WatchGuard Technologies has released its Firebox NV5 VPN gateway tabletop appliance and the AP332CR, a new Wi-Fi 6 access point for rugged or outdoor deployments.

Built to support MSPs and end users for purpose-driven deployment locations, these two additions to WatchGuard's lineup of security products and services further extend enterprise-grade protection for customers with distributed operations, while providing a seamless experience wherever they are, the company states.

Combined with WatchGuard Cloud to deliver one simplified platform for centralised security management, both the NV5 and AP332CR are designed to be easy to deploy, configure, and report on through WatchGuards Unified Security Platform framework.

Ryan Poutre, Product Manager at WatchGuard Technologies, says, “WatchGuard remains laser-focused on its vision to be the security provider of choice for MSPs, empowering them with security solutions that satisfy a broad range of customer requirements and needs, including remote and distributed environments.

"We are meeting our promise to set a new standard for security delivery through our technology, through our team, and through WatchGuards thriving partner ecosystem. And together, we'll keep raising the bar.”

Firebox NV5: Edge connectivity for branch locations and remote applications

The Firebox NV5 is a solution for distributed, secured VPN traffic and comes with a centralised security and logging solution for administrators.

Designed to support remote VPN connections back to a corporate virtual or physical Firebox, the NV5 can route traffic back to the corporate security appliance using WatchGuard Branch Office VPN (BOVPN) capabilities to provide the same level of protection as a device sitting at the corporate office.

With enterprise-class SD-WAN capabilities, the NV5 is made for deployment in remote applications like kiosks, digital signs, ATMs, and office equipment.

Key Features of the Firebox NV5 include:

Zero-touch deployment: WatchGuard Cloud offers a zero-touch deployment and configuration tool that comes standard with the Firebox NV5. IT teams can utilise zero-touch deployment to eliminate much of the labour involved in setting up a Firebox to work in their network all without having to leave their office. Local staff simply connects the device to power and the internet, and the NV5 automatically downloads and applies the predetermined configuration from the corporate network, WatchGuard states.

Network adaptation with SD-WAN: Dynamic path selection picks the most appropriate connection based on real-time monitoring of jitter, packet loss, and latency. Utilising this technology, the Firebox NV5 makes it easy to reduce the use of expensive MPLS or cellular data and improve network resiliency, while maintaining security.

WatchGuard user experience: Many customers utilise remote applications or have small satellite offices that can be difficult and costly to secure and manage. The NV5 utilises the same platform as other WatchGuard Firebox, Wi-Fi, authentication and endpoint solutions. Whether scheduling firmware upgrades or monitoring access points, technicians have one user experience.

WatchGuard AP332CR: For mid-density outdoor/rugged environments

The IP67-rated AP332CR delivers Wi-Fi 6 performance and WPA3 encrypted security across distributed networks and is ideal for building a scalable network in rugged or outdoor deployment conditions.

This dual-band access point delivers fast, reliable coverage with a 2x2 radio and four external, omnidirectional antennas offering up to 1.2 Gbps on the 5 GHz band. A single PoE+ port is included to support data rates up to 2.5 Gbps.

Utilising WatchGuard Cloud for deployment and configuration, the AP332CR offers seamless experience with Wi-Fi 6 performance and WPA3 encryption making it easier to build scalable networks across school campuses, public hotspots, and smaller manufacturing environments.

A standard licence for Wi-Fi in WatchGuard Cloud offers basic Cloud management features that include 24-hour reporting, comprehensive 24/7 support, diagnostics, inventory management, and beyond.

WatchGuard Unified Security Platform Management licences for Wi-Fi in WatchGuard Cloud offer everything included in the Standard licence plus 30 days of reporting, VPN configuration, advanced PSA integration, and much more.

According to the company, cross-platform benefits of managing the AP332CR with WatchGuard Cloud include:

• Simple VPN connectivity to Fireboxes managed in WatchGuard Cloud.
• Multi-tier and multi-tenant capabilities through a centralised WatchGuard Cloud management platform with enhanced activation and intelligent inventory management.
• Captive Portal creation with custom corporate branding, such as company logos, background, and thumbnail images.
• Enterprise authentication is delivered through easily managed WatchGuard Authentication domains.
• Centralised management of WatchGuard's portfolio of products including AuthPoint, Firebox, and endpoint solutions.