Based on extensive research among network engineers and IT administrators, ATYXIT has come up with a list of firewalls in order to determine the best business firewall. Here are the most commonly used firewalls in businesses in 2024, along with their pros and cons:
1. Fortinet FortiGate Next Generation Firewall (NGFW)
Pros:
- High performance with custom ASIC architecture
- Integrated SD-WAN capabilities
- AI-powered threat intelligence
- Scalable for various business sizes
Cons:
- Complex configuration for advanced features unless utilizing a provider such as ATYXIT which is already deeply familiar with the configuration.
- Higher cost compared to some competitors but still very affordable, in our opinion, for the features included.
2. Palo Alto Networks PA-Series
Pros:
- Strong application-level control
- Advanced threat prevention with WildFire
- User-ID feature for policy enforcement
- Excellent reporting and analytics
Cons:
- High cost factor
- Steep learning curve for full utilization
3. Cisco Secure Firewall (formerly ASA)
Pros:
- Integration with other Cisco products
- Robust threat intelligence with Talos
- Scalable for enterprise environments
- Strong support and documentation
Cons:
- Can be complex to manage
- Licensing model can be confusing which is true with most Cisco products
4. Check Point Quantum
Pros:
- Advanced threat prevention with SandBlast
- Unified management platform
- Scalable performance up to 1.5 Tbps
- Strong compliance features
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Can be resource-intensive
5. SonicWall TZ Series
Pros:
- Cost-effective for small to medium businesses
- Easy to set up and manage
- Good performance for the price
- Integrated VPN capabilities
Cons:
- Limited scalability for large enterprises
- Less advanced features compared to enterprise-grade solutions
6. WatchGuard Firebox
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Strong security features for SMBs
- Integrated SD-WAN functionality
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Reporting could be more comprehensive
- Very confusing in the configuration and management aspects due to general layout and naming of features
7. Sophos XG Firewall
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Strong web filtering and application control
- Synchronized Security feature for endpoint integration
- Affordable for small businesses
Cons:
- Performance may lag behind top-tier competitors
- Some advanced features require additional licensing
8. Juniper SRX Series
Pros:
- High performance for large networks
- Strong routing capabilities
- Flexible deployment options (physical, virtual, containerized)
- Advanced security services
Cons:
- Can be complex to configure
- Higher cost that not all small businesses can justify
9. Barracuda CloudGen Firewall
Pros:
- Strong cloud and hybrid environment support
- Advanced SD-WAN capabilities
- Easy deployment with templates and APIs
- Good performance for mid-size businesses
Cons:
- User interface could be more intuitive
- Some features require additional licensing
10. Forcepoint Next Generation Firewall
Pros:
- Strong data loss prevention features
- Integrated SASE capabilities
- Centralized management for distributed environments
- Good performance for enterprise use
Cons:
- Can be expensive for smaller organizations
- Some users report steep learning curve
These business firewalls represent a range of options suitable for various business sizes and needs in 2024. When choosing business firewall, you should consider factors such as scalability, integration with existing systems, ease of management, and specific security requirements for your organization.
ATYXIT is a security-first Business IT Solutions Provider and Chicago Cloud Provider. We excel in supporting and evolving company networks. Our technical support, technology consulting, project management, cyber security and IT strategy services make us the ideal IT resource for small and medium sized businesses looking to leverage enterprise-grade technology solutions.
Reach out today if you need any assistance with your business technology or firewall replacement!