Advanced Firewall is a software appliance firewall and VPN system, complete with integrated security hardened operating system. It can be extended to a full Unified Threat Management (UTM) solution via add-on modules, combining multiple security functions on a single UTM appliance located at the network perimeter. Advanced Firewall provides the highest possible level of network security, with reduced initial and ongoing support costs compared to the traditional approach of multiple independent systems.
Perimeter Firewall
Perimeter security is always best; keeping the bad guys, their attacks, viruses, spyware and malware from ever getting to your network. Advanced Firewall controls what Internet services users can access, as well as the traditional role of blocking access to hackers and other Internet threats. Automatic fail-over to a standby Advanced Firewall system guards against the risk of hardware failure.
Load Balancer
Advanced Firewall is the ideal solution for the efficient and resilient use of multiple Internet connections. Both outgoing and incoming traffic can be load balanced across two or more connections, or use protocol specific routing to separate high priority traffic onto a dedicated connection. In the event of an ISP/connection failure, all affected traffic is automatically re-routed to an alternate ISP/connection.
Internal Firewall
Often ignored, the threat from within can be greater than from external hackers. Advanced Firewall allows local networks and DeMilitarized Zones (DMZs) to be segregated into multiple physically separate zones, with policy based user-level control of who can access what systems and services in other zones. Such segregation protects mission critical systems and confidential information from accidental access, inquisitive users or malicious interference.
VPN Gateway
Advanced Firewall provides simple yet secure remote access to corporate networks. The integrated VPN gateway supports site-to-site (inter office) VPN connectivity to both SmoothWall and other manufacturers' systems, as well as clientless Secure Remote Access for mobile users, home workers and wireless (WiFi) connections.
Web Security and Content Filtering
Inadequate web security has led to increasing web delivery of spyware and malware. The SmoothGuardian module protects against web threats by blocking spyware and browser exploits, controlling the use of active code such as ActiveX and JavaScript, and by anti-virus scanning web pages and file downloads. 
Pornography and all objectionable content is blocked, access to non work-related content can be controlled and limited to specific times, as can the download of executable and potentially copyright files.
Email Security and Anti-Spam
The SmoothZap module enforces email security at the network perimeter, before threats reach their intended mail server or client target. SmoothZap incorporates the highly effective Mailshell anti-spam engine which combines content analysis with sender reputation checking and bulk email detection via continuous updates to detection signatures.
Bandwidth Management (QoS)
If you want to prioritize interactive traffic such as VoIP and web browsing for consistent performance and quality while maximizing the utilization of Internet connections, then the SmoothTraffic module is your solution.
User Authentication
Policy based access control and user authentication are the keys to Advanced Firewall security; based on authenticated user identity rather than assumed identity derived from a computer's IP address. Microsoft Active Directory®, Novell eDirectory™ and other LDAP authentication servers can be used to verify user identity, their group membership and hence determine the security policies to be applied.
Hardware Platforms
Advanced Firewall exploits the power, reliability and versatility of commodity server hardware to provide a cost effective UTM solution of unrivaled performance and flexibility. Entry level servers from major manufacturers such as Dell, HP and IBM are a common choice due to their excellent price performance and on-site support services.
Instant Messaging
Control the use of Instant Messaging applications such as MSN, Yahoo, AOL and ICQ. As a fast and often more efficient alternative to email, instant messaging use is growing every day. However, when unmonitored it can encourage misuse, time-wasting and expose organizations to significant legal risks. Guardian incorporates tools to help managers block, monitor, log or censor IM conversations, so that misuse can be minimized and its advantages can be more easily evaluated.