Zscaler vs Netskope -- SASE & Zero Trust Compared

Zscaler vs Netskope

Netskope and Zscaler are the two leading cloud-native SASE platforms, but they differ in strengths. Netskope excels at CASB and SaaS visibility with granular activity-level controls through its Cloud XD engine, making it the strongest choice for organizations focused on securing cloud application usage and preventing data leaks through SaaS. Zscaler offers a larger global network, stronger zero trust network access through ZPA, and a more proven track record in replacing VPNs for large-scale remote workforces.

The Verdict

Choose Netskope if securing SaaS applications and preventing cloud data loss are your primary concerns — its CASB and DLP capabilities are the strongest in the market. Choose Zscaler if you need the largest global cloud for inline inspection at scale and want the most proven zero trust network access platform for replacing VPNs across a large enterprise.

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

FeatureNetskopeZscaler
Secure Web GatewayAdvanced SWG with Cloud XD contextIndustry-leading SWG with full TLS inspection
CASB CapabilitiesBest-in-class inline + API CASBStrong CASB, less granular app controls
Zero Trust Network AccessZTNA with app connectorsZPA — proven at massive enterprise scale
Data Loss PreventionAdvanced DLP with exact data matchComprehensive DLP across channels
Global NetworkNewEdge — 70+ regions, full compute150+ data centers worldwide
User Behavior AnalyticsBuilt-in UEBA with risk scoringBasic user risk scoring
SD-WAN IntegrationPartnerships with SD-WAN vendorsPartnerships plus branch connector
Digital Experience MonitoringProactive DEM capabilitiesZDX — mature DEM platform

When to Choose Each Tool

Choose Netskope when:

  • +You need the deepest SaaS application visibility with activity-level controls beyond allow/block
  • +Cloud data protection and advanced DLP are your top security priorities
  • +You want inline and API-based CASB combined in one platform
  • +Detecting insider threats and risky user behavior with UEBA is critical
  • +Your primary concern is governing Shadow IT and unsanctioned SaaS usage

Choose Zscaler when:

  • +You need the largest global cloud network for lowest-latency inline inspection
  • +Replacing VPNs with zero trust network access (ZPA) at enterprise scale is the priority
  • +You want the most proven platform for securing 50,000+ user deployments
  • +Branch office transformation and eliminating on-prem appliances is a key goal
  • +You need the broadest ecosystem of integrations with existing security stack

Pros & Cons Comparison

Netskope

Pros

  • +Industry-leading CASB with the deepest SaaS app visibility and activity-level controls
  • +NewEdge network provides fast, full-compute security in 70+ regions
  • +Superior data protection with advanced DLP, exact data match, and fingerprinting
  • +Strong UEBA detects insider threats and compromised accounts
  • +Excellent API-based CASB for SaaS posture management and compliance

Cons

  • –Premium pricing comparable to Zscaler, difficult for mid-market budgets
  • –SD-WAN capabilities less mature than dedicated SD-WAN vendors
  • –Smaller global PoP footprint than Zscaler (70+ vs 150+)
  • –Complex licensing tiers make it hard to predict total cost
  • –Private access (ZTNA) features are less proven than ZPA at large scale

Zscaler

Pros

  • +Massive global cloud with 150+ data centers for low-latency inspection
  • +True inline inspection of all traffic including encrypted TLS/SSL
  • +Eliminates VPNs and reduces attack surface with zero trust architecture
  • +Comprehensive platform covering SWG, ZTNA, CASB, and DLP
  • +Proven at scale with Fortune 500 enterprises and millions of users

Cons

  • –Premium pricing puts it out of reach for SMBs and mid-market
  • –Complex deployment and configuration for large enterprises
  • –Vendor lock-in with proprietary architecture and limited interoperability
  • –ZPA and ZIA sold as separate products, increasing total cost
  • –Limited customization compared to building with best-of-breed point solutions

Zscaler vs Netskope FAQ

Common questions about choosing between Zscaler and Netskope.

What is the main difference between Zscaler and Netskope?

Netskope and Zscaler are the two leading cloud-native SASE platforms, but they differ in strengths. Netskope excels at CASB and SaaS visibility with granular activity-level controls through its Cloud XD engine, making it the strongest choice for organizations focused on securing cloud application usage and preventing data leaks through SaaS. Zscaler offers a larger global network, stronger zero trust network access through ZPA, and a more proven track record in replacing VPNs for large-scale remote workforces.

Is Netskope better than Zscaler?

Choose Netskope if securing SaaS applications and preventing cloud data loss are your primary concerns — its CASB and DLP capabilities are the strongest in the market. Choose Zscaler if you need the largest global cloud for inline inspection at scale and want the most proven zero trust network access platform for replacing VPNs across a large enterprise.

How much does Netskope cost compared to Zscaler?

Netskope pricing: Custom enterprise pricing / Per-user subscription. Zscaler pricing: Custom enterprise pricing / Per-user subscription. Netskope's pricing model is per-user annual subscription, while Zscaler uses per-user annual subscription pricing.

Can I migrate from Zscaler to Netskope?

Yes, you can migrate from Zscaler to Netskope. The migration process depends on your specific setup and the features you use. Both platforms offer APIs that can facilitate automated migration. Consider running both tools in parallel during the transition to ensure zero downtime.

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