Best Network Security Software for VMware ESXi

CacheGuard-OS is an open-source Linux-based UTM gateway appliance OS that has been in active development since 2002. It is designed to run on commodity x86 hardware and act as the default route between an internal network and the internet, replacing the ISP-provided router as the traffic checkpoint. The stack integrates: Squid (web cache and proxy), ClamAV (web antivirus), ModSecurity (WAF), StrongSwan (IPsec/IKEv2 VPN), IPRoute2 (QoS and WAN load balancing), NetFilter (stateful firewall), SSL inspection, and URL filtering. All components are configured through a web-based admin interface rather than directly, making the platform accessible to operators without deep Linux expertise while remaining auditable by those who want to inspect the underlying configuration. The OS has been open-source since its first release — source ships on every installed appliance. It was recently published publicly on GitHub to make the codebase easier to browse and audit. Target deployments are small to medium networks — SMBs, schools, and branch offices — where a commercial UTM appliance is overkill on budget but the threat surface is the same. Runs on bare metal or common hypervisors (VMware, VirtualBox, KVM, Hyper-V). No vendor lock-in, no subscription, no licence cost. GitHub: cacheguard/CacheGuard-OS

Network engineers save time with the BackBox Automation Platform for Network Teams by quickly automating and auditing time consuming manual tasks. With a library of over 3,000 pre-built automations and a script-free way to build new ones BackBox makes it easy to get started on your automation journey. BackBox is a point-and-click automation solution for firewall and network device backups, OS updates and patching, configuration compliance audits and remediation, network vulnerability management, network configuration change management, and more.

Netwrix Auditor is a comprehensive IT audit software platform that helps organizations monitor and analyze activity across their IT infrastructure. It provides detailed visibility into who is accessing systems, what changes are being made, and how data is being used. The platform supports a wide range of systems, including Active Directory, Microsoft 365, file servers, databases, and network devices. It delivers near real-time alerts to help security teams detect suspicious behavior and respond quickly to potential threats. Netwrix Auditor also identifies risks such as excessive permissions and unusual access patterns that could lead to security incidents. The solution includes prebuilt compliance reports for standards like HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX, making it easier to meet regulatory requirements. It automates routine auditing tasks, reducing the time and effort required for reporting and analysis. The platform offers powerful search capabilities that allow teams to investigate incidents efficiently. It centralizes audit data from multiple sources into a single interface for better visibility. Netwrix Auditor integrates with existing IT systems and security tools to enhance overall monitoring capabilities. By combining auditing, reporting, and threat detection, it helps organizations strengthen their security posture and maintain compliance.

We offer the most user-friendly technology without sacrificing performance or features. We back it up with exceptional support and care delivered under a fair, cost-effective pricing model Our technology is used by small startups with big ideas, small budgets, and global enterprises. We love them all! Easy to use Load balancing, WAF, GSLB and SSO/Pre-Authentication. It is also the only true ADP Application Delivery Platform that allows for the enhancement of functionality and longevity using the app store or apps you create in-house.

Axonius gives IT and security teams the confidence to control complexity by providing a system of record for all digital infrastructure. With a comprehensive understanding of all assets including devices, identities, software, SaaS applications, vulnerabilities, security controls, and the context between them, customers are able to mitigate threats, navigate risk, decrease incident response time, automate action, and inform business-level strategy — all while eliminating manual, repetitive tasks.

Panorama™ provides a user-friendly platform for centralized management, allowing for quick implementation of features that enhance visibility into network traffic and streamline configurations. Users can easily create and modify security rules that align with their organization's security policies, all from a single, centralized interface that oversees their entire firewall deployment. By utilizing the Application Command Center (ACC), administrators can gain valuable insights and visibility into network threats and traffic, which is essential for effective security management. The automated correlation engine helps to minimize data overload, enabling quicker identification of compromised systems and detection of malicious activities. With the capability to manage up to 5,000 Next-Generation Firewalls, or by utilizing the Panorama Interconnect plugin, organizations can centralize configuration management for potentially tens of thousands of devices. The intuitive user interface of Panorama not only simplifies the security management process but also provides tools for monitoring, configuring, and automating various security tasks, making it an essential solution for modern network security challenges. This comprehensive approach ensures that organizations can maintain robust security while effectively managing their network infrastructure.