Webex vs Microsoft Teams Comparison Guide

Comparing Microsoft Teams vs Webex is not going away.

As we regularly check the net and social media for interesting happenings in the collaboration world, you can't help but find a new article comparing Microsoft Teams and Webex.

It's natural.

As human beings, we seem to crave a single solution for our problems.

Maybe it's because we were bought up on "two wrongs don't make a right" that our mentality is to source a single solution.

In this post, we help you uncover the differences between Microsoft Teams and Webex.

Webex vs Microsoft Teams: Is Webex the same as Microsoft Teams?

Webex is the instant messaging and persistent messaging service from Cisco. 

Webex is part of the Webex portfolio, which also includes Webex Meetings and Training. 

With the right selection of Webex tools, teams can work better together. You can share webinars, conduct meetings, and communicate in real time. 

People love Cisco Webex for its:

• Screen sharing features with annotation options
• Virtual whiteboarding for sharing visual ideas
• Call recording and transcriptions
• Third-party integrations with apps like Salesforce and G-Suite
• Enterprise-grade security
• AI enhancements like People Insights

So, how does Microsoft compare?

Microsoft Teams is an alternative for Webex. The two apps even have comparable names. Both options come with messaging, file sharing, calling, video conferencing, and screen sharing features as standard.

Both tools can connect into your UC system with business phone features. Cisco and Microsoft even share similar video and audio conferencing capabilities. 

But Microsoft Teams also has a few bonus features up its sleeve.:

• Direct routing features for business voice
• Integrations with Microsoft 365 and third party apps
• Built-in authentication protocols for security
• Advanced video tools like virtual backgrounds
• Active directory for single sign-on
• Calendar and email tools

Features of Webex vs Microsoft Teams

Let’s put Microsoft Teams and Cisco Webex head to head. 

There's a lot to digest and a lot of tick boxes exercises that end up being "Yes they are the same in this category" so we've outlined some headlines differences before we do the checklist exercise for you.

For a blow by blow comparison, we've also compiled this table for you to copy and paste wherever you need it to end up.

You can also compare a host of Teams and Webex features in this video where we teamed up with Let's Do Video Founder, David Maldow, to review the most popular team collaboration apps:

Webex vs Microsoft Teams security

When comparing Webex vs Microsoft Teams, it's easy to get weighed down with video and messaging features. Don't forget one of the most important aspects, especially in large enterprises, is security.

Rather than compare Webex vs Microsoft Teams security out of the box, it's important to ensure the security features that are most appropriate to you are catered for.

Is Webex secure?

According to the National Security Agency (NSA), Webex is the most secure team collaboration app it recognizes.

In a study dated November 2020, the NSA ranked team collaboration apps based on the following criteria:

• End-to-end encryption
• Testable encryption
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Invitation controls
• Minimal third-party sharing
• Secure deletion
• Public source code
• Certified service (FedRAMP/NIAP)

Which is more secure: Teams or Webex?

According to the NSA report, Webex ranks more secure than Microsoft Teams due to it's end-to-end encryption.

You can see from the rest of the report that the rest of the criteria is like for like.

In March 2021, it was reported that Microsoft Teams is getting end-to-end encryption.

Conclusion

The ongoing comparison between Microsoft Teams and Webex highlights the depth of options available in the collaboration tool landscape.

While each platform has its strengths and caters to different needs, the choice between them often boils down to specific organizational requirements and personal preference.

As the demand for comprehensive and secure communication tools grows, both Microsoft Teams and Webex continue to evolve, offering businesses robust solutions to meet their collaboration needs.

Understanding the unique features and security measures of each platform can empower organizations to make informed decisions that enhance their operational efficiency and data security.