WatchGuard Firebox T45-W-PoE Network Security/Firewall Appliance

Experience enterprise-grade protection in a compact, easy-to-deploy package. The WatchGuard Firebox T45-W-PoE delivers high-throughput, multipurpose security for small offices, retail environments, and distributed locations. With optional Wi‑Fi 6 integration, robust VPN capabilities, and a tabletop design, this firewall appliance unifies secure networking with practical management—empowering you to guard your network with confidence while simplifying administration.

• Up to 3.94 Gbps firewall throughput for fast, reliable protection across all your traffic streams, ensuring secure access without sacrificing performance for core business applications.
• 5 x 1 Gb Ethernet ports provide flexible, scalable connectivity for internal networks, DMZ segments, and management interfaces, making it straightforward to structure a secure chain of trust.
• Supports up to 30 Branch Office VPNs, enabling secure, encrypted connections to remote sites and distributed teams while maintaining centralized policy control and visibility.
• Optional integrated Wi‑Fi 6 wireless module extends enterprise-grade wireless coverage, delivering improved client performance, reliability, and support for modern wireless devices.
• PoE-capable tabletop appliance designed for small offices and retail environments, offering a compact footprint without compromising on security features or management capabilities.

Technical Details of WatchGuard Firebox T45-W-PoE

• Firewall throughput: Up to 3.94 Gbps—delivering strong throughput for complex security policies and real-time threat prevention.
• Interfaces: 5 x 1 Gb Ethernet ports for flexible network design and segmentation.
• VPN: Supports up to 30 Branch Office VPN tunnels to securely link multiple sites.
• Wireless option: Optional integrated Wi‑Fi 6 module for high‑performance wireless access at the edge.
• Form factor: Tabletop appliance suited for desks, counters, and small network closets.
• Security: Enterprise-grade security features designed for branch offices and retail environments.
• Power: PoE-capable (Power over Ethernet) variant supports flexible deployment with compatible switches and access points.

How to install WatchGuard Firebox T45-W-PoE

Setting up the Firebox T45-W-PoE is a straightforward process designed to minimize downtime while maximizing security posture. Begin by placing the unit on a stable surface, such as a desk or dedicated workspace, near your network edge. Ensure you have a reliable power source and access to your internal network switch or router so you can connect management and data interfaces during the configuration window.

• Unbox and inspect: Confirm all components are present and undamaged. Remove protective packaging and locate the power supply, console or management cables, and any optional Wi‑Fi module if included.
• Initial connections: Connect the WAN/internet edge to the appropriate 1 Gb port designated for external connectivity. Use one of the remaining 1 Gb ports for the internal network or DMZ as your design requires. If you’re using PoE devices, ensure the PoE-capable configuration aligns with your switch.
• Power up and access the management interface: Power on the appliance and access the Fireware Web UI at the device’s default IP address. Create a strong administrator password and configure initial access controls to prevent unauthorized changes.
• Configure security policies: Define firewall rules, threat prevention settings, and intrusion prevention profiles aligned with your business needs. Establish security zones, NAT policies, and traffic shaping to optimize performance for critical applications.
• Set up VPNs and Wi‑Fi (if applicable): Create and test Branch Office VPN tunnels to connect remote sites securely. If you added the Wi‑Fi 6 module, configure SSIDs, security (WPA3), and guest networks with appropriate access controls to protect sensitive resources.
• Monitor and refine: Activate monitoring dashboards, log retention policies, and alert notifications. Periodically review security alerts, VPN status, and traffic patterns to fine-tune policies for ongoing protection and optimal performance.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the primary use case for the WatchGuard Firebox T45-W-PoE? It is designed to deliver enterprise-grade security for small offices and retail environments, combining high-throughput firewall protection with flexible connectivity and optional Wi‑Fi 6 coverage for a unified edge network.
• How many VPN connections does it support? The appliance supports up to 30 Branch Office VPN tunnels, enabling secure, scalable connections to multiple remote sites while maintaining centralized policy management.
• Does it include Wi‑Fi capabilities? The model offers an optional integrated Wi‑Fi 6 wireless module, providing robust wireless performance without requiring an additional controller in many deployments.
• Is PoE available on this device? Yes. The T45-W-PoE variant is Power over Ethernet capable, allowing you to power compatible endpoints and devices through the same network switch ports used for data.
• What kind of environments is this appliance best suited for? It is ideal for small offices, retail locations, and multi-site branches that need scalable security features, straightforward management, and the flexibility to add wireless coverage as needed.
• How does the appliance help with ongoing security management? It provides enterprise-grade security policies, threat prevention, monitoring dashboards, and alerting to help you detect and respond to threats quickly while maintaining control over network traffic and remote connections.