Search for phishing simulation software and you’ll find a lot of companies making the same promises: better staff awareness, fewer clicks on bad emails, less risk. That doesn’t make it much easier to choose between them.
We’re Network. We work with businesses on IT and cyber security, so we have a clear interest in this area and you should read this knowing that. What we can give you is a straightforward view of who each platform is best for, what they cost and where they make the most sense.
How we picked this list
We focused on well-known phishing simulation platforms that businesses are likely to compare, looking at price, ease of use and the type of company each one suits.
The 5 Best Phishing Simulation Platforms
Phishing Tackle
One of the best-value options, especially for smaller UK businesses. Prices start at around £3 per user per year, with higher packages at around £6 and £9 per user.
You can run fake phishing emails, train staff and see who needs more help. Good choice if you want something simple, affordable and easy to manage. Less of a fit if you want a huge training library or a platform aimed at very large companies.
KnowBe4
Probably the best-known name in this space. It gives you phishing tests, staff training and detailed reports, with plenty of content to choose from.
Prices are roughly £15 to £35 per user per year, depending on the package and number of users.
Good choice if you want a well-established platform with lots of training options. The downside is cost, because smaller businesses may get everything they need from a cheaper option.
Hoxhunt
Hoxhunt puts more focus on keeping staff interested in the training. The tests can change depending on how well someone is doing, rather than sending everyone the same emails.
Pricing is quote only, so you need to speak to them for a figure.
Good fit for larger companies that want regular training that feels more personal. Probably more than most small businesses need.
Microsoft Attack Simulation
Worth looking at if your business already uses Microsoft 365 and Microsoft security products.
That sounds expensive compared with the others, but you are paying for a wider Microsoft security package, not just phishing tests.
It comes with Microsoft Defender for Office 365 Plan 2, which is around £46 per user per year.
Good choice if you already have the right Microsoft licence. Less sensible if you are only buying it for phishing simulations.
Proofpoint
.A stronger option for bigger companies, especially those already using Proofpoint for email security.
It can run phishing tests, staff training and help businesses see which employees may need more support.
Pricing is quote only.
Good choice for larger organisations. For a small business that just wants phishing tests and training, it may be more than you need.
Price comparison
| Platform | Approx. price per user/year | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Phishing Tackle | £3–£9 | Small and medium businesses |
| KnowBe4 | £15–£35 | Small businesses through to larger companies |
| Hoxhunt | Quote only | Medium and large businesses |
| Microsoft | Around £46* | Businesses already using Microsoft security |
| Proofpoint | Quote only | Larger organisations |
*Microsoft pricing includes other security tools as well as phishing simulation.
How to actually choose
Ask each provider the same basic questions.
How much will it cost for your number of staff? How easy is it to run? What happens when someone fails a test? And can you clearly see whether staff are getting better over time?
For smaller businesses where price matters, Phishing Tackle is one of the strongest options. If you want a bigger, more established platform, KnowBe4 is worth comparing. If you already pay for the right Microsoft security package, check Microsoft before paying for another service. For larger businesses, Hoxhunt and Proofpoint are more likely to make sense.
