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Firmex is one of the top data room choices for sharing and storing confidential data. Law firms, investment bankers, and corporate development teams at global enterprises rely on Firmex to manage their most critical and sensitive transactions.
This review provides a comprehensive outlook on the Firmex virtual data room. It explores security features, usability, customer support, Firmex pricing, unique functionalities, and more. Read on to discover whether Firmex is the right choice for your business needs.
What Is Firmex?
Firmex is a global provider of virtual data rooms that supports complex business processes like diligence, litigation, and compliance, making them versatile and effective for companies in various industries.
Additionally, this provider offers solutions to many other types of business deals. For example, for M&A, it provides an opportunity for secure document sharing that will speed up the process. Furthermore, investment banks, law firms, acquisition advisors, and more are using the Firmex virtual data room to securely share confidential documents with their investors, buyers, and clients.
Firmex virtual data rooms are widely used in Australia because they are valued for their benefits. The software is simple, user-friendly, and convenient.
Firmex was founded in 2006 in Toronto, Canada, and has since become a global data-security provider that has helped over 140,000 companies worldwide. Due to its world-class security features, huge amounts of documents are exchanged using Firmex for M&A, corporate governance, compliance, litigation, procurement, and more.
Firmex is about simple, safe, and stress-free document sharing with upfront fixed pricing. It supports all-sized complex organizations working in various industries, including government, finance, private equity, and intellectual property.
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See how Firmex stands up against other leading VDR solutions.
Security features
Security is the non-negotiable foundation of the Firmex virtual data room. The platform provides comprehensive, multi-layered security features. These are designed to meet the most stringent corporate and regulatory standards. Here are the key protection features in Firmex virtual data room:
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
| Infrastructure & certification | Hosted on Tier IV SSAE 16 certified data centres. Maintains SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 certifications. | Maximum uptimeIndependent verification of security controls, availability, and confidentiality. |
| Dynamic watermarking | Applies customizable watermarks to documents viewed online or downloaded, displaying user info, IP address, date, and time. | Deters and traces unauthorized sharing or leakage of sensitive documents. |
| Granular document permissions | Provides precise control over access at the folder or file level. | Users only see what they are authorized to. |
| Fence view mode | Obscures sections of a document not directly under the user’s cursor. | Prevents unauthorized screen capturing and photography, protecting against “over-the-shoulder” breaches. |
| Advanced encryption | Encrypts all personally identifiable information in transit using TLS 1.2+ and at rest using 256-bit AES encryption. | Protects data with the same standard used by financial institutions and governments worldwide. |
Firmex data room pricing overview
Firmex offers a customized, quote-based pricing model for its virtual data room services. Unlike providers with public, fixed-rate plans, costs are tailored to the specific scope and requirements of each project. This approach is designed to align expenses with the actual resources used, but it requires prospective users to contact the sales team for a formal quote.
Firmex VDR pricing is primarily structured around two engagement models:
1. Short-term / Project-based subscription
Costs are often calculated on a per-page basis for the duration of the project. This model may also include fees for a certain number of users or administrators. It provides a defined cost for a single initiative.
- Term length: 3 to 9 months.
- Ideal for: specific, time-bound transactions such as a single M&A deal, a fundraising round, or an audit.
2. Annual / Enterprise subscription
This is usually a flat-fee subscription that offers unlimited data storage and pages for the contract period. It often includes a set number of administrator licenses, with the option to add more. This model provides cost predictability and simplifies budgeting for annual planning.
- Term length: 12 months or longer.
- Ideal for: organizations with ongoing, multiple, or anticipated future needs.
The final quote for Firmex VDR pricing is influenced by several variables:
- The length of time the data room needs to be active.
- The total number of pages or gigabytes of data to be stored.
- How many users (internal administrators) and external parties (viewers) require access.
It is important to note that Firmex does not typically offer a self-service free trial by default. You’ll get a quote by speaking with their sales team.
They typically offer a demo or pilot upon request rather than letting you sign up yourself. Notably, if you use more than two data rooms in a year, this subscription model often saves at least 25% compared to buying single-project credits.
Unique features

Like most leading VDRs, Firmex offers robust security and core document management. However, there are several Firmex virtual data room features that differentiate it from other providers. These include:
Advanced Q&A module
Many VDRs have a simple Q&A function, but Firmex’s module is built for managing high-volume, complex due diligence processes efficiently. It allows administrators to create custom workflow statuses, like “In Review,” “Answered,” “Needs Input,” “Closed”, assign questions to specific internal experts, and set priority levels.
This way, no questions are missed and there is a clear audit trail of the entire Q&A process. For example, during an M&A deal, an investor’s question about a specific financial covenant can be assigned directly to the CFO, marked as “High Priority“. Then, it can be tracked until a vetted answer is provided.
“Set offline” mode for granular control
Instead of deleting or moving files, an administrator can right-click any file or folder and “Set Offline.” This instantly revokes access for all users, but retains the item’s place in the index for easy restoration later. This is far more efficient than adjusting individual user permissions for temporary changes.
This feature is especially valued when a legal team discovers a document was uploaded to the wrong folder mid due diligence. Instead of risking confusion by deleting it, they can “Set Offline” immediately to prevent viewing. Then they can move it to the correct folder and set it back online, no need to alter the room’s structure or user permissions.
“Content status” filters for dynamic workflow
Administrators can tag documents with custom statuses like “In Review,” “Approved,” “Signed,” or “Rejected.” Users can then filter the entire data room view to see only documents with a specific status. This provides an at-a-glance view of progress.
In dynamic deals, like a loan syndication process, a lead bank can tag all completed credit agreements as “Signed.” Other participating banks can filter for “In Review” to quickly find documents that still require their attention.
File send for secure external transfers
File Send feature allows users to securely send large files or batches of files to anyone, even if they are not a user in the VDR. The recipient receives a secure link to download the files, which can be protected with a password and an expiration date or time limitation. This eliminates the need for insecure email attachments or separate FTP services.
Here is how this feature works in practice. After a deal closes, a lawyer needs to send the final, massive closing bundle to a counterparty. Instead of splitting it into multiple emails, they use File Send to create a single, secure, password-protected link that expires after 7 days. This provides compliant and efficient delivery of confidential data.
Customizable welcome message banner
Administrators can post and update a persistent banner message at the top of the data room interface for all users to see. This is ideal for broadcasting announcements, updating process guidelines, or providing timely support information without needing to email users separately.
The welcome message banners might look like these:
“Notice: All Q&A responses may be delayed on Friday due to a public holiday.” or “Welcome! Please review the ‘Instructions’ folder before proceeding.“
Advanced redaction tools
The platform lets users hide sensitive information in two ways. Users can use pattern-based redaction to automatically find things like Social Security numbers and remove them. Or they can do manual redaction for specific parts of a document. A persistent redaction layer makes sure the hidden data is gone for good. Even if someone downloads the file, the sensitive information stays removed.
Customer support
Technical or administrative hurdles should never derail critical deadlines. That is why Firmex offers high-class customer support that is designed for global, round-the-clock dealmaking. Their support team takes care of over 20,000 data room projects a year. They offer:
- 24/7/365 availability
This is essential for deals operating across international time zones, where questions or issues can arise at any moment.
- Multilingual support
The support team includes native speakers of English (EN), Spanish (ES), German (DE), and French (FR). They provide clear and precise communication without language barriers for a global clientele.
- Multiple channels for assistance
Users can get help through their preferred method. It can be a live chat or via phone for real-time troubleshooting, or via email for non-urgent inquiries.
In fact, in their reviews, users highlight customer support as one of the key benefits of the Firmex data room. For example, they mention that they liked the customer service because
It is local, fast and always answers any concerns. – Catperra review.
Another user mentions that the customer support was very helpful right at the start, when they only set up the deal room:
Customer Support was needed initially and they were great – we had one issue we needed help with and we had the answer in 3 hours. We were able to integrate the system quickly into our regular business practices. – G2 review
The fast and proactive customer service is highly valued by Firmex users, because it can speed up the deal:
The Q&A feature is very helpful in intense M&A scenarios with questions from various stakeholders that need to be sorted based on various criteria. Further, the customer support is exemplary and is always quick in response, which is very important in tight timelines. – G2 review
Document management & user experience
Document management is the foundation of any data room for document-heavy processes like M&A due diligence or large audits. The Firmex data room is designed to manage the entire document lifecycle. Here are the key features and benefits for complex transactions:
| Feature | How it works | Benefit |
| Drag & drop upload | Allows users to select thousands of files and folders from their desktop and upload them simultaneously. | Reduces the initial data room setup time. Administrators can populate the VDR with entire directory structures in a few actions. |
| Email-in tool | Users can email documents directly into the data room, where they are automatically filed and secured. | Streamlines continuous document collection from dispersed teams (e.g., legal, finance). |
| Bulk operations | Supports downloading an entire folder structure as a ZIP file or uploading large batches of documents at once. | Saves hours of manual effort. |
| Auto-indexing & numbering | Automatically applies consistent numbering to all files and folders upon upload. | Data room index provides a uniform structure that all parties can easily navigate. Critical when dealing with thousands of documents from multiple sources. |
| Desktop sync (Syncplicity) | Integrates with Syncplicity® to sync files between a desktop folder and the Firmex VDR. Changes on the desktop are automatically reflected in the data room. | The data room always contains the most current version of a document without manual intervention. |
| Mobile compatibility | Provides fully functional, secure mobile access via native iOS and Android apps. Users can review documents, participate in Q&A, and receive notifications. | Decision-makers and advisors can review critical materials and respond to queries from anywhere. |
| Custom roles & “View-As” | Allows administrators to create custom user roles with precise permissions.The “View As” function lets an admin see the data room exactly as a specific user sees it. | Enforces the principle of least privilege for enhanced security. The “View As” tool is an invaluable troubleshooting tool to instantly verify permissions and ensure users have the correct user access. |
For deals with hundreds of thousands of pages, these features are must-haves. They help both the sell-side and buy-side keep momentum and control the deal. The ability to quickly organize, update, and control large document sets means deal teams can focus on analysis and negotiation instead of wasting time on admin tasks.
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Firmex data room pros and cons
Here are the key strengths and potential limitations of the Firmex virtual data room provider. These are important to keep in mind when deciding whether Firmex is the right choice for your organization.
Pros
Firmex data room is one of the top-rated VDR solutions. The advantages mentioned below are highlighted in user reviews on G2, Capterra, and other software review platforms:
Excellent document security and DRM
Firmex has a robust, multi-layered security model. It features dynamic watermarking, granular permissions, fence view mode, and advanced data encryption. The data room has SOC 2 and ISO 27001 certifications. These provide independent verification of its security controls, making it a trusted choice for highly sensitive transactions.
Intuitive user interface with minimal training
The platform has a clean, logical design. Both administrators and external users can navigate the Firmex data room with ease. This speeds up user adoption and reduces the need for extensive training. As a result, the entire deal moves much faster.
Strong customer support and onboarding
Firmex provides responsive, knowledgeable, and multilingual (EN, ES, DE, FR) 24/7/365 support through multiple channels. Their dedicated onboarding ensures rooms are set up correctly from the start, providing crucial peace of mind during critical deals.
Unique productivity features
Tools like Email-in, Set Offline mode, and advanced Content Status filters go beyond standard VDR offerings. They provide significant workflow advantages for managing complex due diligence and M&A processes.
Cons
Despite numerous benefits, there are several considerations to keep in mind. These include:
No publicly listed pricing tiers
Firmex virtual data room pricing is based on a custom quote model rather than transparent, self-service plans. This requires potential customers to contact sales to get a specific quote. This can be a hurdle for those who need immediate budget clarity or to compare options quickly.
Fewer granular permission levels than some competitors
While Firmex offers robust basic permissions (view, download, etc.), some competing providers offer more ultra-granular, specific controls over user actions within a document. For most use cases, Firmex’s permissions are sufficient, but highly specialized scenarios may find them slightly less configurable.
Clientele and case studies
Firmex has built a strong reputation as a secure online platform for industries where security, reliability, and efficiency are paramount. Its clientele includes some of the Global 2000 firms, alongside top investment banks, law firms, and professional services networks.
Major clients
The Firmex virtual data room is the platform of choice for a prestigious and diverse range of organizations, including:
- Top law firms like Magic Circle and Am Law 100 firms.
- Leading global and boutique advisory firms.
- Fortune 500 and FTSE 100 companies across healthcare, technology, energy, and manufacturing.
- The Big Four accounting firms and major consultancies.
Case studies
As of 2025, Firmex states there are 189,000 projects completed within their virtual data room. Multiple cases prove the effectiveness of this virtual data room software. Here are a few examples that were mentioned on their official website.
Case study 1: The multi-billion-dollar cross-border acquisition
A top advisory firm had to manage a huge cross-border deal worth billions. They needed to manage thousands of sensitive files with hundreds of people in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Uploading files safely and keeping them organized was a big challenge. To solve these challenges, they used the Firmex data room. Firmex features like digital rights management, optical character recognition, report tracking, and a secure Q&A tool made file sharing easy and safe.
And with 24/7 data room support, all access issues were quickly solved, despite users being in different time zones. The deal closed on time without any hiccups. M&A advisors praised Firmex for its superb customer support and advanced security.
Case study 2: The accelerated private equity fundraising round
A tech company needed to close a $230M fundraising deal with more than a dozen global investors. They had to share multiple critical documents and sensitive files, including technical data. All the information was confidential, so they needed to keep everything secure.
The client was looking for a software solution to upload files quickly and provide granular access to multiple teams: legal, financial, and regulators. The team used a Firmex virtual data room to centralize all deal materials in one safe hub.
With Firmex, they could track investor activity, control permissions, and keep a record of every document interaction. This helped investors review materials faster and gave everyone confidence in the process. The deal was completed on time and set the stage for the next phase of growth.
FAQs
What is Firmex?
Firmex is a globally trusted provider of virtual data room software. It is offered as a secure SaaS and cloud apps solution. Founded in 2006, it is designed to facilitate complex business processes like M&A due diligence, fundraising, and legal transactions.
What does Firmex do?
Firmex offers a secure platform where businesses can store and share confidential documents. Data room administrators control access with features like granular permissions, dynamic watermarking, and remote shredding (revoking access to downloaded documents even after they leave the data room). The platform also generates detailed graphic reports on user activity for full auditability.
Is Firmex owned by Datasite?
No, Firmex is not owned by Datasite (formerly Merrill Corporation). Firmex operates as an independent company. It is a competing provider in the virtual data room market, known for its strong customer support and intuitive user interface.
How much does Firmex cost?
Firmex uses a custom-quote pricing model rather than publicly listed plans. Firmex data room pricing is typically project-based (3-9 months) or an annual subscription. The final price depends on room duration, number of users, data volume, and required support level. You must contact their sales team for a specific quote.
Comparison table
This is a brief wrap-up of how Firmex data room compares to other VDR providers. It is based on user ratings, case studies, and information provided by Firmex itself.
| Feature | Typical market standard | Firmex offering |
| Pricing model | Often public, per-user monthly plans or opaque custom quotes. | Custom quote.Transparently tailored per project (short-term or annual). |
| Security certifications | Common (SOC 2). | SOC 2 & ISO 27001.Independently verified for security best practices. |
| Key differentiator | Strong security or strong usability. | Balance of both enterprise-grade security with an intuitive user interface. |
| Support availability | Business hours or 24/5. | Round-the-clock support with multilingual capabilities. |
| Unique features | Standard VDR toolset. | Email-inSet OfflineContent StatusAdvanced Q&A workflows |
| Ideal for | Varies by provider. | M&ADue DiligenceFundraisingAny process that requires high-touch, secure collaboration |
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Firmex features
| Bankruptcy | yes |
| Biotech Licensing | yes |
| Clinical Studies | yes |
| Debt Financing | yes |
| Distressed Real Estate | yes |
| Document Repository | yes |
| Due Diligence | yes |
| Fundraising | yes |
| Hedge Funds | yes |
| Litigation | yes |
| M&A Buy Side | yes |
| M&A Sell Side | yes |
| Post Merger | yes |
| Private Equity | yes |
| Procurement Management | yes |
| Restructuring | yes |
| Board Portals | no |
| IPO & Exits | no |
| File Formats Supported: | PDF, MS Office |
| Drag & Drop Upload of Multiple Files and Folders | yes |
| Export of Data Room Index to Excel | yes |
| Document Version Control | yes |
| Automatic Numerical Indexing of Files & Folders | no |
| Desktop Synchronization | no |
| Archives Upload & Extraction | no |
| Multilingual Documents Index | no |
| Customizable Document Watermarks | yes |
| Document Access Expiry | yes |
| 256-Bit SSL/TLS Encryption | yes |
| Data at Rest Encryption | yes |
| Granular Document Permissions | no |
| View-Only Access | no |
| Prevention of Download, Print and Copy | no |
| Remote Shredding of Documents | no |
| Secure Fence View | no |
| 99.9% Uptime Guarantee | yes |
| SOC 2 Certified | yes |
| SSAE 16 Certified | yes |
| Data Backup | yes |
| ISO 27001 Certified | no |
| Virus Scanning | no |
| No Plugins | yes |
| Scroll-Through Web-Based Document Viewer | yes |
| Web-Based Excel Spreadsheets Viewer | yes |
| iOS Application | yes |
| User Interface Languages: | English, French |
| Android Application | no |
| Mobile Device Interface | no |
| Search by Name | yes |
| Search by Content (Full Text Search) | yes |
| Filtering by Parameters | yes |
| OCR (Optical Character Recognition) | no |
| Basic Questions & Answers Module | yes |
| New Document Email Notifications | yes |
| Advanced Questions & Answers Module | no |
| Secure User Messaging | no |
| Files & Folders Notes | no |
| Tracking of All User Activity | yes |
| Real-Time Audit Trail | yes |
| Exporting Reports to Excel | yes |
| Tracking of Document Viewing Time | yes |
| Graphic Reports | no |
| Scheduled Reports (Sending to Email) | no |
| Branded User Interface | yes |
| Custom Login Page | yes |
| Custom User Invitation Letter | yes |
| Integrations Through APIs | yes |
| Custom Domain | no |
| Custom Agreements for Accessing Data Room | no |
| Active Directory Integration | no |
| Single Sign-On Integration | no |
| Customer-Managed Encryption Keys | no |
| Custom Workflows and Features | no |
| Business Hours Support | yes |
| 24/7 Email Support | yes |
| 24/7 Phone & Email Support | yes |
| Support Languages: | English, French |
| Online Help Center | no |
| Live Trainings | no |
| Dedicated Project Manager | no |
| Data Room Archive on DVD or USB Drive | no |
| Translation Services | no |
| Cloud (Web-Based) | yes |
| On-Premise (Installed) | no |
| Multiple Datacenter Locations | no |
| Established: | 2006 |
| Locations: | Canada |
| Employees: | 83 |
| Clients: | United Mergers & Acquisitions, GCA Savvian, Davy, Kipps DeSanto, CellCentric, Labopharm, Excaliard Pharmaceuticals, Biodel, BioWest Therapeutics, OSI Pharmaceuticals, NuPathe, Lawson Products, RNC , First |