Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR vs Wazuh: side-by-side comparison (2026)
Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR is a commercial extended detection and response solution by Palo Alto Networks. Wazuh is a free extended detection and response solution. Features, integrations, deployment and the company behind each one, side by side.
Our take
What our shortlists say about the one we picked.
- Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR
Best for: Security teams joining endpoint, network and identity alerts
This is the pick when you want the endpoint to be one source in a wider detection program. Its size fit is mid-market and enterprise, and it is the base for Cortex XSIAM if you later want a full SOC platform. That breadth suits a staffed SOC, so if you have one or two analysts, ask how much of it you would run.
From Best Endpoint Security Solutions for Business, Fall 2026
Reviewed by Nika (Nikoloz) Kokhreidze.
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VisitAI-driven XDR platform for endpoint security with threat prevention and detection
Wazuh is an open-source security platform offering unified XDR and SIEM protection for endpoints and cloud workloads, integrating various security functions into a single architecture.
Side-by-side comparison
Feature
Palo Alto Networks Cortex XDR
Wazuh
Pricing model
Commercial
Free
Category
Extended Detection and Response
Extended Detection and Response
Deployment and fit
Deployment type
Cloud
Hybrid
Company size fit
Mid-Market, Enterprise
Startup, SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise
Company
Company
Palo Alto Networks
–
Use cases and capabilities
Ransomware Prevention
Yes
No
Open Source
No
Yes
Core features
10 features listed
10 features listed
Integrations
21 integrations listed
3 integrations listed
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