Websites using Duo

Okay, let s break down Duo Mobile (and Duo Security in general) with a focus on those key areas:

What is Duo Security?

Duo Security (now part of Cisco) is a leading provider of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and secure access solutions. Its core offering helps organizations verify the identity of users before granting them access to applications and data. Think of it as adding an extra layer of security beyond just a password.

Overview:

• Core Functionality: Duo primarily focuses on two-factor authentication (2FA), often implemented with a mobile app (Duo Mobile) that generates one-time passcodes, sends push notifications for approval, or uses biometric authentication.
• Key Features:
  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): The primary feature, using multiple factors (something you know, something you have, something you are) to verify identity.
  • Device Insight: Gathers information about the user s device (e.g., OS version, security settings) to assess its security posture. Can be used to block access from devices that are out of date or compromised.
  • Single Sign-On (SSO): Allows users to log in to multiple applications with a single set of credentials.
  • Adaptive Authentication: Adjusts the level of authentication required based on risk factors like location, device, and user behavior.
  • Passwordless Authentication: Utilizes biometrics, FIDO2 keys, and other methods to eliminate passwords entirely.
  • Endpoint Remediation: Encourages users to update their devices and fix security issues before they access protected resources.
• Integration: Duo integrates with a vast range of applications, services, VPNs, and operating systems. This is a major strength.
• Target Audience: Businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. It s particularly popular in industries with high security needs, such as healthcare, finance, and government.

Revenue (Estimated):

• As Duo Security is now part of Cisco, specific revenue figures are not broken out separately in Cisco s public reporting. Before the acquisition, Duo was a significant player and a very successful company. Estimates prior to acquisition pegged their annual recurring revenue (ARR) in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
• Cisco acquired Duo in 2018 for $2.35 billion. This acquisition underscores the importance of MFA and secure access in the modern security landscape and is now a core component of Cisco s Secure Access portfolio.

Alternatives:

Here are some popular Duo Security alternatives, categorized for clarity:

• Leading Competitors (Similar Feature Set):

  • Microsoft Authenticator: (Often bundled with Microsoft 365/Azure AD) A strong competitor, especially for organizations heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.
  • Okta: Another leading identity and access management (IAM) provider with robust MFA capabilities.
  • Google Authenticator/Google Identity Platform: Suitable for Google Workspace users and provides a broad range of authentication and authorization services.
  • Authy (Twilio Authy): Offers a good balance of features and ease of use.
  • LastPass Authenticator: If you re already using LastPass for password management, this is a convenient option.
  • RSA SecurID: A more traditional hardware-based MFA solution (tokens). Still used in some organizations, especially for highly sensitive environments.

• More Basic MFA Options (for Smaller Organizations/Simpler Needs):

  • FreeOTP: Open-source and simple.
  • Yubico YubiKey: Hardware security keys offering strong protection against phishing.

• Open Source Options:

  • privacyIDEA: A modular open source authentication system.
  • LinOTP: Another open source token system for 2FA.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alternative:

• Integration: Does it integrate well with your existing applications and infrastructure?
• Ease of Use: Is it easy for users to set up and use?
• Security: Does it offer strong security features and comply with relevant regulations?
• Cost: How does the pricing compare to Duo Security?
• Scalability: Can it scale to meet your organization s needs as it grows?
• Support: What level of support is available?
• Compliance: Does it meet any specific compliance requirements that you have (e.g., HIPAA, PCI DSS)?
• Specific features needed: (e.g. Passwordless, Device Health checks)

Pricing:

As Duo Security is now a Cisco product, pricing is typically structured within Cisco s overall security offerings. It s crucial to contact Cisco or a Cisco partner for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

• Typical Pricing Models (likely still in use, but confirm with Cisco):

  • Per-User, Per-Month: A common model where you pay a monthly fee for each user who needs access to Duo s MFA.
  • Tiered Pricing: Pricing might be tiered based on the number of users or the features you need.
  • Bundled Pricing: Duo may be bundled with other Cisco security products, offering a more comprehensive security solution at a potentially lower overall cost.
  • Enterprise Agreements: Larger organizations can negotiate custom pricing agreements with Cisco.

• Free Trial: Cisco typically offers a free trial period to allow organizations to evaluate Duo Security before committing to a subscription.

• Considerations:
  • Be sure to inquire about setup fees, training costs, and ongoing support fees.
  • Understand the limitations of any free trials.

Customer Care Details:

• Support Channels:
  • Online Documentation: Cisco provides extensive online documentation for Duo Security, including FAQs, tutorials, and troubleshooting guides. This is often the first place to look for answers.
  • Knowledge Base: A searchable database of articles and solutions to common issues.
  • Community Forums: Cisco hosts community forums where users can ask questions and share knowledge.
  • Email Support: You can typically submit support requests via email.
  • Phone Support: Phone support is usually available, particularly for paying customers. The level of phone support may vary depending on your support plan.
  • Chat Support: In some cases, Cisco may offer chat support for quicker assistance.
• Support Levels: Cisco typically offers different levels of support based on the subscription plan you choose. Higher-tier plans often include faster response times and more dedicated support resources.
• Service Level Agreements (SLAs): For enterprise customers, Cisco may offer SLAs that guarantee certain levels of service and uptime.
• Partner Network: Cisco has a large network of partners who can provide implementation, training, and support services for Duo Security.

Finding the Right Customer Care Contact:

• Cisco Website: Start on the Cisco website (www.cisco.com) and navigate to the Duo Security section. Look for Support or Contact Us links.
• Duo Admin Panel: If you re already a Duo customer, the Duo Admin Panel will likely have links to support resources and contact information.
• Cisco Account Manager: If you have a Cisco account manager, they are your primary point of contact for support and account-related inquiries.

In summary: Duo Security (now Cisco Duo) is a robust and well-regarded MFA solution. While specific revenue figures are not publicly available, it s a significant part of Cisco s security portfolio. Alternatives abound, so carefully consider your needs before making a choice. Contact Cisco directly for the most up-to-date pricing and customer support information.