Choosing the best next-generation firewall for a branch office requires balancing security, performance, and ease of deployment. The SonicWall TZ80 Secure Upgrade Plus stands out as the overall top pick for its blend of affordability and robust threat prevention. For those needing higher throughput, the SonicWall TZ480 delivers impressive speeds with integrated SD-WAN features, ideal for larger or more demanding sites. However, the main tradeoffs involve cost versus advanced features, with some options sacrificing simplicity for power. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you identify which firewall best fits your branch office’s unique needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked firewalls balance security features with throughput capacity, ensuring protection without sacrificing network performance.
- Models with integrated SD-WAN capabilities offer additional flexibility but often come at a higher price point.
- Ease of deployment and management varies; zero-touch setup is a common feature among the most user-friendly options.
- Redundancy features like high-availability are critical for branch offices requiring continuous uptime.
- Higher-tier firewalls tend to include advanced threat protection and subscription services, which add to overall cost but boost security.
| Sonicwall TZ80 Secure Upgrade Plus – 3 Year Secure Connect Edition |  | Best for Cost-Effective Small Branch Security | Throughput: 750 Mbps | Threat Prevention: 750 Mbps | Ports: 4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 SFP | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SonicWall TZ480 Next-Generation Firewall |  | Best for High-Performance Mid-Sized Branches | Firewall Throughput: 4 Gbps | Threat Prevention: 2 Gbps | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SonicWall TZ380 – Secure Upgrade – 2-Year Advanced Edition |  | Best for Small Business Security with Advanced Services | Throughput: 3.5 Gbps | Threat Prevention: 1.5 Gbps | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fortinet FortiGate-70G Firewall for Branch and Small Offices |  | Best for Deep Security and SD-WAN at Small Scale | Throughput: 2.5 Gbps | Ports: 10 RJ45 | Security: SSL Inspection, Web Filtering | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Fortinet FortiGate-70G Firewall for Branch and Small Offices | | Best for Deep Security and SD-WAN at Small Scale | Throughput: 2.5 Gbps | Ports: 10 RJ45 | Security: SSL Inspection, Web Filtering | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sonicwall TZ80 Secure Connect – 1 Year Secure Connect Edition | | Best for Cost-Conscious Small Branch Connectivity | Throughput: 750 Mbps | Threat Prevention: 750 Mbps | Ports: 4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 SFP | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| FortiGate-70F Firewall – 7X GE RJ45 Internal Ports, 2X GE RJ45 WAN Ports (Appliance Only, No Subscription) (FG-70F) |  | Best Overall for Secure Branch Connectivity | Internal Ports: 7X GE RJ45 | WAN Ports: 2X GE RJ45 | Form Factor: Fanless desktop | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sonicwall TZ80 Total Secure – 1 Year Advanced Protection (03-SSC-2840) | | Best for Small Branches and Remote Teams | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 SFP, USB | Max Connections: Up to 300,000 | Performance: 750 Mbps | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SonicWall TZ280P High Availability (03-SSC-8021) |  | Best for Redundant Small Office Deployments | Connections: Up to 1 million | VPN Tunnels: 200 | PoE Ports: 4 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment |  | Best for Growing SMBs with High Performance Needs | Firewall Throughput: 3.5 Gbps | Threat Prevention: 1.5 Gbps | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment | | Best for Growing SMBs with High Performance Needs | Firewall Throughput: 3.5 Gbps | Threat Prevention: 1.5 Gbps | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment | | Best for Growing SMBs with High Performance Needs | Firewall Throughput: 3.5 Gbps | Threat Prevention: 1.5 Gbps | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment | | Best for Growing SMBs with High Performance Needs | Firewall Throughput: 3.5 Gbps | Threat Prevention: 1.5 Gbps | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Sonicwall TZ80 Secure Upgrade Plus – 3 Year Secure Connect Edition
This compact firewall stands out for its balance of performance and affordability, making it ideal for small offices with limited IT resources. Compared to the SonicWall TZ380, it offers similar throughput but with a more streamlined feature set, focusing on essential next-generation protection. Its 750 Mbps throughput supports typical branch workloads without overpaying for excess capacity, though it lacks advanced SD-WAN features found in higher models. The 4 Gigabit ports and SFP interface provide flexible wired connectivity, while the USB port adds convenience. However, its limited throughput may be insufficient for larger or more demanding environments, and it offers fewer advanced security integrations. This pick makes the most sense for small branch sites prioritizing straightforward, secure network protection at a lower cost. Specs: throughput 750 Mbps, threat prevention 750 Mbps, 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 SFP port, USB connectivity, SonicOS OS, 3-year warranty.Pros:- Cost-effective for small deployments
- Compact form factor fits limited spaces
- Flexible networking options with multiple ports and SFP
Cons:- Limited throughput may bottleneck larger traffic loads
- Lacks advanced SD-WAN and cloud management features
Best for: Small branch offices seeking reliable security without complex features
Not ideal for: Larger branches or organizations needing SD-WAN and high throughput capabilities
- Throughput:750 Mbps
- Threat Prevention:750 Mbps
- Ports:4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 SFP
- Connectivity:USB port
- Operating System:SonicOS
- Warranty:3 years
Bottom line: Ideal for small offices prioritizing essential security in a lightweight, budget-friendly device.
SonicWall TZ480 Next-Generation Firewall
This firewall delivers a significant leap in throughput and security features, making it suitable for mid-sized organizations requiring fast, layered protection. Compared with the TZ380, it offers 4 Gbps firewall throughput and 2 Gbps threat prevention, catering to environments with higher traffic demands. Its 8 Gigabit ports and dual 2.5/5G SFP slots support diverse uplink needs, while the scalable VPN capacity handles remote access for multiple sites. Its comprehensive feature set, including Capture ATP sandboxing and SD-WAN, provides layered defense beyond basic security. The tradeoff involves a higher price point and potentially more complex management for smaller teams. This makes it best for organizations that need enterprise-class security at distributed branch locations. Specs: firewall throughput 4 Gbps, threat prevention 2 Gbps, 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports, dual SFP slots, VPN capacity 250 sites, SD-WAN support, SonicOS OS, 2-year warranty.Pros:- Exceptional performance for high traffic loads
- Rich security features including sandboxing and SD-WAN
- Flexible connectivity with multiple ports and uplinks
- Scalable VPN and remote access support
Cons:- Higher cost compared to smaller models
- Complex management may require dedicated staff
Best for: Mid-sized organizations with multiple branch offices requiring high throughput
Not ideal for: Small offices with limited IT staff or lower security needs
- Firewall Throughput:4 Gbps
- Threat Prevention:2 Gbps
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet
- Uplink Support:Dual 2.5/5G SFP
- VPN Tunnels:250
- Features:Capture ATP, SD-WAN
- Operating System:SonicOS
- Warranty:2 years
Bottom line: Best suited for mid-sized firms needing robust, high-capacity security at multiple locations.
SonicWall TZ380 – Secure Upgrade – 2-Year Advanced Edition
Designed for small businesses, the TZ380 combines fast throughput with comprehensive security services, making it a versatile choice for security-conscious SMBs. Compared to the TZ70G, it offers higher throughput (3.5 Gbps vs. 750 Mbps) and includes the Advanced Protection Service Suite, which adds intrusion prevention, anti-malware, and sandboxing. Its 8 Gigabit ports support diverse network architectures, and the 1.5 Gbps threat prevention capacity ensures modern threats are handled swiftly. Its integrated security services mean fewer add-ons are needed, simplifying deployment. The main tradeoff involves a higher subscription cost for the advanced features, which may be overkill for very small networks with basic needs. This firewall suits SMBs looking for enterprise-grade security without enterprise-scale complexity. Specs: throughput 3.5 Gbps, threat prevention 1.5 Gbps, 8 Gigabit ports, advanced security suite, sandboxing, integrated IPS and anti-malware, 2-year license, SonicOS OS.Pros:- High throughput supports demanding applications
- Includes comprehensive security services with sandboxing
- Multiple ports for flexible deployment
- Seamless upgrade path via secure upgrade program
Cons:- Subscription costs can be significant
- More complex feature set may require training
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses needing high-speed security and advanced threat protection
Not ideal for: Very small offices or organizations with minimal security requirements
- Throughput:3.5 Gbps
- Threat Prevention:1.5 Gbps
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet
- Security Features:IPS, anti-malware, sandboxing
- Subscription:2 years
- Operating System:SonicOS
Bottom line: Ideal for SMBs seeking enterprise-level security with high performance and comprehensive threat management.
Fortinet FortiGate-70G Firewall for Branch and Small Offices
This Fortinet model emphasizes high security with integrated SD-WAN and AI-driven threat detection, making it suitable for branches needing advanced protection. Compared to SonicWall TZ380, it offers 2.5 Gbps throughput, slightly lower but with a focus on security depth through FortiGuard AI and integrated web filtering. Its 10 Gigabit RJ45 ports support high-speed wired connections, and centralized management simplifies deployment across multiple sites. The deep visibility with SSL inspection and application control helps govern encrypted traffic, but its slightly lower throughput may limit performance under peak loads. The device’s complexity can require more training, and it doesn’t include subscription-based sandboxing like SonicWall’s Capture ATP. This firewall is best for organizations prioritizing security depth and SD-WAN features at a small scale. Specs: throughput 2.5 Gbps, ports 10 RJ45, SSL inspection, web filtering, FortiOS, centralized management, AI threat detection, 2-year warranty.Pros:- Deep security with integrated AI threat detection
- Multiple high-speed ports support demanding setups
- Built-in SD-WAN enhances cloud and SaaS performance
- Centralized management simplifies deployment
Cons:- Throughput may be limiting for very busy sites
- Requires training to leverage full feature set
Best for: Branches or small offices requiring advanced security and SD-WAN features
Not ideal for: High-traffic data centers or large enterprise environments
- Throughput:2.5 Gbps
- Ports:10 RJ45
- Security:SSL Inspection, Web Filtering
- Features:AI Threat Detection, SD-WAN
- Management:Centralized via FortiGate Cloud
- Warranty:2 years
Bottom line: Best suited for small branches needing advanced security, SD-WAN, and centralized control.
Fortinet FortiGate-70G Firewall for Branch and Small Offices
This Fortinet model emphasizes high security with integrated SD-WAN and AI-driven threat detection, making it suitable for branches needing advanced protection. Compared to SonicWall TZ380, it offers 2.5 Gbps throughput, slightly lower but with a focus on security depth through FortiGuard AI and integrated web filtering. Its 10 Gigabit RJ45 ports support high-speed wired connections, and centralized management simplifies deployment across multiple sites. The deep visibility with SSL inspection and application control helps govern encrypted traffic, but its slightly lower throughput may limit performance under peak loads. The device’s complexity can require more training, and it doesn’t include subscription-based sandboxing like SonicWall’s Capture ATP. This firewall is best for organizations prioritizing security depth and SD-WAN features at a small scale. Specs: throughput 2.5 Gbps, ports 10 RJ45, SSL inspection, web filtering, FortiOS, centralized management, AI threat detection, 2-year warranty.Pros:- Deep security with integrated AI threat detection
- Multiple high-speed ports support demanding setups
- Built-in SD-WAN enhances cloud and SaaS performance
- Centralized management simplifies deployment
Cons:- Throughput may be limiting for very busy sites
- Requires training to leverage full feature set
Best for: Branches or small offices requiring advanced security and SD-WAN features
Not ideal for: High-traffic data centers or large enterprise environments
- Throughput:2.5 Gbps
- Ports:10 RJ45
- Security:SSL Inspection, Web Filtering
- Features:AI Threat Detection, SD-WAN
- Management:Centralized via FortiGate Cloud
- Warranty:2 years
Bottom line: Best suited for small branches needing advanced security, SD-WAN, and centralized control.
Sonicwall TZ80 Secure Connect – 1 Year Secure Connect Edition
This entry-level firewall offers reliable performance for small offices or IoT deployments, with enough features to secure basic branch needs at an attractive price. Compared to the TZ80 Secure Upgrade Plus, this model has similar throughput (750 Mbps) but with a shorter 1-year subscription, making it a budget-friendly choice for short-term or low-traffic environments. It provides 4 Gigabit ports, SFP, and USB connectivity, supporting essential wired connections. Its threat prevention and basic security features safeguard against common threats, but the shorter license duration and absence of advanced features like sandboxing or SD-WAN mean less future-proofing. This makes it ideal for smaller, budget-sensitive sites that need a simple yet effective security layer. Specs: throughput 750 Mbps, threat prevention 750 Mbps, 4 Gigabit ports, SFP, USB, 1-year subscription, SonicOS, basic threat protection.Pros:- Affordable for small deployments
- Simple setup and lightweight design
- Supports IoT and basic branch connectivity
- Includes essential threat prevention
Cons:- Limited subscription duration (1 year)
- Lacks advanced security features like sandboxing or SD-WAN
Best for: Small offices with tight budgets needing reliable security for limited traffic
Not ideal for: Growing organizations or those requiring long-term security licenses and advanced features
- Throughput:750 Mbps
- Threat Prevention:750 Mbps
- Ports:4 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 SFP
- Connectivity:USB port
- Subscription:1 year
- OS:SonicOS
Bottom line: Best for small, budget-conscious offices needing straightforward security without extra features.
FortiGate-70F Firewall – 7X GE RJ45 Internal Ports, 2X GE RJ45 WAN Ports (Appliance Only, No Subscription) (FG-70F)
The FortiGate 70F stands out for its combination of speed, security, and ease of deployment, making it the top choice for enterprise branch offices seeking comprehensive protection. Compared to the SonicWall TZ80, the 70F offers a more robust security fabric, AI/ML-based threat detection, and higher throughput capabilities, which are essential for larger or more security-conscious environments. Its system-on-a-chip acceleration ensures low latency even under heavy inspection loads, making it suitable for demanding applications. The tradeoff is that it lacks included subscriptions, so ongoing security services and SD-WAN features require additional licensing, increasing total cost of ownership. This model makes the most sense for organizations prioritizing integrated security with future scalability, willing to invest in a complete security ecosystem.
Pros:- Industry-leading secure SD-WAN with integrated threat protection
- Powerful system-on-a-chip acceleration for low latency
- Rich set of AI/ML-based security services
Cons:- No subscription included, increasing initial and ongoing costs
- Setup and configuration can be complex for less experienced users
Best for: Large branch offices or mid-sized businesses needing integrated security and SD-WAN capabilities in a compact form.
Not ideal for: Small offices or startups with limited budgets, as additional licensing costs may outweigh initial affordability.
- Internal Ports:7X GE RJ45
- WAN Ports:2X GE RJ45
- Form Factor:Fanless desktop
- Throughput:Up to 7.5 Gbps
- Security Services:AI/ML-based FortiGuard
- Deployment Type:Enterprise branch
Bottom line: Ideal for organizations seeking a high-performance, security-integrated firewall with scalable SD-WAN for larger branch deployments.
Sonicwall TZ80 Total Secure – 1 Year Advanced Protection (03-SSC-2840)
The SonicWall TZ80 excels in delivering enterprise-grade security within a small, easy-to-deploy package, making it ideal for remote and small office environments. Unlike the FortiGate 70F, the TZ80 offers a simpler setup process with an intuitive web GUI and built-in security services, including intrusion prevention, anti-malware, and sandboxing with RTDMI, all included for the first year. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for small teams or home offices that need robust protection without complex management. However, it delivers lower throughput compared to larger appliances like the TZ370, and the subscription costs for the full suite of security features can add up after the first year. This pick makes the most sense for smaller organizations or remote workers prioritizing ease of use and strong security at a manageable price.
Pros:- Easy deployment with intuitive management interface
- Comprehensive security suite including sandboxing and RTDMI
- Compact, fanless design suitable for small spaces
Cons:- Limited throughput capacity for high-bandwidth applications
- Additional subscription costs for full security features after one year
Best for: Small offices, remote workers, or branch setups requiring reliable security with minimal management complexity.
Not ideal for: Large enterprise branches with high bandwidth needs or complex network environments demanding higher throughput.
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet, 1 SFP, USB
- Max Connections:Up to 300,000
- Performance:750 Mbps
- Security Suite:Includes intrusion prevention, anti-malware, sandboxing
- Form Factor:Small, lightweight
- Subscription:1 year included
Bottom line: Best suited for small-scale branches or remote teams requiring enterprise security in a simple, compact form.
SonicWall TZ280P High Availability (03-SSC-8021)
The SonicWall TZ280P in high availability configuration provides resilient security with seamless failover, ideal for small offices where uptime matters. The TZ280P offers up to 1 million concurrent connections, 200 VPN tunnels, and integrated PoE ports, enabling both secure connectivity and device powering in a compact form. Compared to the TZ80, the TZ280P adds redundancy, making it suitable for environments where continuous network operation is critical. Its management is straightforward via SonicOS, and the PoE capability simplifies deployment of IP devices. The main tradeoff is the added cost of the redundant setup and that it is primarily designed for resilience rather than raw throughput. This makes it best for small offices that require high availability without sacrificing security or manageability.
Pros:- Seamless failover with high availability setup
- PoE ports for powering IP phones and cameras
- Robust security features including RTDMI and IPS
Cons:- Higher initial cost due to redundancy setup
- Limited throughput compared to larger appliances
Best for: Small branches needing continuous network availability and PoE for essential devices.
Not ideal for: Large or high-bandwidth environments that demand greater throughput and scalability.
- Connections:Up to 1 million
- VPN Tunnels:200
- PoE Ports:4
- Throughput:Up to 2 Gbps
- Form Factor:Compact with redundancy
- Security:Includes RTDMI, IPS, content filtering
Bottom line: Perfect for small offices requiring high uptime and PoE integration for security and device powering.
SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment
The SonicWall TZ380 offers a substantial step up in throughput and security features, making it ideal for SMBs experiencing growth and requiring more bandwidth. With 3.5 Gbps firewall throughput and 1.5 Gbps threat prevention, it comfortably handles modern applications and security demands. Its SD-WAN capabilities and Zero-Touch deployment streamline branch setup, similar to the TZ370 but with higher capacity. Compared to the TZ370, the TZ380 provides increased performance and scalability, suitable for larger or more demanding branches. The tradeoff is its higher price point and more complex configuration for users unfamiliar with advanced networking. This device makes sense for SMBs looking for enterprise-grade performance that can support future expansion without sacrificing ease of deployment.
Pros:- High throughput suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications
- Includes SD-WAN and Zero-Touch deployment for simplified setup
- Advanced security with Capture ATP sandboxing
Cons:- Higher cost compared to lower-tier models like TZ370
- More complex initial setup for less experienced users
Best for: Growing SMBs needing scalable throughput and advanced security features in a single appliance.
Not ideal for: Small offices or startups with minimal bandwidth needs and limited budget for higher-tier devices.
- Firewall Throughput:3.5 Gbps
- Threat Prevention:1.5 Gbps
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP
- Connections:Up to 1.1 million
- Security Features:Capture ATP sandboxing, IPS, TLS inspection
- Management:Zero-Touch deployment
Bottom line: Best for SMBs aiming for scalable, enterprise-grade security with high throughput and easy branch deployment.
SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment
The SonicWall TZ380 offers a substantial step up in throughput and security features, making it ideal for SMBs experiencing growth and requiring more bandwidth. With 3.5 Gbps firewall throughput and 1.5 Gbps threat prevention, it comfortably handles modern applications and security demands. Its SD-WAN capabilities and Zero-Touch deployment streamline branch setup, similar to the TZ370 but with higher capacity. Compared to the TZ370, the TZ380 provides increased performance and scalability, suitable for larger or more demanding branches. The tradeoff is its higher price point and more complex configuration for users unfamiliar with advanced networking. This device makes sense for SMBs looking for enterprise-grade performance that can support future expansion without sacrificing ease of deployment.
Pros:- High throughput suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications
- Includes SD-WAN and Zero-Touch deployment for simplified setup
- Advanced security with Capture ATP sandboxing
Cons:- Higher cost compared to lower-tier models like TZ370
- More complex initial setup for less experienced users
Best for: Growing SMBs needing scalable throughput and advanced security features in a single appliance.
Not ideal for: Small offices or startups with minimal bandwidth needs and limited budget for higher-tier devices.
- Firewall Throughput:3.5 Gbps
- Threat Prevention:1.5 Gbps
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP
- Connections:Up to 1.1 million
- Security Features:Capture ATP sandboxing, IPS, TLS inspection
- Management:Zero-Touch deployment
Bottom line: Best for SMBs aiming for scalable, enterprise-grade security with high throughput and easy branch deployment.
SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment
The SonicWall TZ380 offers a substantial step up in throughput and security features, making it ideal for SMBs experiencing growth and requiring more bandwidth. With 3.5 Gbps firewall throughput and 1.5 Gbps threat prevention, it comfortably handles modern applications and security demands. Its SD-WAN capabilities and Zero-Touch deployment streamline branch setup, similar to the TZ370 but with higher capacity. Compared to the TZ370, the TZ380 provides increased performance and scalability, suitable for larger or more demanding branches. The tradeoff is its higher price point and more complex configuration for users unfamiliar with advanced networking. This device makes sense for SMBs looking for enterprise-grade performance that can support future expansion without sacrificing ease of deployment.
Pros:- High throughput suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications
- Includes SD-WAN and Zero-Touch deployment for simplified setup
- Advanced security with Capture ATP sandboxing
Cons:- Higher cost compared to lower-tier models like TZ370
- More complex initial setup for less experienced users
Best for: Growing SMBs needing scalable throughput and advanced security features in a single appliance.
Not ideal for: Small offices or startups with minimal bandwidth needs and limited budget for higher-tier devices.
- Firewall Throughput:3.5 Gbps
- Threat Prevention:1.5 Gbps
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP
- Connections:Up to 1.1 million
- Security Features:Capture ATP sandboxing, IPS, TLS inspection
- Management:Zero-Touch deployment
Bottom line: Best for SMBs aiming for scalable, enterprise-grade security with high throughput and easy branch deployment.
SonicWall TZ380 Next-Generation Firewall (03-SSC-1831) – 1.5 Gbps Throughput, 1 Gbps Threat Prevention, Secure SD-WAN | Zero-Touch Deployment
The SonicWall TZ380 offers a substantial step up in throughput and security features, making it ideal for SMBs experiencing growth and requiring more bandwidth. With 3.5 Gbps firewall throughput and 1.5 Gbps threat prevention, it comfortably handles modern applications and security demands. Its SD-WAN capabilities and Zero-Touch deployment streamline branch setup, similar to the TZ370 but with higher capacity. Compared to the TZ370, the TZ380 provides increased performance and scalability, suitable for larger or more demanding branches. The tradeoff is its higher price point and more complex configuration for users unfamiliar with advanced networking. This device makes sense for SMBs looking for enterprise-grade performance that can support future expansion without sacrificing ease of deployment.
Pros:- High throughput suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications
- Includes SD-WAN and Zero-Touch deployment for simplified setup
- Advanced security with Capture ATP sandboxing
Cons:- Higher cost compared to lower-tier models like TZ370
- More complex initial setup for less experienced users
Best for: Growing SMBs needing scalable throughput and advanced security features in a single appliance.
Not ideal for: Small offices or startups with minimal bandwidth needs and limited budget for higher-tier devices.
- Firewall Throughput:3.5 Gbps
- Threat Prevention:1.5 Gbps
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet, dual 2.5G/5G SFP
- Connections:Up to 1.1 million
- Security Features:Capture ATP sandboxing, IPS, TLS inspection
- Management:Zero-Touch deployment
Bottom line: Best for SMBs aiming for scalable, enterprise-grade security with high throughput and easy branch deployment.
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on their security effectiveness, throughput capacity, ease of deployment, manageability, and value for small to medium branch offices. We prioritized models with proven performance in real-world scenarios, including threat prevention speed and SD-WAN integration. Cost-effectiveness was also a key factor, especially for organizations balancing budget constraints with security needs. The ranking reflects a combination of feature set, usability, and overall reliability, aiming to guide different types of buyers from small startups to larger enterprises.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Next-generation Firewall For Branch Offices
Selecting the right next-generation firewall for a branch office involves understanding your network’s specific requirements. Factors like throughput, security features, ease of management, and future scalability are vital. Buyers should also consider the total cost of ownership, including subscription services and support. Making a careful choice can prevent overpaying for unnecessary features or, conversely, under-protecting critical infrastructure.Performance and Throughput
For branch offices, the firewall’s ability to handle current and future traffic loads is essential. Overestimating needs can lead to unnecessary expenses, while underestimating can cause bottlenecks. Consider both the raw throughput and threat prevention speeds, ensuring the device can manage peak traffic without compromising security or user experience.
Security Features and Threat Prevention
Advanced security capabilities like intrusion prevention, anti-malware, and sandboxing are critical for protecting sensitive data. Some firewalls include integrated sandboxing or AI-powered threat detection, which can add significant value. Evaluate whether these features are included in the base product or require additional subscriptions, and align them with your risk profile.
Ease of Deployment and Management
For branch offices, simplicity in setup and ongoing management can save time and reduce errors. Zero-touch deployment options and centralized management tools make scaling and updates easier. Avoid overcomplicated systems if your team lacks dedicated security personnel, as this can lead to misconfigurations or delays in response.
Scalability and Futureproofing
Consider whether the firewall can accommodate future growth—additional sites, higher traffic, or new security demands. Modular options or models with expandable features help ensure your investment remains relevant. Overlooking scalability may lead to costly replacements sooner than expected.
Cost of Ownership and Subscriptions
Many next-generation firewalls rely on subscriptions for threat intelligence, VPN, or SD-WAN features, which can increase ongoing costs. Be aware of what’s included in the base price and what requires extra payment. Balancing initial investment with long-term expenses is key to selecting a solution that fits your budget without sacrificing security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I prioritize throughput or security features for my branch office firewall?
Balancing throughput and security is vital, but the right emphasis depends on your specific network demands. For high-traffic locations, throughput may take precedence to prevent bottlenecks, whereas security features are non-negotiable for protecting sensitive data. Many modern firewalls offer a good compromise, providing high-speed threat prevention without sacrificing protection, so evaluate your primary risks and performance needs carefully.
Is SD-WAN necessary for a small branch office?
SD-WAN can simplify connectivity and improve resilience, which is especially beneficial if your branch relies on multiple internet links or cloud applications. For small offices with straightforward internet access, SD-WAN might be an unnecessary expense, but for those with complex or critical cloud workflows, it provides enhanced flexibility and reliability. Consider your future growth plans and connectivity complexity when deciding.
How important are subscription services in choosing a firewall?
Subscription services often include vital threat intelligence, advanced malware protection, and VPN enhancements. While they add to the ongoing costs, they significantly boost security and ease of management. When comparing options, check what features are bundled and evaluate whether the added expense aligns with your security posture and compliance requirements.
Can a smaller firewall model handle our growing network needs?
Many smaller models offer excellent performance for basic needs but may lack scalability or advanced features needed as your network expands. Investing in a firewall with upgrade options or modular components can extend its lifespan. Consider your growth trajectory and whether the device can support future demands without requiring an immediate replacement.
What is the value of high availability features in a branch office firewall?
High availability ensures continuous network protection even if one device fails, which is critical for remote sites where downtime can disrupt operations. Redundant units or failover configurations add initial complexity and cost but provide peace of mind and resilience. For mission-critical branches, these features justify the investment by minimizing operational risks.
Conclusion
For most organizations, the SonicWall TZ80 Secure Upgrade Plus offers an excellent balance of performance, security, and ease of use, making it the best overall choice. If your priority is maximum throughput and advanced features, the SonicWall TZ480 fits well, especially for larger or more demanding branches. Small or budget-conscious offices might lean toward the Fortinet FortiGate-70G or FortiGate-70F for cost-effective yet capable protection. Beginners or those with straightforward needs should consider models with simplified management, while enterprises requiring high availability could benefit from redundant setups like the SonicWall TZ280P. Ultimately, your choice depends on your size, growth plans, and security priorities, but this roundup provides a clear starting point for an informed decision.
