Cyber threats keep evolving, and businesses need enterprise firewalls that protect their networks. Do you need a small business firewall or something large scale? The right choice depends on various factors. Today, firewalls are smarter, faster, and built to handle growing security challenges better than they ever have.

What we've got for you here:

• A look at the best enterprise firewalls in 2025
• What makes a firewall right for your business?
• The 6 top firewalls and what they do best
• How to choose between hardware and cloud firewalls
• Key security features that matter most
• Mistakes to avoid when picking a firewall
• How firewalls fit into a complete cybersecurity plan
• Common firewall myths businesses still believe
• FAQs: What you need to know before buying a firewall
• Turn to Meter for your enterprise firewall needs

Best enterprise firewalls at a glance

• Meter’s Security Appliance – Best for fully managed, hassle-free security
• Fortinet FortiGate – Best for high-performance security
• Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls – Best for AI-driven threat detection
• Check Point Quantum – Best for layered, multi-cloud security
• Cisco Secure Firewall – Best for businesses already using Cisco infrastructure
• Barracuda CloudGen Firewall – Best for hybrid cloud environments
• Plus 6 more firewalls with less features that made the honorable mentions

A basic firewall vs. an enterprise firewall solution

A firewall protects a network by filtering traffic, blocking threats, and allowing safe connections. It works well for small businesses or single locations that need basic security.

An enterprise firewall solution handles larger networks, multiple locations, and cloud environments. Plus, it also offers advanced threat detection, automated security policies, and high-speed performance. These firewalls are built to manage complex security needs without slowing down operations.

Here’s how they compare:

How we chose the best enterprise firewalls

Some firewalls handle massive traffic loads without any issues at all. But there are others that are less proficient and slow everything down. The best enterprise firewalls block threats, scale with growing networks, and don’t make IT teams miserable. Here’s what mattered most in our selection.

Threats don’t wait—your firewall shouldn’t either

Cyberattacks aren’t scheduled events. They happen in real time, and a firewall needs to spot and stop them instantly. The strongest options go beyond basic filtering, using AI-driven detection, malware scanning, and intrusion prevention to recognize threats before they spread. The goal is blocking attacks and stopping them before they become a crisis.

A firewall that outgrows your business is a problem

Security shouldn’t be the thing holding back expansion. As businesses scale across multiple offices, cloud environments, and hybrid networks, a firewall needs to keep pace without constant reconfiguration. The best ones adapt automatically, handling more users, new locations, and increasing traffic without missing a beat.

Performance should be a given, not a trade-off

A firewall that can’t handle high traffic isn’t much of a firewall—it’s a bottleneck. Some security solutions drag down speeds, cause latency issues, and create more problems than they solve. The best firewalls process massive amounts of data instantly, keeping everything fast, efficient, and locked down without frustrating slowdowns.

Security shouldn’t be a full-time job for IT teams

Managing a firewall shouldn’t mean spending hours buried in settings and updates. The most effective solutions come with intuitive dashboards, automated rule enforcement, and real-time visibility into network activity. IT teams can focus on big-picture security strategies instead of fighting with clunky, outdated interfaces.

Other factors considered include:

• Zero Trust capabilities
• Cloud & SD-WAN integration
• Cost & licensing

The best enterprise firewalls in 2025

Enterprise firewalls need to handle high traffic loads while keeping networks secure. Below are the top choices for 2025, each suited for different needs.

Meter’s Security Appliance – Best for fully managed, hassle-free security

Meter’s Security Appliance Firewall is built for businesses that need strong security but don’t want to spend hours managing it.

Unlike traditional firewalls that need manual updates and constant attention, Meter manages this one for you. No setup, no firmware issues, and no rushing to install security patches. It’s part of Meter’s network, which includes firewall protection, Wi-Fi, and switching in one simple system.

See what our solutions have accomplished in our case studies.

Many enterprise firewalls need regular tuning to stay effective. Meter takes that off IT’s plate by handling setup, monitoring, and updates, so businesses get strong security without adding more work to their teams.

Features:

• Intrusion prevention to detect and stop threats in real time
• Built-in SD-WAN for secure and stable multi-location connectivity
• Zero Trust security with detailed access controls
• AI-powered analytics for deeper network insights
• Automatic security updates with no downtime

Best for companies that want enterprise-grade security without the hassle. IT teams that are stretched thin or don’t want to manage firewalls manually will appreciate the hands-off approach.

Pros:

• Reduces security risks by automating updates and threat prevention.
• Frees up IT teams by handling firewall management and monitoring.
• Lowers costs by removing the need for extra security hardware or software.
• Works as part of a fully managed network, reducing vendor complexity.

Cons:

• It’s designed to work best with Meter’s network, so mixing with other vendors may add complexity.
• Advanced users looking for deep manual configurations may prefer more customizable options.

The bottom line

Meter’s Security Appliance gives businesses high-level security without the IT burden. It’s fully managed, scales as needed, and works seamlessly with Meter’s network infrastructure, making it a great fit for growing companies.

Fortinet FortiGate – Best for high-performance security

Fortinet FortiGate is built for speed. Some firewalls slow down when traffic increases, but this one uses dedicated security processors to keep data moving fast while blocking threats.

It’s one of the best choices for businesses that handle large amounts of traffic. With AI-powered security and deep packet inspection, it stops attacks without slowing down the network.

Features:

• Custom security processors for fast threat detection
• AI-powered malware protection
• Built-in SD-WAN for secure multi-location networking
• Integrated VPN and Zero Trust access controls

Best for companies with high traffic needs, including finance, healthcare, and cloud-based businesses. It’s a strong option for those that need security without delays.

Pros:

• Uses dedicated security processors to handle high traffic without lag.
• AI-powered malware protection helps detect and stop threats quickly.
• Deep packet inspection provides detailed security analysis without slowing performance.
• Built-in SD-WAN improves secure connectivity across multiple locations.

Cons:

• Advanced security settings may require more expertise to configure.
• Some features require separate licenses, which can increase costs.

The bottom line

Fortinet FortiGate is one of the fastest firewalls available. It’s a great choice for businesses that need high security and high speed at the same time.

Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls – Best for AI-driven threat detection

Palo Alto Networks’ Next-Generation Firewalls use AI and machine learning to stop cyber threats before they cause damage. Instead of following preset rules, these firewalls analyze traffic in real time and adjust as threats evolve.

Cyberattacks change fast. A firewall that only blocks known threats can’t keep up. Palo Alto’s AI-driven system detects new risks, learns from them, and stops attacks before they spread. This makes it a great choice for businesses that need proactive security instead of reactive fixes.

Features:

• AI-powered security that detects and blocks threats in real time
• Deep packet inspection to stop malware, phishing, and suspicious traffic
• Automated security policies that reduce manual work for IT teams
• Cloud-based updates that keep defenses up to date

Best for businesses that need strong, always-on security, like those in finance, healthcare, or government. It’s especially useful for companies that handle sensitive data or face frequent cyber threats.

Pros:

• Adapts to new threats in real time without waiting for manual updates.
• Automated security policies reduce the need for hands-on management.
• Cloud-based updates keep threat protection current without extra effort from IT.
• Integrates with other Palo Alto security tools for a unified defense system.

Cons:

• Advanced AI-driven features may require IT teams to adjust to a new workflow.
• Some security functions depend on cloud connectivity, which may not suit all environments.

The bottom line

Palo Alto’s firewalls provide top-tier AI-driven security. They’re built for businesses that need real-time protection and automated threat detection without constant manual updates. If security can’t afford to fall behind, this firewall is a solid option.

Check Point Quantum – Best for layered, multi-cloud security

Check Point Quantum is designed for businesses that use both cloud and on-prem networks. Many firewalls struggle with hybrid setups, but Quantum protects everything under one system. It offers layered security, threat detection, and easy management for cloud-based networks.

Managing security across different platforms can be a challenge. Check Point Quantum fixes this by creating a single security policy for both cloud and on-site systems. It also uses AI-driven threat detection and Zero Trust controls to stop attacks early.

Features:

• Cloud-native security with real-time threat prevention
• Zero Trust segmentation to limit unauthorized access
• AI-driven security that adapts to new cyber threats
• Centralized management for hybrid and multi-cloud networks

Best for companies with hybrid cloud setups that need consistent security policies across different locations and cloud providers. It’s a great fit for large enterprises, financial institutions, and businesses dealing with strict security regulations.

Pros:

• Provides consistent security across on-prem and cloud environments under one system.
• AI-driven threat detection helps stop cyberattacks before they spread.
• Centralized management simplifies security oversight for complex networks.
• Zero Trust segmentation adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

Cons:

• Advanced features may require extra configuration for businesses with unique security needs.
• Some capabilities depend on cloud connectivity, which may not work for fully offline systems.
• Licensing costs can increase for companies that need full-featured multi-cloud protection.
• Managing a hybrid security policy may require IT teams to adjust existing workflows.

The bottom line

Check Point Quantum offers strong security across both cloud and on-prem environments. It’s built for companies that need to manage security across multiple platforms without added complexity. If hybrid cloud protection is a priority, this firewall is a solid choice.

Cisco Secure Firewall – Best for businesses already using Cisco infrastructure

Cisco Secure Firewall is designed for businesses that rely on Cisco networking gear. It works with Cisco’s switches, routers, and cloud services, making it a logical choice for enterprises already invested in the Cisco ecosystem. Instead of juggling multiple vendors, IT teams can manage security and networking under one system.

Cisco Secure Firewall is backed by Cisco Talos, one of the largest threat intelligence teams in the world. This means real-time protection against new and emerging cyber threats. It also supports Zero Trust security, VPN access, and automated policy enforcement, making it a strong choice for large networks that need centralized control.

Features:

• Real-time threat intelligence powered by Cisco Talos
• Integrated VPN and Zero Trust security for secure remote access
• Scalable for enterprises with complex networks and multiple locations
• Automated security policies to reduce manual configuration

Best for companies already using Cisco routers, switches, or cloud services. It’s especially useful for large enterprises and IT teams that prefer deep integration between security and networking.

Pros:

• Integrates effortlessly with Cisco networking hardware and software for a unified system.
• Cisco Talos threat intelligence provides continuous protection against new cyber threats.
• Scales easily to support large and complex enterprise networks.

Cons:

• Some advanced security features require additional licensing costs.
• Managing the system may require IT staff familiar with Cisco’s ecosystem.
• Customization options may be more complex compared to other firewall solutions.

The bottom line

Cisco Secure Firewall is the obvious choice for businesses already running Cisco infrastructure. It simplifies security management and provides strong protection without adding extra complexity. If your network is built on Cisco, this firewall is the easiest way to add enterprise-grade security.

Barracuda CloudGen Firewall – Best for hybrid cloud environments

Barracuda CloudGen Firewall is built for businesses that use both cloud and on-prem networks. Many firewalls protect one or the other, but Barracuda secures both in one system. It offers SD-WAN, cloud security, and advanced threat detection, making it a great fit for companies with remote teams or multiple locations.

Some firewalls slow down cloud applications or make remote access difficult. Barracuda keeps traffic moving smoothly, ensuring fast connections and strong security. It also protects against cyber threats with intrusion prevention and malware scanning.

Features:

• Full SD-WAN support for secure, high-performance cloud networking
• Intrusion prevention and malware scanning to stop cyber threats
• Advanced traffic optimization to prevent slowdowns and improve application performance
• Unified security policies for both cloud and on-premises environments

Best for businesses that run a mix of cloud and physical infrastructure. It’s a great option for companies with remote offices, hybrid cloud setups, or teams that depend on cloud apps.

Pros:

Provides full SD-WAN support for secure and optimized cloud connectivity.

Centralized management makes it easier to oversee security across multiple locations.

Includes built-in intrusion prevention and malware scanning for stronger protection.

Cons:

Some advanced security features may require additional configuration.

Businesses without a hybrid cloud setup may not fully benefit from its features.

Initial setup may take longer for organizations unfamiliar with Barracuda’s ecosystem.

The bottom line

Barracuda CloudGen Firewall secures hybrid networks without adding complexity. It protects both cloud and on-site environments, keeps traffic flowing, and helps businesses manage security across multiple locations. If you need a firewall that works for both cloud and physical networks, this is a strong choice.

Other enterprise firewalls worth mentioning

Some firewalls offer solid security but didn’t make our best-of list due to specific limitations or niche use cases. These firewalls still provide strong protection and may be a good fit for certain businesses. Here’s why they were left off our top picks and who might still find them useful.

Sophos XG Firewall – Simple security for small and mid-sized businesses

Sophos XG Firewall is designed for ease of use, making it popular among smaller businesses that need strong security without the complexity. It provides deep packet inspection, cloud-based management, and Zero Trust controls.

While it works well for smaller networks, it doesn’t scale as effectively as other enterprise firewalls. It finds itself decent for small to mid-sized businesses looking for affordable, easy-to-manage security. Security features are solid but not as advanced as Palo Alto or Fortinet. Companies with limited IT staff will appreciate its straightforward setup and cloud-based controls.

Juniper Networks SRX Series – A strong option for Juniper-based networks

Juniper’s SRX Series is a fast, reliable firewall that works with Juniper networking gear. It offers deep packet inspection, Zero Trust security, and SD-WAN support, making it a strong choice for businesses already using Juniper products.

While powerful, it requires more manual configuration than competitors. The management interface is less intuitive than Fortinet or Palo Alto, making it more difficult for teams unfamiliar with Juniper’s ecosystem.

Works great for enterprises that already use Juniper networking products and want easily-integrated security. IT teams with experience managing Juniper gear will benefit the most.

Forcepoint Next Generation Firewall – Strong for data protection, but not a full network security solution

Forcepoint’s firewall is built with data security in mind. It focuses on preventing data leaks, insider threats, and compliance violations, making it a solid choice for companies that handle sensitive information.

Its strength lies in data protection, not full network security. While it prevents data exfiltration, it doesn’t match the real-time threat detection and performance optimization of Fortinet or Palo Alto.

Perfect for businesses that handle highly sensitive data, such as those in finance, healthcare, or government. Companies needing strong data loss prevention tools will find it useful.

VMware NSX Distributed Firewall – Great for virtualization, but not a traditional firewall

VMware NSX is a software-based firewall designed for virtualized and cloud-first environments. Instead of securing traffic at the network edge, it protects internal traffic inside virtual machines.

It’s only useful for businesses using VMware’s platform. It doesn’t secure physical infrastructure, which means it can’t replace a standard firewall for most enterprises. Works well for data centers and cloud-native businesses but isn’t a fit for traditional network security needs.

WatchGuard Firebox – A budget-friendly choice for small businesses

WatchGuard Firebox is a cost-effective firewall that includes basic threat protection, VPN support, and Zero Trust capabilities. It’s easy to use and works well for small companies that need reliable security without the complexity.

It isn’t designed for large enterprises. It lacks the advanced threat detection, high-speed performance, and scalability of more powerful firewalls. Smaller businesses looking for affordable, straightforward security might benefit. Organizations without dedicated IT teams will appreciate its simple management tools.

SonicWall NSa Series – A good mid-range firewall, but not enterprise-grade

SonicWall NSa firewalls provide solid security at a lower cost than many competitors. They include intrusion prevention, VPN support, and cloud management, making them a reasonable choice for mid-sized businesses.

While it offers strong protection, it lacks the AI-driven security, advanced automation, and high-speed processing of top enterprise firewalls. It’s a good mid-tier solution but not ideal for complex networks. Mostly used by mid-sized businesses needing affordable security without sacrificing too many features. Companies with moderate security needs will find it a solid balance of cost and protection.

How firewalls fit into a complete cybersecurity strategy

A firewall is a good start, but it shouldn’t be the only security tool a business relies on. It works best as part of a layered defense, blocking threats while other security tools detect, investigate, and stop attacks that get through. Here’s how firewalls fit into a stronger cybersecurity plan.

Stopping threats at the front door isn’t enough

Firewalls block unwanted traffic before it reaches the network, but that’s only the first step. Cyber threats can still slip through. To stay protected, businesses also need intrusion detection systems (IDS), endpoint security, and SIEM tools to catch attacks that get past the firewall.

Zero Trust keeps the wrong people out

A firewall helps protect a network, but trusting everything inside it is risky. Zero Trust security adds another layer by allowing access only to approved users and devices. Firewalls support this by enforcing strict access controls, reducing the risk of both outside attacks and internal threats.

Remote work makes firewalls even more important

With more employees working remotely and using cloud apps, firewalls must protect more than just office networks. Firewalls with built-in VPNs and cloud security tools help secure remote workers, branch offices, and cloud services, keeping data safe no matter where it is accessed.

Regulations love a good firewall log

Industries like finance, healthcare, and retail must follow strict security rules. Firewalls help businesses meet regulations like HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR by tracking network activity, enforcing security policies, and creating reports for audits.

AI is making firewalls smarter

Older firewalls followed set rules, but cyber threats change too fast for that now. Modern firewalls use AI and machine learning to detect strange behavior, stop threats in real time, and adjust to new attacks. When paired with network monitoring and endpoint security, AI-powered firewalls help businesses stay ahead of cyber risks.

Frequently asked questions

Do firewalls protect against ransomware?

Yes, next-generation firewalls detect and block ransomware before it reaches your network. They use AI, malware filtering, and deep packet inspection to stop threats in real time.

How much does an enterprise firewall cost?

Enterprise firewalls range from $500 to over $200,000. Pricing depends on features, scalability, and whether it's a one-time purchase or subscription-based.

Can a firewall slow down my network?

Yes, if it's misconfigured or can’t handle high-traffic loads. A well-optimized firewall uses dedicated processors to keep security tight without causing lag.

How do I know if my firewall is doing its job?

A good firewall blocks unauthorized access, prevents suspicious activity, and logs security events. If you're constantly dealing with breaches, it might be time for an upgrade.

Should my business use a hardware or cloud firewall?

It depends on your network setup. Hardware firewalls work best for securing on-site infrastructure, while cloud firewalls protect remote workers and multi-cloud environments.

Do firewalls stop phishing attacks?

Not directly. Firewalls can block malicious sites, but email security tools and employee training are better defenses against phishing.

How often should firewalls be updated?

Regular updates are critical to blocking new threats. Many firewalls update automatically, but IT teams should still review settings and policies often.

Can firewalls stop insider threats?

They help, but they’re not foolproof. Firewalls with Zero Trust security limit access to sensitive data, but internal monitoring and security policies are also needed.

Is a VPN the same as a firewall?

No, a VPN encrypts your internet traffic, while a firewall filters what comes in and out of your network. Using both adds an extra layer of security.

Do small businesses need enterprise firewalls?

It depends on their risk level. A small business with sensitive data or frequent cyber threats may benefit from enterprise-grade security, but many can use simpler solutions.

Get enterprise-grade firewall protection from Meter

Get enterprise-grade firewall protection and the best Wi-Fi solutions for business with Meter. Our fully managed, vertically integrated network also includes enterprise firewalls, built-in security, and automatic updates—so businesses can focus on growth instead of managing complex hardware. Take a look at the pricing for our vertically integrated network.

Key features of Meter Network include:

• Vertically integrated: Meter-built access points, switches, and security appliances work together to create a cohesive, stress-free network management experience.
• Managed Experience: Meter provides user support and done-with-you network management to reduce the burden on in-house networking teams.
• Hassle-free installation: Simply provide a floor plan, and Meter’s team will plan, install, and maintain your network.
• Software: Use Meter’s purpose-built dashboard for deep visibility and granular control of your network, or create custom dashboards with a prompt using Meter Command.
• OpEx pricing: Instead of investing upfront in equipment, Meter charges a simple monthly subscription fee based on your square footage. When it’s time to upgrade your network, Meter provides complimentary new equipment and installation.
• Easy migration and expansion: As you grow, Meter will expand your network with new hardware or entirely relocate your network to a new location free of charge.

Get started today with a free demo and see how Meter can transform your network experience.