Item: WatchGuard Network Security
Rating: 8
Author: Jake Bichler

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

We are an MSP and have been using it with some of our customers. Having a robust firewall with service support is nice. Pricing and specifications for each watch guard firebox are clear and helpful. The subscription model makes sense for fireboxes make sense but I don't think it makes sense for APs to have a yearly subscription.

Pros and Cons

Technical support.
Intuitive software management.
Robust products.

Ability to have replacement firebox preloaded with a config to be able to direct ship to our customers.
A tier of free security updates without a technical support option.

Return on Investment

Positive, peace of mind of uptime/turn around time for a replacement.
Interface being similar across all firebox models.

WatchGuard Network Security Partner

Ingram, turn around time to get a renewal license is pretty quick.

Implementation Rating

After a firebox is set up, I highly recommend keeping a backup of the configs whenever changes are made. This makes things super easy to get back online if a device is replaced. If you are planning on using additional access points go with a firebox model without built-in wifi.

WatchGuard Network Security Packaging and Licensing

Renewing a license makes it simple to have most features in one license package. I would prefer that the license would extend to individual access points instead of each of them needing their own license on top of the firebox needing a license. I do also appreciate if the license has lapsed that it can still be renewed but could be prorated for up to 6 months.

Alternatives Considered

Ubiquiti Networks UniFi

We haven't set up the WG cloud interface, but I do enjoy the cloud interface of Ubiquiti is does make programming new devices as well a replacing existing simple. Not having a yearly subscription to receive security updates is also nice.

Other Software Used

Bitdefender GravityZone, Code42 CrashPlan, ConnectWise Automate (formerly LabTech), ConnectWise Control (formerly ScreenConnect)

Key Insights

Do you think WatchGuard Network Security delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with WatchGuard Network Security's feature set?

Yes

Did WatchGuard Network Security live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of WatchGuard Network Security go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy WatchGuard Network Security again?

Yes

Likelihood to Recommend

In situations where advance firewall features are needed, fireboxes are a great fit. When needed having the ability for tech support as well next door replacement greatly helps reduce down times. I feel on some devices such as access points a yearly subscription for security updates is overkill. Also having the ability for Fireboxes with built in wireless to be able mesh with external access points.

Watchguard Firebox great device but with a yearly cost

Overall Satisfaction with WatchGuard Network Security