Item: WatchGuard Network Security
Rating: 10
Author: Verified User

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

I have a need for separate networks. I keep the staff on one, guests on another, and environmental controls on a separate network. WatchGuard [Network Security] allows me to create VLANS to do this. I addition, I am able to filter Internet usage to comply with our organization's use Policies.

Pros and Cons

Web Filtering is essential with any network allowing guests. WatchGuard [Network Security] allows me to set different filtering on each VLAN.
WatchGuard [Network Security] works well integrating their wireless technology and using their FireBox as a controller. Updates are automatically pushed and reboot scheduled.
Traffic monitoring is as simples opening a web browser or using the available software.

When managing wireless, the user must navigate to two different sections to get complete information. It would be nice to have all information included in the Gateway Controller section.
It would be nice to have an easier way to block single MAC addresses from accessing network resources.
The managing products, from within one's account, could be more intuitive. A good example would be the ability to renew a license with ease.

Return on Investment

WatchGuard [Network Security] has provided my organization with robust enough hardware to meet high usage situations.
Looking through logs, WatchGuard has help my organization avoid costly breaches.
I am able to confidently allow remote users to access local resources via VPN provided by WatchGuard [Network Security].

WatchGuard Network Security Partner

I did not work with a WatchGuard Network Security partner. I have been using WatchGuard products for a while, so I purchase directly from www.guardsite.com for all my WatchGuard needs. I use that site not only for hardware purchases, but I also renew my licenses and subscriptions from them as well.

Implementation Rating

A well-planned implementation is always the best strategy. The more detailed plan you have created, the smoother the implementation will go. Understandably, a reactive situation caused by hardware failure may shorten planning time. However, WatchGuard [Network Security] provides intuitive tools to get your network up and going fast. Upgrading from one WatchGuard product to another is easy as well.

WatchGuard Network Security Packaging and Licensing

For my organization, we don't always utilize every feature the product license offers. I will often renew at a different license level that includes the features I need. By offing these different levels, WatchGuard [Network Security] allows me to pay for only what I need. This is great considering many of us have a budget that only goes so far.

Alternatives Considered

WatchGuard Secure Wi-Fi Cloud

For my organization, we tried the Secure Wi-Fi Cloud product. It was a great product and offered many features. However, I already owned a FireBox and it also included the Wi-Fi controller component. Instead of paying extra for the Secure Wi-Fi Cloud, I decided to save the extra money and utilized the FireBox instead.

Other Software Used

Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365), Adobe InDesign, Malwarebytes Endpoint Protection

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

Anytime there is a shared business network, it is imperative to have proper security. I feel WatchGuard [Network Security] is well suited for any business scenario. The question to be asked is which product meets one's budget and requirements. I cannot think of a scenario, in the business environment, where the WatchGuard [Network Security] line of products would be less appropriate.

WatchGuard Network Security Exceeds Expectations

Overall Satisfaction with WatchGuard Network Security