Compare CyBlock vs. Zeek

A cloud-based service that is easy to implement can be utilized regardless of where employees are located. It offers comprehensive filtering and reporting capabilities without a defined perimeter, catering to all types of users including those who work remotely, those who travel frequently, and those with flexible or transitional work arrangements, making it a favored option for the modern distributed workforce. For organizations that prefer or need on-premises hardware, secure web filtering appliances are available. With options for IT rack mount or tabletop configurations, this service is adaptable for small to large businesses alike. Users receive detailed reports on applications and websites, featuring aggregated time spent online, clearly displayed by user-friendly website names instead of confusing domain names. This precise identification of actual user interactions equips managers with valuable insights. The solutions are designed to simplify the monitoring of web usage, promoting efficient and proactive oversight. Furthermore, these offerings are tailored to meet the specific challenges faced by government agencies regarding internet usage. Ultimately, this service enhances visibility and control over digital activities across various organizational environments.

Zeek, initially known as Bro, stands as the premier platform for monitoring network security. It is an adaptable, open-source solution driven by those dedicated to defense in the cybersecurity realm. With its origins tracing back to the 1990s, the project was initiated by Vern Paxson to gain insights into activities on university and national laboratory networks. In late 2018, to acknowledge its growth and ongoing advancements, the leadership team transitioned the name from Bro to Zeek. Unlike conventional security tools such as firewalls or intrusion prevention systems, Zeek operates passively by residing on a sensor, which can be a hardware, software, virtual, or cloud-based platform, that discreetly monitors network traffic. By analyzing the data it collects, Zeek generates concise, high-quality transaction logs, file contents, and customizable outputs that are well-suited for manual examination on storage devices or through more user-friendly applications like security information and event management (SIEM) systems. This unique approach allows for a deeper understanding of network activities without interfering with the traffic itself.