Palo Alto Networks Enterprise Firewall PA-455

The Palo Alto Networks PA-455 is a versatile, mid-range firewall designed to deliver robust security and seamless connectivity for branch offices, midsize businesses, and distributed enterprise environments. Part of the PA-400 Series, this Next-Generation Firewall combines advanced machine learning capabilities with high throughput and intelligent traffic management to prevent known and unknown threats.

The PA-455 offers a firewall throughput of 3.6 Gbps and supports up to 300,000 concurrent sessions, making it highly effective for environments requiring high performance and reliability. Its design includes multiple network interfaces—two SFP/RJ-45 combo ports and six RJ-45 ports—alongside options for Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing for flexible connectivity and ease of deployment.

Operating on PAN-OS 11.1, the PA-455 leverages Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) for streamlined setup and includes built-in Trusted Platform Module (TPM) technology to enhance device security. It integrates deeply with Palo Alto’s centralized management system, Panorama, enabling users to monitor and manage multiple firewalls from a unified interface. With a compact, fanless design and optional power redundancy, it’s adaptable to various physical setups, from equipment racks to wall-mounted deployments.

The PA-455 also inspects encrypted traffic and automatically recommends policies using cloud-based machine learning, ensuring protection against evolving cyber threats. It supports advanced security features like multi-factor authentication and TLS/SSL decryption, enhancing overall security while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Ideal for industries such as retail, healthcare, and financial services, this firewall delivers comprehensive application visibility, real-time threat prevention, and a foundation for Zero Trust security strategies. The PA-455 is a reliable choice for organizations looking to balance high security standards with operational efficiency in today’s complex network environments.

Overview

• The PA-455 firewall is part of the PA-400 Series by Palo Alto Networks.
• Specifically designed for small to midsize enterprises, retail branches, and remote offices.
• Leverages PAN-OS 11.1, providing robust network protection with advanced machine learning (ML) capabilities.
• Focused on scalability, high availability, and high-performance threat prevention.

Key Features

• Machine Learning (ML) Integration: Detects and mitigates unknown threats in real-time.
• Flexible Deployment Options: Can be installed on flat surfaces, wall-mounted, or rack-mounted.
• Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP): Enables fast, automated deployments.
• Trusted Platform Module (TPM): Enhances device security with cryptographic protection.
• Dual Power Support: Option for a second power adapter for added redundancy.

Networking Features

• Multiple Connectivity Options: Two SFP/RJ-45 combo ports and six RJ-45 ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds.
• Power over Ethernet (PoE): Four ports with a 91 W budget for devices like access points and cameras.
• Management Interfaces: Dual console options (RJ-45 and Micro USB) for versatile management.

Security & Connectivity Features

• Full Layer 7 Inspection: Inspects applications and threats across all ports.
• IoT Visibility: Identifies IoT devices and applies policies based on behavior analysis.
• Encrypted Traffic Inspection: Supports TLS 1.3, ensuring security across encrypted traffic.
• User-Based Policy Controls: Policies adapt based on user roles and behaviors.
• Integration with MFA: Enhances user authentication without changes to applications.

Technical Specifications

• Throughput: 3.6 Gbps for firewall, 2.3 Gbps for threat prevention, and 1.8 Gbps for IPSec VPN.
• Concurrent Sessions: Supports up to 300,000 sessions.
• New Sessions per Second: Up to 56,000.
• Storage: 128 GB eMMC for local storage and logging.
• Power Consumption: Average 50 W, maximum 60 W.
• Dimensions: 1.7” H x 9.4” D x 15.4” W; weight of 9.8 lbs (standalone).
• Compliance: Meets cTUVus, CB, FCC Class B, and CE Class B standards.

Use Cases by Industry

• Retail: Provides branch-level security for high transaction environments, allowing secure PoE connections for in-store devices.
• Healthcare: Ensures secure access to sensitive data in clinical and telehealth applications with strong encryption and real-time threat prevention.
• Education: Manages policies and access controls for students and faculty, providing visibility and controls over unauthorized content.

Use Cases by Application

• Remote Work Support: Adapts policies for remote access, protecting data as employees connect from various locations.
• IoT Security: Detects and categorizes IoT devices, applying appropriate policies to secure connected devices.
• Compliance Monitoring: Logs and monitors network activity, helping meet industry compliance requirements in real-time.

Advanced Security Services

• Advanced Threat Prevention: Detects and blocks malware, spyware, and malicious URLs.
• WildFire Malware Prevention: Analyzes and blocks malicious files using AI and global threat intelligence.
• URL Filtering: Controls access to malicious or unwanted websites, safeguarding users from phishing attacks.

Management & Operational Efficiency

• Centralized Management: Unified control over multiple firewalls through Panorama.
• Predictive Analytics: Monitors capacity and predicts health issues to avoid disruptions.
• Cloud Identity Engine: Manages user-based security policies for seamless Zero Trust enforcement.

Environmental Specifications

• Operating Temperature: Ranges from 32°F to 104°F, suitable for various environments.
• Passive Cooling: Fanless design ideal for silent operation, reducing noise in office setups.

Conclusion

1. The PA-455 offers powerful and flexible protection suited for midsize enterprises and branch offices.
2. Zero Touch Provisioning and TPM integration enhance deployment speed and device security.
3. Flexible PoE options support connected devices, making it versatile for retail and office setups.
4. Comprehensive security features ensure robust protection for diverse application and user needs.
5. Integrated ML and centralized management streamline operations and reduce security management complexity.