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CASB market map and supplier insights Q3 2026

The Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) category has fundamentally transformed from a standalone solution to a core component of the Secure Service Edge (SSE) framework. Initially designed to address Shadow IT and provide visibility into cloud application usage, CASBs now offer comprehensive data protection, adaptive access control, and advanced threat detection across SaaS and IaaS environments.

This evolution is driven by the pervasive shift of corporate data to the cloud and the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. Organizations face a significant "Confidence Gap" in cloud security, with a high percentage experiencing security incidents despite reporting confidence in their posture. The financial implications of data breaches, particularly those involving Shadow AI, are substantial, underscoring the critical need for robust CASB solutions.

Modern CASBs are essential for mitigating risks associated with unmanaged cloud usage, data exposure, and regulatory non-compliance. The future of CASB is characterized by AI-driven governance and automation, moving towards intent-based security and AI Security Posture Management (AI-SPM). Procurement teams must prioritize solutions that offer deep integration with existing security stacks, demonstrate strong network performance, and align with a broader SASE roadmap.

Evaluating vendors based on both current capabilities and future innovation is crucial for selecting a partner that can secure today's cloud environment and adapt to emerging threats like Shadow AI.

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17 companies analyzed | Last updated Aug 25, 2026
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Palomarr Insights / Q3 2026

CASB

What does the latest CASB market report show?

The Q3 2026 Palomarr Insights report maps 17 CASB suppliers by market position, supplier scores, and category signals. Buyers can use it to understand the market before comparing vendors or building an RFP shortlist.

Palomarr Orbit

Unlike static analyst charts, Palomarr Orbit plots 17 CASB companies by Capabilities and Innovation, then lets you shift the center of gravity based on your priorities with Palomarr Orbit Shift. The closer to your unique core, the better the fit.

Palomarr Orbit Shift

Orbit Shift
Contenders
Leaders
Emerging
Challengers
CAPABILITIES →
INNOVATION ↑

About this study

This report analyzes the Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) market, evaluating supplier capabilities and innovation based on their ability to address evolving cloud security challenges. It provides insights for procurement teams, security architects, and executive leadership to navigate the convergence of CASB into broader SSE and SASE frameworks.

FAQs & disclaimers

What is the primary difference between CASB and traditional DLP?

While traditional Data Loss Prevention (DLP) focuses on data within the corporate network, CASB extends DLP capabilities to cloud environments, protecting data at rest and in transit across SaaS and IaaS applications.

Why is CASB increasingly part of SSE or SASE?

CASB capabilities are converging into Secure Service Edge (SSE) and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) frameworks to provide a unified, cloud-delivered security stack. This integration offers comprehensive protection across web, cloud, and private applications, simplifying management and improving performance.

How does Shadow AI impact CASB requirements?

Shadow AI, the use of unsanctioned generative AI tools, introduces new data leakage risks. Modern CASBs must offer granular control over AI tools, including real-time prompt inspection and AI Security Posture Management (AI-SPM), to prevent sensitive corporate data from being exposed to public Large Language Models (LLMs).

What are the key deployment modes for a CASB?

Enterprise CASB solutions typically offer multi-mode deployment, including Forward Proxy for managed devices, Reverse Proxy for unmanaged (BYOD) access, and API Control for data-at-rest scanning and historical auditing within cloud services.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Palomarr does not endorse any specific vendor or product. Buyers should conduct their own due diligence and consult with security professionals before making purchasing decisions.

Conclusion

The CASB category has evolved significantly, transitioning from a point solution for cloud visibility to a foundational element of enterprise cloud security within the SSE framework. This transformation reflects the ongoing shift to cloud-first operations and the increasing complexity of the threat landscape. Effective CASB deployment is no longer optional; it is a critical imperative for maintaining data integrity, ensuring compliance, and protecting against sophisticated cyber threats.

Successful CASB implementation requires a strategic approach, focusing on deep integration with existing security infrastructure, robust multi-mode deployment capabilities, and advanced data protection features. Buyers must look beyond basic functionalities and prioritize vendors that demonstrate strong innovation, particularly in AI-driven governance and unified platform architectures.

The ability to manage Shadow AI and non-human identities will be key differentiators for future-ready solutions. Ultimately, the right CASB solution empowers organizations to confidently embrace cloud innovation while mitigating risks.

By carefully evaluating vendors based on their current capabilities and their roadmap for future innovation, procurement teams can select a partner that not only secures their current SaaS environment but also provides a resilient and scalable foundation for the evolving demands of AI-driven business and the broader Secure Access Service Edge.

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Get expert advice on evaluating CASB solutions, including key capabilities and evaluation criteria.

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