It’s no secret that modern business networks are facing an ever-growing list of complex cyber threats. Moreover, traditional security solutions don’t cut it anymore. This is why the rise of the next generation firewall appliance has become today’s norm.
From ransomware, creative phishing scams, and zero-day exploits, there’s a lot to monitor when it comes to maintaining your network security. This article shines a light on the SonicWall TZ380 and why it’s one of the best firewall solutions for small offices and remote workforces.
Key Takeaways:
- Next generation firewall appliances provide layered security that traditional firewall solutions can’t offer
- The SonicWall TZ380 delivers enterprise-grade security in a compact solution that’s perfect for small offices and branch locations
- Advanced features like intrusion prevention, anti-malware, and Capture ATP help put a stop to modern cyber threats in real time
- High throughput, multiple interfaces, and VPN support make the TZ380 suitable for hybrid and distributed networks
- Regular firmware updates, monitoring, and oversight from professional services help maintain long-term firewall performance
Why Modern Businesses Need Advanced Firewall Hardware
It’s well known that next generation firewall appliances (NGFWs) excel when it comes to layering security solutions into a single platform. Moreover, aside from easy, centralized management, your business gets the benefit of a long list of proactive security measures.
For example, here’s a quick look at what that can look like:
- Integration of intrusion prevention, deep packet inspection, app control, and advanced threat protection
- App-level visibility for proactive threat mitigation
- Reduced operational overhead by consolidating multiple security functions under one roof
- Compact and high-performance firewall appliances that support long-term scalability
Of course, this is just the gist of it, and the benefits are bound to vary depending on which SonicWall firewall models you’re looking at. With the SonicWall TZ380, you’re getting the full spectrum of what SonicOS 8 has to offer.
Features of the SonicWall TZ380
Designed for the security needs of small offices and branch locations, this model from the SonicWall Gen 8 firewalls lineup doesn’t miss on the enterprise-grade security. A few of the surface-level benefits include intrusion prevention, anti-virus, anti-malware, and secure VPN access. It also features high port density, such as multiple 1 GbE and SFP+ interfaces, on top of expandable storage, redundant power, and cellular failover.
In addition to this, another benefit to opting for SonicWall firewall models is the easy integration with their switches, access points, and Capture Client for centralized endpoint security. Check out the table below for a more streamlined look at what the firewall brings to the table for your business network security.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Firewall Inspection Throughput | 3.5 Gbps |
| Threat Prevention Throughput | 1.5 Gbps |
| Application Inspection Throughput | 2 Gbps |
| IPS Throughput | 2 Gbps |
| Anti-Malware Inspection Throughput | 2 Gbps |
| TLS/SSL Inspection and Decryption Throughput | 600 Mbps |
| IPSEC VPN Throughput | 1.6 Gbps |
| Connections per Second | 15,000 |
| Max Connections (SPI) | 1,100,000 |
| Site-to-Site VPN Tunnels | 200 |
| Single Sign-On (SSO) Users | 1,000 |
| Interfaces | 8 x 1GbE Cu 2 x 5G/2.5G/1G SFP+ 1 console (Micro-USB) 1 USB (type-C) |
| Wireless Support | 2x2 802.11ax (TZ380W) |
Aside from the specifications, other notable features to highlight include Cloud Secure Edge Connector and Capture ATP with RTDMI, and overall simplified management. The aim here is to deliver unwavering real-time threat prevention from a proactive standpoint instead of reacting to security issues before it’s too late.
Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios
For the most part, the TZ380 is ideal for small businesses, branch offices, and remote sites. Nevertheless, don’t let that deter you from the fact that it’s delivering enterprise-level security. Its compact form-factor, coupled with high throughput capability, makes it more than suitable for those who are working in smaller spaces.
The zero-touch deployment is a big focal point here as well. In other words, the rollout couldn’t be any simpler, and is great for minimizing IT workload and operational disruption.
Furthermore, you get the support you need to run a hybrid network thanks to the seamless integration of cloud services and remote applications. Outside of benefits, use cases, and deployment options, it’s equally important to consider long-term maintenance.
Maintenance, Updates, and Ongoing Support
If you want to make sure you’re getting the most out of your firewall hardware, there’s definitely a bit of upkeep involved. For starters, regular firmware updates are a part of maintaining performance, fixing vulnerabilities, and getting access to new security features.
Check out the list below for a more comprehensive approach to maintaining your firewall solutions:
- Always ensure your firewall is updated to the latest version of firmware
- Regularly update malware, ransomware, and intrusion detection signatures
- Enable and monitor features like RFDPI and Capture ATP for real-time threat detection
- Stay on top of centralized management to enforce consistent security policies
- Continuously review logs, alerts, and reporting dashboards to identify anomalies
- Consider deployment guidance, configuration optimization, and threat assessment services
While this is all entirely manageable on your own, however, that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. Managed services can be a game-changer for long-term maintenance. Not only does this help with security upkeep, but it also reduces in-house IT costs and overall time spent. This is especially true for smaller organizations that don’t have the manpower needed to maintain firewall hardware in the long run.
The Final Word
Although you have plenty of firewalls to choose from, the TZ380 is a next generation firewall appliance that’s perfect for small but growing businesses. It delivers the comprehensive, layered security you need within an easily manageable format.
Don’t forget, professional services can help put you on the right track here if you’re still unsure about what firewall models are best for your operation. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at Firewalls.com for the expert insight you need to protect your network for years to come.
FAQ
What is the SonicWall TZ380?
The TZ380 is an NGFW designed for small offices, branch locations, and remote sites, providing enterprise-grade security features in a compact, high-performance device.
How Does the TZ380 Protect Against Modern Cyber Threats?
It offers intrusion prevention, anti-virus, anti-malware, TLS/SSL inspection, and Capture Advanced Threat Protection (ATP). This is on top of the benefits of real-time detection and mitigation of malware, ransomware, and zero-day threats through RTDMI.
Can the TZ380 Support Hybrid or Cloud-Based Networks?
Yes, with the help of Secure SD-WAN, high-speed VPN access, and integration with cloud services, the TZ380 is able to secure on-prem and remote connections in distributed and hybrid environments.
What Management Options are Available for the TZ380?
IT teams can leverage Network Security Manager (NSM) and SonicWall’s unified management ecosystem. This helps with centralized policy enforcement, monitoring, and reporting across all of your business sites.
What Support and Maintenance Options Exist for Businesses?
Regular firmware and threat signature updates are essential. However, businesses can also use the help of professional services for 24/7 oversight and support with configuration, deployment, and long-term protection.
