Cisco Secure Client review

Cisco Secure Client is the current name for the client that includes AnyConnect, still one of the most widely deployed business VPN clients. It handles AnyConnect VPN and ZTNA, and its modular design lets the same agent run Cisco Secure Endpoint for malware protection and the Umbrella Roaming module, which keeps DNS-layer security on when users are off the VPN. A single cloud console shows all Secure Client agents, and with Cisco Secure Network Analytics it adds endpoint flow visibility for monitoring application use. For companies that already run Cisco firewalls, this is often the lowest-friction route because the headend and licensing are already in place, and it can be bought through a Cisco Security Enterprise Agreement. For anyone else it is a harder sell. Cisco publishes no price on the product page, the VPN needs a Cisco headend, and license tiers across Cisco products take effort to compare. It ranks last here on ease of use and value, not on reliability.

Who it is for

Companies with Cisco firewalls or Cisco security contracts that want a familiar VPN client with extra security modules.

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• AnyConnect VPN and ZTNA in one client
• Cisco Secure Endpoint module for endpoint protection
• Umbrella Roaming module that protects users when they are off the VPN
• Single cloud console to manage multiple security agents
• Endpoint flow visibility when paired with Cisco Secure Network Analytics

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Widely deployed client that many users already know
• Strength: One agent covers VPN, ZTNA and other Cisco security modules
• Strength: Bundles into a Cisco Security Enterprise Agreement
• Weakness: No public price
• Weakness: Needs a Cisco headend such as a Secure Firewall for VPN
• Weakness: Licensing across Cisco products is complex

Key facts

• Includes: AnyConnect VPN and ZTNA
• Modules: Secure Endpoint, Umbrella Roaming, network visibility
• Management: Single cloud console
• Pricing: Quote based

Where it ranks

Cisco Secure Client is No. 10 in our Best Business VPN verdict.