Question 1

Does this firewall require a paid subscription or licensing to function?

Accepted Answer

It does not require a paid subscription or license to function.  Dell will be very aggressive in trying to get you to purchase their network/internet security software that is designed to run in conjunction with the firewall.  The may or may not be a good idea for you. An I/T professional familiar with your current network security can probably help you make that decision.  In our case, our I/T guy said it was not necessary.

Question 2

Does this unit require a license to connect two sites with VPN?

Accepted Answer

No license is required for site-to-site VPN connections.  Licenses are required for client VPN connections.

Question 3

is this device a router too?

Accepted Answer

Yes; it is. This is not a consumer level box like a Linksys, so it is a bit more complicated to setup, but I found it fairly easy to do so. I like the box and it has worked well.

Question 4

Does this product require the annual subscription or will it work out of the box?

Accepted Answer

The core functionality of the product (routing, vpn appliance, switching, basic firewall, managing sonicpoints) will work out of the box. The subscription is required to 1. receive intrusion signature/virus definition updates and 2. utilize the advanced functions like intrusion detected, antivirus scanning, etc.

Additionally, depending on which subscription you get, your subscription can also include free replacement of the device if it fails during the subscription period. (functions like an extended expedited warranty)

Question 5

I need to mount this on a wall.  
Does the bottom of the SonicWall box have holes to hook onto screw heads?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are two (like most other "boxes") about 4.5" apart.

Question 6

Does this purchase include firmware updates?

Accepted Answer

They give you firmware for a limited time after which you need to pay for a support agreement. It used to be a year, but i believe it's 90 days now, but I am not positive on that time frame.

Question 7

Can I use this product to setup a site to site vpn?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can if you buy one for each site.

Question 8

my question will is work with Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Router EA6500,  I am just checking before I buy it and as I own home business owner?

Accepted Answer

I use a SonicWALL TZ 105 Network Security Appliance connected to an Apple Time Machine Extreme Basestation (the Basestation is the wireless router) and have had no problems. I do not have specific experience with the Linksys router but given the ease of the setup with my Time Machine, I can't imagine that you would have a problem. After all, the signal coming from the TZ 105 is the same signal that enters the TZ 105 except for having been subject to a variety of security procedures to protect your privacy and system security. Don't forget that you will need to buy in addition to the physical device, whatever software services you will need to give you the type of protection you want. Best of luck.

Question 9

Must i keep renewing subscription with dell annually?

Accepted Answer

You can use the SonicWall without the subscription but for added features like the log analyzer you'll need to buy them. My office switched to a solution called Untangle, it was much easier to setup with overall cheaper licensing. Good luck!

Question 10

does this product need any additional software for operation?

Accepted Answer

It is setup out of the box for a good firewall and site to site VPN with another sonicwall. If you want application filtering of global VPN for clients you would need to purchase licensing. Hope this helps.

Questions & Answers