Cisco Stealthwatch vs ExtraHop

February 01, 2025 | Author: Michael Stromann
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Cisco Stealthwatch
Cisco Secure Network Analytics (Stealthwatch) provides advanced threat detection, accelerated threat response, and simplified network segmentation using multilayer machine learning and entity modeling.
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ExtraHop
ExtraHop provides cloud-native cybersecurity solutions to help enterprises detect and respond to advanced threats—before they compromise your business.

Both Cisco Stealthwatch and ExtraHop are remarkably similar in the way they gaze into the vast, incomprehensible expanse of network traffic and attempt to make sense of the chaos. They both use machine learning to detect the malicious bits lurking among the data and they offer organizations a slightly more palatable view of their network’s bizarre behaviors. Their ultimate goal is to help keep everything running smoothly by spotting things that are suspicious before they spiral into something much worse. Both can be deployed either in the cloud or on-premises, because the world is nothing if not flexible when it comes to how you can watch things.

Now, Stealthwatch, being the older and slightly more seasoned of the two (born in 2007, courtesy of Cisco), has a fondness for large, intricate networks, particularly those filled with all manner of Cisco gear. It integrates beautifully with Cisco’s other products, like Identity Services Engine, creating an environment that is, if anything, predictably well-structured. Stealthwatch also likes to peer deeply into the flow of traffic using NetFlow and other tools that seem to make perfect sense to those who understand them. It’s the ideal choice for enterprises with complex needs and compliance requirements, as it enjoys keeping track of every little detail.

ExtraHop, also born in 2007 but crafted by its own set of visionaries, prefers to cast its gaze further afield, welcoming all forms of infrastructure, not just Cisco’s tightly wound ecosystem. It’s a bit of a performance enthusiast, keeping track of network health and security with equal fervor, always ensuring that nothing goes wrong—at least, not without a very good reason. ExtraHop takes a more user-friendly approach with dashboards that don’t require a degree in cryptic analysis to understand. It's made for companies with diverse and ever-changing environments, whether on-premises, in the cloud or somewhere in between.

See also: Top 10 XDR software
Author: Michael Stromann
Michael is an expert in IT Service Management, IT Security and software development. With his extensive experience as a software developer and active involvement in multiple ERP implementation projects, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his writings. Having previously worked at SAP, he has honed his expertise and gained a deep understanding of software development and implementation processes. Currently, as a freelance developer, Michael continues to contribute to the IT community by sharing his insights through guest articles published on several IT portals. You can contact Michael by email stromann@liventerprise.com