Best Data Loss Prevention Software Shortlist
After rigorous evaluation, here's my very top list of the 12 best data loss prevention tools. Each excels in filling gaps and alleviating your data security pains.
- GTT DLP - Best for comprehensive data visibility
- Nightfall DLP - Best for cloud-native environments
- Safetica ONE - Best for data leak prevention via behavioral analysis
- Egress Data Loss Prevention - Best for context-aware data security
- Proofpoint Enterprise Data Loss Prevention - Best for threat detection and response
- Endpoint Protector Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Software - Best for USB and peripheral device control
- Imperva - Best for database security and compliance
- Trellix Data Loss Prevention - Best for integrated endpoint and network security
- Symantec Data Loss Prevention - Best for large-scale enterprise data protection
- Forcepoint Data Loss Prevention - Best for advanced machine learning-based protection
- 2B Advice PrIME - Best for privacy and compliance management
- IBM Data Security - Best for holistic data protection across hybrid cloud environments
Navigating the vast landscape of data loss prevention software, I understand that the ultimate goal is to secure both on-premises and cloud-based data from vulnerabilities, minimizing the risk of data exfiltration. These tools play a crucial role in identifying and mitigating potential policy violations by end-users, carefully reducing the number of false positives that can distract security teams.
With these systems, you can fortify your digital firewall, bolster your information protection, and fend off malware and ransomware. It even saves your security team time by reducing false alarms and allowing them to focus on other essential tasks. It includes built-in templates for easy rule and policy setup, providing a more comprehensive solution than traditional antivirus programs. I've researched and compiled a list of the best data loss prevention software options for you to consider.
What is Data Loss Prevention Software?
Data loss prevention software is the digital gatekeeper of an organization's sensitive information. It's a tool that identifies, monitors, and protects data in use, data in motion, and data at rest through deep content inspection and with a comprehensive understanding of contextual risk. Businesses of all sizes and across industries, including healthcare, finance, and retail, use these software solutions to prevent unauthorized access and data breaches, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations like GDPR, PCI, and HIPAA.
Data loss prevention software is a shield to monitor your data flow and detect any suspicious activity in real time. This software has many benefits, including greater control over sensitive data, reduced risk of breaches, and compliance with data protection regulations. This software finds it crucial to prevent potential data leaks and safeguard valuable information from threats, whether external attacks or internal mishaps. It's a vital resource where data is integral to business integrity and operations.
Overview of the 12 Best Data Loss Prevention Software
1. GTT DLP - Best for comprehensive data visibility
GTT DLP is a powerful data protection tool that provides complete visibility across your data landscape. With GTT DLP, you can easily track and secure data throughout your network, making it the ideal choice for those seeking extensive oversight over sensitive information.
Why I Picked GTT DLP:
GTT DLP stood out to me because of its exceptional capability to provide a comprehensive overview of an organization's data usage. I chose it for its wide-spanning coverage that offers a clear vision of data movement across various platforms, a feature that makes it distinctive in the data loss prevention market. Therefore, it is best for comprehensive data visibility, as its robust feature set enables businesses to keep a vigilant eye on their data security.
Standout features & integrations:
Critical features of GTT DLP include real-time visibility and control, pattern matching, and precise data fingerprinting. These features allow it to track and prevent potential data leaks accurately. Necessary integrations include compatibility with cloud storage services, CRM platforms, and other enterprise software, further enhancing its comprehensive visibility capabilities.
Pricing:
Pricing for GTT DLP begins at around $10/user/month (billed annually). So as you know, there may be additional costs based on specific requirements and other robust features.
Pros:
- Robust feature set for comprehensive data oversight.
- Wide compatibility with other enterprise software.
- Real-time visibility and control.
Cons:
- The user interface may be complex for beginners.
- Pricing can be on the higher end with added features.
- Annual billing may only be suitable for some businesses.
2. Nightfall DLP - Best for cloud-native environments
Nightfall DLP is a robust cloud DLP solution that shines in cloud-based environments. Specializing in protecting cloud data platforms, it's perfect for organizations that heavily use cloud services and need a secure, effective way to prevent data loss.
Why I Picked Nightfall DLP:
Among the myriad data loss prevention tools available, Nightfall DLP's unique focus on cloud-based operations caught my attention. I selected it because it is capable of securing critical data within cloud-native environments, which sets it apart from many other data loss prevention tools. Thus, Nightfall DLP is the best tool for cloud-native environments, considering its adeptness at providing protection for data residing in the cloud.
Standout features & integrations:
Nightfall DLP comes with noteworthy features such as machine learning-powered detection, policy automation, and comprehensive compliance controls, which all contribute to its strength in cloud-native security. It provides essential integrations with popular cloud storage platforms and other Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) apps, enhancing its ability to protect data across diverse cloud environments.
Pricing:
Nightfall DLP offers its starting package from $10/user/month (billed annually). Just to let you know, extra features may incur additional costs.
Pros:
- Excellent cloud-native environment protection.
- Machine learning-enhanced detection.
- Extensive cloud platform integrations.
Cons:
- It might be over-specialized for non-cloud-native businesses.
- Some advanced features might come with extra costs.
- The user interface may take time to master.
3. Safetica ONE - Best for data leak prevention via behavioral analysis
Safetica ONE offers a unique approach to data loss prevention by using behavioral analysis to monitor and protect your sensitive information. This method ensures it effectively catches and prevents potential data leaks, especially those based on behavioral patterns.
Why I Picked Safetica ONE:
I selected Safetica ONE because it's a trailblazer in implementing behavioral analysis within data loss prevention. Its innovative approach, which differs from many traditional DLP solutions, sets it apart. Consequently, it's the best tool for data leak prevention via behavioral analysis due to its expert use of behavioral patterns to detect and deter potential data leaks.
Standout features & integrations:
Critical features of Safetica ONE include behavioral-based anomaly detection, data classification, and automated incident response. Its focus on behavioral patterns provides a fresh perspective on securing sensitive data. Safetica ONE also integrates effectively with various might platforms, from Windows operating systems to cloud services, ensuring it can serve diverse environments.
Pricing:
Safetica ONE's pricing starts at approximately $12/user/month (billed annually). Additional features might result in extra charges.
Pros:
- Uses behavioral analysis for data leak prevention.
- Provides automated incident response.
- Offers robust data classification.
Cons:
- Might be complex for small businesses.
- Advanced features could come with added costs.
- The user interface may need to be more intuitive for beginners.
4. Egress Data Loss Prevention - Best for context-aware data security
Egress Data Loss Prevention offers robust data security solutions that are context-aware, allowing for efficient protection of sensitive data in varying contexts. Its dynamic approach to data loss prevention adjusts to the specific context of your data, thereby enhancing security.
Why I Picked Egress Data Loss Prevention:
I chose Egress Data Loss Prevention due to its dynamic, context-aware approach to data security. This tool stands out as it intelligently adjusts its data protection mechanisms based on the context of your data, unlike many traditional, static DLP tools. It’s the best solution for context-aware data security as it intricately understands the various contexts in which data loss can occur and adjusts its strategies accordingly.
Standout features & integrations:
Egress Data Loss Prevention boasts context-aware data protection, accidental send prevention, and sophisticated machine-learning algorithms for better threat detection. These features work in harmony to provide robust data protection. The software also integrates well with common platforms such as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, allowing for a smooth flow of work and data.
Pricing:
Egress DLP has its pricing beginning from $10/user/month (billed annually). Extra costs might apply for more advanced functionalities.
Pros:
- Offers context-aware data security.
- Integrates well with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace.
- Utilizes advanced machine learning for threat detection.
Cons:
- Advanced features might result in extra costs.
- It may be overwhelming for small businesses.
- The setup might require a learning curve.
5. Proofpoint Enterprise Data Loss Prevention - Best for threat detection and response
Proofpoint Enterprise DLP is a comprehensive data security solution that excels in threat detection and response. It leverages advanced analytics to swiftly identify and respond to threats, ensuring the safety of sensitive data. It’s exceptional threat detection and response performance makes it a perfect choice for organizations that prioritize immediate action against data breaches.
Why I Picked Proofpoint Enterprise Data Loss Prevention:
I selected Proofpoint Enterprise DLP for its excellence in threat detection and response. This tool stands apart because of its ability to swiftly detect potential data loss threats and respond proactively, thereby reducing the potential damage from data breaches. It is "best for" the threat detection and response use case because it focuses on swiftly identifying and remedying threats.
Standout features & integrations:
Proofpoint Enterprise DLP is renowned for its advanced threat detection, comprehensive visibility, and rapid response capabilities. Additionally, the tool integrates with other Proofpoint solutions like Proofpoint endpoint DLP and provides efficient email and cloud application security.
Pricing:
Proofpoint Enterprise DLP offers pricing from $15/user/month (billed annually). This is the starting price for the basic package, and additional costs may apply for more advanced features or larger user bases.
Pros:
- Exceptional threat detection and response capabilities.
- Integrates with other Proofpoint solutions.
- Provides comprehensive visibility into data security.
Cons:
- Higher starting price compared to other DLP solutions.
- Extra costs may apply for advanced features.
- May be complex for small businesses to deploy and manage.
6. Endpoint Protector Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Software - Best for USB and peripheral device control
Endpoint Protector DLP Software is a data protection tool that provides robust security measures for USB and peripheral devices. The software ensures data security by monitoring and controlling data transfers through peripheral devices, thereby excelling in preventing data leakage via these channels.
Why I Picked Endpoint Protector DLP Software:
I chose Endpoint Protector DLP Software for its superior USB and peripheral device control. The tool sets itself apart with its focused approach to data transfers through peripheral devices, a feature many other market tools do not offer. I believe it is "best for" organizations that handle sensitive data regularly transferred through peripheral devices.
Standout features & integrations:
Endpoint Protector DLP Software has features like content discovery, device control, and content-aware protection. Moreover, the tool can integrate with existing IT environments, supporting Windows, Linux, and Mac to streamline data protection processes.
Pricing:
Endpoint Protector DLP Software pricing starts from $17.99/user/month (billed annually). This is their introductory package pricing; costs may increase with the inclusion of advanced features.
Pros:
- Excellent control over USB and peripheral devices.
- Content-aware protection enhances data security.
- Compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac.
Cons:
- Higher starting price compared to some competitors.
- Additional costs for more advanced features.
- It could be complex to configure for first-time users.
7. Imperva - Best for database security and compliance
Imperva is a cybersecurity software that protects your data and applications comprehensively. It focuses on safeguarding databases, often prime targets for attackers, and offers tools for achieving compliance with regulatory standards.
Why I Picked Imperva:
Imperva caught my attention because of its strong emphasis on database security. While many tools protect data at rest and in transit, Imperva stands out due to its specific focus on databases, a crucial component of data security often overlooked by other platforms. I've selected it as "best for" database security and compliance due to its robust features that protect database environments and aid in meeting compliance regulations.
Standout features & integrations:
Imperva provides robust database security features like data risk analytics, real-time activity monitoring, and automated threat responses. It also integrates with other security tools and technologies, enhancing its overall threat-detection capabilities and making it a comprehensive solution for data security.
Pricing:
Imperva pricing begins at $30/user/month, making it a moderately priced option for robust database security. Just to let you know, this is the starting price for the standard plan, and costs may increase based on the chosen method and added features.
Pros:
- Strong focus on database security.
- Helps in achieving compliance with regulatory standards.
- Integrates with other security tools for comprehensive protection.
Cons:
- Pricing might be high for small businesses.
- Customization options may be complex for beginners.
- Depending on the size of the database, system performance may be affected.
8. Trellix Data Loss Prevention - Best for integrated endpoint and network security
Trellix Data Loss Prevention (formally McAfee Enterprises and FireEye, rebranded as Trellix following the 2021 merger) is a solution that helps organizations protect their sensitive information across all endpoints and network traffic. This tool provides integrated security for endpoints and networks, making it ideal for businesses seeking a comprehensive security solution.
Why I Picked Trellix Data Loss Prevention:
I picked Trellix for its integrated approach to data loss prevention. Many solutions focus primarily on either endpoint security or network security, but Trellix combines both aspects, ensuring comprehensive data protection. I deemed it best for integrated endpoint and network security due to its well-rounded feature set that covers both areas effectively.
Standout features & integrations:
Trellix Data Loss Prevention offers robust features, including real-time visibility into data movement, customizable security policies, and automatic enforcement actions. It integrates with several other security platforms and IT systems, enhancing its ability to protect sensitive data effectively.
Pricing:
Trellix Data Loss Prevention is priced at $15/user/month. This price may vary depending on specific needs and the scale of the business.
Pros:
- Provides both endpoint and network security.
- Real-time visibility into data movement.
- Easy integration with other security and IT platforms.
Cons:
- It might be pricey for smaller businesses.
- Requires time for setup and policy configuration.
- The interface may require help to navigate for beginners.
9. Symantec Data Loss Prevention - Best for large-scale enterprise data protection
Symantec Data Loss Prevention (Broadcom Symantec DLP) is a comprehensive solution designed to discover, monitor, and protect sensitive information across all business points. With its capability to scale and meet the needs of large enterprises, it excels in enterprise data protection.
Why I Picked Symantec Data Loss Prevention:
I selected Symantec Data Loss Prevention for its robust capabilities in large-scale data protection. Its high scalability makes it a fit choice for extensive enterprises. Judging its potential, I determined it to be the best tool for large-scale enterprise data protection as it can efficiently handle the complex and vast data structures that large businesses typically have.
Standout features & integrations:
Critical features of Symantec Data Loss Prevention include precise incident detection, unified policy management, and detailed data risk analysis. Its deep integration with other Symantec products, like Symantec Endpoint Protection and Symantec CloudSOC, makes it a highly versatile tool.
Pricing:
The pricing for Symantec Data Loss Prevention is available for you. Given the solution's scale and comprehensive nature, a custom quote would provide the most accurate pricing information.
Pros:
- Can handle large-scale enterprise requirements.
- Offers unified policy management.
- Integrates deeply with other Symantec products.
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available.
- It might be too complex for smaller organizations.
- Setup and management could be time-consuming.
10. Forcepoint Data Loss Prevention - Best for advanced machine learning-based protection
Forcepoint Data Loss Prevention is a powerful tool that helps companies protect sensitive data through advanced machine learning capabilities. It is designed to ensure secure business operations while maintaining regulatory compliance, and its machine-learning prowess makes it exceptional in recognizing and preventing potential data breaches.
Why I Picked Forcepoint Data Loss Prevention:
I chose Forcepoint Data Loss Prevention due to its impressive use of advanced machine learning techniques. Comparing it with others in the market, it stands out because of its intelligent algorithms that can understand, recognize, and prevent a vast array of data threats. Users can protect personally identifiable information (PII) and protected health information (PHI), company financials, trade secrets, credit card data, etc., even in images. It will let users follow intellectual property in both structured and unstructured forms. It’s best for advanced machine learning-based protection as its technology goes beyond traditional methods, offering superior protection against data loss.
Standout features & integrations:
Forcepoint DLP's features include incident risk ranking, data discovery, and an advanced policy engine. It integrates effectively with other Forcepoint solutions like Web Security, Email Security, Check Point DLP, and User and Entity Behavior Analytics, creating a holistic approach to data protection.
Pricing:
Forcepoint Data Loss Prevention operates on a quote-based system. Therefore, it is recommended to contact Forcepoint directly for the most accurate pricing information.
Pros:
- Utilizes advanced machine learning for protection.
- Offers a comprehensive suite of features.
- Provides integrations with other Forcepoint solutions.
Cons:
- Pricing is not transparent and requires direct contact.
- It might be overly complex for smaller businesses.
- Machine learning models may require time for optimal calibration.
11. 2B Advice PrIME - Best for privacy and compliance management
2B Advice PrIME is a dedicated privacy and compliance management solution that helps organizations monitor and control data processing activities. It provides an efficient means of managing data protection obligations, and its focus on compliance management makes it an excellent choice for enterprises seeking strong privacy controls.
Why I Picked 2B Advice PrIME:
In my selection process, I decided on 2B Advice PrIME because of its strong emphasis on privacy and regulatory compliance. Its commitment to maintaining up-to-date compliance features differentiates it from other solutions. It’s best for privacy and compliance management as it offers a comprehensive set of tools that streamline compliance workflows and ensure data privacy regulations are adhered to.
Standout features & integrations:
Key features of 2B Advice PrIME include records of processing activities (RoPA), data protection impact assessments (DPIA), and regulatory change tracking. It integrates well with existing systems and can adapt to specific data privacy needs, providing organizations with a customized approach to data protection.
Pricing:
Pricing for 2B Advice PrIME starts from $50/user/month (billed annually). For specific pricing tiers and options, it is recommended to contact 2B Advice directly.
Pros:
- Comprehensive privacy and compliance management features.
- Flexible integration with existing systems.
- Customizable to meet specific data privacy needs.
Cons:
- Might be expensive for smaller organizations.
- You’ll need a contact for precise pricing details.
- It may have a steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with compliance management tools.
12. IBM Data Security - Best for holistic data protection across hybrid cloud environments
IBM Data Security provides a comprehensive solution for managing and protecting data across diverse environments. It's specifically designed for hybrid cloud environments, providing robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information, making it ideally suited for businesses that rely on these systems.
Why I Picked IBM Data Security:
I chose IBM Data Security for this list mainly because of its comprehensive approach to data protection across hybrid cloud environments. Unlike other data security tools, IBM's solution stands out for its holistic, integrative strategy encompassing a wide range of data protection functionalities. I concluded that it is the best for hybrid cloud environments based on its dedicated features and capabilities tailored to these specific setups.
Standout features & integrations:
IBM Data Security offers a variety of notable features, including data activity monitoring, data risk analysis, and a unified data security platform. As for integrations, IBM Data Security provides compatibility with various IBM solutions and other third-party systems, which can be crucial for businesses operating in complex, hybrid cloud environments.
Pricing:
Pricing for IBM Data Security is upon request. It's recommended to contact IBM directly to get a precise quote based on your organization's specific requirements.
Pros:
- Comprehensive solution for data protection in hybrid cloud environments.
- Offers a unified platform for all data security needs.
- Wide range of compatible integrations.
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available.
- It may be too complex for small businesses.
- Potential learning curve due to its wide array of features.
Other Noteworthy Data Loss Prevention Software
Below is a list of additional data loss prevention software that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- LastPass - Good for password management in businesses of all sizes
- NordLayer - Good for advanced network security with threat prevention
- Cove - Good for reliable data backup and recovery solutions
- GTB Data Loss Prevention - Good for comprehensive data loss protection across various platforms
- Spirion - Good for businesses needing precise personal data discovery and protection
- Tessian - Good for preventing data loss through emails and human interactions
- Clearswift Data Loss Prevention - Good for adaptable and dynamic data loss prevention
- Varonis Data Security Platform - Good for extensive data security and threat detection
- Digital Guardian DLP - Good for businesses requiring context-aware data loss prevention
- Teramind DLP - Good for user-focused data loss prevention and user behavior analytics
- Fidelis Network - Good for organizations looking for network traffic analysis and data leakage prevention
- Laminar - Good for businesses seeking automated threat detection and response
- Cyberhaven - Good for organizations needing behavioral data loss prevention
- StorageGuard - Good for businesses looking for proactive data storage protection
Selection Criteria for Data Loss Prevention Software
In my extensive research and testing of various data protection and loss prevention tools, I found that several key factors significantly influence the effectiveness and value that these tools can provide. From trying out more than 30 tools, the following criteria matter most when choosing software for data protection and loss prevention.
Core Functionality:
The fundamental tasks the tool should enable you to perform include the following:
- Protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access
- Preventing data leakage and loss across all digital platforms
- Tracking and analyzing user activity for potential data threats
- Complying with privacy regulations and standards
Key Features:
The following features particularly stood out in my research as crucial for a robust data protection and loss prevention tool:
- Advanced Threat Detection: This feature allows for the real-time identification of potential security threats, helping to prevent insider threats, data leaks, and breaches.
- Data Classification: An essential feature that helps categorize data based on sensitivity, making applying appropriate security measures easier.
- User Activity Monitoring: This feature monitors how data is used within the organization, vital for identifying unusual activity that could signal a data breach.
- Policy Management: Tools should provide a platform for creating and enforcing security policies throughout the organization.
- Reporting and Analytics: Tools must offer comprehensive reports and analytics to measure the effectiveness of data protection strategies.
Usability:
Considering the complexity of data security, these tools' design, ease of onboarding, interface, and customer support significantly impact their usability. Here's what to look for:
- Intuitive Interface: A well-designed dashboard that displays critical metrics and provides quick access to various functionalities is crucial.
- Ease of Deployment: The tool should be straightforward to implement within the existing IT infrastructure.
- Role-based Access: An essential usability factor is efficiently assigning roles and access permissions, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access sensitive data.
- Comprehensive Customer Support: Robust customer support, including an accessible knowledge base, live chat, and responsive email support, is critical for addressing any challenges that might arise when using the tool.
Most Asked Questions Regarding Data Loss Prevention Software (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using data loss prevention software?
Data loss prevention software offers several crucial benefits:
- Data Protection: These tools safeguard sensitive information from unauthorized access, preventing data breaches and maintaining the integrity of your data.
- Compliance Management: They help ensure your organization adheres to various industry regulations related to data privacy and security.
- Real-time Threat Detection: Advanced algorithms can identify and neutralize threats in real time, significantly minimizing the potential damage from a data breach.
- Improved Visibility: They provide a clear view of how data is used and accessed within your organization, offering valuable insights for improving your data security strategy.
- Cost Savings: By preventing data breaches, these tools can save significant money that would otherwise be spent on damage control and recovery efforts.
How much do data loss prevention tools typically cost?
The pricing of data loss prevention tools can vary significantly based on factors such as the organization’s size, the volume of data being protected, and the specific features provided by the device. Some software is priced per user, while others may have a flat rate.
What are the typical pricing models for data loss prevention software?
Typically, data loss prevention software uses one of the following pricing models:
- Per User: The cost is calculated based on the software’s number of users.
- Per Device: Pricing depends on how many devices the software will install.
- Flat Rate: Some service providers offer a flat monthly or annual fee for their services, regardless of the number of users or mobile devices.
What is the typical range of pricing for data loss prevention software?
Data loss prevention software costs can range from as low as $10 per user per month to over $100 per month for premium solutions.
What is the cheapest and most expensive data loss prevention software?
The most affordable data loss prevention software typically starts around $10 per user per month, like Teramind DLP. The most expensive software, such as IBM Data Security, can go over $100 per user per month, offering advanced features tailored to large enterprises.
Are there any free data loss prevention software options?
Yes, some providers offer free versions of their data loss prevention software, though these are often limited in terms of features and user capacity. A popular free option is an open-source software OpenDLP.
More Data Loss Prevention Software-Related Reviews
Summary
In conclusion, finding the right data loss prevention software is a critical task that requires careful consideration of your organization's specific needs and circumstances. Each tool has its strengths, making it better suited for particular scenarios. Here are three key takeaways from this guide to assist in your decision-making process:
Understanding Your Requirements: Before starting your search, define what you need in a data loss prevention solution. Consider factors such as the size of your organization, the type of data you handle, and the compliance standards you must adhere to.
Prioritizing Core Functionality and Key Features: Look for tools that provide essential functionalities like real-time threat detection, data encryption, and policy enforcement. You should consider features that align with your use cases, such as advanced machine learning for predictive analytics or comprehensive compliance management tools.
Considering User Experience and Support: Effective software isn't just about features. It should be easy to use, with an intuitive interface and responsive customer support. Please ensure the provider offers enough onboarding and training resources, especially more complex solutions.
Remember, the best tool for you is the one that fits your unique needs and budget while providing robust protection for your data.
What do you think?
This guide has been helpful in your search for the best data loss prevention software. As technology and needs evolve, there may be other tools out there that I still need to cover. If you know of any that should be on this list, please feel free to suggest them. I'm always interested in learning about new tools that could benefit our readers.