Item: WatchGuard Network Security
Rating: 9
Author: Tom Leutritz

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

We use Watchguard in all our offices in the US. First as a BOVPN network to connect to all resources at are 2 server racks at 2 locations. Then we use it to protect against unwanted access and attacks. We use the virus scanning and webblocker features for this purpose.

Pros and Cons

BOVPN works very well and no drops at all
Virus updates are automatic saving IT resources

Sometimes unblocking a legitimate web site is hard to figure out why it's being blocked and how to permanently unblock.

Return on Investment

Having a BOVPN network at our 4 offices makes it very easy to maintain a secure cost effective, reliable connection. To date only one failure over 18 years of use and we were up by 1030 am the next day.

WatchGuard Network Security Partner

I use PCM formerly PC MALL. I was very happy with the upgrade selection help from them.

Usability

I would give it a 10 but if an IT person does not have at least a year experience with them it is hard to figure out some feature setup.

Implementation Rating

Just make sure you know what features and settings are the default before going live because some like web blocker settings could block legitimate sites your company uses.

WatchGuard Network Security Packaging and Licensing

I prefered to pick what we needed and it was less expensive but it's nice to know some features are available for future even though they are not being used today.

Alternatives Considered

Adtran NetVanta Routers and Switches

I feel watchguard was easier to setup and maintain because they do not need coding.

Likelihood to Recommend

The Watchguard appliances are well suited for small 1 location offices up to medium multi office companies. For financial institutions I believe it would be good as a secondary system to a point to point between offices.

Watchguard used by my company 18 years and counting.

Overall Satisfaction with WatchGuard Network Security