Cisco vs WatchGuard Battlecard

Feature	Cisco Secure Firewall	WatchGuard Firebox
Threat Intelligence	Cisco Talos Intelligence is Cisco's primary source of threat intelligence, complemented by Cisco Secure Malware Analytics (formerly Threat Grid) and Cisco Secure Endpoint Intelligence (formerly AMP for Endpoints)	Multi-layered threat intelligence approach, aggregated from propietary and reputable sources and curated by the WatchGuard Threat Lab.
Intrusion Prevention (IPS)	Snort IPS with extensive rule-based detection and Talos threat feeds.	Signature databases, combining intelligence from security partners (like Bitdefender for GAV) and the WatchGuard Threat Lab (for IPS)
Encrypted Traffic Analysis	Encrypted Traffic Analytics (ETA): Detects malware in encrypted traffic without decryption.	HTTPS/SSL Inspection: Decrypts, inspect, and re-encrypt HTTPS traffic to detect threats hidden in encrypted sessions.
Zero Trust & Identity-Based Security	Cisco ISE integration: Role-based access and dynamic segmentation. Cisco integrates Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) via Duo Security and Cisco ISE.	WatchGuard AuthPoint (Multi-Factor Authentication solution) integrate with various user identity sources, including: AD, LDAP, RADIUS, SAML,...
Cloud Security & SASE	Cisco Umbrella + Secure Firewall Cloud for cloud-based firewalling & SASE.	Firebox does not offer a full SASE solution but WatchGuard platform includes several SASE elements, but still evolving into a complete, integrated SASE architecture.
Automation & AI	SecureX orchestration for security automation & response.	IntelligentAV employs an AI-based engine (leveraging technology like Cylance) for predictive malware detection.
Policy Management	Firewall Management Center (FMC) with SecureX automation.	Centralized policy management through its Firebox System Manager (FSM) and WatchGuard Cloud.
Local Agent	Cisco Secure Client (formerly AnyConnect). Full-featured Secure Client: VPN, posture, Umbrella, Duo MFA, etc. No native agentless ZTNA; VPN still required for most access.	Local agent is only available through its Endpoint Security solutions.
Sandboxing	Uses Cisco Secure Malware Analytics (formerly Threat Grid) for deep file analysis, behavioral detection, and malware classification.	APT Blocker uses a cloud-based sandbox environment (leveraging technology like Lastline/VMware) to detect and analyze unknown or zero-day malware.
Main Competitors	Palo Alto, Fortinet, Sophos.	SonicWall, Barracuda Networks, Sophos, Aruba.

	Cisco Secure Firewall	WatchGuard Firebox
Is it a suitable solution for all types of network environments, including small businesses?	Cisco Secure Firewall excels in providing advanced security capabilities, high scalability, and robust performance, making it a strong contender for large enterprises with complex security needs. Its comprehensive feature set, backed by the threat intelligence of Cisco Talos, positions it as a powerful solution for organizations facing sophisticated cyber threats.	WatchGuard emphasizes ease of use and competitive pricing which makes it an ideal solution for SMBs. Scalability might be a concern for very large enterprises compared to high-end Cisco models, some advanced enterprise routing features might be less developed.
Distinctive Features	Cisco's Encrypted Visibility Engine (EVE) analyzes encrypted traffic without decryption to detect threats and anomalies. Using machine learning and behavioral analytics, it identifies malware, policy violations, and suspicious activity while maintaining data privacy. EVE helps security teams monitor encrypted traffic efficiently, ensuring compliance and threat prevention without compromising encryption integrity. It enhances network security by providing visibility into encrypted communications, making it a key component of Cisco's cybersecurity solutions.	WatchGuard is often seen as providing a strong set of features at a competitive price point, offering good value for the investment and making it a compelling choice for small to medium-sized businesses. Great VPN client that works for PC, Mac, and non-IOS devices as well. Responsive and helpful technical support as well as detailed and well-written documentation documentation making it easier to understand and configure the firewall.
Common Criticisms	Complex Management Interface. Cisco Secure Firewall Management Center is a powerful, feature-rich platform that has improved over time but still suffers from significant management complexity, historical stability issues, and a less intuitive user experience compared to key competitors. High Licensing Costs: Cisco's licensing model is frequently described as complex and expensive. Essential features such as Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) and VPN capabilities often require additional licenses, increasing the total cost of ownership.	For the scale and complexity of a large enterprise, the effectiveness of WatchGuard's APT Blocker and DNSWatch in addressing sophisticated threats may be comparatively limited. Dated Dashboards: Outdated looking dashboards and user interface. Policy management and log analysis often require navigating through multiple windows or using legacy tools like WatchGuard System Manager (WSM).

Cisco Secure Firewall Dashboard & UI

Cisco Partners

A Cisco Partner provides businesses with expert consultation, seamless deployment, cost optimization, and technical support. Below is a list of some of the top Cisco partners in the market.

Netsync Network Solutions
Based in Houston, with sales and engineering assets throughout Texas, Netsync uses a true business consultative approach to determine clients’ requirements and architects innovative and synergistic …
Burwood Group, Inc.
Burwood Group was founded in Chicago, IL with five U.S. offices including 24x7 Operations Centers in San Diego, CA and Normal, IL. Whether you are developing strategy, deploying technology, or …
NWN Corporation
NWN Carousel is a leading Cloud Communications Service Provider (CCSP) focused on transforming the customer and workspace experience for commercial, enterprise and public sector organizations. The …
Dataprise
Dataprise is a new breed of managed service provider delivering powerhouse managed IT, cybersecurity, harmonious end-user support, cloud and data protection solutions to business across the US.
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WatchGuard Firebox Dashboard & UI

WatchGuard Partners

A WatchGuard Partner provides businesses with expert consultation, seamless deployment, cost optimization, and technical support. Below is a list of some of the top WatchGuard partners in the market.

CCB Technology
CCB Technology® is a nationwide business IT services provider that specializes in the planning, procurement, implementation, and management of a complete range of IT solutions. Collaborating with …
Cerium Networks
Cerium’s core business is in the design, implementation, and support of technologies that provide businesses with a full suite of collaboration and network infrastructure, and security solutions. Our …
Magna5
Magna5 provides comprehensive support and protection for crucial IT operations. We leverage our local expertise and national support to ensure our clients’ total peace of mind. From IT Managed …
Structured
Structured is a leading information technology consultancy and systems integrator that has partnered with hundreds of clients throughout the U.S. to maximize the value of IT.
For over two …