Firewalls are hardware security appliances that filter traffic between an internal network and the internet, which makes them a fit for offices, branches and small to medium-sized businesses. Our range has over 20 models, mostly from Cisco, Sophos, Zyxel and SonicWall, along with one from Fortinet.
How to choose a firewall
Throughput. Firewall throughput is the first figure to check, and in our range it runs from 0.35 to 2 Gbit/s. Manufacturers often quote the peak speed with no extra features switched on, so real speed is lower once intrusion prevention or content filtering is enabled.
Ports. Our range includes models with 10/100/1000 Mbit/s Ethernet ports. Count how many devices and network zones you need to connect, and whether you want a separate port for a backup internet line.
Licences. Many manufacturers sell intrusion prevention, web filtering and malware protection as a separate licence or subscription. Before buying, find out which features you need and how long the subscription runs.
VPN and management. If staff work remotely or you need to link branch offices, check how many VPN connections the model supports. It is also worth knowing whether the device is managed through a local interface or a cloud console.
Cooling and power. Some models in our range have a built-in fan, while others have none and run silently, so they suit an office without a server room. Specifications also list heat dissipation (from 32 to 45 BTU/h), input current (2 or 2.5 A) and mean time between failures, which reaches over 500,000 hours for some models.
Brands we carry
- Cisco: one of the best-known network equipment makers, with ASA and Firepower firewall series used in business networks.
- Sophos: known for its XG and XGS Firewall series, which can be managed from the Sophos Central cloud console.
- Zyxel: offers the USG FLEX and ATP series, aimed at small and medium-sized businesses.
- SonicWall: known for the TZ series, built for small offices and branches.
- Fortinet: makes FortiGate firewalls that run FortiOS and use the company's own security processors.
Firewall FAQ
What is the difference between a firewall and a router?
A router directs traffic between networks, while a firewall inspects that traffic against rules and blocks what is unwanted. Many home routers include a basic firewall, but dedicated appliances give finer control, VPN and intrusion prevention.
What firewall throughput does a small office need?
Choose a model whose throughput, with security features switched on, is at least equal to your internet speed. With a 1 Gbit/s line and traffic inspection, a model rated at 0.35 Gbit/s may become a bottleneck. For a slower line and a few employees, it may be enough.
Does a firewall need a licence?
Basic traffic filtering is done by the appliance itself, but for advanced features such as intrusion prevention or updated threat lists, many manufacturers require a subscription. The exact terms are set by the manufacturer, so check them before you buy.
Can a firewall work without a fan?
Yes, some models are cooled passively. Our range includes both models with a fan and models without one. A fanless device runs more quietly, but such models are usually built for lighter loads.
