Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) by Palo Alto Networks is an AI and machine learning-powered network security platform that provides comprehensive threat prevention, detection, and response capabilities across all attack vectors. The platform utilizes inline deep learning models to proactively analyze and stop unknown zero-day threats in real-time, detecting 96% of web-based Cobalt Strike and 90% of unknown injection attacks. Operating through a single-pass architecture, it performs Layer 7 traffic inspection and implements security at both network and application layers while supporting TLS/SSL decryption including TLS 1.3 and HTTP/2. The NGFW delivers protection across physical, virtual, containerized, and cloud environments with consistent policy enforcement and operates with zero-trust network security principles. It provides comprehensive visibility across IoT and connected devices, enables identity-based security controls through cloud identity provider integration, and includes native SD-WAN capabilities for secure branch connectivity. The platform features signature-based detection, automated threat prevention, and real-time security updates that synchronize across interconnected firewalls within seconds.
