In the comparison of SonicWall TZ105 vs TZ80, both are built as entry-level firewall solutions. Even businesses just starting out need to have their network security sorted. The TZ series as a whole is pretty impressive, offering something to small businesses, larger enterprises, and everything in between.
Even though each firewall model caters to a similar target market, they still come with quite a few unique differences. Making the right choice for your network demands means leaning into the finer details about what kind of security they can deliver. This article focuses on SonicWall TZ105 vs TZ80 to help you understand what separates them.
The SonicWall TZ105 vs TZ80 On the Surface
While the SonicWall TZ80 is definitely built for smaller operations, it’s more than enough for a remote workforce as well. It comes with the benefits of SonicWall Gen 7 tech, which promises a surprising range of security features.
Taking a look at the SonicWall firewall TZ105, you get a lot of the same things but with varying limitations. Remember that bigger isn’t always better, as many factors play into deciding on a firewall solution. The only way you can end up making the right choice is by truly understanding what the technology has to offer.
What is the SonicWall TZ105?
Featuring the likes of intrusion prevention, anti-virus, and much more, it’s one of the best SonicWall firewalls you could start with. However, just because it’s seen as an entry-level firewall doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for every growing business.
Here are some of the most important specs behind the TZ105:
- Firewall Throughput: 200 Mbps
- IPS Throughput: 60 Mbps
- GAV Throughput: 40 Mbps
- VPN Throughput: 75 Mbps
- Max Connections (DPI): 8,000
For anyone who understands firewall lingo, these numbers may not seem like much. In reality, it’s more than enough for smaller operations while giving a little room for expansion. You might be surprised to learn that even the TZ105 might be a little much for some network demands. This is where an option like the TZ80 would be a solid alternative.
What is the SonicWall TZ80?
You’ll find that the SonicWall TZ80 delivers a lot of the same features, but the limitations are where the difference lies. Regardless of these limitations, you still get the benefits of SonicOS and the encrypted traffic your network needs.
This is how the TZ80 stacks up with some of the same specs mentioned above:
- Firewall Throughput: 750 Mbps
- IPS Throughput: 750 Mbps
- VPN Throughput: 750 Mbps
- TLS/SSL Inspection and Encryption Throughput: 250 Mbps
- Max Connections (SPI): 300,000
The TZ80 is pretty straightforward across the board and comes with a bit more strength behind it. From a business standpoint, you have to stack the capabilities of these firewalls against each other to know what’s best for your network security architecture.
Comparing the SonicWall TZ105 vs TZ80
It’s also important to note that the TZ105 met its SonicWall end of support years ago. Of course, this means you won’t be able to use one of your own. That doesn’t make it any less important to know what makes the TZ80 special in comparison.
| Specifications | SonicWall TZ80 | SonicWall TZ105 |
|---|---|---|
| Firewall Throughput (Mbps) | 750 | 200 |
| IPS Throughput (Mbps) | 750 | 60 |
| VPN Throughput (Mbps) | 750 | 75 |
| GAV Throughput (Mbps) | N/A | 40 |
| TLS/SSL Inspection and Encryption Throughput (Mbps) | 250 | N/A |
| Max Connections (SPI/DPI) | 300,000 | 8,000 |
| Interface | 4 x 1GbE Cu 1 x 1G SFP 1 console 1 USB (USB type-C or USB type-A) | (5) 10/100 fast ethernet 1 USB 1 console |
Each firewall model in this comparison focuses on a similar target market. Between the two, the TZ80 is your only option, as the TZ105 isn’t under SonicWall support any longer.
Let’s Wrap Up
While both of these firewalls may not come with the strength of a firewall like the SonicWall TZ400, they’re more than enough for small operations. The TZ80 isn’t your only option for small business firewalls either.
SonicWall delivers a great range with their firewall hardware, and the TZ80 is seen as an excellent starting point. For those who have drummed up a few questions here, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team at Firewalls for additional expertise.
