Shopping around for a new training vendor but not sure where to start?
Below, we've broken down the most popular cyber security solutions currently on the market and what customers are saying about them.
*All insights below are based on 6,000+ real customer reviews.
1. Hoxhunt: Adaptive, personalized training
Hoxhunt offers individualized phishing training, automated security awareness training and advanced behavior change - using a combination of AI and behavioral science.
Ease of use
What users like
- Intuitive user interface with minimal training required for end-users.
- Simple one-click reporting button/extension for identifying cyber threats.
- Clean, modern dashboard for admins.
- Mobile-friendly design enables training anywhere, anytime.
- Quick deployment options for large organizations.
Things to consider
- Reported threats can stack up as training takes effect, which is why Hoxhunt offers a security operations solution to accelerate security incident response.
Content quality
What users like
- Highly relevant and up-to-date phishing scenarios based on real threats.
- Adaptive difficulty levels that progress with user skill development.
- Engaging, bite-sized learning modules that don't overwhelm users.
- Multi-language support for global organizations.
- Regular content updates reflecting emerging threat landscapes.
- Gamification elements that make security training enjoyable.
Things to consider
- Some industry-specific scenarios may require custom development.
- A few users mention concerns around using gamified cyber security training.
Phishing simulations
What users like
- Exceptionally realistic simulations that mirror actual attack techniques.
- AI-powered personalization of phishing scenarios for each user.
- Automated campaign scheduling and management.
- Progressive difficulty adaptation based on individual performance.
- Ability to target specific departments with relevant threats.
Things to consider
- Some users mention that employees might not want to participate in frequent cybersecurity training.
Reporting & analytics
What users like
- Comprehensive dashboards showing organizational security posture and risk profile.
- Detailed user performance metrics and improvement tracking.
- Identification of "security champions" and at-risk users.
- Exportable reports for compliance and executive presentations.
- Real-time threat analytics and response metrics.
- Measurable ROI calculations based on security improvement.
Things to consider
- Custom report creation can feel like steeper learning curve (so Hoxhunt offers comprehensive implementation assistance and onboarding).
Support
What users like
- Highly responsive and knowledgeable support team.
- Dedicated customer success managers for enterprise users.
- Regular check-ins and optimization recommendations.
- Extensive knowledge base and training resources.
- Regular webinars and educational content.
Things to consider
- Support response times may vary depending on package.
2. KnowBe4: Broad content library
KnowBe4 represents an established player in the security awareness training market with comprehensive features and is widely known for having a large content library.
Ease of use
What users like
- Straightforward admin console for managing campaigns.
- Template-based approach simplifies phishing simulation setup.
- Basic user interface accessible to most security teams.
- Multiple deployment options available.
Things to consider
- Interface appears dated compared to newer platforms.
- Navigation can be complicated with features spread across multiple sections.
- Admin workflows often require multiple steps to complete simple tasks.
- Less intuitive mobile experience compared to competitors.
Content quality
What users like
- Large library of training content covering various security topics.
- Kevin Mitnick security awareness training videos included.
- Regular content updates addressing emerging threats.
- Multiple language options available.
Things to consider
- Training content often described as "dry" or "corporate" in tone.
- Less engaging gamification elements.
- One-size-fits-all approach rather than truly personalized content.
Phishing simulations
What users like
- Extensive template library for phishing simulations.
- Ability to clone real phishing emails for training.
- Customizable landing pages for failed phishing tests.
- Scheduled campaign management.
Things to consider
- Less sophisticated AI adaptation compared to Hoxhunt's approach.
- Manual difficulty adjustment rather than automatic progression.
- Limited personalization capabilities for individual users.
Reporting & analytics
What users like
- Comprehensive data collection on user performance.
- Basic security metrics and benchmarking.
- Exportable reports for compliance purposes.
- PhishER module for managing reported emails.
Things to consider
- Dashboard described as "cluttered" and "overwhelming" by some admins.
- Reports often require significant customization to extract actionable insights.
- Some users report difficulty correlating metrics with actual security posture.
3. Proofpoint: Includes email security
Proofpoint is a well-established email security provider offering a comprehensive suite of protection tools that includes security awareness training components. The platform is primarily known for its threat protection capabilities.
Ease of use
What users like
- Established admin interface with standard security controls.
- Email management dashboard provides basic threat visibility.
- Integration capabilities with existing security infrastructure.
- Automation of some routine security tasks.
Things to consider
- Interface widely described as "complex" and "technical" by many users.
- Significant learning curve for admins compared to more streamlined platforms.
- End-user training portal lacks intuitive navigation.
- Requires dedicated IT resources to manage effectively.
- Mobile experience reported as cumbersome and limited.
Content quality
What users like
- Standard security awareness materials covering common cyber threats.
- Decent variety of training modules on different security topics.
- Regular updates to reflect new compliance requirements.
- Some industry-specific content available.
Things to consider
- Training content frequently described as "generic" and "outdated".
- Limited personalization of learning paths for different user types.
- Annual training model rather than continuous learning.
- Longer modules that demand significant time commitments.
- Users report "checking boxes" rather than actually engaging with material.
Phishing simulations
What users like
- Basic phishing simulation capabilities included in platform.
- Template library for creating awareness campaigns.
- Scheduling options for periodic testing.
Things to consider
- Simulations lack sophistication and realism.
- Limited adaptation to individual user behavior or skill level.
- Minimal progressive difficulty adjustment.
- Phishing templates sometimes appear outdated.
Reporting & analytics
What users like
- Comprehensive data collection on email security threats.
- Basic metrics for security awareness program compliance.
- Integration with broader security reporting.
Things to consider
- Reports described as "overly complex" for extracting actionable insights.
- Difficulty measuring actual security behavior improvement.
- Dashboard requires significant customization for executive presentations.
Support
What users like
- Global support infrastructure.
- Technical documentation available for most features.
- Regular system updates for security maintenance.
Things to consider
- Support quality inconsistent according to multiple reviewers.
- Resolution times longer than expected for critical issues.
- Significant dependence on professional services for optimization.
4. Sosafe: Behavioral science training
SoSafe is a European-based security awareness platform that focuses on behavior-based training with psychological elements.
Ease of use
What users like
- Clean, modern interface with straightforward navigation.
- Simplified campaign management for basic training needs.
- User-friendly dashboard for monitoring awareness metrics.
- Localization for European markets.
Things to consider
- Some users report limitations in customization options.
- Occasional technical issues during deployment in complex environments.
- Less seamless email integration than more established platforms.
Content quality
What users like
- Psychologically-informed training approach.
- Content available in multiple European languages.
- Regular updates to training materials.
- Focus on behavioral aspects of security.
Things to consider
- Training library less extensive than competitors.
- Content sometimes described as "too basic" for advanced users.
- Less industry-specific customization available.
- European-centric content that may not fully address global threats.
Phishing simulations
What users like
- Standard phishing simulation capabilities.
- Reasonable template variety for basic testing.
- Basic difficulty levels available for campaigns.
Things to consider
- Less realistic phishing scenarios compared to leading platforms.
- Campaigns require more manual management than AI-driven alternatives.
- Less effective at targeting department-specific threats.
Reporting & analytics
What users like
- Basic metrics dashboard for tracking completion rates.
- Standard reporting on phishing campaign results.
- User-friendly visualization of basic security metrics.
Things to consider
- Limited customization options for executive reporting.
- Difficulty demonstrating clear ROI on security investment.
- Less granular insights into individual user behavior patterns.
Support
What users like
- Responsive support for European business hours.
- Adequate documentation for standard features.
- Solid onboarding process for basic implementations.
Things to consider
- Support resources more limited than established competitors.
- Less comprehensive knowledge base for troubleshooting.
- Support primarily focused on European time zones.
5. MetaCompliance: Awareness and compliance
MetaCompliance offers a security awareness platform focused on compliance-oriented training with phishing simulations.
Ease of use
What users like
- Structured interface focused on compliance requirements.
- Good workflow for policy management.
- Reasonable document management capabilities.
- Compliance-oriented dashboard design.
Things to consider
- Interface described as "dated" and "clunky" by multiple reviewers.
- Navigation often requires multiple steps for simple tasks.
- Admin functions have steeper learning curve.
Content quality
What users like
- Comprehensive compliance-focused training materials.
- Reasonable variety of regulatory modules.
- Regular updates to reflect changing compliance landscape.
- Strong focus on policy acknowledgment.
Things to consider
- Content widely described as "dry" and "unengaging".
- Traditional e-learning approach rather than modern microlearning.
- Training modules often lengthy and time-consuming.
Phishing simulations
What users like
- Basic phishing simulation capabilities.
- Standard template library for awareness campaigns.
- Adequate scheduling options for periodic testing.
Things to consider
- Limited personalization for different departments or risk levels.
- Templates described as "obviously fake" by some users.
- Campaign management requires more manual steps.
Reporting & analytics
What users like
- Adequate compliance-focused reporting.
- Basic completion metrics for regulatory requirements.
- Standard phishing campaign statistics.
Things to consider
- Analytics capabilities less developed than modern platforms.
- Reports described as "basic" and "compliance-focused" rather than insightful.
- Limited visualization options for security improvement metrics.
- Difficulty demonstrating ROI beyond compliance requirements.
Support
What users like
- Established support structure for business hours.
- Good documentation for core features.
- Regular maintenance updates.
Things to consider
- Support quality reported as inconsistent across reviews.
- Limited community resources for peer learning.
- Additional costs for premium support options.
Comparison chart: Best cybersecurity solutions
How does Hoxhunt differ from other solutions?
By fundamentally reimagining security awareness training around human engagement and behavior change rather than compliance checkboxes, Hoxhunt delivers measurably better outcomes with higher user satisfaction.
Human-centric approach
Data breaches start with people, so Hoxhunt does too.
We place humans at the center of security strategy, recognizing that engaged employees are the most effective security asset.
This fundamental philosophy shapes every aspect of the platform, from content design to analytics.
Behavior change vs. compliance
Comprehensive protection can only be achieved with well-trained employees.
While platforms like MetaCompliance and KnowBe4 focus primarily on satisfying compliance requirements, Hoxhunt's methodology is built around creating lasting behavior change.
The platform uses advanced behavioral science principles to transform security habits rather than simply checking regulatory boxes.
Adaptive, personalized learning paths
Hoxhunt's AI-powered system creates a personalized learning journey for each user, adapting difficulty levels based on individual performance and risk profile.
This means that your employees are always being tested at the edges of their ability, preparing them for advanced threats across various attack vectors.
Build your security culture with positive reinforcement
Rather than punishing users for mistakes, Hoxhunt employs positive reinforcement through gamification, rewards, and recognition.
This creates a positive security culture where employees actively enjoy security training.
Continuous micro-learning
Instead of your typical annual training models, Hoxhunt delivers ongoing, bite-sized learning moments that fit seamlessly into work routines.
This continuous approach ensures security awareness remains top-of-mind throughout the year, not just during scheduled training sessions.
Threat intelligence integration
Hoxhunt uniquely integrates real-time threat intelligence to simulate the latest attack techniques, ensuring training remains relevant against any new types of threats malicious actors are using.
Rather than relying on static content found in platforms like MetaCompliance, at Hoxhunt our training is based on 100,000+ real threats reported through our network.
One-click reporting
Hoxhunt's streamlined reporting button significantly reduces friction in threat reporting, encouraging users to report suspicious content instantly.
This simple mechanism directly addresses the complexity barriers seen in platforms like Proofpoint and KnowBe4.
Measurable security ROI
Unlike competitors focused primarily on completion metrics, Hoxhunt provides clear visibility into security behavior improvements and cyber risk reduction.
Advanced analytics demonstrate concrete ROI on security investment through reduced successful phishing attempts and improved detection rates.
Case study: How AES engaged 5x more employees with Hoxhunt
The Challenge
AES Corporation, a Fortune 500 global energy company operating in 15 countries, faced significant cybersecurity challenges with their 10,000+ workforce.
Traditional security awareness approaches weren't delivering results - employees viewed training as a compliance exercise rather than a critical defense mechanism.
The Results
After implementing Hoxhunt's human-risk management platform, AES achieved remarkable results.
The company saw a 74% employee engagement rate, nearly four times the industry average.
More impressively, AES employees successfully identified and reported over 70,000 real and simulated threats.
"Hoxhunt helped us establish a behavior-based protection layer that truly engages our employees, our people now actively participate in security rather than viewing it as an annual checkbox exercise". - Paul Krauss (AES CISO).
Sources
Hoxhunt: Gartner Reviews, G2 Reviews, Capterra UK Reviews, Slashdot Software Reviews, Software Advice Reviews
KnowBe4: Gartner Reviews, G2 Reviews, TrustRadius Reviews, Featured Customers Reviews
Proofpoint: Gartner Reviews, G2 Reviews, TrustRadius Reviews, Featured Customers Reviews
SoSafe: G2 Reviews, Featured Customers Reviews, Gartner Reviews, Software Reviews
MetaCompliance: G2 Reviews, Capterra UK Reviews, Gartner Reviews, Featured Customers Reviews
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