Although both the FortiGate 30G and MX85 cater to small and mid-sized companies, this Meraki vs Fortinet comparison focuses on what makes them unique. With the 30G, you get notable benefits like FortiOS and AI-driven support from FortiGuard. Looking at the MX85, this option is known for its emphasis on cloud-based management and simplified deployment.
It’s important to note that each of these firewalls is a stellar option. However, it’s just as important to highlight what makes them stand out on their own. This firewall comparison breaks down Meraki vs Fortinet to shine a light on individual specifications and feature sets.
Key Takeaways:
- MX85 offers cloud-managed simplicity and centralized control
- FortiGate 30G delivers AI-driven security and integrated SD-WAN
- Both handle growing business needs effectively
- Choosing between the two depends on security depth vs ease of management needs
- Compare specs to match short and long-term network security goals
Building a Secure and Scalable Network With Modern Firewalls
Modern firewalls act as centralized enforcement points for things like traffic visibility, app control, endpoint protection, and much more. For any growing business, it’s a good idea to work with a firewall solution that will not only last but also support scalability.
In today’s world, the need for advanced network protection is a must, not so much a suggestion. Regarding the FortiGate G series and MX85 Cisco Meraki firewall, this isn’t hard to accomplish. Then again, we aren’t here to focus on the similarities.
What is the FortiGate 30G?
A next-gen firewall with small companies and branch offices in mind, the FortiGate 30G combines a range of advanced security services. A few examples of this include integrated SD-WAN and AI-driven FortiGuard for automated defense.
When it comes to the specs, here’s a glimpse of what to expect:
- Firewall Throughput: Up to 4 Gbps
- IPS Throughput: 800 Mbps
- NGFW Throughput: 570 Mbps
- Threat Protection Throughput: 500 Mbps
- Concurrent Sessions: 600,000
While these numbers may not sound like much on the surface, this is more than enough for many growing businesses. It also makes for a great starter option for those who want to scale up through the Fortinet firewall roster as they grow.
What is the Cisco Meraki Firewall MX85?
A cloud-managed, mid-range firewall, the MX85 from Cisco Meraki is built around centralized management and simplified deployment. It’s an excellent choice for distributed business environments, and more than suitable for bandwidth-heavy apps and the needs of remote workforces.
Here’s a quick look at a few comparable specs:
- Firewall Throughput: 1 Gbps
- VPN Throughput: 1 Gbps
- NGFW Throughput: 1 Gbps
- Site-to-Site VPN Tunnels: 200
- Device Count: Up to 250
On top of this, additional layered security options are available from Advanced to Enterprise to cater even closer to your exact security demands. Each model in this next generation firewall comparison is excellent, but it’s clear there are a few unique details on both sides.
Meraki vs Fortinet Firewall Comparison
Regardless of business size, it’s always important to compare hardware features and specifications to make sure you end up on the right path. It’s not so much about which is better, but finding the features and capabilities that align with your business needs. The table below offers a side-by-side look at the FortiGate 30G and MX85 for a simplified overview.
| Specifications | FG-30G | MX85 |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment Type | On-prem, branch offices, and small businesses | Cloud-managed, mid-range, and distributed environments |
| Firewall Throughput | Up to 4 Gbps | 1 Gbps |
| NGFW Throughput | 570 Mbps | 1 Gbps |
| Threat Protection / VPN Throughput | 500 Mbps | 1 Gbps |
| VPN Tunnels | 200 | 200 |
| Interface | 1 x GE WAN Port 2 x GE RJ45 Ports 1 x GE RJ45 FortiLink Port 1 x Console Port | LAN: 8 x Dedicated 1 Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 2 x Dedicated 1 Gigabit Ethernet SFP WAN: 2x Dedicated 1 Gigabit Ethernet SFP 2x Dedicated 1 Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 |
| Security Features | AI-driven FortiGuard, real-time SSL inspection, intrusion prevention, SD-WAN | Layered security licenses, cloud management, and app visibility |
If you dove into the datasheets yourself, you could go back and forth all day between the two models. The truth will always be that both firewall models are more than viable options. What’s more important is discerning which aligns best with your short and long-term security goals.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between any firewall models will always depend on business priorities and operational demand. When it comes to Meraki vs Fortinet, there are quite a few models to choose from. More specifically, the FG-30G stands out with AI-driven security, and many people love the MX85 for the emphasis on cloud-based management.
As always, our team members at Firewalls.com can help point your network security in the right direction. Consider having a chat with one of our team members to learn which firewall models are best for your business.
FAQ
What Type of Businesses are the FortiGate 30G and MX85 Best Suited For?
Both firewalls are ideal for small to mid-sized companies. The 30G is geared more toward branch offices and on-prem deployment, while the MX85 is great for cloud management and distributed environments.
How Does the FortiGate 30G Provide Advanced Security?
It takes a combined approach with the help of FortiOS and AI-powered FortiGuard services. This provides real-time SSL inspection, intrusion prevention, and more to protect against advanced cyber threats.
What Makes the MX85’s Management Approach Unique?
The MX85 is cloud-managed, providing centralized visibility, simplified deployment, and easy policy management across multiple sites.
Can These Firewalls Handle Growing Business Demands?
Yes, the FortiGate 30G supports high concurrent sessions and strong throughput. With the MX85, this model scales well with hundreds of users, VPN connections, and the needs of distributed offices.
How Do I Choose Between the FortiGate 30G and MX85?
The choice depends on your priorities. Many companies choose the 30G for its edge-focused, AI-driven security, and the MX85 for simplified cloud management and multi-site scalability.
