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Windows Firewall Control VS SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

Compare Windows Firewall Control VS SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager and see what are their differences

Windows Firewall Control logo Windows Firewall Control

Windows Firewall Control is not the built in firewall system in the Windows operating systems.

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager logo SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

SolarWinds is a leading provider of powerful and affordable IT infrastructure management software. Make IT look easy.
  • Windows Firewall Control Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-06
  • SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-10-23

Windows Firewall Control features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Windows Firewall Control offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it simple for users to configure and manage their firewall settings without needing advanced technical knowledge.
  • Customization Options
    The software allows for extensive customization, enabling users to create granular rules for both inbound and outbound traffic, ensuring high levels of security tailored to individual needs.
  • Notifications
    WFC provides real-time notifications when a new program tries to connect to the internet, allowing users to approve or block the application on the spot.
  • Profile Management
    It includes profile management features, enabling quick switching between different security profiles, such as work, home, or public network settings.
  • Integration
    Seamlessly integrates with the native Windows Firewall, offering an additional layer of control without conflicting with built-in Windows security features.
  • Low Resource Usage
    The application runs efficiently without consuming a significant amount of system resources, ensuring that it does not negatively impact system performance.

Possible disadvantages of Windows Firewall Control

  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly design, users with no background knowledge in network security might still find it somewhat challenging to understand all available features and settings.
  • Advanced Features Not Free
    While the basic version of WFC is free, access to more advanced features requires a paid license, which may not be ideal for all users, especially those looking for a completely free solution.
  • Limited Support
    Support options are somewhat limited compared to other commercial firewall products, potentially causing delays in resolving user issues.
  • Compatibility Issues
    There are occasional compatibility issues with certain third-party security software, which could cause conflicts or reduced functionality.
  • Complexity for Novice Users
    While powerful, the numerous options and settings can overwhelm novice users, resulting in misconfigurations that could compromise security.

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager features and specs

  • Automated Configuration Backup
    SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager (NCM) automatically backs up device configurations, reducing the risk of data loss and ensuring easy recovery in case of misconfigurations or device failures.
  • Compliance Management
    NCM includes compliance management tools that help organizations adhere to industry standards and internal policies by monitoring and reporting on configuration compliance across the network infrastructure.
  • Change Management
    The software provides a robust change management system that logs all changes made to network device configurations. It helps in auditing and verifying that changes are authorized and properly implemented.
  • Multi-Vendor Support
    NCM supports a wide range of network device vendors, making it versatile and useful in heterogeneous network environments.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The intuitive user interface makes it easy for network administrators to manage configurations, set up compliance rules, and monitor network health.

Possible disadvantages of SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

  • High Cost
    SolarWinds NCM can be expensive, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. The licensing and maintenance costs can add up over time.
  • Complex Initial Setup
    The initial setup and configuration of NCM can be complex and time-consuming, requiring a good understanding of the network environment and the software itself.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running SolarWinds NCM can be resource-intensive, requiring substantial server resources, which may necessitate hardware upgrades for optimal performance.
  • Learning Curve
    While the interface is user-friendly, there is still a learning curve for users who are not familiar with network configuration management systems. Training may be required to fully utilize all features.
  • Occasional Performance Issues
    Some users report occasional performance issues, such as slow load times and glitches, particularly in large, complex network environments.

Analysis of Windows Firewall Control

Overall verdict

  • Windows Firewall Control is generally considered a good tool for those who need more robust control over their Windows Firewall. It has received positive reviews for its intuitive interface and powerful features that go beyond the default Windows Firewall settings.

Why this product is good

  • Windows Firewall Control (WFC) by Binisoft is a popular tool that enhances the native Windows Firewall management capabilities. It offers a more user-friendly interface, as well as additional features such as notifications for outbound connections, simpler rule management, and enhanced filtering options. This can provide more control and visibility over network traffic for users who need advanced firewall configuration.

Recommended for

    Windows Firewall Control is recommended for users who are looking for an advanced, yet easy-to-use firewall management tool. It is particularly beneficial for IT professionals, network administrators, and tech-savvy users who require fine-tuned control over their system's network security.

Analysis of SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

Overall verdict

  • SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager is generally considered a good tool for network configuration management.

Why this product is good

  • The tool offers comprehensive network automation and management capabilities, including configuration backups, compliance management, vulnerability assessments, and automatic updates. It helps in reducing downtime by allowing quick restoration of configurations and supports various network devices, making it suitable for diverse IT environments. Users appreciate its easy integration with other SolarWinds products and its user-friendly interface.

Recommended for

  • Network administrators looking to automate configuration tasks.
  • Organizations needing compliance and vulnerability checks for network configurations.
  • IT departments that require a reliable solution for configuration backups and disaster recovery.
  • Enterprises already utilizing other SolarWinds tools, seeking seamless integration.

Windows Firewall Control videos

Windows Firewall Control (WFC) - BiniSoft.org

More videos:

  • Review - Windows Firewall Control review-Promo2day

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager videos

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager Overview

More videos:

  • Review - What is SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Windows Firewall Control and SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager)
Monitoring Tools
62 62%
38% 38
Firewall
100 100%
0% 0
Log Management
0 0%
100% 100
Security & Privacy
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Windows Firewall Control and SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager, you can also consider the following products

TinyWall - Lightweight and non-intrusive firewall

Cisco DNA Center - Find and resolve network issues with Cisco DNA Center. Provides software-based network automation and assurance. Control and manage intent-based networks.

GlassWire - Visualize network activity in detail, get notified when new apps access the network, look out for...

F5 Advanced Firewall Manager - Stop even the most massive and complex DDoS attacks with BIG-IP Advanced Firewall Manager: advanced data center protection against layer 3โ€“4 threats.

Emsisoft Online Armor Firewall - Emsisoft Online Armor Firewall is a freemium online firewall protection system by the Emsisoft that is based on the own independent protection technology of the Emsisoft.

Junos Space Security Director - Quickly understand threats & how to remediate them with Junos Space Security Director. This responsive network security management application empowers your security team to keep your company safe.