Hardware firewall WatchGuard Firebox M690 — 4.6 Gbit/s firewall throughput, 29.7 Gbit/s UDP, 3.2 Gbit/s VPN

Firebox M590 and M690 firewalls are designed for midsize and distributed enterprises that need to secure growing network traffic, including increased bandwidth, encrypted connections, and video usage. Built on a multi-core operating system, these appliances run multiple security scanning engines in parallel to maintain performance while providing comprehensive perimeter protection. Modular expansion bays and optional Power over Ethernet (PoE+) support enable flexible deployment and simplified powering of peripheral devices.

Advantages

The WatchGuard Unified Security Platform integrates firewall, authentication, endpoint security and Wi-Fi management into a single console, reducing operational complexity and enabling automation of routine tasks. WatchGuard Cloud offers centralized visibility with more than 100 dashboards and reports for fast trend analysis and deep dives into incidents. Modular network expansion and redundant power options provide adaptability and high availability for evolving network environments.

Key specifications

• Firewall throughput: up to 29.7 Gbps; with all security scanning engines enabled: 4.6 Gbps (listed as 4600 Mbit/s)
• All logging and reporting included with purchase; 100+ dashboards and reports (including PCI and HIPAA)
• Expansion module bay for customizable port configurations (options include 4 × 1 Gb copper, 4 × 1 SFP, 2 × 1 SFP+, or 4-port multispeed)
• Optional 4-port multispeed PoE+ module to power devices such as Wi‑Fi access points and cameras
• Redundant power supplies for increased availability
• Mean time between failures (MTBF): 337443 hours
• DDoS protection
• Ethernet LAN data rates supported: 10/100/1000/10000 Mbit/s

How to use

Install the Firebox appliance in a rack position with access to the network edge and connect WAN and LAN interfaces according to your network design. Use the available expansion bay to add the appropriate module for your required port density and, if needed, install the optional PoE+ module to power access points or cameras. Manage device configuration, unified security services and reporting through the WatchGuard Cloud or centralized management console to apply policies, monitor activity, and run reports.

Recommendations

For midsize or distributed deployments, enable WatchGuard Unified Security services and WatchGuard Cloud reporting to maintain visibility into encrypted traffic and evolving threats. Choose expansion modules that match current port density needs while allowing room for future growth; consider redundant power supplies where high availability is required.