As companies expand in the digital world, they must deal with the growing cyber threats that jeopardize their business. Supply chain attacks, ransomware, malware, and even security breaches render traditional antivirus solutions insufficient.
In this context, security operations (SecOps) are crucial for detecting, responding to, and mitigating these incidents in real-time. This is why it is so necessary to have an endpoint protection tool like Palo Alto Cortex XDR.
What is Cortex XDR?
Palo Alto Cortex XDR (formerly known as Traps) is a comprehensive cloud security solution that protects your endpoints and enterprise networks. Its innovative AI-driven approach provides advanced automated protection against extended cyber threats across multiple layers of the IT infrastructure.
The software is recognized for its effective performance in detecting, mitigating, and preventing attack vectors, including malware and exploits. However, that's not all; it's also capable of locating malicious code in the memory of existing programs, known as fileless malware.
This makes it a particularly appreciated option for businesses whose operations require maintaining a very high level of security. But… is it the software your business needs?
Why choose Palo Cortex XDR?
After conducting a thorough analysis of Cortex XDR and witnessing its features and results firsthand, we have rated this service with a 7.9 out of 10.
We are facing a set of next-generation security solutions capable of actively protecting a business's infrastructure and endpoints.
The main strengths of Cortex XDR are:
- Detection, elimination, and prevention of threats enhanced by AI.
- Integration and automation of data to accelerate incident response.
- Includes additional modules, such as Forensics or Wildfire, that can enhance the level of protection.
The best of Cortex XDR
Detection and response powered by Artificial Intelligence
One of the aspects we have liked the most about this cloud security platform is its high level of detection and response to cyber threats. All of this is done automatically.
Cortex XDR streamlines the process of detecting and responding to any attack, thanks to its ability to gather and integrate data from any source.
Driven by its powerful artificial intelligence, this software is not only capable of detecting and resolving cyber threats but also of learning from them.
In this way, it is a platform that evolves with the company, enabling it to proactively protect itself against future attack vectors.
Complete EDR solution at the enterprise level
We have also appreciated that we are truly facing a comprehensive enterprise-level endpoint solution, integrating seamlessly with the entire Palo Alto ecosystem. This includes antivirus, firewalls, encryption, and USB device control.
With a high level of efficiency against malware, exploits, and even fileless attacks, Palo Alto Cortex XDR is a perfect option for large enterprises that need to keep their data secure.
The worst of Cortex XDR
High price
Not everything has pleased us about this software, starting with its price. It is quite high, and, in addition, for each module or tool we want to add, we have to pay for a new license. For this reason, it is not recommended for small companies or startups, where budgets are typically limited.
High learning curve
Another disadvantage is its high learning curve. Its implementation in companies is often a slow process, and configuring the platform requires a high level of technical knowledge. A similar issue occurs with its user interface, which is significantly less intuitive than most alternatives.
False positives
Finally, it is worth mentioning that software often blocks applications or external devices due to false positives. This does not necessarily have to be a disadvantage, since there is the possibility of adding exceptions to avoid blocking. However, exceptions also tend to fail, so it is necessary to contact customer service for assistance.
For whom do we recommend Palo Alto Cortex XDR?
After analyzing the main functions and features of this platform, we recommend this solution for:
- Large companies and businesses are looking for a robust security solution for their endpoints.
- IT and security teams need an advanced tool for threat detection, prevention, and response.
- Companies that use other solutions from the Palo Alto Networks ecosystem.
For any other type of business, we recommend more affordable alternatives such as Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
Key Features: What is Cortex XDR for?
Cortex XDR is a comprehensive solution for SecOps (Security Operations) of a company. Its protection for endpoints allows detection and prevention of cyber threats based on behavior, powerful AI, and cloud-based analytics.
Among its main functions are:
Machine learning and AI-powered threat detection
As we have mentioned throughout the analysis, one of the points that differentiates this software from its competitors is the use of Artificial Intelligence. It is estimated that companies typically generate around 11,000 security alerts, a number that overwhelms security teams. Thanks to AI, the software is capable of analyzing and learning from each one of them, as well as showing the details of their initial cause. This makes it easier to defend against future cyberattacks.
Automatic malware prevention
Cortex XDR can detect malware, ransomware, and the so-called fileless attacks with total precision. All of this is achieved thanks to its behavior analysis and real-time defense system, which is capable of blocking any fast-moving attack, as well as hidden malicious activities and internal attacks.
Complete Endpoint Security (EDR)
Palo Alto's software analyzes, detects, and automatically responds to any attack after analyzing the endpoint event chains. This not only prevents any ransomware attempt but is also capable of blocking malicious encryption threats. All of this ensures the implementation of containment measures to protect your data.
USB device control
Malware not only enters a device via the Internet, but also through USB devices such as storage drives, keyboards, cameras, mobile phones, etc. Cortex XDR features an integrated USB control tool to manage access to these devices, thereby mitigating this type of threat.
Identity Analytics
Cortex XDR offers Identity Analytics, a feature that enables the detection of suspicious and malicious user activity. Thanks to its 360-degree user view and by gathering data from human resources like Workday, the platform can identify attacks such as credential theft, brute force attacks, or impossible travel cases.
Custom rules
In addition to its more than 500 predefined rules, Palo Alto Cortex offers the possibility to create your own. This way, your business's security teams can detect significant threats and attacks that directly affect your business performance.
Integration with multiple security solutions
The positive results of Cortex XDR in terms of threat detection and removal are evident in the various rounds of the MITRE ATT&CK evaluation. In fact, it is the only software capable of achieving 100% protection and 97% visibility. It accomplishes this through its multiple integrations with SIEM, IPS/IDS, NGFW, and third-party applications.
Advantages and disadvantages of using Palo Alto Cortex XDR
Protecting your business is priceless, which is why it's normal at this stage of the analysis to identify the primary advantages and disadvantages of adopting this tool.
Below, we summarize them all:
Pros of Cortex XDR
- High level of detection, prevention, and elimination of threats.
- Vulnerability assessment, risks, and identity analysis.
- Powerful AI and machine learning system.
- Centralized management of its tools.
- Scalability for large companies and plans designed for every business.
- Large number of learning resources and information.
- Forensic security analysis (as a separate module)
- Integration with the rest of the products in the Palo Alto ecosystem.
- Multi-platform, available on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android mobile systems.
Cons of Cortex XDR
- Very high price at both subscription and license acquisition levels.
- Its interface has a steep learning curve.
- Slow and somewhat complex implementation.
- Sometimes gives false errors, leading to the blocking of applications and devices.
- To have complete protection, it is necessary to purchase modules with additional functions.
- Customer service is limited.
Should my company adopt Cortex XDR?
Palo Alto Cortex XDR is an excellent option for any business looking for a comprehensive cloud security platform powered by Artificial Intelligence.
It is also highly recommended for companies still using outdated solutions to prevent threats on their endpoints, such as traditional antivirus.
Finally, another fundamental factor for its adoption is whether they are already using other programs from the Palo Alto Networks ecosystem. This software integrates perfectly with all of them, thus unlocking its full potential.
Why do some companies abandon Cortex XDR?
Not all companies that have used Cortex XDR decide to maintain their subscription. The main reason for abandoning this platform is its high price. In addition to the standard cost of the plan, extra module licenses are needed for its operation.
Another factor of dissatisfaction is the difficulty of configuration and use, which requires a team of IT experts to integrate it into the company's workflow.
Finally, its customer service is very limited, making it difficult to resolve a security issue quickly.
Plans and Pricing: How much does Cortex XDR cost?
The platform offers two distinct plans designed to meet the needs of each business. They are as follows:
- Cortex XDR Prevent: (approx. €12,886/year for 200 endpoints) Includes endpoint protection, device control, disk encryption, threat detection, basic behavioral analysis features.
- Cortex XDR Pro: (approx. €14,700/year for 200 endpoints) Includes all the features of the Prevent plan but with advanced features, managed threat hunting by the Palo Alto support team, advanced incident reporting with Cortex XSOAR integration, advanced behavioral analysis, improved integration with the Cortex Data Lake, analysis through Wildfire, forensic security tools, enhanced user interface.
Palo Alto Cortex XDR does not have a free trial version. Due to its high price and annual subscription, it is advisable to request a free demo of the service before accessing any of these plans.
Implementation: How to adopt Cortex XDR?
As we have mentioned, implementing Cortex XDR in a company is not a simple process and usually takes several weeks.
The platform configuration is not suitable for inexperienced users, so it is necessary to have a skilled IT team with a strong understanding of cybersecurity.
Despite its complexity, the Palo Alto website offers access to a wide range of resources and tutorials to assist with its implementation.
The page also offers the opportunity to obtain certifications in network security, security operations, and cloud security.
Security: Is Cortex XDR safe?
Palo Alto Cortex XDR is a completely secure platform. It meets the primary security standards, holding certifications for SOC 2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and HIPAA.
In addition to protecting your business data and preventing unauthorized access, it includes the ability to add a two-factor authentication (2FA) system as well as a single sign-on (SSO).
Customer support: How to contact Cortex XDR?
Cortex XDR offers a customer support service available 24 hours a day, accessible via phone call (free with local agents) and email.
Despite receiving good feedback from its customers, many subscribers consider the customer support service somewhat limited, as it lacks a live chat feature.
What alternatives are there to Palo Alto Cortex XDR?
If Cortex XDR does not convince you or seems too expensive, don’t worry. There are several alternatives to ensure the security of your endpoints.
To facilitate your decision, we have created a list comparing its features with those of the main Cortex XDR competitors.
Microsoft Defender for Endpoint vs Cortex XDR
We begin our list of alternatives with Defender for Endpoint, a suitable option for any company that has already adopted the Microsoft app ecosystem in its operations.
Among its main features, we find:
- Security powered by Microsoft Copilot.
- Able to interrupt attacks before they affect your business.
- Allows the implementation of security decoys.
- Flexible enterprise controls.
We highlight that Microsoft Defender for Endpoint is a much more affordable option than Cortex XDR. This makes it ideal for SMEs that need to operate within a limited budget. However, since its AI is less advanced, the results in terms of malware detection and removal are worse.
CrowdStrike Falcon vs Cortex XDR
CrowdStrike Falcon is a flexible and scalable cloud cybersecurity solution, ideal for companies seeking a balance between ease of use and effective results.
Among its key features are:
- AI-powered detection.
- Detailed threat detection analysis.
- Advanced customization features.
- Endpoint protection designed for large enterprises.
CrowdStrike Falcon is a suitable alternative for those seeking a cloud-based platform with greater scalability than Cortex XDR and a more straightforward implementation process. Nonetheless, its protection tools are much more limited than those of Palo Alto's software.
Do we recommend Cortex XDR?
Yes, although with some hesitation. As we have emphasized throughout this analysis, Cortex XDR is unmatched in detecting and eliminating threats. In fact, it is the highest-rated endpoint cybersecurity solution in the MITRE ATT&CK evaluations.
However, its extremely high subscription price and the need to acquire additional modules to get the most out of it make it viable only for large enterprises.
With a score of 7.9 out of 10, we believe that Palo Alto Cortex XDR is the ideal solution for companies seeking a comprehensive security platform that not only detects, isolates, and eliminates potential cyber threats but also evolves with them.
Cortex XDR has an unrivaled AI that, thanks to its analytical capability, will protect your company from future attacks.
