Description
The SonicWall TZ-400 is one of those small-to-mid range firewalls that just seems to out-perform it’s pricepoint.
For example, the TZ-400 can is available for well-under $900 at Corporate Armor. So can the TZ-400W. These are excellent appliances easily capable of safeguarding a mid-sized network.
The TZ-400 is roughly comparable to the FortiGate 80E. The 80E is a good bit higher in total Firewall Throughput, at 4 Gbps to 1.3 Gbps. However, the TZ-400 has IPS of 900 Mbps vs 450 for the FG-80E. In addition, the SonicWall TZ-400 pushes 600 Mbps of Threat Prevention, whereas the FG-80E clocks in at 250 Mbps. So, the SonicWall costs somewhat more up front, but you get better speeds in some areas. It just depends on how you will use the firewall, as to which is better for you.
TZ-400 Features
SonicWall TZ-400 offers anti-malware, anti-spyware, and intrusion prevention. Plus, you get anti-spam and protection against incoming email-based threats if you’re configured for it.
And, if you work remotely, you’re covered too. First, remote users can set up a secure VPN tunnel back into the home network. Each TZ-400 can support 20 site-to-site VPN connections simultaneously.
Secondly, users can also employ the optional SonicWall Anti-Spam Desktop. Basically, this is an Outlook, Outlook Express and Windows Mail plug-in. It provides remote users with protection similar that of those working in the office behind a T-Z400 firewall. It works with any Microsoft Windows–based client. The program detects phishing emails, spam, and malicious attachments, so they never make it into the client’s mailbox.
Lastly, there’s the Enforced Client Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware Software. It guards both remote users and the core network by enforcing security on every client connecting to a network. And, it works with any SonicWall firewall, including the T-Z400. It detects whether clients are running the latest versions of anti-virus and anti-spyware. And if not, the T-Z400 will force them to install or update it. Not until that is done does the TZ-400 grant network access.
Once it’s configured, the firewall keeps itself updated with the latest threat signatures. This means that small to medium-sized businesses can have a single device protecting their networks, without having to worry about updating software on every client. If the wireless version’s 802.11ac radio is activated, then that protection can also extend to anyone using the wireless network. SonicWall offers great security for those who don’t always sit at an office desk.
SonicWall TZ-400 highlights
| Total Firewall Throughput: 1.3 Gbps |
| Anti-malware Throughput: 600 Mbps |
| IPS Throughput: 900 Mbps |
| Threat Prevention Throughput: 600 Mbps |
SonicWall TZ series datasheet