Table Of Content
15 Powerful Digital Guardian Alternatives and Competitors in 2025
- May 7, 2025
Summary: This blog serves as a complete list of 15 powerful alternatives to Digital Guardian for enhanced data security.
Data security remains a top priority for organizations in 2025. Digital Guardian has long been a popular choice for data loss prevention (DLP). It can alert you or block risky actions before they cause a breach. But while Digital Guardian is a strong DLP tool, it has its downsides. It can slow down systems, take too long to set up, and lacks strong cloud support—making it a poor fit for modern hybrid workplaces.
The good news?
There are better competitors out there, some lighter on resources, easier to manage, or DLP built for the endpoints. In this guide, we’ll compare 15 of the best Digital Guardian alternatives to help you find the right balance of security and performance.
No time to read? Here’s our list of the top 15 Digital Guardian alternatives for 2025:
- KiteCyber Data Shield: Best for unified endpoint and network DLP with AI-driven threat detection
- Cyberhaven: Best for cloud-native data detection and response (DDR)
- Forcepoint DLP : Best for broad coverage across endpoints, cloud, and mobile
- Trellix DLP: Best for forensic analysis and multi-channel protection
- CoSoSys Endpoint Protector : Best for cross-platform endpoint security
- Code42 Incydr: Best for insider threat detection in remote work
- Microsoft Purview DLP: Best for Microsoft 365 integration
- BetterCloud: Best for SaaS operations and shadow IT detection
- Avanan Cloud Email Security: Best for securing cloud email and collaboration
- Veeam Data Platform+: Best for backup and ransomware protection
- Concentric AI: Best for automated data discovery and classification
- DTEX InTERCEPT : Best for insider risk management with behavior analytics
- Nightfall AI : Best for cloud-native sensitive data protection
- Proofpoint : Best for email security and compliance archiving
- Varonis Platform : Best for unstructured data analytics and compliance
What is Digital Guardian?
Digital Guardian, owned by Fortra, is a legacy DLP solution. It focuses on endpoint protection, content inspection, and endpoint detection and response (EDR). The platform monitors data movement, enforces policies, and provides visibility into user actions. Businesses use it to prevent data leaks and ensure compliance. However, it struggles with resource-intensive performance, complex configurations, and limited cloud-native capabilities.
Digital Guardian is a solid data protection solution, but it’s not the right fit for everyone. Some businesses also need stronger data security or a simpler, more affordable solution without sacrificing key features. Others just want a DLP tool that’s easier to deploy and scale as their company grows. If that sounds like you, it’s worth exploring other options. Below, we’ve rounded up the strong reasons why it’s better for SMB’s to look for a Digital Guardian Alternatives 👇
1. Resource-Intensive Performance
Digital Guardian’s endpoint agents consume significant system resources. This slows down devices, impacting productivity. Users report lag and high CPU usage, especially on older systems.
2. Complex Setup and Management
The platform’s configuration is time-consuming. Custom policies require technical expertise. Small teams find it hard to manage without dedicated IT staff.
3. Limited Cloud-Native Features
Digital Guardian relies on proxy-based cloud visibility. This falls short for modern SaaS-heavy environments. Competitors offer better cloud-native integrations.
4. Steep Learning Curve
The interface isn’t intuitive. New users face challenges navigating the console. Onboarding takes longer than with user-friendly alternatives.
Top 15 Digital Guardian Alternatives in 2025
We’ve explored these alternatives to Digital Guardian for security, ease of use, pricing, and scalability. Here’s the detailed breakdown:
1. Kitecyber Data Shield
Best for: Unified endpoint and network DLP with AI-driven threat detection
Kitecyber Data Shield is one of the best Digital Guardian DLP solution alternatives that blends endpoint and network intelligence for full data visibility and control. It uses AI to detect risky behaviors, automates threat mitigation, and supports instant device lockdown and remote wipe. The platform is lightweight, scalable, and deploys as SaaS or self-hosted.
Here’s what Drew Danner, Managing Director at BD Emerson says about our solution:
"Kitecyber has been amazing for our SMB customers, who can now enjoy enterprise grade security with a simple and cost effective solution."
"Instead of dealing with multiple complex solutions, with Kitecyber they can get advanced security with ease using a single copilot”
Drew Danner
Managing Director at BD Emerson
Key Features
- Unified endpoint and network DLP
- Sensitive Data Classification
- AI-driven insider threat detection
- User-behavioral Analytics
- Data Lineage Tracking like Data Copy-paste, Upload, Airdrop, USB Transfer, and more
- Real-time monitoring and policy enforcement
- Device control with remote wipe and lock
- Compliance templates for GDPR, SEC, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and more.
Pricing
- Free Plan: Free Plan starts at $0 for 15 Days.
Try this Digital Guardian Alternative for Free?
Great for SMB’s. Tracks data lineage for Mac, Windows, and Linux along with MDM support.
- Fully functional security for data at rest and in motion
- Supports data regulation and compliance
- Lightweight and scalable.
- 24 x 7 Customer Support
- Rich clientele ranging from all industries
2. Cyberhaven
Best for: Cloud-native data detection and response (DDR)
Cyberhaven combines DLP with incident response. It tracks sensitive data in real time, monitors user actions, and provides contextual analysis to reduce false positives. The cloud-native platform suits organizations prioritizing insider threat detection.
Key Features
- Real-time data tracking
- Contextual analysis for accurate alerts
- Built-in incident response
- Automatic policy enforcement
- Cloud-native deployment
Pricing
- Custom pricing; contact Cyberhaven for a quote.
Pros and Cons
- Reduces false positives with contextual analysis.
- Strong insider threat detection.
- Seamless cloud integration.
- Limited mobile support.
- Complex custom policy setup.
3. Forcepoint DLP
Best for: Broad coverage across endpoints, cloud, and mobile
Forcepoint DLP, part of Forcepoint One, secures data across multiple channels. Its unified console simplifies policy management. The “user risk score” feature monitors risky behaviors, and mobile workflows protect lost devices.
Key Features
- Unified policy management
- User risk scoring
- Mobile device protection
- Regulatory compliance templates
- Centralized console
Pricing
- Custom pricing; contact Forcepoint for details.
Pros and Cons
- Broad channel coverage.
- Strong behavior analytics.
- Compliance-focused templates.
- Steep learning curve.
- Resource-intensive for smaller setups.
4. Trellix DLP
Best for: Forensic analysis and multi-channel protection
Trellix, formed from McAfee and FireEye, offers robust DLP across endpoints, cloud, and networks. Its forensic analysis tools and real-time monitoring ensure comprehensive data protection. The platform supports compliance with GDPR and CCPA.
Key Features
- Real-time monitoring across channels
- Forensic analysis and data fingerprinting
- Centralized policy management
- Endpoint and cloud protection
- Compliance support
Pricing
- Endpoint DLP: Starts at $63.91/year per endpoint.
- Network DLP: Starts at $81.80/year per node.
Pros and Cons
- Strong forensic capabilities.
- Unified policy enforcement.
- Scalable for enterprises.
- High resource usage.
- Costly compared to competitors.
5. CoSoSys Endpoint Protector
Best for: Cross-platform endpoint security
CoSoSys Endpoint Protector secures Windows, macOS, and Linux endpoints. It offers eDiscovery, content inspection, and device control. The platform supports on-premise or cloud deployment, ideal for organizations needing robust endpoint protection.
Key Features
- Cross-platform support
- eDiscovery and content inspection
- Automatic file encryption
- Device control (USB, drives)
- Flexible deployment options
Pricing
- Contact CoSoSys for a quote.
Pros and Cons
- Comprehensive device control.
- Easy deployment.
- Strong endpoint focus.
- Limited cloud-native features.
- Console lacks customization.
6. Code42 Incydr
Best for: Insider threat detection in remote work
Code42 Incydr monitors file events to detect insider threats. Its AI-driven risk classification excels in remote environments. However, it’s less suited for traditional DLP policy automation.
Key Features
- Real-time file activity monitoring
- AI-driven risk scoring
- Device control for exfiltration
- Insider threat focus
- Endpoint agent-based
Pricing
- Contact Code42 for a quote.
Pros and Cons
- Strong insider threat detection.
- Ideal for remote work.
- Lightweight agents.
- Limited DLP policy automation.
- No free tier.
7. Microsoft Purview DLP
Best for: Microsoft 365 integration
Microsoft Purview DLP secures data across Microsoft 365, endpoints, and cloud. Its machine learning-based classification and seamless integration make it ideal for Microsoft-centric organizations.
Key Features
- Unified policy management
- Machine learning classification
- Real-time alerts
- Microsoft 365 integration
- Cloud and endpoint coverage
Pricing
- Per asset per day/month; use Azure calculator or contact Microsoft.
Pros and Cons
- Deep Microsoft integration.
- Scalable for enterprises.
- Real-time remediation.
- Limited non-Windows support.
- Complex pricing model.
8. BetterCloud
Best for: SaaS operations and shadow IT detection
BetterCloud automates SaaS operations and DLP. It detects shadow IT and streamlines user management, perfect for cloud-heavy organizations.
Key Features
- SaaS operations automation
- Shadow IT detection
- Automated user lifecycle management
- Usage analytics
- Cloud-focused DLP
Pricing
- Starts at $1/user/month.
Pros and Cons
- Affordable pricing.
- Strong SaaS visibility.
- Easy to use.
- Limited endpoint protection.
- Less robust DLP features.
9. Avanan Cloud Email Security
Best for: Securing cloud email and collaboration
Avanan uses AI to secure cloud email and collaboration tools. Its API-based deployment ensures quick setup for Office 365 and G Suite.
Key Features
- AI-driven threat detection
- Email and collaboration DLP
- API-based deployment
- Account takeover prevention
- Cloud-native
Pricing
- Contact Avanan for a quote.
Pros and Cons
- Rapid deployment.
- Strong email security.
- Cloud-focused.
- Limited endpoint coverage.
- No free tier.
10. Veeam Data Platform
Best for: Backup and ransomware protection
Veeam combines DLP with backup and recovery. Its ransomware detection and compliance tools suit organizations needing data resilience.
Key Features
- Backup and recovery
- Ransomware detection
- Compliance management
- AI-driven insights
- Multi-environment support
Pricing
- Starts at $89.20/license/year (bundled).
Pros and Cons
- Strong backup features.
- Ransomware protection.
- Scalable.
- Limited core DLP functionality.
- Complex licensing.
11. Concentric AI
Best for: Automated data discovery and classification
Concentric AI automates data discovery and risk monitoring. Its autonomous classification suits large organizations with vast data.
Key Features
- Autonomous data discovery
- Continuous risk assessment
- Policy management
- Compliance reporting
- Scalable for big data
Pricing
- Starts at $50,000/year for up to 50TB
Pros and Cons
- Automated classification.
- Scalable for enterprises.
- Strong compliance tools.
- High starting price.
- Complex for small teams.
12. DTEX InTERCEPT
Best for: Insider risk management with behavior analytics
DTEX InTERCEPT combines DLP with user behavior analytics. Its lightweight platform detects insider risks while respecting privacy.
Key Features
- Insider risk detection
- AI/ML analytics
- Privacy-compliant monitoring
- Cloud-native
- Scalable to 800,000 users
Pricing
- Starts at $100,000/year.
Pros and Cons
- Strong behavior analytics.
- Privacy-focused.
- Scalable.
- Expensive for small businesses.
- Limited traditional DLP features.
13. Nightfall AI
Best for: Cloud-native sensitive data protection
Nightfall AI secures cloud apps and messaging platforms. Its AI-driven engine detects sensitive data with high accuracy, minimizing false positives.
Key Features
- Sensitive data identification
- Real-time monitoring
- Integrations with Slack, Google Drive
- Agentless deployment
- High-precision AI
Pricing
- Starts at $4/month per feature.
Pros and Cons
- Affordable pricing.
- High accuracy.
- Easy deployment.
- Limited endpoint support.
- Fewer compliance templates.
14. Proofpoint
Best for: Email security and compliance archiving
Proofpoint offers DLP, email security, and compliance tools. Its e-discovery and regulatory features suit organizations with strict compliance needs.
Key Features
- Email and messaging DLP
- E-discovery and legal hold
- Regulatory compliance
- Centralized management
- Cloud and endpoint coverage
Pricing
- Archive Appliance starts at $10,300.
Pros and Cons
- Strong email security.
- Robust compliance tools.
- Scalable.
- Complex setup.
- High false positive rates.
15. Varonis Platform
Best for: Unstructured data analytics and compliance
Varonis secures unstructured data with analytics and threat detection. Its customizable reporting ensures compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, and more.
Key Features
- Unstructured data analytics
- Threat detection
- Customizable compliance reports
- User behavior analytics
- Multi-platform support
Pricing
- Contact Varonis for a quote.
Pros and Cons
- Strong analytics.
- Compliance-focused.
- Scalable.
- Complex setup.
- No free tier.
Tips for Choosing a Digital Guardian Alternative
Selecting the right DLP solution depends on your organization’s needs. Here are key considerations:
1. Identify Your Needs
Determine your priorities: endpoint protection, cloud security, insider threat detection, or compliance. For example, Kitecyber suits unified DLP, while Varonis excels in unstructured data.
2. Consider Your Budget
Balance features with cost. Kitecyber offers affordable plans, while Concentric and DTEX target enterprises with higher budgets.
3. Evaluate Features
Look for real-time monitoring, AI-driven analytics, and compliance templates. Ensure the tool supports your environment (cloud, endpoint, hybrid).
4. Check Integration Capabilities
Choose tools that integrate with your existing stack (e.g., Microsoft Purview for Microsoft 365 or Kitecyber with EDRs). API support enhances flexibility.
5. Assess Ease of Use
Opt for intuitive interfaces to reduce training time. Kitecyber Data Shield is user-friendly, while Forcepoint and Trellix require more expertise.
6. Verify Customer Support
Ensure access to tutorials, forums, or dedicated support. Free trials help gauge reliability and support quality.
7. Test with Trials
Use free trials or demos to evaluate performance. Kitecyber and Nightfall offer free plans to test their capabilities.
8. Read Reviews and Case Studies
Check user feedback on platforms like G2 or Capterra. Case studies from similar industries provide real-world insights.
Final Recommendation
For a balanced, cost-effective, and scalable DLP solution, Kitecyber Data Shield is the top choice. Its unified endpoint and network protection, AI-driven threat detection, and affordable pricing make it ideal for SMBs and enterprises alike.
Start with its free plan at Kitecyber or request a demo.
Start with its free plan at Kitecyber or request a demo.
With over a decade of experience steering cybersecurity initiatives, my core competencies lie in network architecture and security, essential in today's digital landscape. At Kitecyber, our mission resonates with my quest to tackle first-order cybersecurity challenges. My commitment to innovation and excellence, coupled with a strategic mindset, empowers our team to safeguard our industry's future against emerging threats.Since co-founding Kitecyber, my focus has been on assembling a team of adept security researchers to address critical vulnerabilities and enhance our network and user security measures. Utilizing my expertise in the Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) and Cybersecurity, we've championed the development of robust solutions to strengthen cyber defenses and operations.
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