The Firewall is a fundamental device for computer security. Over the years, however, some confusion has arisen regarding the types: what changes between a UTM Firewall and an NGFW Firewall? Which one should I choose for my business? In this article we will explain in detail what a firewall is, how it works and how to choose…
What is a Firewall?
The Firewall is the first line of defense of the computer perimeter of a network. It is a tool that takes care of filtering all traffic entering and leaving the computer network. The term "Firewall" suggests the image of a "wall of fire". This concept is useful for understanding basic operation, but does not reflect the complexity and type of work a modern Firewall does.
Are you wondering why?
Well, UTM Firewalls and Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) are tools that perform advanced security functions, which go beyond the packet filtering performed by the first models created in the late 80s.
UTM Firewall vs NGFW Firewall: What Changes?
In the IT environment there has been a lot of confusion about the classification of Firewall types and the distinction between Firewall UTM and Firewall NGFW for several years now.
So let's go to clarify and analyze the differences in detail:
UTM Firewall
UTM Firewalls are advanced solutions capable of defending the network from many types of attacks. UTM stands for “Unified Threat Management”, translated as “Unified Threat Management”. It therefore indicates that this type of device acts as a nerve center for the defense of the network, offering numerous levels of protection. UTM systems generally have Gateway Antivirus, Email Security features, URL filtering and Intrusion Prevention systems.
NGFW Firewall
According to Gartner's definition, NGFW Firewalls are devices capable of acting on the application layer of the ISO / OSI Stack with inspections, intrusion prevention and the possibility of external analysis.
Real differences or marketing?
Specifically it is more a question of marketing than technology: the functionalities of a UTM and a NGFW Firewall tend to overlap in most cases. Therefore, you can choose for your company the Firewall with the features that you think are most suitable, without being influenced by the name.
How to choose a Firewall
What are the features to consider when choosing a UTM and NGFW Firewall?
Choosing the right Firewall is not always easy: there are many parameters and contextual information to consider before making the purchase. Let's see the main parameters to keep in mind when buying a Firewall:
1. Number of corporate Internet lines and related bandwidth
It is essential to appropriately size the Firewalls so that they do not act as a "bottleneck", slowing down the Internet connection speed.
2. Number of network interfaces required
The number of interfaces required by Internet lines and internal networks (and the relative speed) must be considered, such as the local network, the Wi-Fi network, the Guest networks and the printer network. In addition, additional interfaces are required if you plan to use two clustered Firewalls, to ensure operation even in the event of a failure of the main appliance.
3. Security services available
Every modern Firewall manufacturer includes a series of security services, ranging from Intrusion Prevention, to Web Filtering, Email Protection, Antivirus to application blocks. Choose which security services you consider important and verify that the Firewall model you have chosen supports them.
4. CPU and RAM
Security services consume a certain amount of Firewall processing and RAM memory resources based on the number of devices on the network. Make sure the Firewall has enough power to ensure high enough throughput not to slow down your network.
5. Number of users who need the VPN
Many UTM and NGFW Firewalls include a built-in VPN service that serves to securely connect to the internal network from a device located outside the perimeter. These services have limits of concurrently active VPN connections that must be checked.
6. Need for fiber optic interfaces
Some companies use fiber optic connections, for example to connect production plants to headquarters. In this case, the chosen Firewall must have these interfaces or be set up to integrate them through additional modules.
Which Firewall to buy?
If what you are looking for is a UTM or NGFW Firewall with high performance, a complete set of security services and excellent value for money, we recommend the appliance series. Firebox from WatchGuard Technologies.
WatchGuard Firebox is a range of Firewalls available as physical, virtual or Cloud service appliances.
There are different models able to completely satisfy the needs of every type of Organization, whether it is Branch Office, SME, Large Enterprise or PA.
In our decades of experience as a System Integrator and Cybersecurity professionals, we have had the opportunity to try and see many Firewalls from different brands in action. After careful analysis, testing and technical testing, we have chosen to recommend WatchGuard Technologies' Firewall Firebox Series to everyone.
Don't wait - start protecting your corporate network with WatchGuard Firewalls.
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