WatchGuard Technologies Firebox M270 withTotal Security Suite

WatchGuard Firebox M270 with Total Security Suite is a cloud-ready network security solution, with three layers of anti-virus protection, able to aggregate log data from multiple firewalls in a network to provide big data visibility with reporting tools that can instantly identify and distill key network security threats, issues, and trends. This accelerates the ability to set meaningful security policies across the network and see activity in real-time with intuitive and interactive dashboards and reports. These reports can be generated for URL filtering, application control, antivirus, intrusion prevention service, reputation enabled defense, spam blocking, advanced malware detection, and data loss prevention. An executive summary report of all service can also be generated and emailed on a set schedule.

This platform is channel focused to make management and deployment easier for partners. It is mid-market focused to simplify security in firewalls and related services, making technology simple for managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security services providers (MSSPs).

To begin, some minor configurations must be completed. First, you will be given the option to enable remote management for managing Firebox from a remote network. The remaining setup is simple with a setup wizard that provides suggestions yet gives the option to select or deselect settings. This makes setup easy for those who prefer a more out-of-the-box option, while still leaving the door open for those who want more manual control.

The dashboard is logical and visually appealing with a neatly laid out navigation pane and content. An overview of top clients, destinations, policies, and ports give quick visibility and can be delved into for detailed information.

Network Discovery is part of the subscription services and scans interfaces and networks on demand or as scheduled. After a scan, a network map and list of devices found are displayed. You can delve into each interlinking system, or even hover over for quick information. WebBlocker is another part of the subscription service. You can deny categories and subcategories. We tested a handful of these and tried to navigate certain websites. WebBlocker successfully caught them all. Threat Detection Response is a cloud-based service managed under the support center, built off an engine called ThreatSync. It allows for the integration of endpoints with FireBox for communication with each other.

Starting price is $3,225. 24/7 phone-based support is included with Basic and Total Security Suite. Standard, Gold and Platinum tiers are available, the latter including a dedicated technical account manager.

Tested by Matthew Hreben