Zyxel Zywall P1

Security for remotely accessing a network

Working from home or away from your office is commonplace, but it can pose a real headache for IT managers looking to ensure network security. Zyxel's Zywall P1 is a personal firewall that aims to combat the security threats posed by employees remotely accessing corporate networks.

The device is stylishly designed with a series of LED indicators, both wide and local area network ports and a mini USB socket for power.

An external power supply unit is offered as an alternative, but the manual warns that using this with the USB cable still attached may render the device " useless". It is something Zyxel really should sort out.

Installation and setup via the web interface is simple and a range of settings are available. However, the main draw of the Zywall P1 is its ability to receive instructions remotely. This allows the firewall to be set up and maintained by an IT manager whether the employee is based in or out of the office.

As expected, it also features virtual private network client support, while the network outbreak detection will highlight suspicious activity and help to contain any attacks.

The Zywall P1 doesn't do itself any favours in only working with wired networks, especially at this price. But it's not possible to set up profiles: with a portable device it's likely that you'll want to use it on a various networks, each with their own security policies.

Although its size makes the Zywall P1 a truly portable device, it's certainly not cheap. At £149 ex VAT per unit, costs will start to rocket if you're looking to secure anything more than a small network.