What is Sonicwall vs Fortigate vs Cisco Meraki?

Similarities:

  • All provide network security and firewall protection
  • Offer VPN capabilities for remote access
  • Include features like intrusion prevention and content filtering

Differences:

  • Management approach: SonicWall and Fortigate use traditional on-premises management, while Cisco/Meraki is cloud-managed
  • Pricing structure: Cisco/Meraki requires ongoing subscriptions, others have more flexible licensing options
  • Feature depth: Fortigate and SonicWall tend to offer more advanced configuration options compared to Meraki’s simplified approach.

Top Pros:

SonicWall:

  • Strong performance-to-price ratio
  • Comprehensive security features
  • Flexible deployment options

Fortigate:

  • Excellent throughput and performance
  • Robust security capabilities
  • Integrated SD-WAN functionality

Cisco/Meraki:

  • Easy cloud-based management
  • Simplified configuration for non-experts
  • Seamless integration with other Meraki products

Top Cons:

SonicWall:

  • User interface can be complex for beginners
  • Some advanced features require additional licensing
  • Support quality can be inconsistent

Fortigate:

  • Initial setup can be challenging
  • Licensing model can be confusing
  • Some features require paid subscriptions

Cisco/Meraki:

  • Ongoing subscription costs required
  • Limited advanced configuration options
  • Network goes down if subscription lapses

Send Us Your Question

Read More from Universal Connectivity

The Better Connected Plan

  • Step 1 – Better Connected Plan

    We listen to your needs.

  • Step 2 – Better Connected Plan

    We design custom solutions.

  • Step 3 – Better Connected Plan

    We implement and manage your plan so you’re better connected.