Cisco AnyConnect vs Pulse Secure: What are the differences?

Introduction:

Cisco AnyConnect and Pulse Secure are both Virtual Private Network (VPN) solutions that provide secure remote access to resources on a network. However, there are several key differences between the two that make them unique in their own way.

1. User Interface: Cisco AnyConnect has a more modern and user-friendly interface compared to Pulse Secure. It offers a sleek design with intuitive controls, making it easier for users to connect and navigate through the VPN client. On the other hand, Pulse Secure has a simpler interface that focuses more on functionality rather than aesthetics.

2. Mobile Device Support: Cisco AnyConnect provides seamless support for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, regardless of the operating system (iOS, Android, etc.). It has dedicated apps for various platforms, allowing users to easily connect to the VPN from their mobile devices. In contrast, Pulse Secure offers limited support for mobile devices and may require additional configuration to work smoothly.

3. Integration with Security Ecosystem: Cisco AnyConnect has robust integration capabilities with other security solutions, enabling organizations to create a comprehensive security ecosystem. It can seamlessly integrate with other Cisco products, such as firewalls and intrusion prevention systems, to provide a multi-layered security approach. Pulse Secure, although it offers integration options, may not have the same level of compatibility or extensive integration capabilities as Cisco AnyConnect.

4. Advanced Threat Protection: Cisco AnyConnect offers advanced threat protection features, such as Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) integration and network traffic analysis. It can actively detect and mitigate various types of threats, providing an additional layer of security for users connected to the VPN. Pulse Secure, while it has security features, may not offer the same level of advanced threat protection as Cisco AnyConnect.

5. Scalability and Performance: Cisco AnyConnect is known for its scalability and high-performance capabilities. It can efficiently handle a large number of concurrent connections and deliver reliable performance even under heavy network loads. Pulse Secure, while it can handle a decent number of connections, may not be as scalable or perform as efficiently as Cisco AnyConnect in similar scenarios.

6. Deployment Options: Cisco AnyConnect provides flexible deployment options, offering both on-premises and cloud-based solutions. Organizations have the choice to deploy AnyConnect in their own data centers or leverage Cisco's cloud infrastructure. On the other hand, Pulse Secure primarily focuses on on-premises deployment, with limited cloud-based options available.

In Summary, Cisco AnyConnect offers a more user-friendly interface, extensive mobile device support, advanced threat protection, seamless integration with other security solutions, scalability, and flexible deployment options compared to Pulse Secure.