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What is the Principle of Least Privilege (PoLP)?

How does the principle of least privilege work?

Technically speaking, the principle of least privilege—often called the minimum privilege principle—is rooted in the Zero Trust security philosophy. Access is restricted not only to specific resources and data but also to application functions, so users see only the features they need.

  1. Identify essential job functions and map out the precise permissions required for each role.

  2. Allocate minimal privileges to users, granting access only to the data, systems, and application features critical for their tasks.

  3. Monitor and adjust privileges over time, especially as roles evolve or employees join and leave.

By integrating PoLP with Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) 2.0, organizations can dynamically verify every access request, reducing the risk of privilege misuse and lateral movement by threat actors.

Why is the principle of least privilege important?

Let’s look at a hypothetical situation. Say an HR employee has access to the human resources management system to update employee records. But if they also have access rights to access the IT infrastructure, which are not essential for their HR-related tasks, the risk of a full-blown data breach increases significantly in the event their account is compromised.

The hypothetical above showcases the principle of least privilege benefits, which include:

  • Reduce the potential attack surface: Limiting user access privileges means fewer opportunities for bad actors to exploit those privileges.

  • Minimize the impact of exploits: Even if a hacker can gain unauthorized access to the user’s account, the security principle of least privilege confines the possible damage.

  • Come closer to adhering to regulatory frameworks such as GDPR and HIPAA: Regulatory frameworks such as GDPR and HIPAA require strict access controls. By applying PoLP and ensuring users have access only to the information and systems essential for their tasks, an organization can get closer to being compliant with various regulations.

  • Improve security within the hybrid work environment: In a hybrid work environment, where employees access systems remotely, maintaining strict access controls becomes even more important. Implementing the principle of least privilege ensures that the security risks associated with remote access are reduced significantly.

Zero Trust vs Least Privilege

In modern digital security, Zero Trust and the principle of least privilege in cybersecurity are the two sides of the same coin. Zero Trust demands that every access attempt be continuously monitored and verified, while PoLP ensures that, once granted, access remains narrow and appropriate.

Zero Trust is a cybersecurity concept built on another simple idea: never trust, always verify. Unlike the traditional security frameworks, Zero Trust Security assumes that threats can come from within as well as outside the network.

At its core, Zero Trust embodies the principle of least privilege by enforcing strict access controls and permissions. Every access or connection request, regardless of origin, is treated as untrusted until verified otherwise. This stringent verification process is an extension of PoLP’s main idea — to provide users with only the necessary access levels.

In practice, Zero Trust treats every access request as if it’s the first request coming from an untrusted network. Each request is always re-authenticated regardless of previous requests or connections. In this sense, you can think of Zero Trust as a dynamic framework while PoLP can be considered static because it provides users with specific access rights that remain the same unless adjusted.

To make the distinction between Zero Trust and PoLP clearer, let’s imagine a high-end office building. In this case, Zero Trust would be the foundation of the building’s security system, which requires employees, regardless of their position, to use an access card to enter the office building and other facilities. The principle of least privilege, in this scenario, could be likened to the specific programming of access cards based on the employee’s role: for instance, providing the IT staff with access to server rooms, while not granting the same privileges to, say, the marketing team.

 

What is Privilege Creep?

Privilege creep is a term that refers to a user who gradually accumulates more access rights than are required to execute their function. Privilege creeps most often comes into being due to role changes that do not trigger an adjustment concerning access privileges. When thinking about organizational cybersecurity, privilege creeps pose a serious risk where unauthorized access to a single account could lead to an enterprise-wide data breach.

Here are best practices when it comes to the principle of least privilege, helping to prevent privilege creeps from materializing:

  • Implement role-based access controls: Clearly define roles and associated permissions to make sure access rights are granted based on the necessities of the job.

  • Conduct regular access reviews: Schedule periodic reviews of user privileges to identify and rectify any discrepancies or excessive access rights.

  • Enforce a Zero-Trust security approach: Adopt a zero-trust policy where no user is trusted by default. Verify every access request, regardless of the user’s position within the organization.

  • Make use of automated tools: Leverage automation for managing access rights. Tools like Privileged Access Management (PAM) systems can help in monitoring and controlling access rights efficiently.

  • Promote security awareness: Educate employees about the risks of privilege creep and the importance of adhering to cyber security protocols.

By proactively managing user permissions and educating employees, you can significantly mitigate the risk of privilege creep and enhance your organization’s overall security posture.

How to Implement the Least Privilege Principle in Your Organization

Adopting the principle of least privilege in your organization can be a lengthy process; however, the juice is well worth the squeeze. Once your organization operates under PoLP, the potential attack surface will shrink significantly. Here are a few best practices when it comes to the implementation of PoLP:

  • Define access requirements clearly: Before adopting the principle of least privileges in your organization, you need to have a clear understanding of the data access needs of various roles within the organization.

  • Implement Role-based access control (RBAC): Once you have a clear understanding of access requirements, setting up RBAC will be a lot easier. You’ll need to create roles based on job functions and assign permissions to these roles rather than for individual users.

  • Utilize Just-In-Time (JIT) privilege access: Enhance security by granting time-limited privileges on a need-to-use basis. Establishing JIT access privileges will restrict the window of opportunity for access to sensitive data, minimizing the risk of insider threats or external breaches that would exploit user access privileges.

  • Enforce Multi-factor authentication (MFA) and password policies: Strengthen the authentication processes by establishing MFA as an additional layer of security next to company-wide password policies. MFA ensures that even if the password of a critical account is compromised, the attackers will not have a chance to access it as they will not have another authentication factor required.

  • Implement system monitoring: Establish surveillance of system and user activities to quickly identify and respond to abnormal access patterns or potential security incidents.

How can NordPass help?

These days, when access points seem to multiply as fast as potential security threats, adopting the principle of least privilege within a business setting should be a no-brainer. PoLP implementation can reduce, quite significantly, the organization’s attack surface and generally improve overall cybersecurity. There’s also the added benefit of coming closer to compliance with various regulatory frameworks such as HIPAA or GDPR.

While the adoption of PoLP can be challenging, there are tools that can make this a lot easier and NordPass Enterprise is one of them. It’s an enterprise-grade password manager that’s built on the principle of the Zero-Knowledge architecture and is equipped with the XChaCha20 encryption algorithm.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. NordPass’s integration with Single Sign-On (SSO) is a key asset in adopting PoLP. By allowing users to use a single set of credentials to access multiple resources, SSO simplifies authentication and enhances security. NordPass Enterprise is compatible with major identity providers such as Microsoft Azure AD, MS ADFS, and Okta. This centralized management system is effective in preventing unauthorized access and minimizing potential security breaches by assigning user access based on specific roles.

NordPass also helps organizations in managing user access effectively. It allows administrators to assign, revoke, or modify user access to login credentials, personal information, payment card data, and other sensitive data according to specific needs. This flexibility, powered by the Activity log feature, is critical when adopting PoLP. For teams looking to streamline this process and enforce access control across departments, NordPass Teams offers practical, scalable solutions. It’s particularly useful for IT managers and decision makers aiming to balance ease of use with advanced security protocols. Thanks to this functionality, organizations can easily adjust access rights in response to changes in roles or employment status.

Learn more about how NordPass Enterprise can benefit your organization’s overall security strategy by visiting the official NordPass Enterprise website.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Cybersecurity in digital marketing: Protecting your campaigns, data, and reputation

 

Summary: Explore essential cybersecurity strategies to protect digital marketing campaigns, safeguard customer data, and maintain brand reputation in a complex field of security threats.

Effective digital marketing is vital for businesses today, but so is protecting it. However, the rapid expansion of this field also exposes companies to increasing cybersecurity threats. Data breaches, phishing attacks, and malicious ads can jeopardize sensitive information, disrupt digital marketing campaigns, and damage a company’s reputation.

In 2023, cybercrime damages were estimated at $8 trillion globally and are expected to rise to $10.5 trillion annually this year. Marketing platforms are frequent targets due to their access to customer data and advertising networks.

As cybersecurity threats are here to stay, marketers must prioritize cybersecurity to ensure the safety of their campaigns, data, and reputation. Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures in digital marketing is no longer optional—it is essential.

Why cybersecurity is important in digital marketing

As businesses continue to invest heavily in digital marketing, securing these efforts becomes crucial. Without proper cybersecurity measures, brands risk losing sensitive data, damaging their reputation, and experiencing financial losses. Here’s why cyber security should be a top priority if the organization engages in many digital marketing activities:

Protecting customer data

Digital marketers handle vast amounts of personal data, including customer names, email addresses, and payment details. This makes them a prime target for cybercriminals who seek to exploit vulnerabilities in marketing platforms. A single breach can expose thousands—or even millions—of records, leading to financial and legal consequences. Implementing operational security measures helps protect this sensitive information and build customer trust.

Maintaining brand reputation

A security breach can significantly damage a brand’s reputation. When customer data is compromised, trust is lost, which can lead to decreased customer loyalty, negative publicity, and revenue loss. Consumers expect brands to safeguard their personal information, and a failure to do so can have lasting repercussions. Cyber security measures are essential to protect sensitive information and maintain the brand’s credibility.

Ensuring business continuity

Cyber-attacks can disrupt websites, analytics tools, and digital marketing platforms, leading to downtime and financial losses. Marketing teams drive traffic to their websites for conversions, and any disruption to the website can derail key initiatives. If a website crashes, marketers will feel significant turbulence, as their campaigns rely heavily on seamless access to e-commerce stores or SaaS products. Strong security measures can help businesses ensure seamless operations and avoid costly interruptions.

Compliance and regulations

Laws such as GDPR and CCPA require businesses to secure customer information and respect privacy. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines, legal battles, and reputational damage. Digital marketers should collaborate closely with infosec teams to align marketing practices with legal requirements, ensuring both compliance and consumer protection.

Main cyber threats in digital marketing

The digital marketing field is full of opportunities—but also risks. While attackers may target vulnerabilities in digital marketing platforms, we have limited control over those weaknesses. Cybercriminals often aim to gain access to platforms containing sensitive customer information by stealing credentials or guessing login details. Focusing on these areas allows us to take proactive measures to protect data and mitigate risks.

Key cyber threats digital marketing faces today

Phishing attacks

Phishing is one of the most common threats. Cybercriminals use fake emails, messages, and even social media ads to trick marketers into revealing login credentials or downloading malicious attachments. These phishing attacks often appear as legitimate requests from trusted sources, making them difficult to detect. Once attackers gain access to accounts, they can manipulate marketing assets, hijack accounts, send fraudulent emails, and compromise customer information.

Data breaches

Marketing teams rely on CRM systems, email lists, and customer databases to manage relationships and target audiences effectively. Unfortunately, these platforms are prime targets for attackers. A data breach can expose customer information, financial records, and internal business data, leading to financial losses, regulatory penalties, and reputational harm.

Account takeover attacks

In these attacks, cybercriminals steal credentials to gain unauthorized access to your accounts, such as PPC platforms or social media profiles. Once they have control, they can misuse your budget or damage your brand reputation by deleting content and impersonating you.

This type of attack can go unnoticed until significant harm has been done. To prevent them, implement strong authentication measures, use complex passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) options.

Website and social media hijacking

Unauthorized access to a company’s website or social media accounts can lead to misinformation, fraudulent promotions, and reputational damage. Bad actors can post misleading content, redirect visitors to malicious sites, or delete valuable digital assets. Enforcing strict access controls and monitoring login activity can help prevent such incidents.

Click fraud

Bots and automated scripts inflate ad metrics by generating fake clicks, leading to wasted ad spend and distorting campaign results. Click fraud can drain digital marketing budgets while providing no real engagement or conversions. Marketers should leverage fraud detection tools to identify suspicious activity and mitigate financial losses.

DDoS Attacks

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks can overwhelm a brand’s website, CRM systems, or advertising networks by flooding them with excessive traffic. This results in website downtime, disrupted marketing campaigns, and lost revenue. A well-orchestrated DDoS attack can prevent users from accessing online stores, landing pages, and promotional materials, directly impacting customer engagement and sales.

Recognizing these cybersecurity threats helps marketers take proactive steps to secure their campaigns, ensuring both data integrity and customer trust.

Email marketing threats and how to mitigate them

Email campaigns are powerful tools for engaging customers, nurturing leads, and driving sales. However, they are also one of the most targeted channels for cyber threats, as attackers exploit the trust between brands and their audiences.

One of the biggest risks in email marketing is phishing, where cybercriminals send fraudulent messages that appear to come from a trusted brand. These emails often contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal credentials, infect devices with malware, or trick recipients into making unauthorized transactions.

Business Email Compromise (BEC) is another serious threat, where attackers hijack or spoof official company emails to send fake invoices or payment requests. Additionally, email spoofing—where attackers forge sender information—can mislead recipients into believing that fraudulent messages are legitimate, leading to scams that damage trust in a brand.

To mitigate these risks, businesses should implement authentication protocols like two-factor authentication, SPF, DKIM, and DMARC, which help verify sender identities and prevent spoofing. Secure email gateways can filter out phishing attempts and malware before they reach inboxes, reducing the chances of a breach.

Marketers should also be trained to recognize suspicious emails, avoid clicking unknown links, and report potential scams. Furthermore, encrypting data and monitoring for brand impersonation can help protect both businesses and their audiences. By prioritizing email security, digital marketers can maintain trust, safeguard sensitive information, and prevent costly cyber incidents.

 

Best cybersecurity practices for digital marketers

From securing confidential data to preventing fraudulent activities, following cybersecurity best practices keeps your marketing campaigns safe and your brand reputation strong. Here are some key measures every marketer should adopt:

1. Implement layered authentication measures

Using multi-factor authentication (MFA) or two-factor authentication (2FA) significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to digital marketing platforms. These measures require an additional layer of verification beyond just a password, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to infiltrate accounts.

Additionally, check if your platform supports IP allowlisting, which adds another layer of security by restricting access to specific IP addresses. Effective identity access management, combined with these authentication methods, has been shown to prevent over 50% of potential breaches, showcasing its critical role in protecting sensitive information.

2. Use strong, unique passwords

While MFA provides an extra layer of security, it is not a replacement for strong passwords. Weak or reused passwords remain one of the most exploited vulnerabilities in cyber-attacks. Digital marketers should use complex, unique passwords for each account and change them regularly. Additionally, consider using Single Sign-On (SSO) methods whenever available, as they eliminate the need for traditional email and password combinations—if there’s no password created, it cannot be stolen.

A password manager can also help securely store and manage credentials, reducing the risk of compromised accounts. Encouraging employees to adopt strong password policies protects not only digital marketing data but also the broader business infrastructure.

3. Secure marketing platforms and data

Today, most tools are web-based, which means traditional software updates are less relevant. Instead, it’s crucial to focus on the smart selection of tools. Marketers often get mesmerized by features, capabilities, and pricing, but they must also consider important security factors.

When choosing a platform, check for security certifications, the option to enable multi-factor authentication (MFA), and other security features. Sometimes, it’s necessary to compromise on advanced capabilities in favor of tools that prioritize customer data security over flashy functionalities. This approach ensures that sensitive information remains protected against potential threats.

4. Use enterprise browsers

Enterprise browsers like Chrome Enterprise, Edge for Business, and the upcoming NordLayer’s Enterprise Browser offer built-in security features such as malware protection, phishing prevention, and sandboxing, significantly reducing cyber risks for marketing teams. For IT administrators, these browsers enable policy enforcement, extension management, and data loss prevention (DLP), ensuring company-wide security compliance.

5. Monitor and analyze network traffic

Using security tools such as NordLayer’s network visibility solutions helps detect unauthorized access and anomalies within the network. While marketers typically focus on campaign performance, continuous network monitoring is essential for IT and security teams. It enables them to identify suspicious activity, detect potential breaches early, and take preventive action before serious damage occurs. This proactive approach ensures that marketing data remains secure and protected from cyber threats.

6. Educate teams on cybersecurity

Training marketers to recognize phishing attacks and cybersecurity threats can prevent potential breaches. Many cybersecurity firms offer training programs tailored for digital marketing teams, helping employees stay informed about possible security risks. Awareness and vigilance play a key role in reducing cyber threats.

7. Limit access to sensitive data

Only grant necessary permissions to team members handling digital marketing campaigns. Implementing role-based access control (RBAC) strengthens cyber security by restricting access based on job responsibilities.

Marketing managers should collaborate with the IT and security teams to inform them about new sensitive data locations and ensure that appropriate network segmentation strategies are implemented. By minimizing the number of people with access to confidential data, businesses can reduce the likelihood of insider threats and accidental exposure.

8. Use a secure VPN and Cloud Firewall

A business VPN encrypts internet connections, keeping remote teams and public Wi-Fi users secure. It’s also widely used in marketing for testing ads in different regions. However, it’s important to use the VPN at all times, regardless of specific marketing needs, to enhance overall security. Pairing it with a Firewall-as-a-Service, such as NordLayer’s Cloud Firewall, further strengthens protection by blocking malicious traffic and controlling access to marketing tools.

A cloud firewall ensures that only authorized teams and departments can access specific environments, safeguarding sensitive information such as future campaign plans, customer data, and commercial secrets. By restricting access to only those who need it, businesses can prevent unauthorized exposure and maintain the confidentiality of critical marketing assets. It’s essential for marketers to collaborate with the IT team to ensure proper configuration and management of these security measures.

9. Secure your email workflows

Use authenticated email protocols (SPF, DKIM, DMARC), scan outbound content for risks, and secure your subscriber databases. Educating your team and regularly auditing your email marketing tools can significantly reduce security risks while maintaining trust with your audience.

10. Monitor ad campaigns for fraud

Regularly reviewing ad performance and using fraud detection tools can help identify click fraud and bot traffic, protecting your ad spend. Marketers should work with trusted advertising platforms that offer built-in fraud prevention mechanisms to ensure ad budgets are used effectively.

Strengthen your cybersecurity digital marketing with NordLayer

To protect digital marketing strategies from cybersecurity threats, NordLayer offers comprehensive security solutions that enhance operational security measures:

  • Business VPN: Ensures encrypted internet connections, protecting personal data from cyber threats.
  • Cloud Firewall: Provides secure access control to marketing platforms and protects sensitive data from unauthorized users.
  • Password management: Securely stores and manages credentials, reducing the risk of compromised accounts.
  • MFA & IP allowlisting: Enforces security measures before users connect to sensitive environments.

By implementing NordLayer’s security solutions, businesses can safeguard data stored in digital marketing tools, protect customer information, and maintain their company’s reputation. Learn more about e-commerce cybersecurity and retail cybersecurity to strengthen your cybersecurity framework today.

Cybersecurity in digital marketing is no longer an afterthought—it’s a necessity. As cyber threats continue to grow, businesses must remain proactive in implementing strong security measures. Taking the right precautions ensures the long-term success of marketing efforts while protecting customers and brands from potential security risks.

 

About Nord Security
The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Keepit named leader in cyber resilience and data protection at Global InfoSec Awards during RSA Conference 2025

Keepit named winner in three categories at the 13th Annual Global InfoSec Awards at #RSAC 2025

 

Copenhagen, Denmark – April 28 – Keepit, a global provider of a comprehensive cloud backup and recovery platform, today announced it has secured coveted awards at the 2025 Global Infosec Awards, cementing its status as industry leader in cyber resilience. Keepit was named winner in three cybersecurity categories: “Market Innovator Cyber Resilience”, “Cutting Edge Data Protection” and “Editor’s Choice Secure SaaS Backups”.

Keepit protects ever-increasing SaaS data, ensuring business continuity and cyber resilience. With offices and data centers around the globe, Keepit supports over fifteen thousand companies to secure business critical data from cyberthreats and other disruptions.

“We’re excited to receive one of the most prestigious and coveted cybersecurity awards for our Keepit platform. Protecting SaaS data has become more critical than ever and Keepit continues to do its part to support customers in ensuring business continuity. We believe that resilience starts with intelligent choices – choosing the right backup and recovery partner is one of those choices that defines disaster recovery capabilities for companies around the globe,” said Michele Hayes, CMO at Keepit.

“Keepit provides a cost-effective solution that helps mitigate cyber risks. With the Keepit platform, companies can stay one step ahead by future-proofing their cyber resilience strategy. We’re thrilled to name Keepit a winner in three categories at this year’s Global Infosec Awards,” said Gary S. Miliefsky, Publisher of Cyber Defense Magazine.

Keepit has been recognized by the industry

Keepit’s commitment to innovation, security, and reliability has positioned the company as a leader in the cybersecurity industry. The Keepit platform was recently recognized by the Data  Breakthrough Awards by naming Keepit “Data Security Solution of the Year”. Keepit also triumphed at the Cloud Awards 2024/25 in the “Best Cloud-Native Project / Solution” and “Best Cloud DR / Business Continuity Solution” categories. Keepit was also awarded at the 2024 Backup and Disaster Recovery Awards, underscoring the company’s commitment to intelligent recovery. A list of Keepit awards and endorsements can be found on the company website.

About Keepit

Keepit provides a next-level SaaS data protection platform purpose-built for the cloud. Securing data in a vendor-independent cloud safeguards essential business applications, boosts cyber resilience, and future-proofs data protection. Unique, separate, and immutable data storage with no sub-processors ensures compliance with local regulations and mitigates the impact of ransomware while guaranteeing continuous data access, business continuity, and fast and effective disaster recovery. Headquartered in Copenhagen with offices and data centers worldwide, over fifteen thousand companies trust Keepit for its ease of use and effortless backup and recovery of cloud data.

 

About Keepit
At Keepit, we believe in a digital future where all software is delivered as a service. Keepit’s mission is to protect data in the cloud Keepit is a software company specializing in Cloud-to-Cloud data backup and recovery. Deriving from +20 year experience in building best-in-class data protection and hosting services, Keepit is pioneering the way to secure and protect cloud data at scale.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Portnox Authentication Technology Earns SC Awards Europe Shortlist, Underscoring Leadership in Zero Trust Security

The company was recognized by SC Awards Europe for the second consecutive year.

AUSTIN, TX – April 22, 2025 – Building on its continued innovation in authentication technology, Portnox today announced its shortlisting in the prestigious 2025 SC Awards Europe. For the second year running, the company has been recognized in the Best Authentication Technology category, further solidifying its position as a leader in providing robust and adaptive security solutions.

In today’s complex cybersecurity landscape, IT teams face the daunting task of securing an ever-expanding network of managed devices, BYOD, and IoT, all while adhering to stringent compliance requirements. Portnox addresses this challenge head-on, transforming the potential vulnerability of numerous enterprise applications into a securely managed access environment. The cloud-native platform offers a streamlined approach to implementing zero trust and transitioning to passwordless authentication. It provides organizations with an affordable and scalable solution to protect their networks, applications, and critical infrastructure.

The SC Awards Europe celebrates the industry’s top innovators, teams, and solutions. Organized by SC Media, a leading resource for cybersecurity professionals, the awards honor excellence across key areas like threat detection, cloud security, and leadership. Being part of the SC Awards Europe means gaining recognition for contributions to the evolving world of cyber defense.

“We are thrilled to announce the official shortlist for the SC Awards Europe 2025! Congratulations to all those who made the shortlist for showcasing outstanding innovation and excellence in cybersecurity,” said Dan Raywood, Senior Editor, SC Media UK.

“Being shortlisted by the SC Awards Europe for Best Authentication is a testament to our focus on delivering real value to our customers in this critical region,” said Denny LeCompte, CEO of Portnox. “We believe our cloud-adaptive approach, coupled with our European data center, provides the robust and flexible security solutions they need.”

Portnox empowers organizations with a fully cloud-native, unified platform that simplifies the journey to zero trust and passwordless security. This comprehensive solution eliminates the complexities and costs associated with traditional on-prem security deployments, allowing businesses to achieve robust protection for their networks, applications, and infrastructure efficiently and at scale.

Find the complete 2025 shortlist on SC Media’s website. Winners will be announced in London at the SC Awards Europe 2025 ceremony on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

 

About Portnox
Portnox provides simple-to-deploy, operate and maintain network access control, security and visibility solutions. Portnox software can be deployed on-premises, as a cloud-delivered service, or in hybrid mode. It is agentless and vendor-agnostic, allowing organizations to maximize their existing network and cybersecurity investments. Hundreds of enterprises around the world rely on Portnox for network visibility, cybersecurity policy enforcement and regulatory compliance. The company has been recognized for its innovations by Info Security Products Guide, Cyber Security Excellence Awards, IoT Innovator Awards, Computing Security Awards, Best of Interop ITX and Cyber Defense Magazine. Portnox has offices in the U.S., Europe and Asia. For information visit http://www.portnox.com, and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.。

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Service Request Management – Definition, Tools and Best Practices

What is Service Request Management?

Service request management refers to the structured processing and management of service requests within an organization, particularly in IT service management (ITSM). These are standardized requests from users that do not constitute an incident or malfunction, but relate to access requests, the provision of resources or general information.

The process for managing these includes the receipt, documentation, processing and final resolution of service requests. The aim is to ensure a high level of service quality and to make processing efficient and transparent.

Service Request Management is a central component of modern ITSM frameworks such as ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library). It helps to increase user satisfaction through repeatable and scalable processes.

By using self-service portals and automated workflows, companies can further optimize and personalize these processes. This increases efficiency without neglecting control mechanisms.

Objectives of Service Request Management

Increased efficiency, quality assurance and improved user satisfaction

The standardized processing of requests should enable recurring requests with minimal effort and high reliability. Transparency and traceability should ensure that quality standards are met in areas such as customer experience and service delivery.

These goals are achieved through clear process definitions and the documentation of all steps. Ultimately, well-established service request management supports adherence to Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and compliance requirements. It contributes to the scalability of IT services.

Relief for IT Teams

Service portals, knowledge base and automated processes should be used to handle repeatable requests. Examples of when these can be used include password resets or access requests. The aim is to allow service desk employees to focus on more complex tasks and strategic initiatives.

Concepts in service request management

Service request management is based on various central concepts of IT service management. These include classifying service requests, setting priorities and defining a life cycle that structures processing from request to completion. These concepts create the basis for standardized and transparent processes in the IT service organization.

The role of IT service management

IT service management (ITSM) is an organizational framework for the implementation of service request management. It defines the processes, guidelines and roles to ensure that service requests are handled consistently and efficiently. ITSM frameworks such as ITIL offer best practices that create standards for processing service requests.

ITSM automates workflows, clearly defines responsibilities and increases the quality of services. ITSM also promotes the integration of service request management into other ITSM processes, such as incident or change management. This supports a holistic IT operating strategy.

Service request classification

The classification of service requests is used to categorize requests according to type, category or complexity. This ensures assignment to the responsible teams and enables efficient processing. Typical categories are access requests, information requests or provision requests. A clear classification forms the basis for automated processes and prioritized processing.

Prioritization

Service requests are prioritized based on criteria, such as urgency and impact on business operations. Requests with a critical impact are given a higher priority than routine requests. This classification helps teams use resources effectively. It also reduces the time needed for important business requests.

Service request life cycle

The lifecycle describes the entire process needed to fulfill service requests. Typical lifecycle phases include acceptance, validation, processing and completion. Structured documentation of the lifecycle ensures transparency and traceability, both for users and for the IT organization itself.

Five tools for service request management

Well-structured service request management requires powerful tools and modern technologies to efficiently record, manage and automate requests. Choosing the right solution makes a significant contribution to optimizing IT service processes. Five important tools that support companies in implementing effective service request management are presented below.

ITSM Solution from OTRS

The preconfigured and ready-to-use ITSM solution from OTRS offers a flexible, customizable platform for handling service requests and other processes according to ITIL standards. It enables clear ticket management, automated workflows and transparent communication between IT teams and end users.

Find out how OTRS can make your service request management more efficient.

ServiceNow

ServiceNow is an elaborate cloud-based platform that integrates asset, change and incident management alongside service request management. It helps large enterprises optimize IT processes through AI-supported automation and a self-service portal.

BMC Helix ITSM

An ITSM tool that is based on the Salesforce platform and enables close integration with CRM systems. The cloud-based solution offers scalability and flexibility for companies

Jira Service Management

Atlassian’s Jira Service Management is particularly useful for DevOps. It provides flexible workflows, a strong ticketing system, and easy links to other Atlassian products for better process control.

Remedyforce (BMC)

Remedyforce (BMC) is an ITSM solution based on the Salesforce platform that enables seamless integration with CRM and cloud services. It offers an intuitive user interface and automation capabilities to efficiently manage IT and business workflows.

Important technologies in modern service request management

Importance of self-service portals

Self-service portals play a key role in the transformation of service request management. They provide users with a user friendly way to submit a service request. Requests are standardized for easy input. Entry is supported by intuitive user interfaces and extensive knowledge databases.

The use of AI clearly demonstrates the potential for further development. For example, an AI chatbots can identify problems, suggest the appropriate solution and guide users through the process.

Self-service portals promote autonomy and transparency by giving users the opportunity to work out solutions independently/ They also provide insights into the processing status. They significantly reduce the workload of the service team.

They are becoming increasingly indispensable thanks to their contribution to user satisfaction.

Cloud- and SaaS Solutions

Cloud-based ITSM platforms offer flexibility, scalability and easy integration into existing IT landscapes. SaaS solutions enable companies to implement them quickly without high maintenance costs.

Automation of service requests

AI-supported automation reduces manual intervention and speeds up service processes. Chatbots, automated ticket assignments and machine learning optimize the processing and prioritization of requests.

Automation is a key driver of efficiency in service request management. With the help of workflow technologies and artificial intelligence, we can find and handle routine requests automatically.

This significantly reduces processing times. It frees up employees for more complex, value-added tasks. Automation increases efficiency. It also minimizes human error and creates a scalable basis for future IT services.

By using these tools and technologies, companies can improve how they manage service requests. They can automate processes and enhance service quality over time.

Best practices for service request management

The following are proven practices and strategies for the implementation and operation of successful service request management.

Standardization of service requests and processes

Uniformly defined and documented processes ensure consistent processing of service requests. Classifying requests according to type and priority and defining Service Level Agreements (SLAs) creates transparency and increases efficiency.

Clear distribution of roles and responsibilities

By clearly defining roles and responsibilities within service request management, requests can be processed efficiently. Responsibilities should be clearly assigned throughout the service request process. This helps avoid escalations and allows for a quick solution. This also helps with optimizing resource allocation.

Integrate security and compliance into processes

IT security and compliance requirements are indispensable components of modern service request management. Automated approval processes, role-based access controls and audit-proof documentation ensure that all service requests comply with the applicable regulations and security standards.

By implementing these additional best practices, service providers can optimize their service request management process.

Implementation of a self-service portal

A well-structured self-service portal with an integrated knowledge database reduces the manual workload for IT team members. Users can submit standard queries independently or find solutions to common problems, which significantly reduces processing time.

Automation of workflows

The automation of recurring service requests minimizes sources of error and reduces the workload of IT teams. This is often done through workflow engines or RPA (robotic process automation). Automation enables faster processing and scaling of services.

Continuous monitoring and optimization

Regularly checking KPIs like processing times, SLA compliance, and customer satisfaction helps spot problems early. Continuous improvement of processes should be carried out continuously based on this data to increase efficiency.

Integration with other ITSM processes

Bringing service request management together with ITSM processes like incident, change, and asset management creates a clear ITSM strategy. This improves service coordination, increases quality and supports sustainable IT governance. By using these best practices, service request management can become more efficient. This can increase user satisfaction and improve IT operations over time.

About OTRS

OTRS (originally Open-Source Ticket Request System) is a service management suite. The suite contains an agent portal, admin dashboard and customer portal. In the agent portal, teams process tickets and requests from customers (internal or external). There are various ways in which this information, as well as customer and related data can be viewed. As the name implies, the admin dashboard allows system administrators to manage the system: Options are many, but include roles and groups, process automation, channel integration, and CMDB/database options. The third component, the customer portal, is much like a customizable webpage where information can be shared with customers and requests can be tracked on the customer side.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Introducing Graylog 6.2: A SIEM Without Compromise

What does it really mean to have a SIEM Without Compromise? 

For too long, security teams have been stuck in a no-win game—forced to choose between visibility and cost, detection breadth and team capacity, automation, and control. Every decision felt like a trade-off, with real-world consequences: dropped logs, missed alerts, and inconsistent response when it mattered most. 

With the Spring ’25 release of Graylog Security 6.2, we’re eliminating those compromises. Our latest innovations empower you to log everything, detect what matters, and respond with precision—without overloading your team or your budget. 

Let’s break down the three most common SIEM trade-offs and how Graylog 6.2 puts them to rest. 

 

Log Collection: No More “All or Nothing” 

The Trade-Off: 

Most SIEMs license based on volume, source, or compute, making log collection a budgetary balancing act. You either drop logs to control costs or accept unpredictable licensing spikes. Once dropped, those logs—and their forensic value—are gone forever. 

The Graylog 6.2 Solution: 

With Graylog’s native pipeline management, including Data Routing and Graylog’s provided Data Lake, you don’t have to choose. Route only high-value logs (used for active dashboards, detection, and analytics) into licensed hot storage. Send everything else into your standby data lake, where it is searchable, restorable, and completely license-free. Graylog lets you Preview data in your data lake prior to retrieval, and provides selective retrieval options, ensuring the data in your SIEM is the data driving decisions.  

You get full retention with cost control—perfect for compliance, audits, and threat hunting. Your storage, your rules—on-prem or in the cloud. 

Threat Detection: From Alert Overload to Risk-Led Action 

The Trade-Off: 

More detections = more alerts = more noise. To keep alert fatigue in check, teams are forced to disable or under-tune detections—limiting early visibility into attacker behaviors. As threat campaigns evolve, keeping detection content current without overwhelming the SOC becomes impossible. 

The Graylog 6.2 Solution: 

Enter Graylog’s Adversary Informed Defense. Rather than triage individual alerts, 6.2 automatically recognizes adversary groups Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs), chaining detections together and exponentially increasing risk scoring with each additional corroborating detection. Going a step beyond tagging detections based on their MITRE ATT&CK tactic and technique, Adversary Informed Defense uses real-world threat campaign details to recognize the presence of an attack in your environment, even if individual activities are spread over days, weeks, even months.  

And this inherently works with Graylog’s Asset Risk model, allowing teams to confidently enable more detections without drowning in alert noise, keeping them ahead of attacker TTPs without burning out their analysts. 

 

Incident Response: Ditch the Binder, Evolve Beyond the Playbook 

The Trade-Off: 

SOAR was supposed to solve alert triage with automation. In reality, most playbooks are rigid, brittle, and require expert knowledge to build and maintain. Meanwhile, LLM-based copilots introduce inconsistency—same question, different answer. 

The Graylog 6.2 Solution: 

We deliver the best of both worlds: 

  • Structured guidance with every event via embedded procedural steps 
  • Context-aware AI assistance via LLMs that analyze investigation evidence in real time 

This ensures consistent, repeatable investigations with dynamic, context-enriched support—no more toggling between static flows and unpredictable copilots. 

 

Why This Matters 

With Graylog Security 6.2, security teams no longer need to compromise: 

Legacy SIEM Trade-Off Graylog 6.2 Advantage 
Drop logs to save cost Route to license-free standby data lakes, Preview and selectively recall what is important 
Disable detections to reduce noise Enable more—and only triage alerts with automatic corroborated evidence 
Static playbooks or unpredictable AI 

Consistent steps + contextual LLM guidance 

 

 

Get Started: Experience SIEM Without Compromise 

Graylog’s Spring ‘25 release isn’t just a feature drop—it’s a shift in how modern security teams operate, adapting to your environment, in support of lean teams, and keeps you ahead of adversaries, not buried under alerts. 

About Graylog
At Graylog, our vision is a secure digital world where organizations of all sizes can effectively guard against cyber threats. We’re committed to turning this vision into reality by providing Threat Detection & Response that sets the standard for excellence. Our cloud-native architecture delivers SIEM, API Security, and Enterprise Log Management solutions that are not just efficient and effective—whether hosted by us, on-premises, or in your cloud—but also deliver a fantastic Analyst Experience at the lowest total cost of ownership. We aim to equip security analysts with the best tools for the job, empowering every organization to stand resilient in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Replacing Traditional VPNs with Segura® Domum: A Modern Approach Integrated with Microsoft Entra ID

Securing remote access is a growing challenge for organizations of all sizes.

Although widely used, traditional VPNs present several limitations, such as management complexity, inherent vulnerabilities, and lack of granularity in access control.

A more modern and secure approach can be achieved with Segura® Domum, in combination with Microsoft Entra ID and its advanced features, such as Conditional Access, Single Sign-On (SSO), and Intune.

Challenges of Traditional VPNs

Conventional VPNs operate by connecting remote users to entire corporate networks, creating risks of lateral movement and requiring intensive manual configuration.

Other common problems include:

  • User Experience: Need for installation and configuration of VPN clients.
  • Security: Attacks such as credential theft, man-in-the-middle, and compromised infected devices.
  • Scalability: Difficulty supporting rapid growth and hybrid/multicloud environments.

Segura® Domum: Zero Trust, PAM, and Secure Access

Segura® Domum is a solution that implements the Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) model, replacing traditional VPNs with a conditional and granular access approach.

Additionally, Domum is accompanied by Segura®’s Privileged Access Management (PAM), which adds powerful security functionalities, such as:

  • Just-in-Time Access: Users receive access only for the necessary time and upon authorization.
  • Granular Access Policies: Define which users can access which systems, without exposing the entire network.
  • Session Recording: Monitor and audit all activities performed by privileged users.
  • Credential Management: Secure storage, automatic rotation, and elimination of shared credential usage.
  • Auditing and Monitoring: Detailed logging of all activities and sessions, facilitating compliance and incident response.

Integration with Microsoft Entra for Secure Access

Microsoft Entra ID enhances Segura® Domum, enabling a secure and simplified experience with:

1. Single Sign-On (SSO)

Integration with Entra ID allows for single sign-on (SSO), eliminating the need for multiple credentials and reducing risks of phishing and weak passwords.

2. Conditional Access

 Apply policies to restrict access based on factors such as:

3. Trusted Workstation Assurance with Microsoft Intune

Microsoft Intune can be used to ensure that only managed and compliant corporate devices access Segura® Domum, blocking insecure or compromised endpoints.

Benefits of Adoption

Replacing traditional VPNs with Segura® Domum, integrated with Microsoft Entra, provides:

  • Improved Security: Reduced risk of cyberattacks, minimized attack surface, and stronger authentication.
  • Protection of Privileged Access: Full control and traceability through Segura®’s PAM.
  • Better User Experience: Simple access without the need for VPN clients.
  • Governance and Compliance: Detailed reporting and full audit trails for regulatory requirements.
  • Scalability and Flexibility: Support for hybrid and multicloud environments without complex infrastructure.

Conclusion

Digital transformation requires modernizing remote access security.

Replacing traditional VPNs with Segura® Domum, integrated with Microsoft Entra, offers a Zero Trust model combined with the advanced features of Segura®’s PAM—delivering security, compliance, and a better experience for users and administrators.

Adopting this approach strengthens protection against cyber threats and empowers organizations to operate more efficiently and confidently—no matter where their teams or infrastructure are located.

‍

Ready to leave VPN limitations behind? See how Segura® Domum delivers secure remote access in minutes—no complex setup, no compromises. Discover how it works.

‍

Microsoft Entra and Microsoft Intune are registered trademarks of Microsoft.

About Segura®
Segura® strive to ensure the sovereignty of companies over actions and privileged information. To this end, we work against data theft through traceability of administrator actions on networks, servers, databases and a multitude of devices. In addition, we pursue compliance with auditing requirements and the most demanding standards, including PCI DSS, Sarbanes-Oxley, ISO 27001 and HIPAA.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Company Introduces Adversary Campaign Intelligence to Prioritize True Cyber Threats; Data Lake Preview and Retrieval for Smart Data Retention

 

HOUSTON — April 28, 2025 — Graylog, the no-nonsense platform for Security, API protection, and IT Operations, today launched its Spring 2025 release of Graylog Security—pushing further past the limits of traditional SIEM. Building on the Fall 2024 release (version 6.1), Graylog sharpens analyst workflows, accelerates time-to-value, and sets a new bar for speed and flexibility in threat detection.

With Adversary Campaign Intelligence, Data Lake Preview, Selective Data Restore, and Threat Coverage Analyzer, Graylog can now equip teams with better detection, real-time context, and more control over what matters. Analysts get alignment between content and the data it’s meant to catch, while CISOs get the visibility to prove it’s working without making tradeoffs. 

“SIEMs have forced teams into a corner for too long—more logs mean more cost, more alerts mean more noise, and every pivot adds drag,” said Seth Goldhammer, Vice President of Product Management at Graylog. “This release flips that model. We’re using automation to clear the clutter, dial in detection, and make sure your stored data delivers value—not just volume.”

 

Adversary Campaign Intelligence

Graylog’s Adversary Campaign Intelligence redefines threat detection by continuously assessing activities based on their common targets, asset value, and exposure levels, and identifying their relationship with known attack campaigns. This calculated true attack probability reduces noise and surfaces at-risk users, endpoints, and entities by automatically corroborating evidence and context.

With updated detections to support Sigma 2.0 and responses empowered with AI guidance and automation, analysts act faster, triaging only what’s relevant and cutting down response time.

 

Data Lake Preview

Graylog allows for direct alignment to SIEM costs and the data that answers questions without sacrificing visibility by extending the data routing and data lake capabilities launched in the Fall 2024 release. Graylog’s Data Lake Preview allows teams to see if the data they need is in the Graylog Data Lake before retrieving a data set. Then, with Selective Data Retrieval, teams retrieve a narrow range of log messages on demand, greatly reducing their license consumption. 

 

Threat Coverage Analyzer

Graylog’s Threat Coverage Analyzer gives security leaders clarity into what their teams are detecting—and what they might be missing. This feature highlights detection gaps mapped to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, guiding users to detect content aligned to their SIEM’s log collection and new log collection strategies to strengthen coverage posture through data-driven decisions.

 

Graylog Live at RSAC 2025

The Graylog Spring 2025 release is now live. Visit Graylog.com to explore new features and learn more, or join us at #RSAC 2025, Booth S-3134, to see a live demo.

 

About Graylog
At Graylog, our vision is a secure digital world where organizations of all sizes can effectively guard against cyber threats. We’re committed to turning this vision into reality by providing Threat Detection & Response that sets the standard for excellence. Our cloud-native architecture delivers SIEM, API Security, and Enterprise Log Management solutions that are not just efficient and effective—whether hosted by us, on-premises, or in your cloud—but also deliver a fantastic Analyst Experience at the lowest total cost of ownership. We aim to equip security analysts with the best tools for the job, empowering every organization to stand resilient in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Saily vs. Airalo: which eSIM provider to choose?

 

Summary: See how Saily and Airalo compare on price, coverage, security, and support, so you can pick the right eSIM for travel.

Once upon a time, taking your smartphone abroad was an expensive activity due to the global roaming charges levied by cellphone networks. Fortunately, eSIMs solve this annoying problem.

Digital SIM cards enable instant carrier switches and localized data packages that do away with roaming fees, which is a cheaper, more efficient way to travel with a smartphone. The question is, which eSIM provider should you choose?

This blog will compare Saily and Airalo, two leading eSIM merchants. Both offer smart connectivity that standard cellphone providers cannot match. Let’s discover which one meets your traveling needs.

What is Saily?

Created by Nord Security in 2024, Saily is an exciting new eSIM app that builds on the expertise that created NordVPN and NordLayer. Saily gives smartphone users freedom about how they use their phones worldwide. It will help block ads and secure your browsing with DNS filtering while choosing from data plans to suit anyone’s needs.

What is Airalo?

Airalo is an established eSIM provider with over 10 million global customers. Founded to provide cross-border data connectivity and work around roaming restrictions, Airalo offers data packs for more than 200 destinations. Customers download the app, choose their package, and benefit from instant data, the moment they arrive.

Saily vs. Airalo: a comprehensive comparison

Saily and Airalo provide similar services. Both vendors work in the eSIM space, filling the gap left by traditional telecom providers. However, beyond that fundamental similarity, some significant differences might sway your purchasing decision.

Disclaimer: The information about eSIM features in this comparison table below was last verified on eSIM providers’ official websites as of April 8, 2025. On the same date, Trustpilot ratings were also checked on Saily’s and Airalo’s Trustpilot pages. Since this information is subject to change, we recommend visiting respective websites for the latest details when making a purchase.

Saily vs. Airalo feature comparison

eSIM plans

Saily majors on flexible plans, giving customers maximum choice about data amounts and plan durations. Plan sizes vary from 1 GB to 100 GB, and durations range from one week to a year. Travelers can choose an eSIM that matches their travel plans. If you’re jetting into Thailand for a week or relocating to Brazil for a year, there’s a plan for you.

Airalo provides a choice of local, regional, and global eSIM packages. Customers can save money with an eSIM for a single country or spend more for regional flexibility. Saily is equally flexible, offering eSIMs that automatically switch carriers as you travel across borders. For example, there’s no need to juggle national SIMs as you travel around Europe.

Airalo is less flexible about plan durations. Customers can choose from one-day, 7-day, or 15-day packages for most countries (365 and 180-day passes are available with global coverage). Customers may need to recharge their data regularly if they aren’t sure how long they will be in a country.

Both Airalo and Saily provide instant connectivity. Customers can get started immediately, provided they have the right eSIM for their location.

 

Global coverage

Saily and Airalo operate globally, with an impressive range of countries and regions. Wherever you intend to travel, you can confidently expect data coverage.

Both vendors offer plans for over 200 countries and territories. Travelers intending to visit North Korea may be out of luck, as Saily and Airalo are not available there. Otherwise, both eSim providers have your back.

Pricing

Global coverage and flexible plans are great, but not if they come at an unacceptable price. Luckily, both Airalo and Saily offer affordable prices for their eSIM services.

Firstly, the good news. eSIMs from both providers are much cheaper than comparable roaming plans from cellphone companies. However, our price comparison finds Saily is slightly more affordable than Airalo. These differences can be significant for particular destinations.

The table below shows sample prices for some of the most popular countries.

Disclaimer: The prices shown below refer to one week, 1 GB packages and include the cheapest plans, last verified on eSIM providers’ official websites as of April 8, 2025. Since prices may change, we recommend checking the providers’ websites, especially at checkout, for the most up-to-date pricing information before making a purchase.

Country

Saily

Airalo

USA

$3.99

$4.50

UK

$4.49

$5.00

Japan

$3.99

$4.50

Brazil

$3.99

$9.50

Nigeria

$7.49

$8.50

Saudi Arabia

$4.49

$5.00

Poland

$4.49

$4.50

The prices above refer to national plans, but what about global eSIM packages? Again, Saily is the more affordable option. Global 20 GB, 365-day plans with Airalo cost $69, while an identical plan with Saily costs $66.90.

Speed and performance

Whether you are traveling for work or pleasure, speed and performance are not optional extras. Reliable connectivity allows you to work productively without disruption. And when you’re relaxing, nobody likes broken streams or sluggish download times.

Both Saily and Airalo rely on local partners to provide internet connectivity, so this comparison does not directly reflect the performance of either eSIM provider. Nevertheless, the choice of partner influences local speeds. But is this the case with either company?

In real-world tests, both eSIM providers perform well. Local partners often deliver 5G connectivity, which feels fast wherever you use it. There are no significant issues with reliability, outside extremely remote regions.

Ease of use

With Saily, users pick a plan and download the app. The plan automatically activates when visitors touch down. You can also buy a plan and wait up to 30 days before activating it, giving users space to sort out travel plans and avoid the pre-flight rush.

The Airalo activation process is virtually identical. Users choose their preferred plan and make a payment. They then download the app, install the eSIM, and activate the product when needed. Unlike Saily, Airalo involves scanning a QR code. If you aren’t comfortable with that, look at Saily first.

The Airalo app is easy to use but marginally more cluttered than Saily. Even so, you should have few problems locating the ideal eSIM.

Customer support

While Airalo and Saily are reliable eSIM vendors, unexpected downtime is always a possibility. After all, both companies rely on in-country networks to deliver connectivity. The question is, how well do they respond when issues arise?

Both companies claim to offer comprehensive customer support. For instance, Airalo provides customer support options via all major social media platforms. You can also reach support staff by email if needed.

However, there’s a catch. Trustpilot reviews mention sluggish and low-quality responses from the Airalo team. Some reviewers mention problems obtaining data connectivity in emergencies. That’s not a good look for an eSIM provider. In contrast, Saily’s reviews show a more positive reception overall, though occasional complaints still arise.

Feedback for Saily’s customer support tends to be positive. Customers regularly report swift resolutions when problems arise, including refunds for imperfect experiences. Saily provides a 24/7 live chat function via the app. Expect automated help initially, although human assistance is on hand to field emergency queries. Saily recognizes that eSIM customers rely on connectivity and respond rapidly when connectivity fails.

Online reputation

Online reviews aren’t everything when purchasing online, but it’s wise to consider feedback. So, where do Saily and Airalo stand in the eSIM discussion?

Saily’s 4-star Trustpilot rating is pretty good for an eSim provider. Reviewers regularly applaud the app’s simplicity and the willingness of customer support staff to resolve connection issues quickly. Some customers experience performance problems, but, as mentioned earlier, variation is unavoidable when dealing with third-party networks.

Airalo has a less favorable Trustpilot rating. Customers like the simple setup process and appealing prices. Many reviewers also highlight the strong global coverage. However, reviewers report issues with eSIMs not working in some countries and sluggish support. So, this is an area where Saily wins out.

Extra features

Both companies understand that customers want more than simple connectivity. You’ll find plenty of extras that enhance the user experience and even save on future purchases.

One of the extra benefits of using a Saily eSIM is enhanced smartphone security. That’s because Saily doesn’t just provide affordable data connectivity. Users can also turn on the adblocker to help shut out annoying pop-ups that drain data and reduce speeds.

There’s also a web protection feature that helps block malicious downloads and tracking cookies. Both of these services tend to deliver faster speeds. More importantly, they can also help safeguard user privacy, a useful feature if you travel in countries known for surveillance activities.

Saily draws on NordVPN’s expertise to switch locations seamlessly. If you want to access your subscribed US TV shows in Italy while traveling, switch to US data providers, and the app will assign you a virtual location back home to your paid subscription.

Airalo has some perks as well (although security is not one of them). Customers can easily keep track of data usage in the app and monitor top-ups to avoid surprises. Customers can earn $3 off their next purchase by referring a friend, while regular purchasers earn cashback (Airmoney) as they buy more data.

Even so, Saily matches many of these features. For instance, Saily pays users $5 when they refer friends to the eSIM service. Users also receive automatic updates when they hit 80% of their data allowance, enabling seamless top-ups.

Overall, both vendors go beyond the norm. At the moment, Saily’s security add-ons place it ahead of Airalo.

Saily vs. Airalo: which one to choose?

Companies like Saily and Airalo are revolutionizing global travel. Internet connectivity used to be an expensive luxury when moving between countries. Now, eSIMs make surfing the web affordable, fast, and secure. There are almost no boundaries to global roaming.

Both Saily and Airalo are reliable vendors for your next eSIM purchase. Expect instant connectivity, flexible data allowances, and lower costs. However, Saily stands out with stronger customer support, 24/7 live chat, and a higher Trustpilot score. Airalo offers wide coverage, but reviews point to slow responses and setup issues. Both apps are intuitive and easy to navigate, and topping up data feels perfectly natural from the start.

Both Airalo and Saily offer coverage in 200+ countries. You’ll almost certainly benefit from an Airalo eSIM compared with traditional cellphone roaming. However, a couple of factors elevate Saily above Airalo for travelers.

Firstly, Saily is usually slightly cheaper than Airalo. In some countries, Saily’s eSIMs are significantly less expensive for short and medium-term packages. For instance, a 1GB 7-day eSIM for Thailand costs $2.99 with Saily but $4.50 with Airalo. Travelers to Brazil pay $39.99 with Saily for 30-day 20GB packages, or $42 with Airalo. So, on price alone, Saily may be a better option for upcoming trips.

Additionally, Saily is the better option for security-conscious travelers. Saily’s app reflects Nord Security’s expertise. Users benefit from ad-blocking and web protection, making it safer to communicate or stream your favorite paid home content while traveling.

Disclaimer: The prices shown above were last verified on the eSIM providers’ official websites as of April 17, 2025. And this article is for informational purposes and compares Saily and Airalo’s eSIM business-to-consumer services. Please note that if you are interested in purchasing Saily for business purposes, the pricing and offerings may vary to better suit your organization’s needs.

 

About Nord Security
The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.