KnowBe4 vs Qualys: Complete Comparison (2026)
Choosing between KnowBe4 and Qualys is a common decision for cybersecurity buyers in 2026. Qualys has been in the market since 1999, giving it a 11-year head start over KnowBe4 (founded 2010). KnowBe4 serves 65K+ orgs users while Qualys has 10K+ orgs users globally. KnowBe4 differentiates with phishing simulations and security training, while Qualys leads with vulnerability scanning and compliance monitoring. In this head-to-head comparison, KnowBe4 earns a higher hiltonsoftware.co score of 92/100 — but the right choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and team size.
Quick Comparison
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
Pros & Cons at a Glance
After comparing KnowBe4 and Qualys across features, pricing, and user satisfaction, KnowBe4 takes the lead with a score of 92/100 versus Qualys's 86/100. KnowBe4's key advantages include "best-in-class phishing simulations" and "huge training content library". That said, Qualys has its own strengths — particularly "comprehensive vulnerability management" — making it a viable alternative for specific use cases.
Neither KnowBe4 nor Qualys offers a free plan. KnowBe4 starts at $18/user/yr and Qualys at Custom pricing. For the investment, KnowBe4 delivers phishing simulations and security training, while Qualys provides vulnerability scanning and compliance monitoring.
Bottom line: Choose KnowBe4 if you need companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks. Go with Qualys if your priority is enterprise security teams needing comprehensive vulnerability and compliance scanning. Both are strong cybersecurity tools — we recommend trying a trial of each before committing.
Companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks.
Enterprise security teams needing comprehensive vulnerability and compliance scanning.