12 Best Email Security Software Shortlist
After a thorough evaluation, I've curated the 12 best email security software to address your needs with precision.
- Hornetsecurity Email Security - Best for comprehensive threat intelligence
- FireEye Email Security - Best for advanced threat response
- Tessian Cloud Email Security - Best for machine learning-driven protection
- Spike - Best for conversational email security
- Vade - Best for real-time threat detection
- TitanHQ - Best for scalable business solutions
- Paubox - Best for healthcare email compliance
- Barracuda - Best for multi-layer defense strategy
- Mimecast Email Security - Best for integrated archiving features
- Microsoft Defender for Office 365 - Best for Office 365 integration
- Proofpoint Email Protection - Best for large enterprise environments
- Avanan - Best for cloud-native deployment
Navigating the world of email security software, I've seen the critical importance of tools that offer anti-spam, antivirus, and authentication. From the constant barrage of phishing emails and advanced protection against sophisticated hackers to securing outbound email and guarding sensitive data on both on-premises and cloud-based email security systems, it's clear: the right solution makes all the difference. In an age of increasing social engineering, vulnerabilities, and account takeover attempts, a secure email gateway is essential.
It not only shields email servers from malicious links and email attachments but also ensures end-to-end defense against data breaches, false positives, and data leaks. It’s an invaluable asset, safeguarding both inbound email and endpoint connections, and providing anti-malware and malware protection. By minimizing risks and optimizing security gateway functions, I protect what matters most, ensuring peace of mind in a digital age.
What Is an Email Security Software?
Email security software is a specialized toolset designed to protect email accounts, contents, and communication against unauthorized access, loss, or malicious attacks. Typically utilized by businesses, organizations, and individual users, these solutions offer functionalities such as spam filtering, malware detection, phishing alert, and data encryption.
By employing email security software, users aim to safeguard sensitive information, ensure uninterrupted communication, and foster a secure digital environment, free from potential email-borne threats.
Overviews of the 12 Best Email Security Software
1. Hornetsecurity Email Security - Best for comprehensive threat intelligence
Hornetsecurity Email Security positions itself as a robust solution that guards against a broad spectrum of email-borne threats. The platform does not just provide protection; it goes a step further to analyze threats in-depth, offering insights that enrich an organization's overall cybersecurity awareness.
This capability is particularly beneficial for businesses looking for comprehensive threat intelligence.
Why I Picked Hornetsecurity Email Security:
During my exploration of email security solutions, Hornetsecurity stood out for its in-depth threat analysis, rather than just mere protection. This feature struck me as distinct and invaluable, especially in today's landscape where understanding threats is as vital as thwarting them.
For entities keen on gaining deeper insights into the myriad of threats they face, Hornetsecurity, in my opinion, emerges as the top choice.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Hornetsecurity excels in its advanced threat protection that not only detects but also analyzes various threat vectors. Coupled with this are its spam and fraud detection capabilities, which fortify its comprehensive approach.
On the integration front, Hornetsecurity easily ties in with platforms such as Office 365, ensuring protection extends to widely-used collaboration tools.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Advanced threat analysis for more profound insights
- Robust spam and fraud detection mechanisms
- Integration capability with popular platforms like Office 365
Cons:
- Might be overwhelming for smaller businesses
- Specific features may require technical expertise for maximum benefit
- Lack of transparent pricing can be a deterrent for some potential users
2. FireEye Email Security - Best for advanced threat response
FireEye Email Security stands at the forefront of protecting communication channels from potential cyber threats. With an emphasis on delivering an advanced response to threats, this tool pledges to combat sophisticated attacks with precision and timeliness.
Why I Picked FireEye Email Security:
In the ever-shifting landscape of email security, I felt compelled to choose FireEye for its proactive stance on emerging threats. It struck me as distinct due to its emphasis on a rapid and advanced response mechanism.
This focus sets FireEye apart in a market flooded with reactive tools. My determination hinges on its adeptness at ensuring email infrastructure remains resilient even when faced with the most advanced cyber-attacks, which justifies its title as the "Best for advanced threat response."
Standout Features & Integrations:
FireEye thrives on its multi-phase approach, ensuring emails are thoroughly scanned for threats at every stage, from entry to delivery. Its MVX architecture analyzes the full attack lifecycle, allowing for a deeper understanding and response to threats. Integration-wise, FireEye aligns well with major email platforms, providing a cohesive protection layer across different communication infrastructures.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Multi-phase threat detection mechanism
- MVX architecture for analyzing the full attack lifecycle
- Solid integration with top email platforms
Cons:
- Lacks transparency in pricing structure
- Interface may be challenging for novice users
- Response time may vary based on threat complexity
3. Tessian Cloud Email Security - Best for machine learning-driven protection
Tessian Cloud Email Security leverages machine learning technology to provide an adaptive, intelligent layer of defense for email communication. Its commitment to machine learning-driven protection resonates with the growing need to tackle dynamic, evolving email threats with precision.
Why I Picked Tessian Cloud Email Security:
I chose Tessian Cloud Email Security because of its cutting-edge application of machine learning, which I found to be an essential criterion when judging modern email security solutions. Its machine learning-driven protection stood out from the rest, as it's not only equipped to respond to known threats but can also adapt to new ones. This makes it the "Best for machine learning-driven protection," as it applies continuous learning to ensure robust defense.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Tessian's platform actively learns from the email network's behavior, enabling it to detect anomalies and potential threats more accurately. Its ability to provide real-time analysis and automatic threat remediation makes it an agile solution for varied threat landscapes. When it comes to integrations, Tessian melds with major email providers, including Microsoft and Google, fostering a broad and versatile security coverage.
Pricing:
From $10/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Continuous learning through machine learning algorithms
- Real-time threat analysis
- Extensive integration with major email providers
Cons:
- May require technical expertise for fine-tuning
- Higher pricing for smaller businesses
- Limited features in the entry-level plan
4. Spike - Best for conversational email security
Spike revolutionizes the traditional email experience by turning it into a more conversational platform, resembling chat applications. With this unique approach, not only is communication more direct and fluid, but it also integrates security measures to ensure every conversation remains protected, making it ideal for those who value conversational email security.
Why I Picked Spike:
In my search for diverse email security solutions, Spike captured my attention for its distinctive conversational email setup. The tool's decision to simplify email into a chat-like interface, while also maintaining a high standard of security, is what sets it apart from others.
This dual capability convinced me that Spike truly stands out, especially for users who seek the ease of a chat application with the security of an email platform.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Spike boasts a real-time email chat feature that removes the formality of traditional emails, promoting rapid and effortless communication. Additionally, the platform integrates built-in email encryption for enhanced security. In terms of integrations, Spike collaborates effectively with popular tools like Google Drive and Dropbox, streamlining file sharing within the conversational platform.
Pricing:
From $5/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Chat-like email interface encourages direct communication
- Built-in encryption for emails
- Effective integrations with major file-sharing platforms
Cons:
- May require a learning curve for traditional email users
- The casual nature might not suit all professional settings
- Dependent on both parties using Spike for an optimal experience
5. Vade - Best for real-time threat detection
Vade is an email security platform that aims to identify and mitigate threats as they occur. By offering real-time protection, the system endeavors to halt threats in its tracks, making it an optimal choice for organizations seeking immediate response mechanisms.
Why I Picked Vade:
In my quest for robust email security tools, Vade caught my attention due to its emphasis on real-time action. The ability to instantly detect threats sets it apart in a market where delays can have significant repercussions. This swift response capability is why I deem Vade best suited for those who prioritize real-time threat detection.
Standout Features & Integrations:
One of Vade's most commendable features is its predictive email defense, which harnesses artificial intelligence to foresee potential threats. Additionally, its global threat center offers insights and data on the evolving threat landscape. For integrations, Vade meshes well with platforms like Office 365 and G Suite, catering to businesses of various scales.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Real-time threat detection offers immediate protection
- AI-driven predictive email defense enhances its anticipatory capabilities
- Integration with popular platforms ensures versatile applicability
Cons:
- Lack of transparent pricing may deter potential users
- The advanced features might present a learning curve for some users
- Dependency on AI might not appeal to organizations preferring traditional methods
6. TitanHQ - Best for scalable business solutions
TitanHQ is a security-focused software provider offering solutions tailored for businesses. With a commitment to ensuring scalable options for companies of different sizes, it stands out as an ideal choice for enterprises aiming for growth without compromising their email security needs.
Why I Picked TitanHQ:
While exploring various email security tools, TitanHQ captured my interest due to its dedication to scalability. This is essential for businesses anticipating growth, as adjusting to an increasing workforce and client base can be challenging. I judged TitanHQ to be especially suitable for those businesses seeking solutions that can effortlessly scale with them.
Standout Features & Integrations:
TitanHQ impresses with its multi-layered email filtering, which works diligently to ward off spam, viruses, and malware. It also offers advanced threat intelligence to keep users informed and prepared. When it comes to integrations, TitanHQ easily integrates with popular email platforms, facilitating smooth transitions for businesses.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Multi-layered filtering ensures a broad spectrum of threats are addressed
- Advanced threat intelligence provides users with current insights
- Effective integrations ensure its compatibility with prevalent platforms
Cons:
- Absence of clear pricing might deter potential adopters
- Businesses not focused on scaling might find some features redundant
- Initial setup might require some technical expertise for optimal use
7. Paubox - Best for healthcare email compliance
Paubox is a dedicated email security solution designed to address the unique challenges faced by the healthcare sector. With stringent regulations governing the healthcare industry, Paubox ensures that email communications adhere to compliance requirements, making it a prime choice for this specific niche.
Why I Picked Paubox:
In my quest for suitable email security tools, I was drawn to Paubox because of its specialized focus on healthcare. Among the myriad options, Paubox stood out distinctly with its emphasis on healthcare email compliance. I determined that for organizations operating in this sector, Paubox would offer the most tailored solution, ensuring both security and regulatory compliance.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Paubox offers encrypted email services that don't require any cumbersome steps from the recipient, ensuring confidentiality without compromising user experience.
It's also been recognized for its HIPAA-compliant email solution, an essential feature for healthcare providers. Integration-wise, Paubox can be effortlessly incorporated with popular EHR systems and other healthcare-specific software.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Specialized in healthcare, ensuring tailored solutions.
- Offers encrypted emails without additional steps for recipients.
- Recognized HIPAA-compliant solution, essential for regulated industries.
Cons:
- Might be too specialized for non-healthcare businesses.
- Absence of clear pricing could be a hindrance for some potential users.
- Setup and onboarding might require guidance for those unfamiliar with healthcare regulations
8. Barracuda - Best for multi-layer defense strategy
Barracuda offers an array of security solutions designed to protect organizations from various digital threats. Their commitment to building a robust multi-layer defense system ensures comprehensive coverage against a wide range of cybersecurity challenges, aligning with their reputation for a layered defense strategy.
Why I Picked Barracuda:
Navigating the vast landscape of email security tools, Barracuda caught my attention with its comprehensive approach. While many tools focus on a specific layer of defense, Barracuda distinguishes itself by incorporating multiple protective layers. In comparing tools, I determined that for businesses seeking an in-depth defense strategy, Barracuda offers the most comprehensive protection.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Barracuda boasts features such as advanced threat protection, AI-driven phishing and spear phishing attacks protection, and email encryption. Furthermore, its data loss prevention ensures sensitive information remains within the organization.
Integrations are aplenty, with Barracuda offering connections with platforms like Office 365, ensuring email communication remains secure without hindering productivity.
Pricing:
From $10/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Comprehensive multi-layer defense mechanism.
- AI-driven features adapt to evolving threats.
- Integration with major platforms like Office 365.
Cons:
- Can be complex for small businesses or those without a dedicated IT team.
- Some features might be overkill for businesses with limited email security needs.
- The annual billing cycle might not suit all organizations
9. Mimecast Email Security - Best for integrated archiving features
Mimecast offers comprehensive email security solutions aimed at protecting businesses from both common and emerging threats. One distinguishing aspect of their offering is the inclusion of integrated archiving features, allowing businesses to secure and efficiently manage their email archives in one platform.
Why I Picked Mimecast Email Security:
While evaluating various email security tools, Mimecast emerged as a unique choice due to its combined security and archiving solutions. Many tools offer one or the other, but Mimecast’s integrated approach ensures that email protection and long-term email management are harmoniously combined.
This dual capability positions Mimecast as the ideal tool for organizations prioritizing both immediate security and archival integrity.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Mimecast's features go beyond mere threat protection. The platform provides targeted threat protection against phishing, impersonation, and malware attacks. Moreover, its integrated archiving capabilities offer robust e-discovery and compliance features.
On the integration front, Mimecast offers connections with major platforms, making it compatible with various email ecosystems, notably Microsoft Exchange and Office 365.
Pricing:
From $12/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Dual functionality of email security and archiving.
- Robust compliance features within the archiving solution.
- Compatible with major email platforms like Microsoft Exchange.
Cons:
- Might be overwhelming for small businesses.
- Requires a deeper understanding to fully utilize archiving features.
- Annual billing might not fit all budgeting structures
10. Microsoft Defender for Office 365 - Best for Office 365 integration
Microsoft Defender for Office 365 serves as a key line of defense, offering protection against advanced threats targeting Office 365 users. Designed as a native extension of the Office ecosystem, it provides security features, enhancing the safety of emails, files, and links shared within this suite.
Why I Picked Microsoft Defender for Office 365:
I selected Microsoft Defender for Office 365 based on its native integration with the Office 365 environment. Upon comparing it with other tools, its deep-rooted connection with Office 365 applications made it stand out.
Its design assures that Office 365 users can rely on a security solution tailored to their specific environment, making it the optimal tool for those deeply invested in the Office 365 ecosystem.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Microsoft Defender for Office 365 boasts advanced threat protection, guarding against phishing attempts and malicious attachments. The tool also offers automated investigation and response capabilities, providing quick resolutions to detected threats. Integrations are predominantly within the Microsoft universe, including connections with tools such as Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive.
Pricing:
From $5/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Native integration with Office 365 ensures familiarity for users.
- Advanced threat protection is specific to Office 365 threats.
- Automated investigation and response streamline threat resolution.
Cons:
- Might be limited for non-Office 365 users.
- Relies on the user's knowledge of the Microsoft ecosystem.
- Potential for redundancy if other security tools are in place
11. Proofpoint Email Protection - Best for large enterprise environments
Proofpoint Email Protection functions as a comprehensive email threat solution, designed to catch both known and emergent dangers that target organizations. Primarily crafted for large enterprise environments, this tool is capable of handling the vast scale and unique challenges that such infrastructures present.
Why I Picked Proofpoint Email Protection:
After judging and comparing various email security tools, I chose Proofpoint because of its robust feature set tailored for large-scale operations. It has earned a reputation for effectively catering to the intricacies and demands of bigger enterprises, which resonated with the specific challenges these organizations face.
This determination underpins why I consider it the most suited tool for extensive enterprise environments.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Proofpoint offers advanced threat intelligence, leveraging insights from extensive data points to detect and deflect potential threats. With dynamic classification capabilities, it can identify suspicious content in real time. Its integrations include many enterprise systems, such as Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and other major platforms, ensuring compatibility in varied tech environments.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Designed with large enterprises in mind, addressing specific challenges.
- Robust threat intelligence based on vast data analytics.
- Integrates smoothly with other popular enterprise platforms.
Cons:
- May be overkill for smaller organizations.
- Complexity can introduce a steeper learning curve.
- Cost might be prohibitive for businesses with tighter budgets
12. Avanan - Best for cloud-native deployment
Avanan is positioned as an email security platform tailored to fit into cloud environments. As organizations increasingly shift towards cloud-based operations, a tool like Avanan, which is specifically engineered for cloud-native deployment, becomes indispensable.
Why I Picked Avanan:
When selecting email security tools for this list, Avanan caught my attention due to its distinct emphasis on cloud-native deployments. I believe that in a digital landscape dominated by cloud solutions, tools that are intrinsically designed for such environments gain an edge.
This specific alignment with cloud infrastructures is why I judge Avanan to be the ideal choice for those prioritizing cloud-native deployment.
Standout Features & Integrations:
At its core, Avanan offers advanced phishing protection, safeguarding emails against a spectrum of threats without compromising the user experience. Its machine learning algorithms adapt and improve over time, ensuring consistent defense against evolving threats. For integrations, Avanan boasts compatibility with popular cloud platforms, such as Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and Slack, among others.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Explicitly designed for cloud environments, catering to modern business needs.
- Dynamic machine learning capabilities that adjust to emerging threats.
- Extensive integration options with major cloud platforms.
Cons:
- Might not be the first choice for businesses not primarily based in the cloud.
- The focus on cloud deployment could overshadow other essential features.
- Potential complexities for those unfamiliar with cloud-native solutions
Other Noteworthy Email Security Software
Below is a list of additional email security software that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. They are definitely worth checking out.
- Virtru - Good for robust data protection controls
- NeoCertified - Good for compliant email communications
- SpamTitan - Good for advanced spam filtering capabilities
- Coro Cybersecurity - Good for multi-layered defense mechanisms
- IRONSCALES - Good for automated phishing threat remediation
- SaneBox - Good for email organization and prioritization
- Cisco Secure Email Threat Defense - Good for large-scale email threat defense
- Trend Micro Cloud App Security - Good for integrated cloud application security
- Egress Intelligent Email Security - Good for data loss prevention
- Abnormal Cloud Email Security - Good for AI-driven anomaly detection
- Darktrace/Email - Good for real-time email threat visualization
- Symantec Email Security.cloud - Good for comprehensive cloud email protection
- Symantec Messaging Gateway - Good for targeted attack protection
- FortiMail - Good for integrated threat intelligence
- AppRiver - Good for multi-vector threat protection
Selection Criteria for Choosing Email Security Software
When selecting the best email security software, there are several key criteria to keep in mind. I've tried out more than 30 tools in this category, and while many offered extensive features, it was essential to cut through the noise and focus on what genuinely mattered for this particular use case. Below, I'll delve into the criteria that I’m top of mind during my evaluation process.
Core Functionality
- Threat Detection: Ability to identify and thwart email-based threats, including phishing, malware, and ransomware.
- Data Loss Prevention: Mechanisms to prevent sensitive or confidential data from being sent outside the organization.
- Encryption: Ensuring that emails are encrypted during transit and at rest, making them unreadable to unauthorized individuals.
- Compliance Management: Assisting organizations in adhering to various regulations and standards pertaining to email communication.
Key Features
- Real-time Monitoring: Continuously scans incoming and outgoing emails to detect and act upon threats instantly.
- Behavioral Analysis: Uses machine learning and AI to learn from past threats and better predict and prevent future attacks.
- Sandboxing: Testing suspicious emails in a controlled environment before they reach the end-user.
- Reporting and Analytics: Provides detailed insights into threat types, frequency, sources, and actions taken, enabling more informed security decisions.
- Advanced Filtering: Filters out spam, malicious attachments, and URLs, ensuring only legitimate emails reach the inbox.
Usability
- Intuitive Dashboard: A central hub to manage settings, view threats, and access reports. The dashboard should allow for quick navigation and a clear visual representation of threat levels.
- Role-based Access: The software should provide different access levels based on roles, like admin, manager, or user, ensuring that only authorized personnel can modify settings or access sensitive reports.
- Guided Onboarding: For such a critical tool, a step-by-step onboarding process is vital, helping users understand the software's capabilities and set it up correctly.
- Responsive Support: When dealing with email threats, timely support is crucial. The tool should offer various support channels, such as chat, email, or phone, and have knowledgeable agents ready to assist.
- Learning Library: A repository of guides, tutorials, and best practices related to email security and the software's functionalities, enabling users to maximize the tool's potential.
Most Common Questions Regarding Email Security Software
What are the primary benefits of using email security software?
Using email security software offers numerous advantages:
- Threat Protection: These tools guard against phishing, malware, ransomware, and other email-based threats.
- Data Security: They ensure sensitive information remains confidential through encryption and data loss prevention features.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many tools assist organizations in adhering to industry-specific email communication regulations.
- Improved Productivity: By filtering out spam and malicious emails, users can focus on genuine communications, improving efficiency.
- Real-time Monitoring: These tools offer continuous surveillance of email traffic, ensuring immediate action against identified threats.
How much do email security software tools typically cost?
The pricing of email security software can vary based on the features offered, the size of the organization, and the number of users. Some tools might charge per user, while others may have a flat fee.
What are the common pricing models for these tools?
There are several pricing models for email security software:
- Per User/Per Month: A fee is charged based on the number of users or mailboxes.
- Flat Fee: A one-time or recurring charge irrespective of the number of users.
- Tiered Pricing: Costs vary based on the features chosen, with basic to premium tiers available.
What's the typical pricing range for these tools?
The pricing can start as low as $3/user/month for basic protection and can go up to $50/user/month or more for enterprise-level features and functionalities.
Which is the cheapest and the most expensive software on the list?
SpamTitan tends to be one of the more cost-effective options, starting at around $3/user/month. On the higher end, tools like Darktrace/Email often cater to larger enterprises and might have pricing that exceeds $50/user/month, depending on the organization's size and requirements.
Are there any free tool options?
Yes, some tools offer free versions or trials. However, these free options often come with limited features and might be best suited for individuals or very small businesses rather than larger organizations or those with specific compliance needs.
Other Data Security Software Reviews
- Password Manager Software
- Network Security Software
- Data Loss Prevention Software
- Cloud Security Tools
Summary
Selecting the right email security software is crucial for safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring smooth business operations. With the myriad of threats lurking in email communications, from phishing to malware, having robust protection is non-negotiable. Through this guide, I've explored various top-tier tools, dissected their unique selling propositions, and delved deep into the features and functionalities that matter most.
Key takeaways
- Define your needs: Understand the specific challenges and requirements your organization faces. Whether it's adhering to industry-specific regulations or needing advanced threat detection capabilities, your choice should align with your unique needs.
- Evaluate usability: Beyond core functionalities, the user experience can significantly impact the tool's effectiveness. Look for intuitive interfaces, easy onboarding processes, and responsive customer support, tailored to the demands of email security.
- Understand pricing models: The cost of email security software varies, with different pricing structures such as per user or tiered features. While free options might be tempting, they often come with limitations. Balance your budget with your requirements to make an informed decision.
What Do You Think?
Choosing the right email security software is more than just ticking off boxes on a checklist. It's about understanding the unique needs of your organization, the usability of the software, and how its cost fits into your budget. If you've come across a tool or have experience with one that I didn't mention, please share your insights. Your feedback is invaluable in making this resource richer and more beneficial for everyone.