An Explorer’s Guide to the 22 Best UEBA Tools

Best UEBA Tools Shortlist

I've assessed the best UEBA tools, selecting these for the very top shortlist:

1. LogRhythm UEBA - Best for centralized data integration
2. Dtex Systems - Best for insider threat detection
3. Gurucul Cloud Analytics - Best for cloud-based behavior analytics
4. Logpoint - Best for compliance management
5. Adlumin - Best for financial sector security
6. ActivTrak - Best for employee productivity tracking
7. Safetica UEBA - Best for sensitive data protection
8. IBM Security QRadar SIEM - Best for large-scale network monitoring
9. Dynatrace - Best for application performance management
10. Veriato - Best for user activity monitoring
11. ManageEngine ADAudit Plus - Best for Active Directory auditing
12. Cynet - Best for automated threat detection

In the complex enterprise security landscape, I've found UEBA tools indispensable. These tools create a baseline of standard behavior, leveraging security analytics to detect anomalous actions like unusual downloads, authentication attempts, or cyberattacks. They're designed to watch for malicious insiders, unknown threats, and vulnerabilities that firewalls and traditional security measures might miss.

With capabilities to aggregate data and enable prompt remediation against malware and other threats, they have become one of Gartner's top recommendations for improving on-premises and SaaS network security. Whether you're a security analyst seeking to proactively counter vulnerabilities or an organization grappling with the challenges of modern cyber threats, UEBA tools might be the solution you need.

What is a UEBA Tool?

A UEBA (User and Entity Behavior Analytics) tool is a security system that leverages machine learning and algorithms to analyze the behavior patterns of users and entities within an organization's network. By understanding typical behavior, these tools can identify anomalous activities that might signify a potential security threat, such as compromised credentials or insider threats.

Businesses, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and other organizations use UEBA tools to safeguard digital environments. They serve as an essential component in the fight against cybercrime, helping to detect and respond to suspicious activities before they can escalate into more serious incidents.

Overviews of the 12 Best UEBA Tools

1. LogRhythm UEBA - Best for centralized data integration

LogRhythm UEBA provides a holistic approach to security, analyzing behavior patterns across the entirety of an organization's network. Through this lens, it shines particularly when managing and integrating vast amounts of data centrally.

Why I Picked LogRhythm UEBA:

I chose LogRhythm UEBA after comparing numerous tools and determining it to be an exceptional choice for centralized data integration. The centralized data integration capability was pivotal, making it the ideal solution for those organizations that grapple with vast amounts of data requiring simultaneous analysis.

Standout features & integrations:

LogRhythm UEBA boasts advanced machine learning for accurate anomaly detection and tailored risk scoring, providing organizations with a clear picture of potential threats. Integration-wise, it works well with SIEM solutions, Cloud platforms, and various threat intelligence feeds, ensuring a broad spectrum of data can be efficiently ingested.

Pricing:

Pricing upon request.

Pros:

• Advanced machine learning for precise threat identification
• Customizable risk scoring for personalized security assessment
• Wide range of integration capabilities with major platforms

Cons:

• Might be overwhelming for smaller businesses
• Initial setup requires a dedicated technical team
• Pricing information is not transparently available on the website

2. Dtex Systems - Best for insider threat detection

Dtex Systems specializes in the detection and monitoring of insider threats. With an emphasis on recognizing the unusual behavior of users within an organization, it's best suited for firms aiming to fortify themselves against internal risks.

Why I Picked Dtex Systems:

I chose Dtex Systems after carefully examining its focus on insider threat detection. Among the myriad of tools I analyzed, it stood out due to its specific emphasis on monitoring users’ activities within the organization. This unique focus makes it an effective solution for businesses concerned with internal security breaches and unauthorized access.

Standout features & integrations:

Dtex Systems offers impressive features, such as comprehensive user activity monitoring, endpoint visibility, and specialized insider threat intelligence. As for integrations, it works efficiently with leading SIEM systems, HR platforms, and various cloud services, further improving its ability to pinpoint suspicious internal activities.

Pricing:

Pricing upon request

Pros:

• Specialized in insider threat intelligence
• Robust endpoint visibility for thorough oversight
• Wide array of integration possibilities with other platforms

Cons:

• May not be suitable for small businesses
• Requires a dedicated security team for optimal utilization
• Lack of transparent pricing information on the website

3. Gurucul Cloud Analytics - Best for cloud-based behavior analytics

Gurucul Cloud Analytics is designed to provide cloud-based behavior analytics that observes and interpret user and entity interactions within cloud environments. This specialization makes it the go-to choice for organizations relying heavily on cloud services, where understanding behavior patterns is crucial.

Why I Picked Gurucul Cloud Analytics:

I selected Gurucul Cloud Analytics because of its distinct emphasis on cloud-centric behavior analytics. After judging and comparing several tools, Gurucul stood out for its dedicated approach to analyzing user and entity behavior within the cloud. This makes it best for organizations that require deep insights into activities within their cloud infrastructure.

Standout features & integrations:

Key features of Gurucul Cloud Analytics include real-time anomaly detection, threat-hunting capabilities within the cloud, and flexible policy configurations for specific organizational needs. It integrates efficiently with various cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, as well as with leading SIEM systems and threat intelligence feeds.

Pricing:

From $10/user/month (min 5 seats)

Pros:

• Tailored for cloud-centric behavior analytics
• Real-time anomaly detection for quick response
• Wide range of integration with major cloud providers

Cons:

• May not be suitable for organizations with limited cloud usage
• Requires some technical expertise for full utilization
• Minimum seat requirement may limit accessibility for smaller teams

4. Logpoint - Best for compliance management

Logpoint focuses on compliance management, offering solutions that help organizations meet various regulatory requirements. Logpoint ensures that companies can maintain adherence to industry standards and regulations.

Why I Picked Logpoint:

I chose Logpoint after comparing several tools, specifically for its strong emphasis on compliance management. The way it streamlines the compliance process by unifying data sources and simplifying reporting makes it stand out. It’s the best tool for businesses with complex compliance requirements and requiring a specialized approach.

Standout features & integrations:

Logpoint's features include comprehensive reporting capabilities, customizable dashboards tailored to specific compliance needs, and real-time monitoring for compliance adherence. It integrates with multiple enterprise applications and IT environments, providing consistent compliance checks across various platforms.

Pricing:

From $12/user/month (min 10 seats)

Pros:

• Specialized focus on compliance management
• Customizable reporting and dashboards for various regulations
• Integration with a broad spectrum of enterprise applications

Cons:

• Might be over-specialized for organizations without extensive compliance needs
• Minimum seat requirement could be a barrier for small teams
• Requires expertise to fully leverage its capabilities

5. Adlumin - Best for financial sector security

Adlumin offers specialized security solutions tailored for the financial sector. Focusing on this industry provides comprehensive protection against threats unique to banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions.

Why I Picked Adlumin:

I chose Adlumin based on my evaluation of various tools geared toward financial security. Adlumin's specific focus on the financial sector makes it different, offering customized solutions to meet the industry's unique challenges. I determined that this specialization in financial security needs makes it the best choice for institutions seeking to safeguard their sensitive data and comply with industry regulations.

Standout features & integrations:

Adlumin provides features such as real-time threat detection, tailored compliance reporting, and predictive analytics specific to financial threats. It integrates with major banking systems, payment processors, and core banking platforms, ensuring a holistic security approach for financial institutions.

Pricing:

From $15/user/month (min 5 seats)

Pros:

• Specialized in financial sector security
• Robust integration with key financial platforms
• Tailored features for threat detection and compliance in the financial industry

Cons:

• May not be suitable for non-financial sectors
• Minimum seat requirement may be limiting for smaller organizations
• Lack of versatility in application outside the financial domain

6. ActivTrak - Best for employee productivity tracking

ActivTrak is a workforce productivity and analytics tool that helps businesses gain insights into employee performance and work habits. Focusing on tracking and analyzing user activity offers comprehensive data on how employees utilize their time and resources.

Why I Picked ActivTrak:

I chose ActivTrak after carefully comparing various employee monitoring tools. Its focus on user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive tracking without infringing on privacy stood out. I determined it to be the best for organizations seeking to optimize employee productivity and gain insights into work patterns.

Standout features & integrations:

ActivTrak offers features like real-time monitoring, productivity reporting, and trend analysis. It stands out with its unique privacy features that ensure employee confidentiality. Integrations include major project management and collaboration tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Asana, making it versatile in various work environments.

Pricing:

From $7.20/user/month (billed annually)

Pros:

• Comprehensive tracking and reporting features
• Integrates well with popular collaboration tools
• Focuses on respecting employee privacy

Cons:

• Billed annually, which might not suit some businesses
• May require some training to understand all features
• Limited customization compared to some other tools in the market

7. Safetica UEBA - Best for sensitive data protection

Safetica UEBA (User and Entity Behavior Analytics) is a security platform designed to protect sensitive data within an organization. Using behavior analytics identifies and prevents potential data breaches or insider threats, fulfilling the essential need for sensitive data protection.

Why I Picked Safetica UEBA:

I chose Safetica UEBA after meticulously examining security tools, focusing on those offering robust sensitive data protection. Safetica's unique blend of behavior analytics and data loss prevention made it stand out. I determined it to be the best for organizations requiring specialized solutions to guard against internal and external threats to sensitive data.

Standout features & integrations:

Safetica offers features such as real-time threat detection, advanced analytics for user behavior, data security, and data classification. Its integration with popular endpoint protection platforms and security information and event management (SIEM) systems allows for a security environment.

Pricing:

Pricing upon request

Pros:

• Specialized in protecting sensitive data
• Offers real-time threat detection and analytics
• Integrates with common security platforms

Cons:

• Pricing information is not transparent
• Might be over-complex for small businesses
• Requires expertise for setup and management

8. IBM Security QRadar SIEM - Best for large-scale network monitoring

IBM Security QRadar SIEM is a comprehensive solution providing organizations security information and event management (SIEM). It is designed to analyze data across an organization's network, identifying potential security threats, which makes it especially adept at large-scale network monitoring.

Why I Picked IBM Security QRadar SIEM:

I chose IBM Security QRadar SIEM for this list after carefully judging its capabilities in network monitoring and comparing it with other SIEM solutions. This tool's ability to scale across vast networks makes it different, offering insights and detection that can handle the complexity of large organizational structures.

Standout features & integrations:

IBM Security QRadar SIEM offers features like anomaly detection, flow processing, data analytics, and advanced threat intelligence. It integrates well with various threat intelligence feeds, incident response platforms, and other security tools, improving its network monitoring capabilities.

Pricing:

Pricing upon request

Pros:

• Highly scalable for large-scale network monitoring
• Offers advanced analytics and threat intelligence
• Supports integration with a wide variety of security tools

Cons:

• Pricing information is not readily available
• May be overly complex for smaller organizations
• Implementation and customization can require specialized skills

9. Dynatrace - Best for application performance management

Dynatrace is a cloud-based software intelligence platform focusing on application performance management (APM). It monitors and optimizes the performance of applications, providing end-to-end visibility into user experience and application infrastructure.

Why I Picked Dynatrace:

I chose Dynatrace after carefully evaluating various tools for application performance management. What makes Dynatrace stand out is its AI-driven approach to monitoring, which assists in the rapid detection and diagnosis of issues. Its comprehensive features make it best for application performance management, especially for organizations that require deep insights into their application landscape.

Standout features & integrations:

Dynatrace offers features like real-user monitoring, synthetic monitoring, and AI-powered analytics. It integrates with popular DevOps and collaboration tools like JIRA, Slack, and Jenkins, creating a well-rounded ecosystem for application development and performance monitoring.

Pricing:

From $11/user/month (billed annually)

Pros:

• Provides a comprehensive view of application performance
• AI-driven analytics help in quick problem detection and resolution
• Integrates with a wide variety of DevOps tools

Cons:

• Pricing can be on the higher side for smaller organizations
• Requires time to fully understand and utilize all features
• The initial setup and configuration might be complex for some users

10. Veriato - Best for user activity monitoring

Veriato is a software solution that specializes in monitoring user activity within an organization. It tracks and analyzes user behavior across various applications and devices, providing valuable insights to improve security and productivity.

Why I Picked Veriato:

I chose Veriato after comparing it to other user monitoring tools. Its unique focus on comprehensive user behavior analysis, including application usage and keystrokes, sets it apart from other options. This deep level of monitoring makes Veriato best for user activity monitoring, especially for organizations that must ensure compliance and security.

Standout features & integrations:

Veriato’s features include detailed user activity tracking, insider threat detection, and productivity monitoring. It integrates with security information and event management (SIEM) systems, like Splunk and ArcSight, allowing easy assimilation into an existing security infrastructure.

Pricing:

From $12/user/month (min 10 seats)

Pros:

• Comprehensive tracking of all user activity
• Specialized in detecting insider threats
• Easily integrates with existing SIEM systems

Cons:

• May be considered invasive by some users
• Requires careful management to align with privacy laws
• Could be complex to set up and configure for some organizations

11. ManageEngine ADAudit Plus - Best for Active Directory auditing

ManageEngine ADAudit Plus is a specialized solution designed to audit and monitor changes within Active Directory (AD). It supports security and compliance by providing real-time tracking, alert notifications, and detailed reporting of AD changes.

Why I Picked ManageEngine ADAudit Plus:

I chose ManageEngine ADAudit Plus after thoroughly reviewing and comparing various tools for Active Directory auditing. Its comprehensive coverage of all AD components, from users and groups to permissions and configurations, makes it stand out. The tool's depth in offering real-time tracking and historical analysis justifies why it's best for AD auditing in any organization with complex needs.

Standout features & integrations:

ManageEngine ADAudit Plus offers features like real-time monitoring of AD changes, detailed auditing of logon activities, and robust compliance reporting. It integrates with major SIEM systems like Splunk and other ManageEngine products, creating a unified security and compliance management environment.

Pricing:

From $495/year for the Standard edition (billed annually)

Pros:

• Comprehensive auditing of all Active Directory components
• Real-time alerts and detailed reporting
• Easily integrates with other ManageEngine products and SIEM systems

Cons:

• Lacks a monthly payment option
• Could be overwhelming for small businesses
• Initial setup and configuration might be complex for some users

12. Cynet - Best for automated threat detection

Cynet is a cybersecurity platform designed to provide automated threat detection and response. It utilizes machine learning algorithms to recognize and counter various threats in real-time, making it an efficient solution for organizations that require rapid response to emerging threats. The tool’s emphasis on automation and rapid detection is what makes it the best choice for automated threat detection.

Why I Picked Cynet:

I chose Cynet for its commitment to automating the often complex threat detection and response process. By utilizing advanced machine learning algorithms, it distinguishes itself from traditional solutions that may rely more on manual intervention. Cynet’s integration of automation into threat detection and response justifies why I consider it best for this specific use case.

Standout features & integrations:

Cynet offers automated threat discovery, real-time response, and integrated Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR). It integrates with major third-party solutions like SIEMs, SOARs, and Ticketing Systems, facilitating an efficient workflow in diverse security environments.

Pricing:

Pricing upon request

Pros:

• Strong focus on automation for threat detection
• Integrates with other essential cybersecurity tools
• Provides detailed analytics and insights

Cons:

• Pricing information is not readily available
• Might be too complex for small to mid-sized businesses
• Some users might prefer more control over manual threat handling

Other Noteworthy UEBA Tools

Below is a list of additional UEBA tools that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.

13. Microsoft ATA - Good for advanced threat protection
14. InsightIDR - Good for unifying data search and visualization
15. Teramind - Good for employee monitoring and insider threat detection
16. CrowdStrike Falcon - Good for endpoint protection through cloud-native architecture
17. Darktrace Cyber AI Analyst - Good for leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for threat detection and autonomous response
18. Awake Security Platform - Good for analyzing network behavior for hidden threats
19. CyberArk Identity - Good for managing user behavior analytics (UBA) for security
20. NetWitness Platform XDR - Good for providing extended detection and response solutions
21. Securonix - Good for utilizing big data for user behavior analytics
22. Citrix Analytics - Good for integrating with various Citrix products to provide user behavior analytics

Selection Criteria for Choosing UEBA Tools

In User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) tools, selecting the right product isn't just about going with a popular name or attractive pricing. It involves understanding the unique requirements of an organization's security posture and compliance needs. I've evaluated dozens of UEBA tools, focusing on specific functionality that enables intelligent threat detection and behavioral analysis. The following criteria are crucial in making an informed decision:

Core Functionality

A robust UEBA tool must enable the following:

• Behavioral Analysis: Analyzing user and entity behaviors to detect anomalies and potential threats.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Continuously monitoring user activities and generating alerts for suspicious behavior.
• Threat Intelligence Integration: Collaborating with threat intelligence feeds to detect known malicious activities like lateral movement.
• Forensic Investigations: Providing detailed insights and reports for post-breach analysis.

Key Features

For UEBA tools, the discerning features that specifically cater to the intent of user behavior analysis are:

• Machine Learning Capabilities: Leveraging machine learning to understand normal user behavior and highlight deviations.
• Contextual Analysis: Correlating data from various sources to provide a context-driven view of user activities.
• Risk Scoring: Assigning risk scores to users or entities based on their behavior and potential threat level.
• Compliance Management: Ensuring user behavior adheres to regulatory compliance standards like GDPR, HIPAA, etc.
• Integration with Existing Security Tools: Allowing collaboration with other security tools for comprehensive protection.

Usability

The usability of a UEBA tool transcends generic user interface design and delves into specifics like:

• Intuitive Dashboards: Providing clear and actionable dashboards with relevant information like risk scores, threat alerts, and compliance status.
• Ease of Onboarding: Offering guided setup and integration with existing infrastructure without requiring extensive technical know-how.
• Customizable Alerts and Reports: Enabling customization in alerts and reports to suit specific organizational needs.
• Role-Based Access: Implement role-based access controls to ensure that only authorized personnel can access specific functionalities.
• Responsive Customer Support: Having an accessible support team that understands the complexities of user behavior analysis and can provide targeted assistance.

The process of selecting the right UEBA tool is a combination of understanding the core functionalities, recognizing the key features aligned with the organizational objectives, and ensuring that the usability aspects are aesthetically pleasing and functionally relevant. A tool that balances these criteria will likely provide the robust protection and insightful analytics modern organizations require.

Most Common Questions Regarding UEBA Tools (FAQs)

What are the benefits of using UEBA tools?

UEBA (User and Entity Behavior Analytics) tools provide valuable insights into user behavior within a network, identifying potentially harmful activities. Here are at least five benefits of using these tools:

• Threat Detection: Identifying unusual patterns that may signify a security threat.
• Risk Management: Assessing user behavior to determine levels of risk and take preventive actions.
• Compliance Assurance: Helping organizations meet regulatory compliance requirements.
• Reduced False Positives: Intelligent analytics to filter out normal behavior and focus on real threats.
• Forensic Capability: Detailed logs and analytics enable organizations to conduct forensic investigations if a breach occurs.

How much do UEBA tools typically cost?

The pricing for UEBA tools can vary widely based on features, the number of users, and other factors. They may have different pricing models, including per user, per entity, or based on data consumption.

What are the typical pricing models for UEBA tools?

UEBA tools often come with different pricing models including:

• Per User Pricing: Based on the number of user profiles being monitored.
• Per Entity Pricing: Depending on the number of devices or network entities being tracked.
• Data-Based Pricing: Some vendors might charge based on the amount of data processed.

What is the typical range of pricing for UEBA tools?

UEBA tools can start from as low as $10 per user per month for basic plans and go up to several thousand dollars per month for enterprise-level features. It depends on the complexity and scale of the operations.

Which are the cheapest and most expensive UEBA software?

The cheapest and most expensive UEBA tools can be hard to pin down due to variations in features and pricing models. Often, tailored solutions from vendors like Teramind can be more budget-friendly, while comprehensive platforms from companies like Darktrace can be on the higher end.

Are there any free UEBA tool options available?

While most UEBA tools are paid, some vendors may offer limited free trials or freemium versions with restricted features. These can be useful for small businesses or for testing purposes.

How can I decide which UEBA tool is right for my organization?

Choosing the right UEBA tool depends on your specific needs, budget, and the scale of your operation. Consider factors like ease of integration, scalability, compliance requirements, and vendor support.

Are UEBA tools suitable for small businesses?

Yes, many UEBA tools offer scalable solutions that can be adapted for small businesses. Even if a full-fledged UEBA tool might seem overwhelming, small businesses can benefit from some of the core features to improve their security posture. It's advisable to consult with a vendor that specializes in small business solutions to find the right fit.

More UEBA Tools-Related Reviews

• Multi Factor Authentication Software
• SIEM Tools
• Data Loss Prevention Software
• Cloud Infrastructure Monitoring Tools

Summary

Selecting the best UEBA (User and Entity Behavior Analytics) tools requires a thoughtful approach that aligns with an organization's needs and goals. Understanding the criteria that matter most, such as core functionality, key features, and usability, is essential to making the right choice. As you navigate the complex landscape of UEBA tools, consider the following key takeaways:

• Focus on Core Functionality: Ensure your chosen tool offers comprehensive behavioral analysis, real-time monitoring, threat intelligence integration, and forensic investigation capabilities. These are fundamental to effective threat detection and response.
• Identify Key Features that Align with Your Goals: Look for machine learning capabilities, contextual analysis, risk scoring, compliance management, and integration with existing security tools. These features provide in-depth insights and align with regulatory requirements and organizational strategies.
• Evaluate Usability Specific to Your Needs: Consider intuitive dashboards, easy onboarding, customizable alerts, role-based access, and responsive customer support. These elements contribute to a smooth user experience and empower your team to make informed decisions efficiently.

By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can find a UEBA solution that fits your organization's unique security posture, compliance demands, and operational requirements, allowing you to foster a more secure and intelligent environment.

What do you think?

Lastly, I value the collective knowledge and experience of our community. If there are UEBA tools you believe deserve a mention or have personally benefited from and weren't listed here, please share them in the comments or reach out directly. I'm always eager to learn and incorporate valuable insights from readers like you. Your recommendations might be the key to helping others find the perfect tool for their needs.