Re: CheckPoint vs ASA

["Consolvo, Corbett D" <cc72 () TXSTATE EDU>]

We are currently using ASA 5550s.  I find them middle of the road - performance is good and they are relatively stable. 
 Their SSL VPN requires extra licensing (I am an SSL fan) and in general management is acceptable but not impressive.  
I have had little pleasant experience with Cisco IPS but have not looked at it in about two years. Cisco support is not 
high on my list, either. :)  I think there are also a few archives on the list recently about firewalls that may be 
helpful.


Good luck,
Corbett Consolvo
Texas State University

-----Original Message-----
From: The EDUCAUSE Security Constituent Group Listserv [mailto:SECURITY () LISTSERV EDUCAUSE EDU] On Behalf Of 
Disterhaft, Brian
Sent: Monday, April 14, 2008 1:57 PM
To: SECURITY () LISTSERV EDUCAUSE EDU
Subject: [SECURITY] CheckPoint vs ASA

To all:

In the near future, I will be faced with the task of replacing our aging
firewall (CheckPoint FW-1 running on IPSO).  CheckPoint has served us
very well for a number of years and it's the only firewall platform
(outside of Microsoft ISA Server) that I a familiar with.  However, I
have grown increasingly frustrated with the hefty pricetag for
support/software subscriptions as well as the quality of support
received from CheckPoint.

I have looked into alternatives, and at this point have decided that
Cisco's ASA appliance would be a viable option at a much lower annual
cost.  Support, Performance, VPN capabilities and integrated IPS were
factors in the decision.

Realizing this is a lot like asking a GM vs. Ford question, I'd like to
hear experiences from those on the list that have faced a similar
situation or are currently using ASA.  My main concern revolves around
the management of ASA as I've heard that it can be cumbersome especially
for those whose experience lies with platforms like CheckPoint.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Brian M. Disterhaft
Systems and Network Manager
Ripon College
Phone: (920) 748-8381
EMail: disterhaftb () ripon edu