SonicWall TZ370 Network Security Appliance review Next-Gen Firewall with Zero-Touch Deployment

Description

Design and Build Quality

I found the SonicWall TZ370 Network Security Appliance (02-SSC-2825) to be compact yet impressively sturdy. Measuring 5.31 x 7.48 x 1.38 inches and weighing just under 1.8 pounds, it fits neatly on a desk without taking up unnecessary space. The sleek design is complemented by its durable materials, which give the device a premium feel. The 8x 1GbE ports are neatly arranged at the back, making cable management straightforward. Its desktop form factor is practical for both home offices and small businesses, and the inclusion of two USB 3.0 ports adds to its versatility. I particularly liked the console port, which makes manual configurations a breeze.

Performance and Features

The next-generation firewall (NGFW) capabilities of this device are nothing short of impressive. During my testing, I noticed that it provided seamless VPN connectivity, which allowed for secure communication between multiple locations. The SonicOS 7.0 operating system is intuitive and offers advanced security features. I could easily manage the device using the Network Security Manager, and the REST APIs provided additional customization options. The hub-and-spoke VPN configuration was a standout feature, simplifying secure data transport between branches. This firewall supports up to 128 VLAN interfaces, which is a boon for businesses needing segmented networks.

Key Benefits

• Zero-Touch Deployment eliminates the need for a dedicated IT team during setup.
• 8x 1GbE ports ensure high-speed connectivity for multiple devices.
• SonicExpress App makes onboarding and management remarkably simple.
• 128 VLAN interfaces support complex network setups effortlessly.
• Advanced security features future-proof against evolving cyber threats.

Areas for Improvement

• Learning curve: While powerful, the SonicOS 7.0 can feel overwhelming for those unfamiliar with advanced firewalls.
• Pricing: This appliance targets business users, so it’s not the most budget-friendly option for casual users.
• Limited wireless functionality: It requires additional access points for Wi-Fi, which adds to the overall cost.

Ease of Use

Setting up the device was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the Zero-Touch Deployment feature. I simply used the SonicExpress App, and the entire process was automated. For day-to-day management, the single pane of glass interface made monitoring and tweaking configurations easy. The Web UI is clean and well-organized, but I found myself gravitating toward the CLI and SSH options for more granular controls. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or a small business owner, the setup and operation are designed to cater to diverse user expertise levels.

Competing Products

When I compared this product to others like the Cisco Meraki MX68 and Fortinet FortiGate 60F, a few points stood out. The SonicWall TZ370 offers better VPN connectivity with its hub-and-spoke configuration, which I found lacking in some competitors. Additionally, the Zero-Touch Deployment feature is a huge advantage for businesses without dedicated IT personnel. However, Fortinet’s FortiGate offers slightly more user-friendly interfaces, and Meraki’s cloud-based management might appeal to those preferring remote operations. The SonicWall TZ370, however, nails the balance between security features and network flexibility.

Affordable Quality

For what it offers, this device brings significant value to the table. Its multi-gigabit support, advanced security features, and future-proof design make it a strong contender in its price range. While it may not be the most affordable option, the cost-efficiency becomes apparent when you factor in its durability, ease of management, and robust features. If you’re looking for a product that combines security and performance without compromising on reliability, this device is worth considering.

Additional information