Taking a look at Palo Alto firewall models PA-450 vs PA-220 showcases a few stark differences. Aside from that truth, both are built for the likes of growing small businesses. Part of what makes this apparent is the number of users each firewall supports, spanning from one up to 100 users.
Of course, this depends on which firewall model you choose. To effectively do so, you’ll need to be armed with the specs that’ll help guide you to the right option. In this Palo Alto firewall comparison, we’re going to focus on what makes the 450 and 220 so different.
An Overview of Palo Alto Firewall Models PA-450 vs PA-220
Also known as the 220R, this firewall from Palo Alto is a great piece of hardware for any small business. Whether you like to run a tight ship or are simply just starting out, the 220 is an excellent beginner’s choice.
On the other hand, the 450 is on another level, catering to the sweet spot of small companies that are looking to scale. With support for 51 to 100 users, it has what you need to be flexible with a relatively small workforce. To accurately navigate this Palo Alto firewall models comparison, you’ll have to dig a little deeper into the specs.
What is the Palo Alto 450 Firewall?
Packing a bit more of a punch, the Palo Alto 450 is a stellar option for small businesses that are actively scaling. Support for up to 100 users may sound like more than what a small organization would need, but this is where hindsight matters. You want to be able to meet your current and future demands in network security.
Check out the same specs under the Palo Alto 450:
- Firewall Throughput: 3.8 Gbps
- Threat Prevention Throughput: 1.7 Gbps
- IPsec VPN Throughput: 2.2 Gbps
- Max Sessions: 300,000
- New Sessions per Second: 52,000
When you compare Palo Alto firewalls, it’s crucial to think several years ahead. If you’re on track for growth as a small business, the 450 may not be a bad idea. While the 220 caters to a niche target market, the 450 takes a broader approach.
What is the Palo Alto 220 Firewall?
Even if the 220 seems like the weaker option, it packs a bigger punch for network security than you might expect. Moreover, it’s an ML-powered next generation firewall Palo Alto claims to be the first. Built to withstand rugged environments, it operates with an extended operating temperature range.
Here are a few details you’ll want to know before anything else:
- Firewall Throughput: 545 Mbps
- Threat Prevention Throughput: 320 Mbps
- IPsec VPN Throughput: 550 Mbps
- Max Sessions: 64,000
- New Sessions per Second: 4,200
Sure, anyone can admit that this might sound limited compared to other firewalls. The truth is that, from the perspective of a small business, the specs are more than enough.
Compare Palo Alto Firewall Models PA-450 vs PA-220
If you want the most unbiased comparison possible, then it helps to stack the specs right next to each other. This way, you can see where each firewall’s strengths are and what features and capabilities matter to you the most.
| Specifications | Palo Alto 450 | Palo Alto 220 |
|---|---|---|
| Firewall Throughput | 545 Mbps | 3.8 Gbps |
| Threat Prevention Throughput | 320 Mbps | 1.7 Gbps |
| IPsec VPN Throughput | 550 Mbps | 2.2 Gbps |
| Max Sessions | 64,000 | 300,000 |
| New Sessions per Second | 4,200 | 52,000 |
There’s no argument that the 450 is a bit stronger, but that doesn’t mean it’s a must for every small company. No need to bite off more than you can chew, but there’s nothing wrong with appreciating what the 450 has to offer in the long run.
The Bottom Line
Even though Palo Alto comes with many other firewall models, these are two that stand relatively close to each other. If anything, the 450 firewall is a great stepping stone from the 220 for smaller, growing organizations.
Overall, it’s the Palo Alto 450 that stands tall here, as it simply offers more support in the long run. If you aren’t sure which firewall is best for your network security needs, reach out to us for a little added expertise in your search.
