Fortinet vs Palo Alto Firewall
Firewalls serve as the first line of defense for network security. They provide a barrier between internal and external networks, thereby regulating traffic, blocking unauthorized access and preventing malware from entering the system. In this comparison, we will look at two of the most popular firewall brands for cloud networking: Fortinet and Palo Alto.
Fortinet
Fortinet is a well-established and trusted brand in the world of cybersecurity. Its next-generation firewalls offer a range of features, including intrusion prevention, web filtering, antivirus protection, VPN connectivity, and application control. Its intuitive web interface makes it easy to configure, manage and monitor.
Pros
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Fortinet offers high-speed throughput and low latency, ideal for large and demanding networks.
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Its unified threat management system provides excellent protection against cyber threats.
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The web-based management system is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
Cons
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Fortinet's security fabric can be complex and may require additional training for some users.
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Its cost is higher than some of its competitors.
Palo Alto
Palo Alto's next-generation firewalls are known for their advanced security features and performance speed. They use machine learning to identify and secure network traffic, and are built to integrate with other security technologies, such as antivirus software and endpoint protection systems.
Pros
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Palo Alto's firewall has excellent threat prevention capabilities, including the identification of new and unknown threats.
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Their cloud-based management system, Panorama, offers centralized management that is easy to use.
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Palo Alto's firewalls are known for their scalability, making them ideal for growing businesses.
Cons
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The cost of Palo Alto's firewalls is higher than some of their competitors.
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Palo Alto's support options are rated poorly in comparison to other firewall providers.
Comparison
| Fortinet | Palo Alto | |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 4.3 out of 5 | 4.6 out of 5 |
| Performance | 4.6 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 |
| Security | 4.8 out of 5 | 4.9 out of 5 |
| Scalability | 4.6 out of 5 | 4.8 out of 5 |
| Cost | Starting at $500 | Starting at $925 |
| Support | 3.9 out of 5 | 3.4 out of 5 |
Although both Fortinet and Palo Alto's firewalls have top-notch security features, their prices make a significant difference. Fortinet's pricing is more affordable, whereas Palo Alto's pricing is on the higher side. However, when it comes to threat prevention, Palo Alto takes the lead.
Conclusion
Both Fortinet and Palo Alto are excellent choices for businesses looking to secure their cloud networking. Fortinet is a more affordable option, which offers a user-friendly experience and great performance, whereas Palo Alto offers top-notch protection against threats and excellent scalability. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to the specific needs of the business, and their budget.
References
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Fortinet. (n.d.). Fortinet next-generation firewalls. Retrieved June 17, 2022, from https://www.fortinet.com/products/next-generation-firewall
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Palo Alto. (n.d.). Next Generation Firewall. Retrieved June 17, 2022, from https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall