New firewall: Trying out the SonicWall TZ270 (2024)

Diving straight into the technical prowess of the SonicWall TZ270, its specifications are impressive for a desktop next-generation firewall. The integration of 10 or 5 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces into a desktop form factor is particularly noteworthy. For a small to medium-sized business, or a distributed enterprise with SD-Branch locations, the scalability and performance that these interfaces offer can be game-changing. Here are some quick takeaways:

• Multi-gigabit interfaces provide ample bandwidth for current and future needs.

• Zero-Touch Deployment and management via the SonicExpress app simplify setup.

• Advanced security features like Gateway Security Suite offer robust protection.

• SonicOS 7.0 delivers a modern UX/UI with advanced networking capabilities.

That said, a few concerns come to mind. The lack of Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) support could be an issue for those needing higher availability without investing in a second unit, especially if they're mixing firewall brands. Furthermore, the user experience with customer support could detract from the overall value proposition, considering the lengthy hold times and the challenge in resolving issues effectively based on other users' feedback.

Despite these drawbacks, the potential for cost savings over time is attractive, particularly when upgrading from older SonicWall models like the TZ400. The advanced features packed into the TZ270, such as integrated SD-WAN and support for TLS 1.3, are forward-thinking and demonstrate a commitment to future-proofing the infrastructure.

The unit's hardware specs, with the option for an expandable storage of up to 256GB, cater well to a variety of use cases, offering flexibility for logging, reporting, and more. Additionally, the dual power supply on select models is a reassuring touch for business continuity planning.

While no product is without its flaws, the TZ270 series seems like a strong contender for those in its target market. The multi-dimensional security approach, coupling Capture ATP with RTDMI technology and a suite of other protective measures, provides a comprehensive barrier against the burgeoning threats in today’s digital landscape.

The overall impression is of a product that ticks many boxes for reliability, scalability, and security, with a few reservations concerning certain features and customer service experiences. As the network landscape continues to evolve, these aspects could make a significant impact on the decision to adopt the SonicWall TZ270 as a central component of an organization's security strategy.

There's a lot about the SonicWall TZ270 that commands attention, but it's the setup and configuration that truly shines for users like me. After all, what good is a powerful device if it's a nightmare to install and manage? Thankfully, that's not the case here. Let me break down my initial experience with the setup:

• The Zero-Touch Deployment and the SonicExpress App are game-changers, making the installation process straightforward and almost hands-off.

• I was able to onboard the device without heavily relying on an IT team, which is a big plus for small businesses with limited resources.

• The SonicOS 7.0 operating system provides a clean and intuitive interface, simplifying management tasks even for users not deeply versed in network security.

In the past, setting up a firewall could be intimidating — a myriad of complex configurations best left to the certified experts. But the TZ270 makes it accessible, with a single pane of glass that reduces the usual hassle of navigating through multiple management screens.

However, it’s not all rosy; I did notice some limitations. For instance, the lack of Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) support can be a drawback if you're looking to implement high-availability setups using devices from different vendors. Although the price-performance ratio is attractive, it’s something to consider if resiliency is a non-negotiable for your network.

From a personal standpoint, I appreciate gear that hits that sweet spot between advanced functionality and user-friendliness. The TZ270 does just that:

• Easy Integration: It integrates seamlessly with other SonicWall products such as switches and access points.

• Scalability: Whether you're a small business or a distributed enterprise, the scalability of this model is a standout feature.

• Cost-Effective: The appliance seems like a sound investment over time, particularly when upgrading from older models.

However, no product is perfect. Long support wait times and some reports of unstable WAN connections may give you pause — and are worth noting if reliability is paramount. Still, the overall ease of use and the robust security make the TZ270 a commendable choice.

In terms of connectivity and control, it ticks all the right boxes with support for up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces, app-based management, and compatibility with personal computers. Sure, the setup may have a bit of a learning curve for total newcomers to networking, but it strikes a good balance between sophistication and user experience.

In essence, the flexibility and ease of setup the SonicWall TZ270 offers to make it a compelling pick, despite a few hiccups that might emerge along the way.

In the realm of small and medium-sized businesses, the quest for robust security and high-performance networking is paramount. With the TZ270, SonicWall seems to be pushing the envelope, striving to meet these demands. Here's a breakdown of my key observations:

• Performance: The multi-gigabit 10 or 5 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces are a notable highlight, promising to cater to increasing bandwidth demands. Additionally, the option to expand the storage up to 256GB is a nice touch, accommodating the need for extensive logging and reporting.

• Security: SonicWall’s Advanced Gateway Security Suite is comprehensive, and the cloud-based sandboxing via Capture ATP with RTDMI technology is particularly impressive for countering unknown threats.

However, it's not without its drawbacks. Notably, the lack of Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) support might be a deal-breaker for certain network configurations. Also, the reported complexity of configuration and long wait times for customer support have been points of concern.

Now, diving into the specifics, let's talk performance. The Gen 7's claim of industry-validated security effectiveness coupled with solid performance is something I gravitate towards. The integrated SD-WAN, support for high-speed VPN, and TLS 1.3 are technical details that resonate with my need for a future-proofed solution. Whether deploying across multiple locations or just managing a single site, these features steal the spotlight and ensure that my network doesn't just keep up but stays ahead.

On security, the suite’s preemptive approach to threat management — updating firewall signatures in real-time as new threats are identified — is compelling. It places trust in the device to be proactive, not just reactive, which for me is non-negotiable in choosing a security appliance.

Yet, practicality demands acknowledgment of limitations. My worry about the absence of VRRP isn't trivial; in a world where network uptime is sacred, having redundant paths without the need to purchase additional hardware is highly valued. And though performance is critical, enduring the frustration of complex setup or potential troubleshooting hurdles with support can weigh heavily on the overall experience.

Overall, the balance seems to tilt towards the positive for the SonicWall TZ270. The promise of seamless integration with Capture Client for endpoint security and simplified deployment tools like Zero-Touch Deployment sweetens the pot. As I weigh the pros against the few cons, I still see it as a solid investment. The security and performance features it brings to the table can be the difference-maker in protecting and streamlining my business, even if some features like VRRP are missed on the wishlist.

As I reflect on my support experiences with the SonicWall TZ270, I have mixed feelings. On the one hand, features like Zero-Touch Deployment and the SonicExpress App for easy onboarding demonstrate an innovation that simplifies IT management. Even when operating without dedicated IT personnel, these capabilities are lifesavers, especially for small to medium-sized businesses and distributed enterprises with SD-Branches.

However, this doesn't negate the need for responsive and reliable customer support. My initial delight with the SonicWall TZ270's performance was tempered by the issues I faced and the less-than-ideal support experience. Here's a high-level list summarizing my thoughts:

Pros:

• Easy onboarding with the SonicExpress App and Zero-Touch Deployment

• Single-pane-of-glass management offers a streamlined user experience

• Advanced security features, like SonicWall Advanced Gateway Security Suite, provide peace of mind

• Attractive pricing compared to other options like Cisco and Fortinet

Cons:

• Difficulty in configuration, specifically the lack of VRRP support, is a notable downside

• The customer support experience did not meet expectations, with long hold times and repetitive troubleshooting processes

• The absence of a flexible return policy is concerning, especially if the hardware is problematic from start

Despite these drawbacks, features like the integration of Switches and SonicWave Access Points via a single-manager interface highlight SonicWall's commitment to an integrated approach to network security. The firewall is a compact, multi-faceted device capable of guarding against an array of threats, and that is an appreciable strength.

The occurrence where a new appliance reset the WAN connection every two minutes is a clear instance where one would expect robust support. Extended wait times on calls and repeated, fruitless troubleshooting points to a need for improvement.

From a personal perspective, dealing with hardware issues just after a few months of purchase and not having a quick resolution is frustrating. I do want to acknowledge, however, the potential for overburdened customer service departments and the challenges they face, which might account for some of these problems.

In conclusion, the TZ270 holds its ground as a powerful tool that easily fits into a modern business's network and security framework. The affordable pricing and future-proofing features stand out as major positives. Yet, it's apparent that purchasing a firewall isn't just about the hardware—it's also about the ongoing support. While the SonicWall TZ270 may be beyond expectations in several areas, it would be remiss not to earnestly hope for enhancements in customer support for a truly rounded experience.