Evaluating SaaS discovery tools? Learn why organizations choose our 100% client-side, zero-knowledge firewall log parsing over invasive API or agent-based scanning.
Zscaler intercept and inspects outgoing web traffic at the network edge using cloud-native firewalls and secure web gateways.
While Zscaler provides valuable insights for long-term governance, it introduces significant setup friction, high costs, and requires granting deep read access permissions to your sensitive corporate infrastructure or user workspaces.
| Feature | Shadow AI Discovery | Zscaler |
|---|---|---|
| Data Privacy | 100% Zero-Knowledge. Log data stays entirely in local browser sandbox memory. | Traffic Inspection. Outbound internet packets are decrypted and inspected in Zscaler cloud datacenters. |
| Setup Complexity | Zero. Drop in standard firewall log exports (Sophos, Fortinet, pfSense, etc.) directly. | High. Requires changing DNS, setting up GRE tunnels, or installing Zscaler Client Connector on devices. |
| Cost Efficiency | $49 per audit. Best for periodic shadow IT reports, SOC 2 preparation, and cost cleanup. | Enterprise Pricing. Massive multi-year security subscription contracts. |
| Focus Area | Dedicated shadow AI discovery registry, security classifications, and procurement alternatives. | Broad network access control, zero trust networking, and threat prevention. |
Your firewall logs and IP addresses stay entirely in your local browser sandbox memory. There is no central database that can be hacked or leaked, ensuring total compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, and corporate security guidelines.
No agents to deploy, no DNS proxies to configure, and no cloud permissions to request. Just run a standard CSV log export from your firewall (Sophos, Fortinet, pfSense, etc.) and drop it.
Upload your firewalls outbound traffic log to instantly scan for unvetted connections, compute your organisation security score, and check for GDPR compliance holes.