Top 10 IoT Security Platforms: Features, Pros, Cons & Comparison

Introduction

An IoT Security Platform is a comprehensive software solution designed to discover, monitor, and protect non-standard connected devices that reside on a network. Unlike legacy security suites, these platforms are typically “agentless,” meaning they do not require software to be installed on the device itself. Instead, they analyze network traffic patterns, use passive monitoring, and leverage massive device-fingerprinting databases to identify exactly what a device is, its risk profile, and its behavioral “normalcy.”

The importance of these platforms is underscored by the rise in targeted ransomware attacks against critical infrastructure. Without specialized IoT security, a rogue smart thermostat or a vulnerable industrial controller can serve as an unmonitored entry point for hackers to move laterally through a corporate network. Key real-world use cases include identifying “shadow IT” (devices added to the network without IT approval), enforcing network segmentation to isolate vulnerable legacy hardware, and providing continuous compliance reporting for healthcare and manufacturing. When evaluating these tools, users should prioritize device discovery accuracy, protocol depth (especially for OT/Industrial environments), ease of integration with existing firewalls, and the maturity of their AI-driven anomaly detection.

Best for: Large-scale enterprises, healthcare providers (IoMT), industrial manufacturing (IIoT), and critical infrastructure operators who need to secure “unmanaged” devices. It is also essential for CISO roles responsible for converging Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) security.

Not ideal for: Small businesses with only a few standard office devices (printers/VoIP phones) where a standard Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) might suffice, or consumer-only environments that do not require enterprise-level auditing and segmentation.

Top 10 IoT Security Platforms

1 — Armis

Armis is widely recognized as a leader in the agentless device security space. It provides a “unified asset intelligence” platform that is designed to see and protect every device—managed, unmanaged, IoT, medical (IoMT), and industrial (OT)—without needing to install any software on the devices themselves.

• Key features:
  • 100% agentless, passive monitoring that doesn’t disrupt device operations.
  • The “Armis Device Knowledgebase,” tracking over 3 billion device profiles globally.
  • Real-time behavioral monitoring to detect anomalies and potential threats.
  • Automated risk scoring based on device type, OS, and communication patterns.
  • Deep integration with existing security stacks like SIEM, SOAR, and NAC.
  • Comprehensive vulnerability management and prioritization.
• Pros:
  • Exceptional visibility into “hidden” devices that standard scanners miss.
  • Very strong across multiple industries, including healthcare and heavy manufacturing.
• Cons:
  • The platform provides a massive amount of data, which can be overwhelming for smaller teams.
  • Pricing is strictly enterprise-level and can be high for vast, sprawling networks.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, HIPAA, ISO 27001, and FedRAMP authorized.
• Support & community: Extensive documentation, a dedicated customer success manager for large accounts, and a structured onboarding program.

2 — Palo Alto Networks (IoT Security)

Palo Alto Networks has integrated its IoT security directly into its industry-leading firewall and cloud-delivered security services. It focuses on a “Zero Trust” approach, using machine learning to automatically recommend and enforce security policies.

• Key features:
  • Native integration with Palo Alto Next-Generation Firewalls (no extra sensors needed).
  • Machine Learning-based device discovery and classification.
  • Automated Zero Trust policy recommendations to segment IoT devices.
  • Vulnerability assessment and risk-based prioritization.
  • Prevention of known and unknown threats through integrated security services.
  • Specialized support for medical-specific protocols (DICOM, HL7).
• Pros:
  • If you already use Palo Alto firewalls, deployment is essentially a “flip of a switch.”
  • The automation of security policies significantly reduces the manual workload for IT teams.
• Cons:
  • Users are heavily locked into the Palo Alto ecosystem for maximum benefit.
  • Advanced features require additional subscriptions beyond the basic hardware support.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR compliant; FIPS 140-2 validated.
• Support & community: World-class 24/7 global support, extensive technical training (Beacon), and a massive global user community.

3 — Claroty (xDome & Medigate)

Claroty is a powerhouse in the Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) security space. Following its acquisition of Medigate, Claroty offers specialized versions of its platform for both Industrial (OT) and Healthcare (IoMT) environments, providing deep protocol awareness that few others can match.

• Key features:
  • Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) for hundreds of proprietary industrial and medical protocols.
  • xDome for scalable, cloud-native visibility across the whole enterprise.
  • Medigate for specialized clinical device management and patient safety monitoring.
  • Automated network segmentation mapping and enforcement.
  • Continuous threat detection specifically tuned for industrial control systems (ICS).
  • Integration with existing IT management tools like ServiceNow and Splunk.
• Pros:
  • The gold standard for industrial environments where uptime is critical.
  • Exceptional at identifying the specific “clinical risk” of medical devices.
• Cons:
  • Can be complex to configure for organizations that aren’t strictly industrial or medical.
  • The dual-product lineup (xDome vs. Medigate) can sometimes confuse buyers.
• Security & compliance: ISO 27001, SOC 2, HIPAA, and GDPR compliant.
• Support & community: Highly specialized support staff who understand industrial engineering and clinical workflows.

4 — Microsoft Defender for IoT

Microsoft has rapidly expanded its security portfolio to include IoT and OT. Defender for IoT is a cloud-native (but hybrid-capable) solution that leverages Microsoft’s global threat intelligence to protect diverse environments.

• Key features:
  • Agentless, passive network monitoring for asset discovery.
  • Native integration with Microsoft Sentinel (SIEM) and Defender for Endpoint.
  • Specialized OT security capabilities for ICS and SCADA environments.
  • Vulnerability management and “look-back” analysis for historical security events.
  • Unified security posture management across IT and IoT.
  • Support for both cloud-connected and air-gapped deployments.
• Pros:
  • Deeply integrated into the Azure ecosystem, making it a natural choice for cloud-first orgs.
  • Access to one of the world’s largest threat intelligence databases.
• Cons:
  • Some users find the setup process complex when dealing with non-Azure environments.
  • The licensing can be difficult to predict as it often scales with device count and data volume.
• Security & compliance: FedRAMP, SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and ISO 27001 compliant.
• Support & community: Extensive Microsoft Learn documentation and premium enterprise support options through Microsoft Unified.

5 — Ordr

Ordr specializes in “Systems Control,” moving beyond simple visibility to focus on the automated control of every connected device. It is particularly popular in the healthcare and enterprise sectors for its ability to generate high-fidelity security policies.

• Key features:
  • “Ordr Flow Genome,” which visualizes every communication flow for every device.
  • Automated generation of segmentation policies for firewalls and NAC.
  • Specialized “Persona” views for different teams (Security, Clinical Engineering, Facilities).
  • Behavioral anomaly detection using high-performance machine learning.
  • Rapid discovery of devices with weak credentials or outdated firmware.
  • Integration with Cisco, Aruba, and Forescout for network enforcement.
• Pros:
  • Excellent user interface that makes complex network flows easy to understand.
  • Strong focus on “day-two” operations—not just finding devices, but managing them.
• Cons:
  • May require more network “tuning” initially to get the highest level of detail.
  • Smaller partner ecosystem compared to giants like Cisco or Palo Alto.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2 Type II, HIPAA, and GDPR compliant.
• Support & community: Known for high customer satisfaction and a very hands-on onboarding process.

6 — Forescout (eyeSight & eyeSentry)

Forescout has long been the standard for Network Access Control (NAC), and it has evolved into a complete IoT/OT security platform. Its “continuously see and control” philosophy is designed for large-scale, heterogeneous networks.

• Key features:
  • Discovery and classification of over 12 million device types.
  • Automated, dynamic network segmentation (eyeSegment).
  • Agentless assessment of device posture (OS, patches, vulnerabilities).
  • Direct orchestration with over 300 different security and network tools.
  • eyeSentry for deep industrial protocol visibility and OT threat detection.
  • Real-time policy enforcement, including the ability to isolate rogue devices instantly.
• Pros:
  • The most powerful enforcement engine; it can actually “kick” devices off the network.
  • Very stable and proven in some of the world’s largest government and financial networks.
• Cons:
  • Requires a significant investment in both time and training to master the full platform.
  • The software interface can feel “dense” and traditional compared to modern SaaS UIs.
• Security & compliance: Common Criteria, FIPS 140-2, FedRAMP, SOC 2, and GDPR.
• Support & community: Comprehensive global support network and a very active professional certification program.

7 — Nozomi Networks

Nozomi Networks is a specialized leader in OT and IoT security, particularly for critical infrastructure like power grids, oil and gas, and transportation. Its “Vantage” and “Guardian” products offer deep visibility into the most complex industrial systems.

• Key features:
  • Vantage cloud-based management for global, multi-site visibility.
  • Guardian sensors for local, deep-packet inspection of industrial protocols.
  • AI-driven threat detection that learns the “process baseline” of a factory.
  • Asset intelligence that provides granular details on PLCs and industrial controllers.
  • Remote access security for external contractors working on sensitive systems.
  • Compliance dashboards for NERC CIP, IEC 62443, and other industrial standards.
• Pros:
  • Deep expertise in industrial control systems (ICS)—they speak “engineer,” not just “IT.”
  • The Vantage cloud platform is exceptionally fast and scalable for global deployments.
• Cons:
  • Less focus on general enterprise IoT (like office printers) compared to Armis or Ordr.
  • Specialized features can come with a premium price tag.
• Security & compliance: ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and NIST-aligned frameworks.
• Support & community: Strong community of industrial security experts and localized support in many regions.

8 — Check Point Quantum IoT Protect

Check Point has taken a unique “Prevention-First” approach to IoT security. Rather than just finding devices, they focus on “Virtual Patching” to protect devices that cannot be updated manually.

• Key features:
  • On-device security agents for manufacturers (Nano Agent) and network-level protection.
  • Automated discovery and Zero Trust policy generation.
  • “Virtual Patching” that uses IPS to block exploits targeting known vulnerabilities.
  • Integration with Check Point’s Infinity architecture for unified management.
  • Discovery of unmanaged devices across the entire network fabric.
  • Cloud-managed security that scales without additional hardware.
• Pros:
  • The virtual patching feature is a lifesaver for companies running legacy IoT hardware.
  • Unified “single pane of glass” for mobile, cloud, network, and IoT security.
• Cons:
  • Best experienced when using the full Check Point security suite.
  • Device discovery accuracy can occasionally lag behind specialists like Armis.
• Security & compliance: SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, GDPR, and Common Criteria.
• Support & community: Massive global support infrastructure and the “Check Point UserCenter” portal.

9 — Cisco Cyber Vision / IoT Threat Defense

Cisco leverages its massive footprint in network hardware to provide “network-native” IoT security. By embedding security into switches and routers, Cisco eliminates the need for many external sensors.

• Key features:
  • Cyber Vision sensors embedded directly into Cisco industrial switches.
  • Automated discovery of assets and their communication patterns.
  • Integration with Cisco ISE (Identity Services Engine) for automated segmentation.
  • Cisco SecureX integration for unified threat response across the portfolio.
  • Deep Packet Inspection for a wide range of industrial and building protocols.
  • Risk-based vulnerability scoring integrated with Cisco’s vulnerability database.
• Pros:
  • Minimizes “hardware sprawl” by using the network itself as a security sensor.
  • Unmatched scalability for massive deployments like railways or smart cities.
• Cons:
  • Significant benefits are reserved for organizations that are “all-in” on Cisco hardware.
  • Configuring Cisco ISE for segmentation can be a complex undertaking.
• Security & compliance: FIPS 140-2, SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR compliant.
• Support & community: The legendary Cisco TAC support and a massive global network of certified partners.

10 — AWS IoT Device Defender

For organizations building their own IoT devices or running entirely in the cloud, AWS IoT Device Defender provides a cloud-native way to audit and monitor device fleets.

• Key features:
  • Continuous auditing of security configurations (e.g., checking for overly broad permissions).
  • Behavioral monitoring to detect deviations from a defined “normal” state.
  • Automated alerts and integration with AWS IoT Device Management for mitigation.
  • Integration with AWS CloudWatch and AWS Security Hub.
  • Support for “detect and act” workflows to quarantine compromised devices.
  • Scalable for millions of devices connected to the AWS IoT Core.
• Pros:
  • The best choice for developers and companies building their own IoT products on AWS.
  • Extremely cost-effective for smaller fleets or specific project-based security.
• Cons:
  • Not designed for “discovering” devices on an on-premise physical network.
  • Limited to devices that are already part of the AWS IoT ecosystem.
• Security & compliance: FedRAMP, SOC 1/2/3, HIPAA, GDPR, and PCI DSS.
• Support & community: High-quality AWS technical documentation and the massive AWS re:Post community.

Comparison Table

Evaluation & Scoring of IoT Security Platforms

Selecting the right platform requires a weighted approach based on your specific business environment. Use the following rubric to score potential candidates.

Which IoT Security Platform Is Right for You?

The decision-making process for an IoT security platform should be driven by your network’s primary “personality.”

• Solo Users & Freelancers: You likely do not need these platforms. Focus on basic router security, strong passwords, and keeping your smart devices on a separate “Guest” Wi-Fi network.
• Small to Medium Businesses (SMBs): If you already have a modern firewall (like Palo Alto or Check Point), look at their integrated IoT modules first. They offer the best value without requiring a separate, standalone platform.
• Healthcare Organizations: Visibility into medical devices (IoMT) is a matter of patient safety. Claroty (Medigate) and Ordr are the top contenders here because they understand clinical workflows and patient-to-device associations.
• Industrial & Manufacturing: If your business runs on PLCs and industrial controllers, Claroty and Nozomi Networks are essential. They are built to handle the “dirty” protocols of the factory floor without crashing sensitive machinery.
• Large Corporate Enterprises: For those with massive offices, smart buildings, and sprawling remote sites, Armis or Forescout provide the most comprehensive, hardware-agnostic view of every connected “thing” in your domain.
• Cloud-First & Developers: If your primary concern is the security of a product you are building, AWS IoT Device Defender is the industry standard for cloud-integrated monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why can’t I just use my existing antivirus software for IoT security? Most IoT devices (like smart cameras or industrial sensors) use lightweight, specialized operating systems that cannot run standard antivirus agents. IoT security platforms protect these devices by monitoring their network behavior from the outside.

2. What is “Passive Monitoring”? Passive monitoring involves “listening” to network traffic via a SPAN port or network TAP. The security platform identifies devices based on their digital footprints without sending any packets to the device, ensuring it doesn’t accidentally crash or disrupt sensitive equipment.

3. How do these tools help with compliance like HIPAA or SOC 2? They provide an automated, real-time asset inventory and security report. Instead of manually counting devices for an auditor, you can generate a report showing exactly what is on the network, its patch status, and how it is being protected.

4. Can an IoT security platform actually block a hacker? Some can. Tools like Forescout or platforms integrated with firewalls (like Palo Alto) can automatically change a network port’s configuration to isolate a device if it starts behaving suspiciously.

5. What is the difference between IoT and OT security? IoT (Internet of Things) generally refers to smart office or home devices (printers, TVs). OT (Operational Technology) refers to industrial hardware like sensors in a power plant. While some tools handle both, OT security requires much deeper knowledge of specialized industrial protocols.

6. Do these platforms require a lot of hardware to install? It varies. Cloud-native tools like Armis or Microsoft Defender require minimal local hardware (usually just a virtual sensor). Network-native tools like Cisco use your existing switches.

7. Is IoT security only for large companies? While large enterprises face the most risk, any business that relies on connected devices for critical operations should consider it. However, SMBs should look for “all-in-one” solutions integrated into their firewalls to save costs.

8. What happens if a device is “air-gapped” (not connected to the internet)? Some platforms, like Nozomi or Claroty, offer on-premise sensors that can monitor isolated, high-security networks that have no direct path to the public internet.

9. How does AI improve IoT security? AI is used to create a “behavioral baseline” for millions of different device types. If a smart lightbulb suddenly tries to connect to a database server (which is not “normal” behavior), the AI flags it as a potential threat immediately.

10. How much does a typical IoT security platform cost? Most are priced as an annual subscription based on the number of devices or “assets” being monitored. For an enterprise, this typically starts in the low five figures and scales upward.

Conclusion

Securing the Internet of Things is no longer an optional IT project; it is a foundational requirement for modern business resilience. As we move into 2026 and beyond, the “visibility gap”—the difference between the devices you know about and the devices actually on your network—is the single greatest risk to corporate security. The best platform for your organization is the one that provides the most accurate discovery without disrupting your operations. Whether you prioritize the deep industrial expertise of Nozomi, the seamless cloud integration of Microsoft, or the universal visibility of Armis, the goal remains the same: you cannot protect what you cannot see.