Netskope, Fortinet, and Cloudbrink are all important players in modern cybersecurity and networking, but each focuses on different parts of the security and connectivity stack. Understanding these differences helps organizations choose the right combination of technologies for cloud, remote work, and hybrid environments.
What They Are
Netskope
Netskope started as a CASB product and has moved to a cloud-native security platform focused on protecting data, users, and applications on the internet and in SaaS environments.
Its core capabilities include:
- Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
- Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
Netskope is built for cloud-first organizations that need deep visibility and control over cloud traffic where end user performance and productivity is not a high priority.
Fortinet
Fortinet is a broad network and security provider known for combining high-performance hardware with software-driven security services.
Key products include:
- Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW)
- Secure SD-WAN
- Endpoint protection (FortiClient)
- Threat intelligence via FortiGuard
Fortinet is ideal for securing on-premises networks, branch offices, and hybrid environments.
Cloudbrink
Cloudbrink delivers high-performance Zero Trust access using a modern, AI-driven architecture. It focuses on improving user experience and performance for remote workers and distributed teams with advanced security—something traditional ZTNA and VPN solutions often struggle with.
Key strengths include:
- High-speed ZTNA using global “fast edges”
- Advanced security including automated moving target defense, mutual TLS 1.3, and Dynamic Invisible Network technology.
- Extremely low operational and support costs
- Cloud-agnostic deployment, suitable for hybrid and multi-cloud environments
Cloudbrink is especially valuable for organizations with remote or global workforces that need performance and reliability in addition to security.
Key Differences
| Feature | Netskope | Fortinet | Cloudbrink |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Cloud security (SaaS & web) | Network & endpoint security | High-performance ZTNA & remote access |
| Security/Connectivity Tools | CASB, DLP, SWG, ZTNA | Firewall, SD-WAN, endpoint, NGFW | Zero Trust Access, acceleration, edge performance |
| Deployment Model | Cloud-first | On-prem, cloud, hybrid | Cloud-delivered, edge-accelerated |
| Deployment Model | Cloud-first | On-prem, cloud, hybrid | Cloud-delivered, edge-accelerated |
| Ideal Use Case | Heavy SaaS usage with no performance requirements & cloud app visibility | Comprehensive network security across sites | Global remote/hybrid teams needing fast, reliable access |
Why It Matters
- Choose Netskope if your priority is deep cloud visibility, SaaS control, and strong data protection.
- Choose Fortinet if you need broad, integrated network security, especially in locations where hardware firewalls or SD-WAN are still essential.
- Choose Cloudbrink if you need fast, secure, and scalable Zero Trust access, especially for a distributed workforce or performance-sensitive applications.
Many organizations use combinations of these platforms:
For example, Fortinet for branch networks, Netskope for cloud security, and Cloudbrink for remote worker performance and ZTNA.
