%201.webp){kind=icon}
.avif)
%201.svg)
Your cloud security might not be as tight as you think.
A 2024 report found that 45% of cloud security breaches happen due to misconfigurations and shadow IT – gaps traditional security tools can’t fix. Unauthorized access, shadow IT, and uncontrolled SaaS sprawl create security risks that slip through the cracks, leading to compliance violations, financial loss, and operational chaos.
That’s where Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASBs) step in. They fill security gaps, provide visibility, and enforce controls – without disrupting workflows. This guide covers the best CASB software, its key features, and how CloudEagle helps you manage security risks while optimizing SaaS usage.
TL;DR - Best CASB Software
.png)
What is CASB software?
Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) software acts as a security layer between cloud applications and users, ensuring secure access, data protection, and compliance enforcement. It helps businesses gain visibility into cloud usage, prevent unauthorized access, and mitigate security risks that traditional security tools often miss.
Unlike firewalls or endpoint security solutions, CASB software is built for cloud environments – monitoring every interaction between users and cloud services, whether managed or unmanaged.
The Role of CASB as a Security Layer
CASBs sit between users and cloud services, enforcing security policies across SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS platforms. They:
- Detect shadow IT and unauthorized app usage
- Monitor user activity and access patterns
- Enforce security policies in real time
- Encrypt sensitive data before it reaches the cloud
- Prevent unauthorized downloads, sharing, and data leaks
The Four Pillars of CASB Security (Gartner’s Framework)
Gartner defines CASB security across four key pillars:
- Visibility – Monitors who is using what cloud apps, tracks access logs, and identifies risky behavior.
- Data Security – Encrypts, tokenizes, or applies DRM to sensitive data in transit and at rest.
- Threat Protection – Uses AI and behavioral analytics to detect anomalies, malware, and insider threats.
- Compliance – Ensures adherence to GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2, PCI DSS, and other industry regulations.
CASBs don’t just alert security teams to risks; they take action to prevent data loss and unauthorized access before threats become breaches.
Key Features to Look for in CASB Software
Choosing the right Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) software isn’t just about security; it’s about control, visibility, and automation. Here are the must-have features that ensure your cloud environment stays secure, compliant, and efficient.
1. Cloud Application Discovery & Shadow IT Detection
Most security teams underestimate how many cloud apps employees use. CASBs provide full visibility into sanctioned and unsanctioned cloud applications, tracking usage patterns to flag risky shadow IT that bypasses security policies.
2. Data Loss Prevention (DLP) for Cloud Security
Sensitive files don’t belong in public links, unauthorized apps, or personal storage. CASBs enforce DLP policies, preventing accidental or malicious data leaks by blocking downloads, applying encryption, and restricting sharing permissions.
3. User & Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA)
Not all threats come from outside – insider risks and compromised accounts pose serious security challenges. Cloud Access Security Brokers use behavior analytics to detect suspicious activity, like logins from unusual locations, excessive data downloads, or privilege escalations.
4. Granular Access Controls & Zero Trust Security
Zero Trust means never trusting, always verifying. CASBs enforce role-based access control (RBAC) and context-aware security policies, ensuring that only the right users, devices, and locations can access specific cloud resources.
5. Threat Protection & Malware Detection
Cloud-based threats evolve fast - your CASB needs to be smarter. Look for real-time anomaly detection, sandboxing for malicious files, and automated threat response to stop attacks before they spread.
6. Seamless Integration with SaaS & Cloud Platforms
Security shouldn’t disrupt productivity. The best CASBs integrate with SaaS, IaaS, and identity providers (Okta, Microsoft Entra ID, Google Workspace), making security enforcement seamless without slowing down workflows.
The right CASB doesn’t just monitor security risks; it prevents them before they happen.
SaaS Lifecycle Management is broken. Here’s how CloudEagle fixes it:
Most Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) solutions focus only on security – controlling access, preventing data leaks, and detecting threats. But securing SaaS applications isn’t enough. Unmanaged SaaS sprawl, rising costs, and renewal chaos create security gaps that CASBs don’t address.
CloudEagle goes beyond traditional security by offering end-to-end SaaS lifecycle management – from discovery and optimization to renewals and governance. Here’s how it helps businesses gain full control over their SaaS environment while strengthening security.
1. Discover: Identify Shadow IT & Gain Full Visibility
Employees sign up for SaaS tools without IT approval, leading to uncontrolled access, security risks, and compliance violations.
How CloudEagle helps:
- $2.1M+ spend visibility by integrating with Okta, Google Workspace, and direct connections.
- Automated app discovery to detect unauthorized SaaS usage before it becomes a security issue.
- AI-extracted contracts to track renewals, compliance obligations, and pricing details in one place.
2. Optimize: Reduce SaaS Waste & Strengthen Cost Control
Duplicate subscriptions, underutilized licenses, and redundant apps inflate costs and expose businesses to unnecessary security risks.
How CloudEagle helps:
- $150,000+ license harvesting opportunities identified to eliminate waste.
- SaaS budgeting & spend optimization tools to prevent overspending on unapproved apps.
- Usage tracking to ensure every tool is properly utilized – or deprovisioned securely.
3. Renew: Automate Procurement & Renewal Workflows
Missed renewals and auto-renewing contracts result in businesses paying for tools they don’t need, while security teams struggle to track vendor compliance.
How CloudEagle helps:
- 90-day auto-triggered renewal workflows to prevent last-minute contract surprises
- Cross-team collaboration via Slack between IT, finance, and procurement to manage renewals.
- Jira-integrated vendor onboarding workflows to streamline approvals and compliance.
4. Govern: Strengthen Access Security & Compliance
Ex-employees retain access to SaaS tools, creating security risks. Employees request new apps without proper security checks, leading to unauthorized data exposure.
How CloudEagle helps:
- Employee self-service app catalog to provide controlled, compliant access requests.
- Zero-touch onboarding & offboarding to grant or revoke access instantly.
- Automated access reviews to detect and remove inactive users.
Why CloudEagle complements CASB software?
CASBs protect cloud data and enforce security policies - but they don’t solve SaaS sprawl, renewal chaos, or cost inefficiencies. CloudEagle.ai fills this gap by offering complete SaaS lifecycle management that keeps security, cost, and compliance in sync.
By integrating CloudEagle with a (Cloud Access Security Brokers) CASB solution, businesses gain full control over their SaaS stack – without security blind spots, wasted spend, or compliance risks.
Best Cloud Access Security Brokers Software for Cloud Security in 2024
1. Netskope CASB
Netskope One Platform provides cloud security beyond traditional Cloud Access Security Brokers, offering real-time visibility, threat protection, and data loss prevention (DLP) for cloud applications, web traffic, and private apps. With context-aware policies and granular controls, Netskope helps businesses secure SaaS usage without disrupting workflows.
Key Features
- Advanced Threat Protection – Detects and blocks malware, ransomware, and zero-day threats built specifically for cloud environments.
- Context-Aware DLP – Prevents data exfiltration and accidental leaks by enforcing granular security policies across all cloud applications.
- Cloud Traffic Visibility – Monitors sanctioned and unsanctioned apps, providing real-time insights into who is accessing, sharing, and downloading files.
Cons
- Complex initial setup – Requires proper policy tuning to avoid disruptions.
- Learning curve – Extensive features can be overwhelming for new users.
Pricing
Netskope Active Platform: Call for quote.
2. McAfee Skyhigh Security
SkyHighSecurity (formerly McAfee MVISION Cloud) is a cloud-native CASB solution designed to protect data across cloud environments. It offers data loss prevention (DLP), threat protection, and encryption, making it a strong choice for businesses prioritizing cloud security and compliance.
Key Features
- Granular Policy Enforcement – Provides fine-tuned access controls based on user behavior, content, and risk levels.
- Cloud-Native DLP & Encryption – Safeguards sensitive data across SaaS applications, preventing leaks and unauthorized access.
- Seamless Cloud Integration – Works with major cloud providers, enabling visibility and control over multi-cloud environments.
Cons
- Complex setup – Initial configuration can be overwhelming, requiring expert management.
- Resource-intensive – This may impact system performance, especially on large-scale deployments.
- Limited customer support – Some users report delayed responses to support tickets.
Pricing
SkyHighSecurity does not disclose pricing. Contact the vendor for a quote.
3. Zscaler
Zscaler Cloud Security Platform is a zero-trust, cloud-native security solution that protects users, apps, and data across the internet and private applications. It offers secure access, traffic filtering, and real-time threat prevention to ensure seamless and scalable cloud security.
Key Features
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) – Replaces traditional VPNs with app-based access that reduces attack surfaces.
- AI-Powered Threat Protection - Uses machine learning to detect and block malicious activities across cloud environments.
- Seamless Integration – Works with SASE, CASB, and Secure Web Gateways to provide full-stack cloud security.
Cons
- Latency issues – Traffic routing through the cloud can sometimes slow down connections.
- Complex configuration – Setting up policies and fine-tuning access controls requires expertise.
- Higher pricing – Costs can be prohibitive for small businesses.
Pricing
Zscaler does not disclose pricing. It is reported to be 9-42% more expensive than the average SASE platform, depending on the business size. Contact the vendor for a quote.
4. Prisma Access (by Palo Alto)
Prisma Access by Palo Alto Networks is a cloud-delivered security platform and a Cloud Access Security Brokers solution that combines Zero Trust, SASE, and advanced threat protection to secure remote users and branch offices. It provides scalable, cloud-native security with unified management to prevent data breaches and cyber threats.
Key Features
- Zero Trust Network Security – Ensures secure, identity-based access with granular policy enforcement.
- Integrated SASE Solution – Combines firewall, VPN, and secure web gateway into a single platform.
- AI-Powered Threat Protection – Uses machine learning to detect and block sophisticated cyber threats.
Cons
- Complex configuration – Initial setup requires expertise and can be time-consuming.
- Expensive – Pricing may not be ideal for small businesses with limited budgets.
- Limited third-party integrations – Some cloud platforms are not fully supported.
Pricing
Prisma Access does not disclose pricing. Custom quotes available upon request. Contact the vendor for details.
5. Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps
Microsoft Defender, Cloud Access Security Brokers for Cloud Apps, is an enterprise-grade cloud security solution that provides real-time threat detection, access control, and compliance monitoring for SaaS applications. It seamlessly integrates with Microsoft 365 and other security tools to protect cloud environments from cyber threats.
Key Features
- Real-time Threat Protection – Detects and responds to security threats instantly.
- Seamless Microsoft Integration – Works smoothly with Azure AD, Microsoft 365, and Defender Suite.
- Cloud Compliance Monitoring – Ensures regulatory compliance and identifies risky cloud activities.
Cons
- Complex Setup – Requires technical expertise for configuration and integration.
- Limited Support for Third-Party Apps – Works best within the Microsoft ecosystem.
- Steep Learning Curve – Advanced features can be challenging for new users.
Pricing
Pricing varies based on Microsoft Defender for Cloud’s usage-based model. Custom quotes available through Microsoft.
6. Proofpoint
Proofpoint Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) protects cloud apps, users, and data from cyber threats, account compromise, and compliance risks. It integrates with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, AWS, and more to detect and prevent cloud-based security breaches.
Key Features
- Account Compromise Detection – Identifies and mitigates suspicious account activities.
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP) – Protects sensitive data from unauthorized access and sharing.
- Cloud Security Posture Management – Ensures policy enforcement and compliance monitoring.
Cons
- Limited Hybrid Security – Primarily designed for cloud-only environments.
- Complex Initial Setup – Requires technical expertise for proper configuration.
- False Positives in Alerts – Some security alerts may lack accuracy, leading to unnecessary investigations.
Pricing
Pricing is not publicly available. Contact Proofpoint for a custom quote.
CASB vs. CASE: Which one do you need?
When securing cloud applications and remote access, organizations often compare Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE). While both enhance security, they serve different purposes and are often used together for comprehensive cloud security.
CASB (Cloud Access Security Brokers)
What it does: Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) acts as a security layer between users and cloud applications, ensuring data protection, compliance enforcement, and threat prevention.
Key Features:
- Visibility & Control – Monitors and restricts user access to cloud applications.
- Threat Protection – Detects anomalies, malware, and account takeovers in cloud environments.
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP) – Prevents unauthorized sharing of sensitive data.
Best for:
- Securing SaaS applications like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and AWS.
- Enforcing data security policies across cloud platforms.
- Monitoring shadow IT and unauthorized cloud app usage.
SASE (Secure Access Service Edge)
What it does: SASE combines network security, such as zero-trust access and SD-WAN, with cloud security into a single, cloud-delivered service.
Key Features:
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) – Ensures least-privileged access to applications.
- Cloud Firewall & Secure Web Gateway (SWG) – Blocks malicious web traffic.
- Integrated Network & Security – Provides fast, secure connections for remote workers.
Best for:
- Providing secure remote access to private applications without VPNs.
- Replacing legacy firewalls and VPNs with a cloud-first approach.
- Reducing latency for branch offices and hybrid workforces.
Key differences in CASB vs SASE:
.png)
When to use both?
Many organizations deploy CASB and SASE together for a complete security approach:
- CASB protects SaaS applications and monitors cloud data.
- SASE secures network access and reduces attack surfaces.
Example use case:
A remote-first company might use:
- CASB to monitor SaaS usage and prevent data leaks.
- SASE to provide secure, VPN-less access to private corporate applications.
Simplify Cloud Security With the Right Approach
Choosing between Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) and SASE depends on your organization’s security needs. If you’re securing SaaS applications, CASB is essential. If you need secure, high-performance remote access, SASE is the way to go. For complete protection, combining both is often the best strategy.
Here’s a quick recap:
- CASB secures cloud apps by monitoring access, preventing data loss, and detecting threats.
- SASE secures networks by enforcing zero-trust policies and providing VPN-less access.
- Using both ensures end-to-end protection, safeguarding both SaaS applications and private networks.
Optimize Cloud Security and Cost Management with CloudEagle.ai
Managing cloud security shouldn’t be complicated—or expensive. CloudEagle.ai helps businesses gain full visibility into their SaaS ecosystem, optimize costs, and enhance security by ensuring the right users have the right access.
Whether you need to monitor app usage or prevent unnecessary spending, CloudEagle.ai simplifies the process, making cloud security and management effortless.
Read next:
→ Discover the top SSPM solutions to protect your cloud apps and maintain compliance.
→ Ensure your SaaS environment is fully secured with this step-by-step guide.
→ Find the best IAM solutions to strengthen your organization's access control and security.
.avif)
.avif)
