# Best Data-Centric Security Software

## How Many Data-Centric Security Software Products Does G2 Track?

**Total Products under this Category:** 67

### Category Stats (Jul 2026)

- **Average Rating:** 4.48/5 (↓0.01 vs Jun 2026) The average rating of products in this category, based on all submitted ratings
- **Top Trending Product:** Thales CipherTrust Data Security Platform (+1.78%) - Among all products in this category, Thales CipherTrust Data Security Platform recorded the largest rating increase compared to last month

_Last updated: July 28, 2026_

## How Does G2 Rank Data-Centric Security Software Products?

**Why You Can Trust G2's Software Rankings:**

- 30 Analysts and Data Experts
- 2,500+ Authentic Reviews
- 67+ Products
- Unbiased Rankings

G2's software rankings are built on verified user reviews, rigorous moderation, and a consistent research methodology maintained by a team of analysts and data experts. Each product is measured using the same transparent criteria, with no paid placement or vendor influence. While reviews reflect real user experiences, which can be subjective, they offer valuable insight into how software performs in the hands of professionals. Together, these inputs power the G2 Score, a standardized way to compare tools within every category.

## G2 Grid® for Data-Centric Security Software
 ![G2 Grid® for Data-Centric Security Software plotting products by satisfaction and market presence](https://www.g2.com/categories/data-centric-security/grids.png?focus%5B%5D=2083&focus%5B%5D=108767&focus%5B%5D=3601&focus%5B%5D=1414530&focus%5B%5D=92409&focus%5B%5D=1214164&focus%5B%5D=130443&focus%5B%5D=10849)

Highlighted products: Egnyte, Varonis Data Security Platform, Kiteworks, Virtru Secure Share, CrowdStrike Falcon Data Protection, Cyera, Satori Data Security Platform, and Sophos Intercept X.

Underlying data: [Grid® JSON](https://www.g2.com/categories/data-centric-security/grids.json?focus%5B%5D=egnyte&focus%5B%5D=varonis-data-security-platform&focus%5B%5D=kiteworks&focus%5B%5D=virtru-secure-share&focus%5B%5D=crowdstrike-falcon-data-protection&focus%5B%5D=cyera&focus%5B%5D=satori-data-security-platform&focus%5B%5D=sophos-sophos-intercept-x)

**Sponsored**

### Vouched

Vouched IDV is an AI-powered identity verification platform that automates document authentication, biometric matching, and fraud detection in a single workflow. Verification completes in under 7 seconds with 99% accuracy, 98% completion rates, and 98% global coverage for physical IDs. The platform supports mobile driver's licenses (mDLs), government-issued IDs, and passports — paired with liveness detection, 20+ real-time fraud models, SSN validation, AML screening, and configurable risk scoring. All services are white-labelable, API-ready, and device agnostic. Vouched IDV serves healthcare, financial services, gig economy, real estate, hospitality, lending, and more. Vouched's key features and capabilities are designed to enhance the identity verification process. The platform boasts a 99% accuracy rate and a 98% completion rate for identity verification, supporting a wide range of government-issued IDs, including passports and driver’s licenses. With 98% global coverage for physical IDs and digital ID support across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and all 27 EU countries, Vouched ensures comprehensive verification. The inclusion of facial biometric matching and liveness detection adds an extra layer of security, confirming the authenticity of the identities being verified. Furthermore, organizations can customize verification workflows to meet specific industry compliance needs, supported by over 20 proprietary fraud models for anomaly detection. In addition to human identity verification, Vouched offers a Know Your Agent (KYA) solution that employs advanced algorithms to detect AI agents, bots, and automated browsers. This feature includes consent and delegation verification for AI agents acting on behalf of users, ensuring that organizations maintain control over digital interactions. With auditable and revocable verification controls, along with agent reputation scoring, Vouched provides a robust framework for assessing the trustworthiness and authenticity of AI agents. By integrating document validation, biometric analysis, and AI agent verification into a single platform, Vouched empowers organizations to deliver secure, efficient, and compliant identity experiences across both human and digital ecosystems. This comprehensive approach not only enhances security but also streamlines operations, making Vouched a valuable tool for organizations navigating the complexities of identity verification in today's digital landscape.

[Visit website](https://www.g2.com/external_clickthroughs/record?secure%5Bad_program%5D=ppc&secure%5Bad_slot%5D=category_product_list&secure%5Bcategory_id%5D=1862&secure%5Bchosen_at%5D=2026-07-28T21%3A17%3A25Z&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_id%5D=2118&secure%5Bdisplayable_resource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bmedium%5D=sponsored&secure%5Bplacement_reason%5D=retargeted_product&secure%5Bplacement_resource_ids%5D%5B%5D=133794&secure%5Bprioritized%5D=false&secure%5Bproduct_id%5D=133794&secure%5Bresource_id%5D=1862&secure%5Bresource_type%5D=Category&secure%5Bsource_type%5D=category_page&secure%5Bsource_url%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.g2.com%2Fcategories%2Fdata-centric-security&secure%5Btoken%5D=24c36d7df693edad199535acca8fffb9deadc7589a0af418f4f8792ecfca7a86&secure%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vouched.id%2F&secure%5Burl_type%5D=custom_url)

[
Egnyte
](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte/reviews)

By [Egnyte](https://www.g2.com/sellers/egnyte)

[

4.4/5(1,162)

](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise Egnyte for its ease of use and robust security, making it a reliable choice for secure file sharing and collaboration. The platform's intuitive interface and strong permissio

Pros and Cons

[
Ease of Use (120)
](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Expensive (21)
](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Varonis Data Security Platform
](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews)

By [Varonis](https://www.g2.com/sellers/varonis)

[

4.6/5(88)

](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews)

What do users say?

Users most consistently praise the platform's visibility into sensitive data, making it easy to see who has access and spot risky permissions or unusual activity. Reviewers also value its automated re

Pros and Cons

[
Security (22)
](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Complexity (18)
](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Kiteworks
](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks/reviews)

By [Kiteworks](https://www.g2.com/sellers/kiteworks)

[

4.4/5(120)

](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise Kiteworks for its strong security features and compliance controls, which provide peace of mind when sharing sensitive data. The platform's ability to integrate seamlessly wi

Pros and Cons

[
Security (97)
](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Complex Usability (59)
](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Virtru Secure Share
](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-secure-share/reviews)

By [Virtru](https://www.g2.com/sellers/virtru)

[

4.3/5(119)

](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-secure-share/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the ease of use and secure file sharing capabilities of Virtru Secure Share, highlighting its seamless integration with Gmail and intuitive interface. Many appreciate how it

Pros and Cons

[
Security (66)
](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-secure-share/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Access Limitations (21)
](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-secure-share/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
CrowdStrike Falcon Data...
](https://www.g2.com/products/crowdstrike-falcon-data-protection/reviews)

By [CrowdStrike](https://www.g2.com/sellers/crowdstrike)

[

4.6/5(15)

](https://www.g2.com/products/crowdstrike-falcon-data-protection/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the product for its ease of use and effective data protection, highlighting its ability to monitor sensitive data and prevent breaches without impacting device performance. M

Pros and Cons

[
Compliance (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/crowdstrike-falcon-data-protection/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Limited Features (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/crowdstrike-falcon-data-protection/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Cyera
](https://www.g2.com/products/cyera/reviews)

By [Cyera](https://www.g2.com/sellers/cyera)

[

4.6/5(29)

](https://www.g2.com/products/cyera/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise Cyera for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with various data stores, making data discovery straightforward and efficient. The tool's automated capabilitie

Pros and Cons

[
Ease of Use (9)
](https://www.g2.com/products/cyera/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Complexity (4)
](https://www.g2.com/products/cyera/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Satori Data Security Platform
](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform/reviews)

By [Commvault](https://www.g2.com/sellers/commvault)

[

4.7/5(88)

](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the Satori Data Security Platform for its user-friendly interface and automated data access controls, which simplify the management of sensitive information. The platform's a

Pros and Cons

[
Ease of Use (10)
](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Complexity (6)
](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Entro Security
](https://www.g2.com/products/entro-security/reviews)

By [Entro Security](https://www.g2.com/sellers/entro-security)

[

4.7/5(15)

](https://www.g2.com/products/entro-security/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the product for its visibility and control over non-human identities and secrets, which enhances security measures across various platforms. The intuitive interface and seaml

Pros and Cons

[
Easy Integrations (5)
](https://www.g2.com/products/entro-security/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Limited Features (2)
](https://www.g2.com/products/entro-security/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Sophos Intercept X
](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-sophos-intercept-x/reviews)

By [Sophos](https://www.g2.com/sellers/sophos)

[

3.9/5(36)

](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-sophos-intercept-x/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the product for its ease of use and effective threat detection, highlighting its ability to block ransomware and other attacks with minimal user interaction. The integration

Pros and Cons

[
Ease of Use (2)
](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-sophos-intercept-x/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Complex Setup (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-sophos-intercept-x/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Virtru Email Encryption
](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-email-encryption/reviews)

By [Virtru](https://www.g2.com/sellers/virtru)

[

4.4/5(417)

](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-email-encryption/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the product for its ease of use and seamless integration with email platforms like Gmail and Outlook, making it simple to send encrypted messages. Many appreciate the peace o

Pros and Cons

[
Ease of Use (80)
](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-email-encryption/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Email Issues (55)
](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-email-encryption/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Securiti
](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews)

By [Veeam](https://www.g2.com/sellers/veeam)

[

4.6/5(104)

](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise Securiti for its comprehensive approach to data security, privacy, and compliance, which allows organizations to manage these aspects from a single platform. The platform's e

Pros and Cons

[
Ease of Use (38)
](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Complexity (11)
](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Microsoft Purview...
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-purview-information-protection/reviews)

By [Microsoft](https://www.g2.com/sellers/microsoft)

[

4.4/5(32)

](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-purview-information-protection/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the product for its seamless integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, which simplifies data protection and compliance tasks. The intuitive interface and user-friendly featur

Pros and Cons

[
Ease of Use (2)
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-purview-information-protection/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Difficult Setup (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-purview-information-protection/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
DataStealth
](https://www.g2.com/products/datastealth/reviews)

By [DataStealth](https://www.g2.com/sellers/datastealth)

[

4.8/5(11)

](https://www.g2.com/products/datastealth/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the exceptional support and seamless integration provided by DataStealth, highlighting the team's responsiveness and expertise as key factors in their positive experiences. M

Pros and Cons

[
Compliance (6)
](https://www.g2.com/products/datastealth/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Complexity (3)
](https://www.g2.com/products/datastealth/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Fortra Data Classification
](https://www.g2.com/products/fortra-data-classification/reviews)

By [Fortra](https://www.g2.com/sellers/fortra)

[

4.3/5(26)

](https://www.g2.com/products/fortra-data-classification/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the product for its robust capabilities in classifying and protecting sensitive data, highlighting its user-friendly interface and effective integration with other security s

Pros and Cons

[
Data Protection (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/fortra-data-classification/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Difficult Learning (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/fortra-data-classification/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

[
Imperva Data Security Fabric
](https://www.g2.com/products/imperva-data-security-fabric/reviews)

By [Thales Group](https://www.g2.com/sellers/thales-group)

[

4.5/5(31)

](https://www.g2.com/products/imperva-data-security-fabric/reviews)

What do users say?

Users consistently praise the product for its data protection capabilities, highlighting its effectiveness in blocking unauthorized access and ensuring compliance with data privacy laws. Many apprecia

Pros and Cons

[
Customization (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/imperva-data-security-fabric/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)[
Poor Customer Support (1)
](https://www.g2.com/products/imperva-data-security-fabric/reviews?qs=pros-and-cons)

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[Browse Data-Centric Security Themes](/categories/data-centric-security/themes)

 ![Lauren Worth](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Lauren Worth")
LW

Researched and written by [Lauren Worth](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/lauren-worth)

Updated October 3, 2024

Data-centric security software focuses on securing the data itself, rather than the infrastructure or application used to store or access that data. This approach differs from a traditional network (or perimeter-centric) security approach, which focuses on protecting the locations where data is accessed or stored, such as servers, networks, applications, and devices.

This software can be used to achieve a zero trust security model and safeguard data across complex IT environments, including cloud environments. Businesses use data-centric security solutions to protect data when it’s in transit, at rest, or in use.

Core capabilities of data-centric security software include the discovery of sensitive data, policy management, access control, encryption, data obfuscation processes such as data masking, and monitoring data access and usage for suspicious behaviors. Additionally, these tools facilitate the labeling, tagging, and tracking of sensitive data points as well as auditing for security and compliance assurance.

Certain functionalities of data-centric security tools may be similar to those of [data governance software](https://www.g2.com/categories/data-governance), mainly in terms of compliance and policy enforcement. While that is an important functionality, data-centric security tools are intended primarily for data lifecycle management rather than for data security. [Sensitive data discovery software](https://www.g2.com/categories/sensitive-data-discovery) is a subset of a broader functionality offered by data-centric security software and specializes in discovering sensitive data.

To qualify for inclusion in the Data-Centric Security category, a product must:

- Provide sensitive data discovery functionality
- Support data classification with the tagging and auditing of sensitive information
- Enforce access control policies for sensitive information
- Offer encryption for data at rest and in transit
- Monitor for abnormalities related to information access and user behavior

Show More

* * *

## How Do You Choose the Right Data-Centric Security Software?

### Learn More About Data-Centric Security Software

In the modern digital realm, safeguarding sensitive data has become an essential task. With the ever-increasing amount and variety of data, along with the constant evolution of cybersecurity threats and strict privacy regulations, organizations face significant hurdles in maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of their information assets.

In response to these challenges, data-centric security software has become a key solution. Let's explore its importance and how it addresses the complexities organizations face today.

### What is data-centric security software?

Unlike traditional approaches that focus on fortifying network boundaries, data-centric security software prioritizes protecting data itself, regardless of its location or transmission mode.

It employs advanced techniques such as encryption, [access controls](https://www.g2.com/glossary/access-control-definition), data masking, and [tokenization](https://www.g2.com/glossary/data-tokenization-definition) to embed security directly into the data. By doing so, organizations mitigate the risks of data breaches, unauthorized access, and insider threats. [Data encryption](https://www.g2.com/categories/encryption), one key feature of this software, makes sure that data remains unreadable and unusable to unauthorized users by encrypting it both at rest and in transit.

Buyer searches often ask for the most trusted data centric security platforms in reviews for financial services and healthcare. That pattern matches G2's review activity: Financial services reviewers wrote 14 of the 215 reviews G2 collected across leading products in this category in the past year, and hospital and health care reviewers wrote 9, the two largest industry groups. Based on G2 reviews, day-to-day users, administrators, and executive sponsors evaluate data-centric security software by comparing data visibility and automated classification, access control and secure sharing, and the setup and tuning effort a rollout demands.

Access controls enable organizations to enforce granular permissions and restrictions with regard to who can use sensitive data and which actions they can perform. Moreover, data-centric security software helps businesses remain current with various regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) by implementing robust [encryption](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-encryption).

### What are the common features of data-centric security software?

Data-centric security software has various functions that vary by tool and use case. Some valuable features of data-centric security software include the following.

- [Data discovery](https://www.g2.com/articles/data-discovery) refers to identifying and locating sensitive data across infrastructure. It teaches organizations how to understand the scope of their data assets and potential vulnerabilities.
- Data classification categorizes data based on sensitivity levels so organizations can prioritize their security efforts and apply appropriate protection measures.
- Encryption transforms data into an unreadable format. It prevents unauthorized parties from understanding the data, even if they somehow gain access.
- Access controls restrict unauthorized access to sensitive data. This includes using role-based access control (RBAC), permissions, and [multi-factor authentication (MFA)](https://www.g2.com/categories/multi-factor-authentication-mfa).
- Tokenization shields sensitive data while preserving format and integrity. It's useful for testing, analytics, or outsourcing without the risk of exposing sensitive information.
- Data loss prevention (DLP) stops unauthorized access, transmission, or storage of sensitive data. This not only protects the organization's reputation and financial assets but also ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, such as GDPR or HIPAA.
- Data monitoring tracks data access, usage patterns, and security events. Real-time data monitoring helps organizations optimize resource allocation, improve operational efficiency, and enhance their overall security posture.
- Audit trails and reporting records data access, modifications, and system events for compliance and analysis. By analyzing audit trail data, organizations identify security gaps, interpret user behavior, and detect anomalies or potential threats.
- Risk management assesses and mitigates potential security risks. By using [risk assessment solutions](https://www.g2.com/categories/risk-assessment) organizations can find vulnerabilities, threats, and potential negative impacts to their data assets.

### What types of data-centric security software exist?

Each of the various data-centric security software options presents both distinct advantages and disadvantages. Exploring them will allow an organization to tailor their choices based on specific preferences and requirements.

- [Firewall solutions](https://www.g2.com/categories/firewall-software) monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It's possible to set them up at network boundaries to prevent unauthorized access and protect against malicious activities.
- Authentication and authorization systems verify the identity of users who access data. They determine the level of access granted based on their credentials and permissions.
- Encryption secures data by converting it into a ciphertext format that can only be solved with the appropriate decryption key. This means that even if hackers intercept data, they won't be able to understand it.
- Data masking hides sensitive information in non-production environments to protect privacy by replacing sensitive data with realistic but fake data or with a masked format.
- Hardware-based security solutions use specialized hardware components or devices to protect data. Examples include hardware security modules (HSMs) for managing encryption keys and secure enclaves for processing sensitive data in a protected environment.
- [Data backup](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-backup) automatically creates copies of important data to guarantee its availability in case of data loss or system failure. This process helps organizations recover quickly from disruptions by providing redundancy and failover mechanisms.
- Data erasure securely deletes data from storage devices so unauthorized parties can't recover it. This is crucial when retiring or replacing storage devices.

### What are the benefits of data-centric security software?

The benefits of using a data-centric security software include:

- **Enhanced protection for sensitive data:** Data-centric security software employs encryption, tokenization, and other advanced techniques to protect sensitive data. By focusing on securing the data itself rather than just the perimeter, the data remains encrypted and unreadable, which provides enhanced protection against breaches.
- **Regulatory compliance:** Many industries are subject to strict regulations regarding protecting sensitive data, such as GDPR and HIPAA. Data-centric security software helps organizations achieve compliance by establishing robust data protection measures, including encryption, access controls, and [audit trails](https://www.g2.com/glossary/audit-trail) to shrink the risk of non-compliance penalties.
- **Persistent security:** Data-centric security protects data throughout the entire lifecycle, from creation and storage to transmission and disposal. By embedding security controls directly into the data, organizations maintain persistent protection regardless of where the data resides or how users access it, whether on-premises, in the cloud, or on mobile devices.
- **Access control:** Businesses use data-centric security to enable granular access control. This makes it easier to define and enforce policies regarding the terms of access. RBAC, attribute-based access control (ABAC), and other access control mechanisms prevent unauthorized access.
- **Reduced operational complexity:** Implementing data-centric security simplifies security management by centralizing control over [data protection](https://learn.g2.com/data-protection) policies. Rather than relying on a patchwork of disparate security solutions, organizations refine their security infrastructure, reducing complexity, lower administrative overhead, and greater operational efficiency.
- **Enhanced data governance:** Data-centric security facilitates better data governance by providing visibility into how users access and share sensitive data across their organizations. By monitoring data usage patterns and enforcing compliance with data policies, businesses maintain control over their data assets, reduce the risk of misuse or leakage, and demonstrate accountability to stakeholders.
- **Deterrence of insider threats:** Insider threats, whether intentional or unintentional, pose a significant risk. Data-centric security software deters insider threats by limiting access to sensitive data based on the principle of least privilege, monitoring user behavior for suspicious activity, and applying data loss prevention (DLP) to prevent unauthorized exfiltration.

### Data-Centric Security vs. Zero Trust

Data-centric security and Zero Trust both approach cybersecurity with a focus on enhancing protection in the digital landscape.

Data-centric security places the utmost importance on safeguarding sensitive data, regardless of its location within the network or cloud. By employing techniques like encryption, access controls, and data classification, it protects data even if perimeter defenses are compromised.

On the other hand, Zero Trust takes a proactive stance by assuming that threats exist inside and outside the network perimeter. It continuously verifies each user and device that wants access to resources by relying on strict access controls and least privilege principles to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and lateral movement of threats.

Incorporating both data-centric security and Zero Trust principles work hand in hand rather than separately.

### Who uses data-centric security software?

Data-centric security software finds use with a variety of professionals and roles. Here's how:

- Chief information security officers (CISOs) oversee the implementation and management of data-centric security measures meant to protect sensitive data.
- Security analysts and engineers analyze security threats and vulnerabilities, configure and maintain [security software](https://www.g2.com/categories/security), and investigate security incidents related to data breaches.
- Data protection officers (DPOs) ensure compliance with data protection regulations and implement data-centric security measures to safeguard personal data.
- IT and security managers handle the deployment and maintenance of data-centric security solutions to protect information assets.
- Database administrators (DBAs) implement security controls within databases, manage access permissions, and monitor [database](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-a-database) activity to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.
- Compliance officers align data-centric security practices with relevant industry regulations and standards.
- Risk management professionals assess potential harm related to data security, develop mitigation strategies, and implement security measures to reduce the likelihood of [data breaches](https://www.g2.com/articles/data-breach).
- Network administrators set up network-level security controls to protect data in transit and configure firewalls or intrusion detection systems.
- Chief data officers (CDOs) develop data governance policies and strategies to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data assets.
- [DevOps](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-devops) engineers integrate data-centric security measures into software development lifecycles to identify and remediate application security vulnerabilities.
- Systems administrators configure and maintain operating systems and server-level security controls to protect data stored on servers and endpoints within an organization's infrastructure.

### Data-centric security software pricing

Each pricing model has its advantages and suitable customer scenarios. The choice of pricing model depends on factors such as budget, usage patterns, scalability requirements, and preferences for payment structure.

- Subscription-based models have customers pay a recurring fee at regular intervals (monthly, annually) to access data-centric security solutions.
- Perpetual licenses ask for a one-time fee for the software license, allowing buyers to use the platform indefinitely.
- Usage-based pricing is based on the volume or usage of the tool.
- Tiered pricing lets customers choose from different tiers or packages according to their needs and budget.
- Freemium models are basic versions of data-centric security solutions offered for free, with advanced features or additional functionality available for a fee.
- **Volume licensing or enterprise agreements:** Best for large organizations with the means to negotiate customized pricing and licensing terms.
- Feature-based pricing is determined by the specific features or modules of the data-centric security solution that customers choose to use.
- Pay-as-you-grow allows customers to start with a basic package and pay for additional capacity or features as their needs grow.

#### Return on investment (ROI) for data-centric security platforms

- Scalability and flexibility determine how effectively organizations adapt to changing security needs and accommodate growth without significant additional investment.
- Integration capabilities with existing infrastructure and systems can boost ROI by paring down operations, reducing manual effort, and avoiding duplication of resources.
- The total cost of ownership (TCO) of the software, including initial implementation costs, ongoing maintenance fees, and any necessary training or support, directly influences ROI.
- The speed and efficiency of incident detection and response facilitated by the software minimize the impact of security breaches, reducing downtime and associated costs.
- Automation and analytics enhance operational efficiency, which allows security teams to focus on high-priority tasks and potentially reduces the need for additional personnel.
- Actionable insights and intelligence empower proactive security measures, mitigating risks.
- User adoption and ease of use prevent employee resistance.

### Software related to data-centric security platforms

Related solutions and services include the following.

- [Encryption software](https://www.g2.com/categories/encryption) ensures that data is protected by converting it into a coded format that can only be processed by individuals or systems with the appropriate decryption key. It's a fundamental aspect of data-centric security because it secures data at rest and in transit.
- Data loss prevention (DLP) prevents unauthorized access, use, or transmission of sensitive data. It monitors usage and applies policies to stop breaches, leakage, or unauthorized transfers.
- [Database security management software](https://www.g2.com/categories/database-security) secures databases and [database management systems (DBMS)](https://www.g2.com/categories/database-management-systems-dbms) from internal and external threats. It includes access controls, encryption, and auditing functionalities to strengthen the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of database information.
- [Data masking tools](https://www.g2.com/categories/data-masking) obscure or anonymize sensitive data in non-production environments, such as development and testing. This helps protect confidential information while still allowing realistic data to be used for testing.
- Data discovery and classification identify and classify sensitive data across infrastructure. By understanding where sensitive data resides, organizations can apply appropriate security controls and policies to protect it effectively.
- [Security information and event management (SIEM) software](https://www.g2.com/categories/security-information-and-event-management-siem) collects and analyzes security event data from various sources throughout an organization's IT infrastructure. It detects and responds to security threats in real time by correlating events and providing actionable insights into potential incidents.
- [Data rights management (DRM) solutions](https://www.g2.com/categories/digital-rights-management-drm) control permissions and restrictions about how data can be accessed, used, and shared.

### Challenges with data-centric security software

Some common challenges with data-centric security software are discussed here.

- **Complexity of data discovery and classification:** Identifying sensitive data within vast datasets and accurately classifying it overwhelms IT departments across industries. Automated tools may struggle to accurately detect all sensitive data types, leading to potential gaps in protection.
- **Integration with existing systems:** Integrating data-centric security solutions with existing IT infrastructure, including databases, file systems, and cloud services, complicates operations. Compatibility issues may arise, requiring careful planning and coordination to guarantee smooth integration without disrupting existing operations.
- **Performance overhead:** Implementing robust data-centric security measures can introduce performance overhead, especially in environments with high data throughput requirements. Balancing security needs with performance considerations helps avoid damaging system responsiveness or user experience.
- **Scalability:** Data-centric security solutions must scale effectively to accommodate growing demands. Scalability involves designing systems that can handle increasing volumes of data and user activity without sacrificing security or performance.
- **Changes to data structure:** Adapting data-centric security software to accommodate changes in data structure, such as schema updates or migrations to new platforms, presents significant burdens. It requires ongoing monitoring and adjustment to keep up with the protection of sensitive information.
- **Costs:** Implementing and sustaining data-centric security solutions cost a lot. They involve expenses related to software licensing, hardware infrastructure, training, and ongoing support. Organizations must carefully evaluate the cost-benefit ratio to justify investments.
- **Training and expertise:** Effective deployment and management of data-centric security software require specialized knowledge and expertise. Organizations need to invest in training programs to ensure that staff members know how to use and maintain these solutions.

### Which companies should buy data-centric security software?

Below are some examples of companies that should consider buying data-centric security software.

- Financial institutions deal with highly sensitive data, making them prime cyberattack targets. Data-centric security software can help protect customer information, transaction data, and other relevant records.
- Healthcare organizations handle personal health information (PHI) and medical records. Data-centric security software ensures compliance with regulations like HIPAA and protects against data breaches.
- Government agencies store a wealth of information that includes citizen data, national security information, and government operations data. It all stays safe thanks to data-centric security software.
- Technology companies often have access to valuable intellectual property, proprietary information, and customer data. Data-centric security software can protect against data theft, industrial espionage, and unauthorized access.
- Retail and e-commerce businesses collect and store customer payment information, personal details, and purchase history. The right security software can protect customer trust by preventing breaches.
- Educational institutions hold onto student records, research data, and proprietary information that require protection against cyber threats. Data-centric software provides this protection and also ensures compliance with student privacy regulations.
- Corporate enterprises deal with sensitive business data, employee records, and intellectual property. They need data-centric security software to protect against [insider threats](https://www.g2.com/articles/insider-threat), external attacks, and data leaks.

### How to choose data-centric security software

Choosing data-centric security software depends on specific needs, preferences, and work. Here's a concise guide to help find the right solution:

- Understand the organization's security requirements, including the types of sensitive data handled and relevant compliance regulations like GDPR or HIPAA.
- Evaluate data-centric security technologies and prioritize features based on what is needed, such as encryption for PII or data discovery for compliance.
- Research each vendor's reputation, future product development plans, financial stability, and quality of customer support.
- Consider deployment options (on-premises, cloud, hybrid) and confirm that the vendor's pricing structures align with the budget and operational needs.
- Create a shortlist of solutions, conduct trials, gather feedback, and consider factors like functionality, integration, and user experience to make an informed decision.

### Data-centric security software trends

- **Adoption of the Zero Trust Model:** Software solutions that use zero trust principles are rising. They feature micro-segmentation, MFA, least privilege access, and continuous monitoring for anomalies.
- **Enhanced privacy regulations and compliance:** In response to growing concerns over data privacy and protection, regulatory bodies have introduced stringent measures such as the GDPR and CCPA. Consequently, data-centric security software offers features like encryption, data masking, and pseudonymization.
- [Machine learning](https://www.g2.com/articles/machine-learning) and [artificial intelligence (AI)](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-artificial-intelligence) **integration:** ML and AI algorithms analyze large volumes of data to identify patterns indicative of potential security threats. These technologies help refine incident response procedures by prioritizing alerts, orchestrating response actions, and even autonomously mitigating security incidents.

### Data-Centric Security Software FAQs

#### Most Popular FAQs

**Which data-centric security software has the best reviews?**

Satori Data Security Platform, Varonis Data Security Platform, Securiti, and Egnyte hold the strongest combination of rating and review base in this category:

- [Satori Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform): Rated 4.7 stars across 88 reviews. Reviewers credit automatic data classification and access control with cutting manual effort without disrupting normal work.
- [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti): Rated 4.6 stars across 101 reviews. Reviewers describe accurate automated discovery that shows where sensitive PII lives across multicloud setups.
- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform): Rated 4.6 stars across 88 reviews. Enterprise reviewers repeatedly cite visibility into overexposed data and excessive permissions that manual checks would miss.
- [Egnyte](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte): Rated 4.4 stars across 1,162 reviews. Admins highlight granular sharing permissions and audit trails, though the review base spans several G2 categories including cloud content collaboration, so read the category-tagged reviews.

A few smaller products in the category post higher ratings on review bases under 30 reviews, which is too thin to rank against the products above.

**What is the difference between data governance and data security?**

Data governance defines who owns data and how it may be used; data security enforces protection on the data itself through encryption, access controls, and monitoring. In practice the two overlap heavily in this category: [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti) reviewers run records of processing, privacy reports, and vendor assessments alongside data discovery from one platform, and [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform) reviewers describe its discovery and user behavior analytics forming the backbone of their data management programs. The counterweight is breadth: Securiti reviewers note that covering security, privacy, governance, and AI in one platform creates a learning curve for first-time users. If your driver is regulatory reporting, weight governance workflows; if it is breach prevention, weight classification and access enforcement.

**Which data-centric security platforms are easiest to manage despite the automation underneath?**

Two platforms earn the most manageability praise in recent reviews despite the automation underneath:

- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform): Reviewers describe clean, intuitive dashboards that deliver meaningful insights without power-user skills, though some find parts of the server-based interface dated and clunky for entering policies.
- [Satori Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform): Reviewers manage access, permissions, and compliance policies from a single console.

Not every reviewer agrees, and [Kiteworks](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks) reviewers say its interface feels complex for new users because of the security depth underneath: Have the administrators who will own the tool, not just the security architects, drive the trial console for a week before deciding.

**Can data-centric security replace network or perimeter security?**

No. Data-centric tools protect the data itself so a breach of the perimeter does not expose readable information, but reviewers in this category still run layered defenses. [Sophos Intercept X](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-sophos-intercept-x) sits in this category at the endpoint layer, where reviewers describe ransomware protection that detects encryption behavior in real time and rolls back affected files, while platforms like [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform) watch data access behavior across stores. The counterweight is that layering has costs: Sophos reviewers report agent performance impact on older hardware and false positives that need manual exclusions. This question reflects a dominant pattern across search results for this category rather than a single source. Treat data-centric controls as the layer that holds when perimeter controls fail, not as a replacement for them.

**Which data-centric security platforms automate encryption and access control without manual data classification?**

Based on G2 reviews from the past year, the three best platforms automate encryption and access control without manual data classification most consistently:

- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews): The most consistent answer, with reviewers describing automated discovery and classification of PII and PHI across file shares and cloud storage, surfacing overexposed data and excessive permissions that manual processes would miss.
- [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews): Reviewers report automated discovery and mapping across Azure, AWS, Salesforce, and Snowflake that replaced months of manual work.
- [Satori Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform/reviews): Reviewers say automatic classification and access control cut manual effort without getting in the way of normal work.

One counterpoint involves tuning, with Securiti reviewers describing classifier tuning during onboarding that can take a few weeks and Varonis reviewers describing baselining alerts over time to reduce noise: Ask each shortlisted vendor to run its automated classifier against a sample of your real data during the trial, and measure the manual exceptions it leaves behind.

**Can data-centric security software prevent unauthorized access while encryption rollout is still in progress?**

Yes. Reviewers describe protecting access during the encryption delay, while encryption and scanning were still rolling out, with access visibility landing first.

- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews): Teams use it to find data with too much access and restrict who views sensitive information, backed by 24/7 response that disables accounts or resets passwords when unusual access volumes appear, even while initial scans of large data sets run for days or weeks.
- [Kiteworks](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks/reviews): Reviewers describe tiered permissions that wall off confidential records such as medical and payroll data from day one.
- [Satori Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform/reviews): Reviewers apply access policies dynamically while data source connections are still being added.

The counterweight is that interim coverage is uneven, with Securiti reviewers reporting role-based access control problems and processing that slows once data volumes reach certain limits: Sequence the rollout so access controls and monitoring cover your highest-risk stores in the first phase, and schedule encryption of lower-risk data for later phases.

**Which data-centric security tools show early value during a pilot deployment?**

Recent reviews point to three tools showing early value during a pilot deployment:

- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews): Reviewers repeatedly describe early findings that justified the project, with initial scans surfacing amounts of overexposed data that surprise teams, and an AI readiness dashboard that flags overexposed files and missing sensitivity labels before AI enters the environment.
- [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews): Reviewers report discovery results across cloud platforms in days rather than the months manual work would take.
- [Imperva Data Security Fabric](https://www.g2.com/products/imperva-data-security-fabric/reviews): Reviewers cite automatic discovery and classification with real-time monitoring, though its review activity this year is thin at three fresh reviews.

The counterweight is patience, with Varonis reviewers warning that initial scans run from hours to more than a week depending on data volume and that stakeholders should not expect immediate dashboards: Scope the pilot to one or two high-risk repositories, agree on scan completion dates with the vendor, and judge value on remediated exposure rather than dashboard breadth.

**Which data-centric security tools deliver visibility during initial configuration?**

The top data-centric security tools carry the strongest reviewer evidence for visibility during initial configuration:

- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews): Reviewers describe clear visibility from a simple dashboard into where data lives and who accesses it, with onboarding engineers assisting at each step and data appearing on dashboards progressively as the first scans run.
- [Satori Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/satori-data-security-platform/reviews): Reviewers call the dashboard clean and easy to understand once source connections are tuned.
- [Egnyte](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte/reviews): Admins point to audit trails and access logs that show who changed what from the start, though Egnyte spans several G2 categories, so read its category-tagged reviews for this use case.

One counterpoint involves early opacity, with [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews) reviewers saying background process failures produce error messages that do not explain what went wrong, which slows debugging during setup: During configuration, require the vendor to walk your team through the first week of dashboards, and log every unexplained error for the proof-of-concept review.

#### Small Business FAQs

Small business reviewers wrote 48 of the 215 reviews G2 collected across leading products in this category in the past year. The [small business data-centric security segment page](https://www.g2.com/categories/data-centric-security/small-business) filters ratings to that group.

**What is the most affordable data-centric security software for small businesses?**

Virtru Email Encryption and Egnyte are the products small business reviewers most often describe as fitting their budgets, with structural caveats on both.

- [Virtru Email Encryption](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-email-encryption): Reviewers describe pricing as reasonably affordable for the security it adds to existing email.
- [Egnyte](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte): Small business reviewers find the cost more efficient than previous options, though some note its add-on module pricing only becomes clear after mapping which modules the team actually needs, and full-account seats can get expensive to add.

At the other end, small business [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti) reviewers point to enterprise-tier pricing better suited to mid-market and up, and [Kiteworks](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks) reviewers describe premium pricing that is not publicly listed: Price the modules and per-seat additions you will need in year two, not just the entry package.

**Which data-centric security software is the most user-friendly for small teams?**

Virtru Email Encryption and Egnyte earn the strongest ease-of-use marks from small teams.

- [Virtru Email Encryption](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-email-encryption): Reviewers describe one-click encryption inside their existing inbox and sign-in through Google or Office 365 credentials.
- [Egnyte](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte): Small-practice reviewers report managing client and clinic records with no technical setup, navigating it much like a familiar file explorer.

The counterweight sits in the portal experience, where some [Virtru Secure Share](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-secure-share) reviewers describe friction once sharing moves out of the inbox, including confusing navigation, send limits that only surface at the moment of sharing, and gaps like unsupported shared inboxes: Run your least technical team member through the exact task they will do weekly before buying.

**Do small businesses need a full data-centric security model?**

Usually not on day one: Most small teams in this category start with encryption and access controls on the files and email they already share, then add discovery and classification as data volumes grow. Small business reviewers reflect that pattern, using [Virtru Email Encryption](https://www.g2.com/products/virtru-email-encryption) to protect client records in regulated fields like accounting and mental health care, and [Egnyte](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte) for HIPAA-compliant folder sharing between billing teams and doctors. The counterweight is ceiling: Small business [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti) reviewers note that full platform capabilities carry enterprise-tier pricing and onboarding effort that small startups may not absorb. Start with the controls attached to the data you actually share externally, and revisit classification tooling when headcount or compliance scope grows.

#### Enterprise FAQs

**What is the best-rated data-centric security software for enterprises?**

Enterprise reviewers wrote 38 of the 215 reviews G2 collected across leading products in this category in the past year, and the [enterprise data-centric security segment page](https://www.g2.com/categories/data-centric-security/enterprise) filters ratings to that group.

- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform): 4.6 stars across 88 reviews, drawing the most consistent enterprise praise, spanning ICFR reporting at financial firms, ransomware monitoring, and blast-radius reduction.
- [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti): 4.6 stars across 101 reviews, the platform enterprise banking and HR reviewers use for hybrid multicloud discovery.

Two enterprise-oriented competitors carry thin fresh evidence, with [Microsoft Purview Information Protection](https://www.g2.com/products/microsoft-purview-information-protection) logging one review in the past year and [Imperva Data Security Fabric](https://www.g2.com/products/imperva-data-security-fabric) three, too few to rank on ratings alone: At this segment, a scoped pilot on your own data stores is a better selector than a rating gap of a tenth of a point.

**How should enterprises evaluate data-centric security software?**

Based on recent G2 reviews, enterprises should evaluate the following in data-centric security software:

- **Rollout friction:** [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform) enterprise reviewers describe several weeks of focused work plus professional services before alerts hit their stride, and [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti) reviewers report classifier tuning of a few weeks during onboarding.
- **Implementation ownership:** [Kiteworks](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks) policy, SSO, and encryption configuration demands dedicated IT resources per multiple reviewers, and Varonis reviewers note you still need someone deeply familiar with the platform to get full value from it.
- **Cost trajectory:** Varonis reviewers describe modular costs stacking as SaaS apps, cloud providers, and automated remediation features are added, and [Egnyte](https://www.g2.com/products/egnyte) admins flag add-on module pricing that only clarifies after mapping actual needs.
- **Reporting hygiene:** Some Varonis enterprise reviewers call reporting restrictive and limited, and Securiti reviewers ask for more customizable reports, submissions, and pages.
- **Support model:** [Imperva Data Security Fabric](https://www.g2.com/products/imperva-data-security-fabric) reviewers report support that was difficult to deal with and no local vendor presence in India, while Varonis reviewers consistently describe support as a dedicated team that feels like a partner.

Negotiate professional services hours, licensing tiers, and scan completion timelines into the contract, and judge the pilot on remediated exposure.

**Which data-centric security solutions provide strong encryption and automation across hybrid cloud environments?**

Three solutions draw the most consistent evidence for strong encryption and automation across hybrid cloud environments:

- [Securiti](https://www.g2.com/products/securiti/reviews): Draws consistent praise for hybrid cloud coverage, with reviewers in banking and enterprise HR describing its command center as highly adaptable for complex hybrid infrastructure, running discovery and classification across GCP, Google Workspace, BigQuery, and legacy AWS file shares.
- [Varonis Data Security Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/varonis-data-security-platform/reviews): Reviewers describe mapping identities and sensitive data across AWS, SaaS, and on-premises systems from one platform.
- [Kiteworks](https://www.g2.com/products/kiteworks/reviews): Offers on-premises, private cloud, and hybrid deployment options, per the vendor, which its financial services reviewers pair with unified governance across email, file sharing, and SFTP.

The counterweight comes from Varonis itself, where some reviewers find the platform on-premises-first, with cloud alerting thinner than expected and Microsoft cloud connectors that took work to set up as expected: Map which environments hold your regulated data first, then require each shortlisted vendor to demonstrate encryption and policy automation in that exact mix.

_Researched and written by_ [_Lauren Worth_](https://research.g2.com/insights/author/lauren-worth)

_Reviewed and edited by_ [_Aisha West_](https://learn.g2.com/author/aisha-west?_gl=1*1ugnvz0*_ga*OTU5ODUxODYxLjE2NjUzODc5MzY.*_ga_MFZ5NDXZ5F*MTcxNDAzNTUxNy43NDYuMC4xNzE0MDM1NTE5LjU4LjAuMA..*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3MTA3NTI4NTQuQ2p3S0NBand6Ti12QmhBa0Vpd0FZaU83b05QZUZ1RjFJaU1tRUR6QlBBMDc2bnJ6VHhCcl84ZmlFUU5CbFVQRFF3MHlPbVBINzg1eThCb0N5RkFRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTQ3OTA5NDQzMi4xNzEzMTI2MjIy)