Zix (OpenText) vs Proton Mail Business
Zix (OpenText)
Zix, now part of OpenText, is one of the longest-established email encryption platforms with a massive install base across healthcare, finance, and government. Zix provides policy-based encryption that automatically secures emails containing sensitive data, using TLS and a secure portal fallback. Its ZixDirectory enables direct encrypted delivery between Zix customers without portal friction. Zix signs BAAs and meets HIPAA, PCI DSS, and SOX requirements.
Pros
- Largest install base — ZixDirectory reduces portal friction
- Mature, proven platform with 20+ years in market
- Strong regulatory compliance (HIPAA, PCI, SOX)
- Policy engine automates encryption decisions
- Enterprise-grade scalability
Cons
- Portal experience for non-Zix recipients
- Interface feels dated compared to newer competitors
- OpenText acquisition creates product roadmap uncertainty
- Pricing not publicly listed
Pricing: Custom enterprise pricing
Proton Mail Business
Proton Mail Business provides zero-access end-to-end encrypted email hosted in Switzerland under some of the world's strongest privacy laws. Messages are encrypted on-device before reaching Proton's servers, meaning even Proton cannot read your email. For HIPAA-covered entities, Proton signs BAAs on its Business and Enterprise plans. The platform includes a full suite of privacy tools including Proton Calendar, Drive, and VPN.
Pros
- Strongest privacy protections — zero-access encryption
- Swiss jurisdiction beyond US and EU reach
- Open source and independently audited
- Affordable per-user pricing
- Complete privacy suite (mail, calendar, drive, VPN)
Cons
- Non-Proton recipients see messages via secure portal
- Fewer enterprise admin features than competitors
- Migration from existing email providers can be complex
- Limited third-party integrations
Pricing: From $8.99/user/month