What Is Unified Threat Management?

Key takeaways

A unified threat management (UMT) system is an information security (InfoSec) system that integrates multiple protective measures into one solution.

• You can strengthen security by using UTM systems that filter traffic, block malware, encrypt connections, prevent intrusions, and restrict access to unsafe sites, providing centralized, proactive control over key network risks.

• Choose UTM when you want unified tools and simpler management; choose next-generation firewalls (NGFW) when you need advanced, customizable control.

• You can learn more about protecting against malware such as viruses, trojans, botnets, and spyware by exploring a career as an information security analyst.

Explore the features of UMT systems and how they compare to next-generation firewalls. To learn more about the day-to-day tasks of an information technology (IT) professional, enroll in the Google IT Support Professional Certificate program, where you can go from a beginning learner to job readiness in about three to six months. 

What is unified threat management?

UTM, or unified threat management, is an information security (InfoSec) system that integrates multiple protective measures into a single solution. It serves as a centralized point of control, providing comprehensive protection against malware, including:

• Viruses

• Trojans

• Ransomware

• Botnets

• Spyware

• Rootkits

IT teams frequently employ UTM systems to protect organizations’ digital assets from unforeseen threats. Rather than implementing individual security solutions, which can be costly and complex, a UTM system combines them into one platform. It is an efficient and cost-effective approach to monitoring security threats and attacks. 

UTM solutions have been acknowledged and embraced within the federal government as well. In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) partnered with Applied Visions, Inc. in a $16.3 million agreement to create a robust UTM system capable of identifying cyber vulnerabilities in code [1].

What is a unified threat management system?

As a combination of varied safety solutions, a unified threat manager helps you meet an array of security requirements. The most common features found in a UTM include:

• Firewall: For screening inbound and outbound traffic for network breach attempts

• Antivirus: To monitor internal networks and impede viruses from affecting organizations’ systems and connected devices

• Anti-malware: For defending against known and unknown malware through sandboxing and other filtration methods

• Virtual private network (VPN): For creating a secure network connection within a public network, allowing private data transmission through encryption

• Intrusion prevention system (IPS): To analyze data packets for known threat patterns, swiftly halting attacks upon recognition

• Web filtering: To prevent access to risky websites or URLs by blocking them from loading on users' devices

What is the difference between UTM and next-generation firewalls?

Next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) and UTM systems, though seemingly similar, have notable differences. UTM, often seen as an extension of NGFWs, combines NGFW components with additional security capabilities.

NGFWs primarily function as firewalls, except with more advanced technologies such as a built-in intrusion prevention system (IPS) and machine learning algorithms. UTMs encompass these features while also incorporating other security technologies to address other threats. UTMs combine these security tools into a single solution for better management and a faster response. 

Read more: What Is an Intrusion Detection System?

The choice between an NGFW and a UTM depends on factors such as company size, the expertise of the security staff, and security needs. UTM systems may be beneficial for small to midsize companies with limited security personnel. On the other hand, larger companies with experienced IT security teams may deploy NGFW solutions that allow them to customize their security management better.

What is the difference between UTM and SIEM?

Security information and event management (SIEM) focuses on logging security data and generating reports after a security event has occurred, whereas UTM focuses on preventing threats from occurring. 

Related terms

• Cybersecurity

• Computer forensic investigator

• InfoSec

• Penetration tester

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