Fortigate and PAN: Which Firewall Offers Better User Interface and Ease of Use?

Published

11 months ago

October 14, 2023

Times of Startups Staff

Fortinet has a very user-friendly interface and is easy to use. It can mitigate all attacks and has good bandwidth-shaping features. It performs well in NSS tests and has a high IPSec VPN capacity. Its Wildfire sandboxing option is also useful for stopping zero-day threats. It has a superior global object find that speeds up finding where config objects are configured. This is a big-time saver.

Better Management

Regarding firewall comparison between Fortigate and PAN, both offer highly rated next-generation firewalls (NGFW). Their physical, virtual, and cloud offerings deliver a full feature set to protect the gateway, edge, applications, and data. Both offer advanced features like unified access, security fabric integration, and AI/ML-powered FortiGuard services. Both NGFWs have excellent performance that is scalable and easy to manage. However, when it comes to the ability to detect and block threats, Fortinet has an advantage. Fortinet offers a single-pass parallel processing architecture that enables users to scale their environment without trading off security capabilities or compromising performance. This allows users to add security services and maintain performance easily — unlike many other vendors that see performance decrease with the addition of security services. In terms of performance, Fortinet’s hardware has an incredible two-microsecond latency and delivers industry-leading application awareness. The ability to drill down into app-identifications helps identify infected hosts and what they do on the network. Fortinet’s superior performance and simple management are the main reasons customers choose Fortinet. Users also want a unified platform that simplifies their operations and increases security teams’ confidence to follow best practices and decrease human error. They are looking for a solution that can easily adapt to their business and address evolving cyber threats.

Better User Interface and Ease of Use

Neither firewall is more difficult to use than the other, but both require some technical competence. However, Fortinet does have a much more user-friendly interface that makes it easier for users with less specialized experience to manage the device. In addition, the Fortinet device is more flexible with its security policies than the Palo Alto PA series. For example, Fortinet can easily apply multiple security policies to a single virtual system (sys). This is very important for larger networks that require more sophisticated traffic controls, such as application inspection capacities and bandwidth shaping. The Fortinet NGFWs also have better event logging and numerous options to customize logging requirements. They also have a much more powerful packet capture function that peels back multi-layers to give you the information you need to secure your network. Lastly, the Fortinet NGFW is a much faster firewall than the Palo Alto PA series. For instance, it recently topped the NSS labs for firewall performance. This is a big advantage for large networks and enterprises concerned about their security posture and how quickly they can detect threats. It also allows them to reduce the attack surface by identifying unsanctioned applications and preventing lateral threat propagation. Fortinet also has a robust set of UTM features that protect businesses from many attacks.

Better Security

The core of Fortinet’s NGFW is the security fabric, designed to protect networks of all sizes against every threat. Its unified architecture reduces operational complexity. It increases productivity so that it can respond to threats faster.

Fortinet offers more protection features than the competition, and its NGFWs consistently score higher in independent testing, so it’s a good choice for businesses with advanced security requirements. These include unified endpoint detection and response (EDR), granular application control, SSL decryption, sandboxing and more. Both brands offer a web UI for easy configuration and reporting, but Fortinet’s interface is more robust. It also allows you to run advanced diagnostic commands using a command line. In addition, the web UI has widgets that can display reports and logs. Fortinet and Palo Alto have excellent IPS, AV, firewall, anti-spam and network protection. But Palo Alto has a superior malware-blocking feature far ahead of Fortinet’s in terms of performance and accuracy. The NGFW’s security fabric identifies unsanctioned applications, prioritizes alerts, detects breaches in minutes or less and prevents them from spreading to other devices. Its scalable, single-pass parallel processing architecture improves performance over time with security services enabled. It’s a great option for businesses with advanced security requirements that require high speeds.

Better Performance

Fortinet is a leading cybersecurity company with a broad physical and virtual security appliance portfolio. Their security operating system (FortiOS) and hardware combine multiple technologies and use cases into a single platform and policy framework scalable from small distributed enterprises to large multinational organizations. Fortinet NGFWs deliver total network visibility, advanced threat protection and edge security for networks of any size. They also offer unified access, machine learning, automation-driven network administration and more to future-proof networks. They are also rated high by users, analysts and independent testers. Pulse Policy Secure(PPS) and PPS Client integrates with a FortiGate Firewall to enable federated identity management between devices. When remote users log into a PPS device, they establish a VPN tunnel to a PAN/Check Point/FortiGate Firewall. The PAN/Check Point/FortiGate firewall then allows access to resources protected by the firewall based on the role(s) configured on the IF-MAP server for that federation. Fortinet NGFWs offer performance that is, on average, 5 to 20 times faster than the industry average. This performance is due to their purpose-built security processors and threat intelligence from FortiGuard Labs. In addition, they have a unique security architecture that is highly efficient, reducing memory and CPU requirements compared to other vendors. This results in a lower total cost of ownership.

Boons and Banes of Cloud

Published

1 month ago

July 31, 2024

Ostride Labs

In the realm of modern technology, the cloud stands as a pivotal innovation reshaping how businesses operate and individuals interact with information. At Ostride Labs, we delve into the multifaceted impact of cloud computing—unveiling its advantages and potential pitfalls in today’s digital landscape.

Cloud computing, with its scalable and flexible nature, empowers organizations to transcend traditional boundaries. It facilitates seamless access to data and services, fostering agile management and enhancing operational efficiency. This transformative capability enables rapid deployment of applications and edtech solutions, promoting continuous learning and knowledge dissemination across diverse sectors.

However, amid its myriad benefits, the cloud presents inherent risks that necessitate proactive risk management. Security emerges as a paramount concern, demanding robust protocols to safeguard sensitive information from cyber threats and unauthorized access. Effective security measures are crucial to mitigate potential vulnerabilities and uphold data integrity based on industry best practices.

One of the most significant advantages of cloud computing is its ability to scale resources dynamically. Organizations can adjust their computing power and storage based on demand, ensuring optimal performance and cost-efficiency. This scalability is particularly beneficial for businesses with fluctuating workloads, as they can avoid the expenses associated with maintaining excess infrastructure.

Moreover, the cloud facilitates collaboration by providing a centralized platform for teams to access and share information in real-time. This enhances productivity and innovation, as employees can work together seamlessly, regardless of their geographical location. The integration of cloud-based tools and applications further streamlines workflows, enabling organizations to respond swiftly to changing market conditions.

Despite these benefits, the cloud is not without its challenges. Data security remains a critical issue, with concerns about unauthorized access, data breaches, and compliance with regulations. Businesses must implement robust security measures, such as encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits, to protect their data.

Additionally, the reliance on third-party cloud service providers introduces an element of risk. Organizations must carefully evaluate the security practices and reliability of their chosen providers to ensure that their data is in safe hands. Vendor lock-in is another concern, as migrating data and applications from one provider to another can be complex and costly.

Cost management is another aspect that requires careful consideration. While the cloud can reduce capital expenditures by eliminating the need for on-premises infrastructure, operational costs can escalate if not monitored closely. Businesses must implement cost-management strategies, such as setting spending limits and optimizing resource usage, to avoid unexpected expenses.

In the realm of education technology (edtech), the cloud offers transformative potential. Cloud-based learning platforms provide students with access to educational resources anytime, anywhere, fostering a more flexible and personalized learning experience. Teachers can leverage these platforms to create interactive and engaging content, enhancing the overall quality of education.

However, the adoption of cloud-based edtech solutions also comes with challenges. Ensuring data privacy and security for students is paramount, and schools must comply with regulations such as FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) to protect sensitive information. Additionally, the digital divide remains a barrier, as not all students have equal access to the necessary technology and internet connectivity.

At Ostride Labs, we specialize in navigating the nuances of cloud computing to empower organizations with tailored solutions that drive growth and innovation. Our comprehensive service offerings encompass all facets of cloud management, from security enhancement to infrastructure optimization, enabling clients to harness the full potential of cloud technology. We understand the complexities of the cloud and provide expert guidance to help businesses make informed decisions that align with their goals and needs.

Explore how Ostride Labs can elevate your business through secure, scalable cloud solutions. Embrace the future of digital transformation with confidence, leveraging cloud computing to propel your organization forward while mitigating risks and maximizing benefits.

Discover more about our cloud solutions at Ostride Labs and embark on a journey towards innovation and growth in the digital era.

Li-Fi Tech Startup Velmenni Receives India’s MoD’s iDEX Grant to Bolster Defence Sector

Published

2 months ago

July 3, 2024

Times of Startups Staff

Receives grant from MoD under the iDEX initiative to Accelerate innovation for the Indian Navy

Velmenni, a pioneering force in light communication solutions, has been awarded a grant from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) under the iDEX initiative. This grant targets strengthening secure wireless communication for the Indian Defence sector, especially the Navy, addressing communication challenges in modern warfare.

The iDEX program fosters innovation in the Indian defence sector by integrating cutting-edge technologies like Velmenni’s Li-Fi and aligns with initiatives such as Make in India, Startup India, and the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). This grant strongly validates Li-Fi’s potential to address the Navy’s communication challenges in harsh defence environments.

“The iDEX Grant is a testament to the potential of our Li-Fi technology,” said Deepak Solanki, Founder and CEO, Velmenni, “With these resources, we are poised to revolutionise wireless communication, ensuring secure and efficient data transmission using light. Our commitment to this groundbreaking technology reflects our dedication to innovation. We envision a future where light-based communication is the norm, transforming global data transmission and empowering industries worldwide, driving progress and fostering a connected and efficient future,” he added.

Velmenni’s Li-Fi technology offers superior security and efficient performance, making it ideal for the real-time communication needs of the Indian Navy. The company’s interventions position it as a leader in light communication with the potential to illuminate a new era of data transmission for the Navy and in other defence applications.

About Velmenni:

Velmenni, a pioneering Li-Fi company headquartered in New Delhi, stands out for its innovative approach to data communication. It has become a leading player in this field by developing high-speed Li-Fi solutions and creating a groundbreaking Li-Fi mesh network that tackles connectivity challenges in remote areas. Velmenni’s vision goes beyond just technology; it sees Li-Fi, powered by LEDs, transforming industries by using light for data transmission. This focus on seamless integration with existing infrastructure and exploration of both visible and invisible light for communication solidifies its position at the forefront of Li-Fi. From a disruptive startup to an expected leader, Velmenni’s unwavering dedication to R&D positions it to redefine data communication as the demand for wireless data continues to surge. With its cutting-edge solutions, Velmenni aims to harness the untapped potential of light to create a more connected and efficient world.

About Li-Fi technology:

Li-Fi (light fidelity) a fairly new technology as compared to traditional RF based wireless system is a bidirectional wireless system that transmits data via visible or infrared light. Unlike Wi-Fi, which uses radio frequencies, Li-Fi relies on light waves to transmit data, offering a significant advancement over current wireless networks. It provides reliable high-speed highly secure network both in outdoor and indoor scenarios.

Empower Your Team: Change Management Strategies for Boosting Morale

Published

3 months ago

June 21, 2024

Times of Startups Staff

Change Management Strategies for Boosting Morale

Change is an inevitable part of any organization’s journey toward growth and success. However, managing change effectively can be challenging, especially when it comes to maintaining team morale. In today’s fast-paced world, where industries evolve rapidly, empowering your team through change management strategies is essential for not only surviving but thriving in the face of transformation. In this article, we’ll delve into some basic concepts of change management and explore strategies to boost morale within your team during times of change.

Understanding Change Management:

Change management refers to the structured approach of transitioning individuals, teams, and organizations from their current state to a desired future state.Explore further by reading about effective change management strategies to ensure a smoother transition and greater acceptance of new initiatives within your team. It involves a series of processes, tools, and techniques designed to facilitate successful change implementation while minimizing resistance and maximizing acceptance.

Why Is Morale Important During Change?

Morale, often defined as the overall mood, outlook, and satisfaction levels within a team, plays a crucial role in change management. High morale fosters productivity, creativity, and resilience, enabling teams to adapt more effectively to change. Conversely, low morale can lead to resistance, decreased performance, and increased turnover, hindering the change process.

Change Management Strategies for Boosting Morale:

1. Clear Communication:

Transparent and open communication is key to maintaining morale during times of change. Keep your team informed about the reasons behind the change, its expected impact, and the role each member plays in the process. Address concerns and uncertainties promptly, and encourage feedback to foster a sense of involvement and ownership.

2. Empowerment and Involvement:

Empower your team by involving them in the decision-making process whenever possible. Seek their input, ideas, and suggestions regarding the proposed changes. When employees feel valued and included, they are more likely to embrace change and remain committed to its success.

3. Provide Support and Resources:

Change can be unsettling, and employees may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about their roles and responsibilities. Offer adequate support, training, and resources to help them navigate through the transition smoothly. Providing access to coaching, mentoring, and learning opportunities can boost confidence and morale.

4. Recognize and Celebrate Progress:

Celebrate milestones and achievements along the change journey to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of your team members. Recognize individual and collective efforts, and publicly commend those who embrace change and demonstrate resilience. Positive reinforcement reinforces morale and motivates continued commitment to the change initiative.

5. Foster a Positive Work Environment:

Create a supportive and positive work culture that encourages collaboration, innovation, and adaptability. Promote trust, respect, and camaraderie among team members, and prioritize their well-being and work-life balance. A nurturing work environment fosters resilience and helps mitigate the stress associated with change.

6. Lead by Example:

As a leader, your actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate your own commitment to the change initiative by modeling the desired behaviors and attitudes. Stay optimistic, resilient, and adaptable in the face of challenges, and showcase a willingness to learn and grow alongside your team. Your leadership sets the tone for morale and inspires others to embrace change.

7. Provide Opportunities for Growth:

Change presents opportunities for learning, development, and personal growth. Encourage your team members to embrace change as a chance to acquire new skills, expand their knowledge, and explore new roles or responsibilities. Offer career development opportunities and pathways for advancement to empower them to thrive in a changing environment.

8. Encourage Peer Support and Collaboration:

Foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among your employees by encouraging peer support and collaboration. Create forums, such as cross-functional teams or support groups, where team members can share experiences, offer assistance, and learn from one another. Building a strong support network enhances morale and resilience during times of change.

Conclusion:

Empowering your team through effective change management strategies is essential for navigating the complexities of organizational transformation while maintaining high morale. By fostering clear communication, empowerment, support, recognition, and a positive work environment, you can create a culture that embraces change as an opportunity for growth and innovation. Remember, successful change management isn’t just about implementing new processes or technologies—it’s about empowering your most valuable asset: your people.