Cato SASE Platform

Overview

Cato SASE Platform is a cloud-delivered service that combines network connectivity, security controls, and remote access. It is best suited to organizations looking to manage those capabilities through a common policy and console; its breadth is a strength, but the custom-quote model calls for a licensing conversation before committing.

Its cloud-native backbone supports global connectivity, segmentation, and multi-cloud access, with branch connectivity among its capabilities. The platform is made by Cato Networks, founded in 2015 and based in Tel Aviv.

Explore the Secure Access Service Edge Software category.

Key features

Shared network and security policy

Cato brings networking and security into a common platform with a single policy engine and console, and uses single-pass inspection. Its security services include firewall-as-a-service, secure web gateway, intrusion and malware prevention, DNS security, and remote browser isolation. The package also spans SD-WAN, CASB, data loss prevention, XDR, endpoint protection, digital experience monitoring, and an API. That range may reduce the need to manage separate controls, while the value of consolidating them depends on which capabilities an organization actually needs.

Remote access choices

Users can reach private applications through a ZTNA client, Enterprise Browser, or clientless portal. Browser access can reach hosted applications and RDP or SSH resources without installing the Cato Client, a useful option for access scenarios where deploying a client is undesirable. The Cato Client supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, though support varies with operating-system and client versions.

Integrations and compliance

Cato’s Integration Hub covers 100 integrations across areas including authentication, asset management, EDR, ITSM, SaaS security, and SIEM. Some third-party integrations are included with the default account license, while others require a separate license, so organizations should confirm costs for the integrations they rely on. Cato’s Trust Center carries compliance badges including SOC 2 Type II, PCI, ISO 27001:2022, ISO 27701, GDPR, and HIPAA.

Pricing

Cato SASE Platform: custom pricing; contact sales for a tailored discussion. The paid, cloud-delivered plan combines the platform’s networking and security capabilities, including branch connectivity, secure web gateway, CASB, and data loss prevention. No seat count, quota, trial, or renewal terms are provided, so buyers should establish the full scope and licensing requirements in their quote, including charges for third-party integrations.

There is no stated lower-cost or free Cato tier to compare. Organizations should assess whether they need the breadth of the platform rather than assuming every capability is part of their intended deployment.

Platforms

The platform lists Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, Windows, and API support. The Cato Client is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, with version-dependent support. Browser-based remote access can reach hosted applications and RDP or SSH resources without the client. Endpoint platforms include Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux.

Who it's for

Cato is a strong fit for organizations seeking cloud-based branch connectivity, multi-cloud access, security services, and remote access under a shared policy model. Its multiple client and browser access paths suit environments with varied endpoint needs. It is less compelling for buyers who only need a narrow security or access tool, or who need a known price before engaging sales; integration licensing also merits careful review.

Pros and cons

• Broad capability set: Network, access, and security services share a platform and policy engine, useful for organizations aiming to consolidate these functions.
• Flexible remote access: Client, Enterprise Browser, and clientless portal options accommodate different routes to private applications; browser access also covers RDP and SSH resources without a client install.
• Wide integration coverage: The Integration Hub spans 100 integrations, but some require additional licensing.
• Custom pricing: A tailored quote can suit organization-specific needs, but buyers cannot compare a published price or plan limits before contacting sales.
• Version-dependent client support: The client covers five major operating-system families, but support depends on OS and client versions.

Alternatives

Cloudflare One is worth considering for teams seeking a freemium option: its free plan costs nothing, is billed $0 forever, and caps use at 50 users with up to 24 hours of standard log retention.

Fortinet Unified SASE is another paid option, with listed Standard and Advanced plans; compare its device limits and support terms against Cato’s custom quote.

VersaONE Universal SASE Platform is a paid alternative without a free plan, offered through a demo-led sales process.

Check Point Harmony SASE may suit buyers who want a trial before purchase: its paid license is required after a 30-day trial.

Aryaka Unified SASE as a Service is a paid alternative whose stated package includes SD-WAN Plus, NGFW-SWG, IPS, and anti-malware.

Pangolin is a freemium alternative with a free Basic plan that has user, site, domain, and resource caps.

Broadcom Symantec SASE is another paid option, with an SSE plan described as offering advanced security options and integrations across cloud and on-premises environments.

iboss Cloud is a paid alternative with a Zero Trust Core plan that includes web filtering, basic CASB controls, HTTPS decryption, and cloud connector agents.

For other products in adjacent categories, see Business VPN Software.

Verdict

Cato SASE Platform is best for organizations that want broad network, security, and remote-access capabilities governed through one policy model. Its strongest case is the combination of cloud connectivity, multiple access paths, and extensive security functions; the chief reason to look elsewhere is the custom-quote purchase process, especially if a narrow tool or transparent upfront pricing matters more.