Protecting organizations from cyberattacks starts with a network security platform as the cornerstone of an effective network security strategy. Security tools such as next-generation firewalls, cloud-delivered SASE, threat prevention, URL filtering, DNS security, artificial intelligence for operations and IoT security are essential to protect organizations from evasive threats and malware.

Here are a few important cybersecurity trends that impact network security and NGFWs:

• Software firewalls take center stage.
• Zero Trust is catching on.
• Machine learning redefines the NGFW.
• Cloud-delivered security services enable rapid response.
• AIOps streamlines network security operations.

Given these factors and the importance of NGFWs to cybersecurity, procuring firewalls is a big responsibility. Read this guide to understand common network security challenges and learn how to craft a request for proposal (RFP) that ensures a successful adoption and exceptional return on your security investment.

This guide explains the challenges and the general approach to addressing each topic. In addition, you’ll find sample questions for each category that you can adapt to your procurement.