Ranking The 27 Best Secure Web Gateways Of 2025
10 Best Secure Web Gateways Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 27 tools reviewed.
Navigating the vast expanse of the web securely is no trivial task. Enter secure web gateways: these tools act as a vigilant guard between users and potential online threats. By implementing one, you stand to benefit from enhanced protection against malicious websites, viruses, and other cyber threats. I've seen how not having a robust gateway can expose organizations to data breaches, productivity loss, and financial repercussions.
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Best Secure Web Gateways Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top secure web gateways selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for secure web access & automated compliance | 14-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 2 | Best for large-scale cloud deployment | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for DNS-layer security | Free trial + demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for telecommunication-grade security | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for complete malware isolation | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for robust content filtering | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for policy-based content inspection | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for enterprise data transfer | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for integrated threat intelligence | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for mobile-focused cloud security | Not available | From $6/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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Best Secure Web Gateways Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best secure web gateways that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Scalefusion is a Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platform that doubles as a powerful secure web gateway, bringing device management, web content filtering, and automated compliance together in one solution. It’s built for IT admins managing both BYOD and company-owned devices, helping organizations secure data while maintaining productivity.
Why I Picked Scalefusion:
I picked Scalefusion because it balances enterprise-grade security with practical endpoint management. Unlike most secure web gateways that focus solely on blocking threats, Scalefusion combines real-time protection, granular web filtering, and automated compliance enforcement to manage risk without overcomplicating device policies.
I was drawn to its ability to block entire website categories—such as malicious, inappropriate, or non-work-related content—while allowing IT to create custom allowlists for critical apps. It also supports restricting Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 logins to only approved corporate domains, giving teams precise control without micromanaging users.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Scalefusion stands out with granular website category-based filtering, real-time threat prevention, and domain-based login restrictions for cloud apps. The platform also enables custom allowlists to keep essential tools accessible, even within restricted categories.
Seamless integration with Check Point Harmony extends mobile threat detection and protection, safeguarding against phishing and malware across mobile attack surfaces.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Reliable for device control and application deployment
- Strong kiosk management features
- Effective application and content management across multiple platforms
Cons:
- Setup needs upfront effort
- Complex for small teams
New Product Updates from Scalefusion
Scalefusion Introduces Day Zero Apple OS Support
Scalefusion announces immediate support for iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26, enabling seamless OS updates and management. For more information, visit Scalefusion's official site.
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Symantec Cloud Secure Web Gateway provides businesses with a comprehensive security solution tailored for cloud services. Designed to address the unique challenges of cloud-based infrastructures, it efficiently implements security policies across large-scale cloud deployments, making it ideal for organizations with extensive cloud footprints.
Why I Picked Symantec Cloud Secure Web Gateway:
During my exploration of web security tools, Symantec Cloud Secure Web Gateway particularly impressed me. Its specific emphasis on large-scale cloud deployments, combined with its integration of cloud access security broker functionalities, distinguished it from many other options.
After a thorough comparison, I concluded that this tool truly stands out, solidifying its position as the "best for large-scale cloud deployment."
Standout Features & Integrations:
The gateway integrates a cloud access security broker, which provides a pivotal layer of security for cloud services. It also facilitates uniform enforcement of security policies across multiple cloud services, ensuring consistent protection.
On the integration front, Symantec's solution seamlessly cooperates with a variety of other security tools and platforms, enhancing its capability to safeguard vast cloud ecosystems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Designed to scale and accommodate extensive cloud deployments.
- Consistent application of security policies across various cloud services.
- Comprehensive integration of cloud access security broker offers robust cloud service protection.
Cons:
- As with most high-end security solutions, there might be an initial investment in terms of training.
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive compared to competitor products.
- Setup and configuration might demand a certain level of expertise.
Cisco Umbrella offers a cloud-delivered security solution that operates at the DNS layer. This approach provides users with a first line of defense against online threats, ensuring that potentially malicious internet destinations are blocked even before a connection is established, thus emphasizing its strength in DNS-layer security.
Why I Picked Cisco Umbrella:
In my journey of selecting top-tier security tools, Cisco Umbrella emerged as a strong contender due to its distinct focus on DNS-layer protection. Through rigorous comparisons and evaluations, I discerned that its specialization in this area made it stand apart from the rest.
This specificity and the comprehensive user experience it provides made me believe that it truly is the "best for DNS-layer security."
Standout Features & Integrations:
A key feature of Cisco Umbrella is its browser isolation capability, which effectively separates a user's browsing activity from their endpoint, reducing the risk of malware infiltration.
Additionally, it integrates a VPN feature ensuring secure and private connections for users. The platform also offers integrations with numerous third-party security solutions, facilitating a more comprehensive security environment.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated VPN ensures enhanced user privacy.
- Browser isolation reduces the risk of malware breaches.
- DNS-layer security effectively blocks malicious destinations before connection.
Cons:
- Some users may find the interface to be less intuitive compared to other tools.
- Potential delays in real-time threat updates due to DNS-layer operations.
- Initial setup may require some technical expertise.
AT&T Cybersecurity provides a suite of tools that ensures comprehensive digital protection for organizations, leveraging the trusted robustness commonly associated with large telecommunication entities. Given AT&T's longstanding reputation in the telecommunication sector, its cybersecurity solutions inherently understand the need for telecommunication-grade security.
Why I Picked AT&T Cybersecurity:
While exploring various cybersecurity tools, AT&T Cybersecurity captured my attention for its robustness typically found in telecommunication infrastructures.
I determined that its comprehensive approach to security, enriched by AT&T's extensive experience in the telecommunication sector, set it apart. This unique pedigree is why I opine it's "best for telecommunication-grade security."
Standout Features & Integrations:
A salient feature of AT&T Cybersecurity is its DNS filtering capabilities, which ensure that potentially harmful internet destinations are intercepted promptly. It also boasts advanced malware detection techniques, keeping organizations safe from evolving threats.
Integration-wise, AT&T Cybersecurity seamlessly collaborates with various security platforms and tools, offering users a fortified defense ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced malware detection keeps pace with emerging threats.
- Effective DNS filtering curtails access to malicious destinations.
- Telecommunication-grade security assures high-level protection.
Cons:
- Possible compatibility issues with non-AT&T hardware or software.
- The extensive suite of tools may be overwhelming for smaller businesses.
- Might not be as agile as smaller, niche cybersecurity solutions.
Menlo Security Secure Web Gateway provides a formidable defense layer against malicious online content, operating on the principle of full isolation. This "complete malware isolation" approach ensures that users interact with only clean, safe-rendered web content, validating its stance as the best choice for those prioritizing a truly isolated browsing environment.
Why I Picked Menlo Security Secure Web Gateway:
The digital realm is vast, and as I scoured through numerous tools, Menlo Security Secure Web Gateway's approach to network security particularly caught my attention. Its unique focus on complete malware isolation sets it apart from many of its contemporaries.
I determined that for those prioritizing a bulletproof defense against malware, this tool stands unrivaled, hence, it's "best for complete malware isolation".
Standout Features & Integrations:
Menlo’s patented isolation technology ensures that all content accessed by users, whether malicious or not, is fully isolated from the endpoint, acting as a robust firewall. Their cloud-native solution offers an integrated approach to threat prevention, giving organizations an upper hand in sandboxing potential threats.
For seamless operations, Menlo offers integrations with top security information and event management (SIEM) systems, enhancing its network security capabilities.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration with leading SIEM systems
- Cloud-native solution ensures scalability and adaptability
- Patented isolation technology prevents direct content access
Cons:
- Advanced features might be overkill for small enterprises
- Some businesses might prefer on-premises solutions
- Might have a steeper learning curve for beginners
Fortinet FortiProxy stands as a web security gateway solution that focuses on securing internet access through advanced content filtering. With its enhanced focus on content screening, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring that organizations remain protected from harmful online content, aligning perfectly with its claim of robust content filtering.
Why I Picked Fortinet FortiProxy:
In my journey of evaluating web security tools, Fortinet FortiProxy captivated my attention due to its deep emphasis on content filtering. What differentiates it from the crowd is its comprehensive and precise application control that effectively manages and screens web applications.
Based on its capabilities and my assessment, I opine that Fortinet FortiProxy is "best for robust content filtering."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Fortinet FortiProxy is renowned for its potent application control, which ensures that web applications adhere to security and compliance mandates. The tool also boasts the ability to manage bandwidth efficiently, ensuring optimized resource utilization.
Another hallmark is its capacity to address zero-day threats, adding another layer of security. Regarding integrations, it pairs well with other Fortinet solutions, fortifying its ability to offer a unified security posture.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Proactive in addressing zero-day vulnerabilities
- Effective bandwidth management ensuring optimal internet usage
- Superior application control for managing web apps securely
Cons:
- Might necessitate advanced expertise for full feature utilization
- Integration with non-Fortinet products might require additional configurations
- Might be a bit complex for smaller organizations
Clearswift Secure Web Gateway (SWG) delivers a comprehensive web security solution that focuses on in-depth, policy-based content inspection. This not only ensures secure access to internet resources but also offers businesses the ability to have granular control over online content access, substantiating its position as the best for policy-based content inspection.
Why I Picked Clearswift Secure Web Gateway (SWG):
Navigating through an array of web security tools, Clearswift SWG drew my attention, particularly because of its exceptional policy-driven content inspection. Its unique approach, which combines both malware protection and specific content criteria for web access, makes it stand out in the crowded marketplace. Hence, after carefully judging and comparing, I am inclined to believe that Clearswift SWG is undoubtedly "best for policy-based content inspection."
Standout Features & Integrations:
One of the defining features of Clearswift SWG is its rigorous policy-based content inspection that ensures secure access while catering to organizational content access mandates. The gateway is well-equipped to offer top-tier malware protection, ensuring that external threats are kept at bay.
In terms of integrations, Clearswift SWG has shown compatibility with multiple leading security solutions and providers, expanding its security and functional perimeter.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatibility with leading security providers ensures enhanced threat detection
- Exceptional malware protection mechanisms
- Comprehensive policy-driven content inspection allows for granular access control
Cons:
- Configuration might require specialized skills
- Potential for increased false positives due to strict content inspection
- Might have a steeper learning curve for those new to policy-based solutions
IBM Secure Gateway Service is a dedicated solution designed to ensure safe and efficient data transfers between private networks and IBM Cloud services. This is particularly beneficial for large enterprises that prioritize the security of their data transfers, matching the essence of it being "best for enterprise data transfer."
Why I Picked IBM Secure Gateway Service:
In my journey of selecting top-notch gateway services, IBM Secure Gateway Service stood out prominently. I judged its capabilities against others, and it was clear that IBM's years of expertise in handling enterprise-level operations made a difference.
This is precisely why I hold the opinion that it's "best for enterprise data transfer."
Standout Features & Integrations:
One of the primary features of the IBM Secure Gateway Service is its advanced network access control, ensuring that only authorized data gets transferred. It effectively monitors and manages network traffic, promoting efficiency. In terms of integrations, the service syncs well with various IBM products and platforms, aiding in a more holistic approach to enterprise networking.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built for the new generation of enterprise network solutions.
- Efficient management of network traffic ensures smooth operations.
- Advanced network access controls secure data transfers.
Cons:
- Requires close integration with other IBM services for best results.
- Might be an overkill for smaller businesses or startups.
- The learning curve might be steeper for those unfamiliar with IBM products.
Barracuda Content Shield specializes in providing comprehensive web filtering and security measures, designed to safeguard businesses from a myriad of online threats. With its emphasis on integrated threat intelligence, it brings together multiple security protocols to deliver a holistic defense mechanism, aptly matching its reputation for top-tier threat awareness.
Why I Picked Barracuda Content Shield:
During my exploration of web security tools, I was drawn to Barracuda Content Shield for its well-rounded features and integrated approach. It struck me that by merging threat intelligence into its core functionalities, it distinguishes itself from many competitors.
I believe that for organizations that value a consolidated and informed security stance, this tool is undoubtedly "best for integrated threat intelligence."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Barracuda Content Shield stands out with its robust web filtering capabilities, ensuring safe browsing while blocking malicious content. It boasts an SSL inspection feature that scrutinizes encrypted traffic, adding an extra layer of security.
Additionally, the antivirus protection incorporated helps in the proactive detection and elimination of malware. As for integrations, it seamlessly collaborates with popular enterprise platforms to enhance its protective scope.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built-in antivirus ensures malware is swiftly addressed
- SSL inspection uncovers hidden threats within encrypted traffic
- Strong web filtering to deter harmful content
Cons:
- Configuration demands might be challenging for those unfamiliar with integrated threat intelligence
- Some advanced features may be over-complicated for small businesses
- Might require a steeper learning curve for new users
In an era where mobile devices dominate our digital interactions, Lookout rises as a prominent security service. Its emphasis on mobile-focused cloud security ensures that every tap, swipe, and type on our mobile devices is guarded against potential threats.
Why I Picked Lookout:
Navigating the myriad of cloud-based security tools, Lookout distinctly caught my eye. Its unique design tailored to mobile devices sets it apart. When determining which tools offer the most specialized approach to mobile protection, Lookout emerged as a clear winner, justifying why it's "best for mobile-focused cloud security".
Standout Features & Integrations:
Lookout's cloud-based platform employs a comprehensive security solution that covers everything from threat intelligence to phishing protection for mobile devices. In addition, its adaptability ensures compatibility across various device types and operating systems.
For businesses seeking a holistic approach, Lookout offers integrations with leading Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM) and Mobile Device Management (MDM) systems, elevating its security capabilities.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration with leading EMM and MDM systems
- Compatibility across a range of device types and operating systems
- Comprehensive cloud-based security solution tailored for mobile
Cons:
- Pricing model might not suit all business sizes
- Some advanced features may have a learning curve
- Might not be the first choice for non-mobile focused businesses
Other Secure Web Gateways
Here are some additional secure web gateways options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Forcepoint Secure Web Gateway
For human-centric threat analytics
- Netskope
For real-time data protection
- Trend Micro Web Security
For flexible hybrid deployment
- DNSFilter
Good for AI-driven domain filtering
- Zscaler Internet Access
Good for direct-to-cloud connection security
- Check Point URL Filtering
Good for advanced malicious URL detection
- Lightspeed Filter
Good for education-focused filtering
- Cyren WebSecurity
Good for real-time web threat analysis
- iPRISM
Good for multi-layered defense against web threats
- WebTitan Web Filter
Good for SMB-friendly web filtering
- Sophos Secure Web Gateway
Good for combined web and network threat prevention
- Netskope Cloud Security Platform
Good for granular visibility into cloud traffic
- F5 BIG-IP Access Policy Manager
Good for scalable access policy management
- iboss
Good for distributed gateway security
- Citrix Secure Browser
Good for remote browser isolation
- McAfee Web Protection
Good for comprehensive threat intelligence
- Zscaler
Good for full cloud-based internet security
Secure Web Gateways Selection Criteria
When selecting the best secure web gateways to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
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- Protecting against malware and phishing
- Enforcing security policies
- Monitoring internet activity
- Blocking unauthorized websites
- Filtering web content
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Advanced threat intelligence
- Real-time traffic analysis
- Customizable reporting dashboards
- Integration with cloud services
- User behavior analytics
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Responsive performance
- Clear and concise instructions
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Comprehensive documentation
- Access to webinars
- Responsive chatbots for guidance
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 availability
- Multiple support channels
- Fast response times
- Knowledgeable support staff
- Access to a resource center
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible payment options
- Transparent pricing structure
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Cost-effectiveness compared to features offered
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Consistent positive feedback
- High ratings for reliability
- Praise for customer support
- Reports of ease of use
- Testimonials on effective threat protection
How to Choose a Secure Web Gateway
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Can the solution grow with your business needs? Consider future expansion, increased traffic, and additional users. Avoid solutions that can't handle growth efficiently. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your current systems? Ensure compatibility with existing software, cloud services, and network infrastructure to avoid costly adjustments. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor the solution to your workflows? Look for options that let you adjust settings to fit your team's specific needs. |
| Ease of use | Is the interface intuitive for your team? Choose a tool that's user-friendly to minimize training time and reduce errors. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get started? Evaluate the setup time and support available during the transition phase to ensure a smooth onboarding experience. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Compare pricing plans, hidden fees, and long-term costs. Look for a balance between cost and necessary features. |
| Security safeguards | How well does it protect against threats? Verify the tool has strong encryption, threat detection, and compliance with industry standards. |
| Compliance requirements | Does it meet your industry regulations? Ensure the tool aligns with data protection laws and standards relevant to your business. |
What Are Secure Web Gateways?
Secure web gateways are tools that protect organizations from online threats by filtering unwanted software and malware from user-initiated web traffic. IT professionals, network administrators, and cybersecurity teams typically use these tools to safeguard sensitive data and maintain secure internet access. URL filtering, application control, and data loss prevention capabilities help with enforcing security policies and protecting against threats. Overall, these tools provide essential protection to keep networks secure and compliant.
Features
When selecting secure web gateways, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- URL filtering: Blocks access to harmful or unauthorized websites to protect users from malicious content.
- Malware detection: Identifies and prevents malware threats before they can infiltrate a network.
- Application control: Manages and restricts web application usage to prevent unauthorized access and data leaks.
- Data loss prevention: Monitors and controls data transfers to prevent sensitive information from leaving the network.
- Threat intelligence: Provides real-time threat analysis to stay ahead of emerging cyber threats.
- User behavior analytics: Tracks and analyzes user activity to detect suspicious behavior and potential security breaches.
- Content filtering: Filters web content based on predefined policies to ensure compliance with organizational standards.
- Integration capabilities: Seamlessly connects with existing security and network systems to enhance overall protection.
- Scalability: Adapts to growing business needs, allowing for easy expansion and increased user capacity.
- Compliance support: Ensures adherence to industry regulations and standards, keeping organizations compliant with data protection laws.
Benefits
Implementing secure web gateways provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Enhanced security: Protects your network from malware and threats, ensuring safe internet access for users.
- Compliance assurance: Helps meet industry regulations by enforcing data protection policies and monitoring compliance.
- Data protection: Prevents unauthorized data transfers, safeguarding sensitive information from leaks.
- Improved productivity: Blocks access to non-work-related sites, keeping employees focused and productive.
- Real-time threat detection: Offers immediate analysis of threats, allowing your team to respond quickly and effectively.
- User activity monitoring: Tracks user behavior to identify suspicious activities and potential security breaches.
- Scalability: Grows with your organization, accommodating increased traffic and user demands without compromising security.
Costs and Pricing
Selecting secure web gateways requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in secure web gateway solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Secure Web Gateways
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic URL filtering, limited malware protection, and minimal data monitoring. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$15/user/month | Enhanced security settings, basic application control, and user activity logging. |
| Business Plan | $20-$50/user/month | Advanced threat detection, data loss prevention, and compliance support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Comprehensive integration capabilities, real-time analytics, and customizable security policies. |
Secure Web Gateways FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about secure web gateways:
Why is it crucial to invest in a secure web gateway?
With the rising number of cyber threats, particularly as businesses transition to cloud applications, SWGs are becoming essential. They prevent data breaches, protect against malware, ensure secure access to cloud applications, and maintain the reputation and integrity of the business.
Is secure web gateway a DLP solution?
While a secure web gateway isn’t exclusively a DLP solution, it does help prevent data breaches. It enforces acceptable use policies and applies controls like URL filtering and anti-malware scanning, which contribute to data loss prevention efforts.
Can a secure web gateway support cloud adoption?
Yes, secure web gateways can support cloud adoption by providing secure access to cloud applications. They ensure data protection and compliance, allowing your team to use cloud services without compromising security.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching secure web gateways, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.