IRONSCALES and Barracuda employ distinct methods for securing an organization's email environment, though there is some overlap in their capabilities due to recent updates.

Barracuda traditionally operates with a preventative approach, using a Secure Email Gateway (SEG) to block SPAM and known threats before they reach the inbox. This method functions similarly to network firewalls as they are located in the DMZ of a network, in-line and upstream of a mail server or service. Recently, Barracuda has enhanced its capabilities by adopting API-level integration and AI / ML for improved detection and response, to augment its foundational SEG framework. These enhancements offer features that are more aligned with IRONSCALES’ approach, such as direct inbox defense, though Barracuda maintains its core as a robust SEG solution.

IRONSCALES leads the way in API-based, AI/ML-driven email security, being the first in the industry to deploy this advanced technology across email platforms. As a pioneer with this approach, we've been able to refine and perfect the use of AI and machine learning in real-time threat detection and remediation. Our solution empowers employees to become a responsive part of the security posture with user-friendly alert banners and phishing report buttons.

The platform also includes the ability to send personalized phishing simulations and training based on employees' profiles and recent inbox attacks, thanks to integrated phishing simulation testing and security awareness training (SAT).
This is just a high-level difference between the two solutions. Both Barracuda and IRONSCALES offer different types of features and capabilities, which we’ll cover in more detail in the table below.