Smoothwall Firewall is a next-generation, unified threat management solution designed primarily for educational environments. It provides comprehensive protection against both web and non-web threats by combining perimeter and internal segmentation firewalls, deep packet inspection (Layer 7 application control), gateway anti-malware, and intrusion detection and prevention. The firewall monitors and controls all incoming and outgoing network traffic, identifying over 100 different types of traffic—even those attempting to evade detection. Smoothwall Firewall supports bandwidth management, directory server integration, VPN connectivity, and link/load balancing for multiple WAN connections. It can be deployed independently or integrated with Smoothwall Filter for a unified security solution, ensuring robust digital safeguarding for students, staff, and networks.

Key Features

Next-Generation Firewall & Deep Packet Inspection Advanced traffic analysis and control for all network layers.

• Identifies and manages over 100 types of network traffic, including evasive applications
• Layer 7 application control (Deep Packet Inspection) for non-web traffic like Skype and BitTorrent

Gateway Anti-Malware Protects against known and zero-day threats at the network gateway.

• Scans and blocks malicious content before it reaches users
• Reduces risk of malware infections and data breaches

Intrusion Detection and Prevention (IDS/IPS) Monitors, reports, and reacts to malicious attacks.

• Detects and blocks intrusion attempts in real time
• Provides detailed reporting for incident response

Bandwidth Management Controls network usage by content type, user, time, and location.

• Limits bandwidth for specific applications or users
• Ensures critical educational applications have priority

Directory Server Integration Seamless integration with Microsoft Active Directory, Open Directory, and eDirectory.

• Enables user- and group-based policy enforcement
• Simplifies administration and policy management

VPN Support Secure connectivity for remote users and site-to-site links.

• Supports IPSec, SSL, and L2TP VPNs
• Facilitates secure remote access for staff and students

Link and Load Balancing Supports multiple WAN connections for reliability and performance.

• Distributes traffic across connections to prevent downtime
• Enhances network resilience and uptime

Anonymous Proxy Detection & Blocking Prevents circumvention of security policies.

• Blocks access to anonymous proxies and unapproved applications
• Maintains compliance with Acceptable Use Policies

Benefits

Comprehensive Network Protection Safeguards against a wide range of cyber threats.

• Protects students, staff, and data from malware, intrusions, and unauthorized access
• Reduces risk of data breaches and service disruptions

Purpose-Built for Education Tailored to the needs of schools and educational organizations.

• Supports compliance with statutory safeguarding requirements
• Enables safe digital learning environments

Operational Efficiency Centralizes and simplifies network security management.

• Unified dashboard for monitoring and policy control
• Reduces administrative overhead and complexity

Flexible Deployment Can be used standalone or integrated with Smoothwall Filter.

• Adapts to different network architectures and security needs
• Scalable for single schools or multi-site organizations