# Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW vs Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls Comparison
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## AI Generated Summary
- **G2 reviewers report** that Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls excel in providing detailed visibility into network activity, allowing users to see exactly who is on the network and what applications they are using. This feature is particularly praised for its ability to create rules based on user activity rather than IP addresses, which many find unmatched.
- **Users say** that Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW offers a user-friendly dashboard that consolidates a wealth of information, making it easy to monitor network traffic and active applications. This simplicity is a significant advantage for teams looking for straightforward management without sacrificing control.
- **According to verified reviews** , Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls receive higher satisfaction ratings overall, reflecting a strong reputation for reliability and ease of use. Reviewers highlight the advanced security rule creation capabilities, which streamline the process of managing network security.
- **Reviewers mention** that while both products provide robust security features, Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW is noted for its ease of policy enforcement and comprehensive threat prevention capabilities. Users appreciate how it simplifies the management of security policies across cloud environments.
- **G2 reviewers highlight** that Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls have a slight edge in terms of support quality, with users noting that the product has been a reliable partner in business operations. This is contrasted with Cloud NGFW, which, while still rated positively, does not quite match the same level of support satisfaction.
- **Users express** that both products are effective in their own right, but Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls are particularly favored for their advanced logging and reporting features. Reviewers appreciate the depth of insights provided, which help in making informed security decisions, while Cloud NGFW is recognized for its solid performance in similar areas.



| | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Star Rating** | 4.3 out of 5 | 4.5 out of 5 | 
| **Total Reviews** | 142 | 170 | 
| **Largest Market Segment** | Mid-Market (38.6% of reviews) | Mid-Market (47.0% of reviews) | 
| **Entry Level Price** | No pricing available | No pricing available | 

---
## Top Pros & Cons

### Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW

Pros:
- Threat Protection (13 reviews)
- Deployment Ease (10 reviews)

Cons:
- Expensive (14 reviews)
- Complex Configuration (8 reviews)

### Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls

Pros:
- Firewall Efficiency (14 reviews)
- Ease of Use (13 reviews)

Cons:
- Expensive (23 reviews)
- Difficult Learning Curve (12 reviews)

---
## Ratings Comparison
| Rating | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
  | **Meets Requirements** | 8.8 (130 reviews) | 8.9 (153 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Use** | 8.2 (129 reviews) | 8.3 (154 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Setup** | 8.1 (120 reviews) | 8.2 (138 reviews) | 
  | **Ease of Admin** | 8.2 (87 reviews) | 8.4 (107 reviews) | 
  | **Quality of Support** | 8.3 (118 reviews) | 8.2 (145 reviews) | 
  | **Has the product been a good partner in doing business?** | 8.7 (82 reviews) | 8.8 (105 reviews) | 
  | **Product Direction (% positive)** | 9.1 (123 reviews) | 9.2 (149 reviews) | 

---
## Pricing

### Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW

#### Entry-Level Pricing

No pricing available

#### Free Trial

Yes

### Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls

#### Entry-Level Pricing

No pricing available

#### Free Trial

No information available

---
## Features Comparison By Category

### Network Security

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW** | N/A | N/A |
| **Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls** | N/A | N/A |

#### Additional Functionality

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Penetration Testing** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Alerts/Notifications** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Audit Trail** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Anti Virus** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Vulnerability Scanning** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Remote Monitoring & Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **VPN** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Behavior Analytics** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Reporting/Analytics** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Real-Time Notifications** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Access Controls/Permissions** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **SSL Security** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Patch Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Event Logs** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Anomaly/Malware Detection** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **DNS Leak Protection** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Third-Party Integrations** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Server Monitoring** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Real-Time Monitoring** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Compliance Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Network Provisioning** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **API** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Email Alerts** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Security Auditing** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Intrusion Detection System** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Data Visualization** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Two-Factor Authentication** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Generative AI** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Firewalls** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **AI Copilot** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Anti Spam** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Threat Response** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Activity Monitoring** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Risk Alerts** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Data Loss Prevention** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Single Sign On** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Intrusion Prevention System** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Secure Login** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Policy Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Activity Dashboard** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

### Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW** | N/A | N/A |
| **Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls** | 8.8/10 | 68 |

#### Prevention

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Intrusion Prevention** | Not enough data | 9.1 (65 reviews) | 
| **Firewall** | Not enough data | 9.3 (64 reviews) | 
| **Encryption** | Not enough data | 8.9 (64 reviews) | 
| **Security hardening** | Not enough data | 9.0 (64 reviews) | 
| **Cloud Data Protection** | Not enough data | 8.3 (60 reviews) | 

#### Detection

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Intrusion Detection** | Not enough data | 9.0 (65 reviews) | 
| **Security Monitoring** | Not enough data | 8.9 (64 reviews) | 
| **Anti-Malware / Malware Detection** | Not enough data | 8.9 (64 reviews) | 

#### Administration

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Compliance** | Not enough data | 8.8 (62 reviews) | 
| **Administration Console -** | Not enough data | 8.8 (64 reviews) | 
| **API / integrations** | Not enough data | 8.6 (59 reviews) | 

#### Generative AI

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **AI Text Summarization** | Not enough data | 8.2 (20 reviews) | 

#### Agentic AI - Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Autonomous Task Execution** | Not enough data | 8.9 (6 reviews) | 
| **Proactive Assistance** | Not enough data | 8.6 (6 reviews) | 

### Firewall Software

| Product | Score | Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| **Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW** | 8.5/10 | 126 |
| **Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls** | 8.3/10 | 113 |

#### Administration

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Policy Management** | 8.8 (118 reviews) | 8.7 (105 reviews) | 
| **Logging and Reporting** | 8.5 (108 reviews) | 8.6 (105 reviews) | 
| **Application Gateway** | 8.4 (102 reviews) | 8.3 (97 reviews) | 
| **Concurrent Sessions** | 8.2 (101 reviews) | 8.4 (97 reviews) | 
| **Uptime Reporting** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Web Traffic Reporting** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Compliance Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Access Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Incident Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Audit Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Remote Monitoring & Management** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Agentic AI - Firewall Software

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Autonomous Task Execution** | Not enough data | 8.0 (10 reviews) | 
| **Adaptive Learning** | Not enough data | 7.5 (10 reviews) | 
| **AI/Machine Learning** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Functionality

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Virtual Private Network (VPN)** | 8.6 (102 reviews) | 8.7 (102 reviews) | 
| **Antivirus** | 8.5 (105 reviews) | 8.4 (97 reviews) | 
| **URL Filtering** | 8.7 (104 reviews) | 8.8 (99 reviews) | 
| **Availability** | 8.6 (100 reviews) | 8.8 (98 reviews) | 
| **IP Filtering** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Content Filtering** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Monitoring

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Load Balancing** | 8.2 (99 reviews) | 8.4 (96 reviews) | 
| **Continuous Analysis** | 8.5 (101 reviews) | 8.6 (97 reviews) | 
| **Intrusion Prevention** | 8.8 (109 reviews) | 8.8 (101 reviews) | 
| **Intrusion Detection** | 8.8 (99 reviews) | 8.7 (98 reviews) | 
| **Intrusion Detection System** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Intrusion Prevention System** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Generative AI

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **AI Text Summarization** | 7.5 (92 reviews) | 7.1 (29 reviews) | 
| **Generative AI** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

#### Artificial Intelligence - Firewall

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **AI Firewall** | Feature Not Available | 7.4 (17 reviews) | 

#### Additional Functionality

| Feature | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Spam Blocker** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Alerts/Escalation** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Role-Based Permissions** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Network Monitoring** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Visual Analytics** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Customizable Reports** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Real-Time Analytics** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Reporting & Statistics** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Anti Spam** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Activity Dashboard** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Real-Time Monitoring** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Real-Time Notifications** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Activity Tracking** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Hardware Integration** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Summary Reports** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Alerts/Notifications** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Access Controls/Permissions** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Real-Time Data** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Server Monitoring** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Two-Factor Authentication** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Log Access** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Reporting/Analytics** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Multi-Location** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **SSL Security** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Behavior Tracking** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **AI Copilot** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **API** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Event Logs** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Vulnerability Scanning** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Risk Alerts** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Single Sign On** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Dashboard Creation** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 
| **Monitoring** | Not enough data | Not enough data | 

---
## Categories
**Shared Categories (1):** [Firewall Software](https://www.g2.com/categories/firewall-software)


**Unique to Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls (1):** [Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)](https://www.g2.com/categories/intrusion-detection-and-prevention-systems-idps)


---
## Reviewer Demographics

### By Company Size

| Segment | Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW | Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls | 
|---|---|---|
| **Small-Business** | 28.6% | 18.3% | 
| **Mid-Market** | 38.6% | 47.0% | 
| **Enterprise** | 32.9% | 34.8% | 

### By Industry

#### Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW

- **Computer & Network Security:** 18.0%
- **Information Technology and Services:** 17.3%
- **Banking:** 6.8%
- **Telecommunications:** 5.3%
- **Financial Services:** 5.3%
- **Computer Software:** 4.5%
- **Internet:** 3.8%
- **Consulting:** 3.0%
- **Computer Networking:** 3.0%
- **Hospital & Health Care:** 3.0%
- **Other:** 30.1%

#### Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls

- **Information Technology and Services:** 20.2%
- **Computer & Network Security:** 13.5%
- **Banking:** 6.7%
- **Computer Software:** 6.1%
- **Financial Services:** 5.5%
- **Education Management:** 3.7%
- **Telecommunications:** 3.7%
- **Higher Education:** 3.7%
- **Airlines/Aviation:** 2.5%
- **Consulting:** 2.5%
- **Other:** 31.9%

---
## Alternatives

### Alternatives to Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW

- [Azure Firewall](https://www.g2.com/products/azure-firewall/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (31 reviews)
- [Netgate pfSense](https://www.g2.com/products/netgate-pfsense/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (326 reviews)
- [Sophos Firewall](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-firewall/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (869 reviews)
- [Check Point Next Generation Firewalls (NGFWs)](https://www.g2.com/products/check-point-next-generation-firewalls-ngfws/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (595 reviews)
- [FortiGate-VM NGFW](https://www.g2.com/products/fortigate-vm-ngfw/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (250 reviews)
- [ThreatLocker Zero Trust Platform](https://www.g2.com/products/threatlocker-zero-trust-platform/reviews) — 4.8/5 stars (514 reviews)
- [Zscaler Internet Access](https://www.g2.com/products/zscaler-internet-access/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (291 reviews)
- [Check Point Cloud Firewall (formerly CloudGuard Network Security)](https://www.g2.com/products/check-point-cloud-firewall-formerly-cloudguard-network-security/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (294 reviews)
- [WatchGuard Network Security](https://www.g2.com/products/watchguard-network-security/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (268 reviews)
- [SonicWall Next Generation Firewall](https://www.g2.com/products/sonicwall-next-generation-firewall/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (154 reviews)

### Alternatives to Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls

- [Cisco Secure Firewall Threat Defense Virtual (formerly NGFWv)](https://www.g2.com/products/cisco-secure-firewall-threat-defense-virtual-formerly-ngfwv/reviews) — 4.2/5 stars (93 reviews)
- [Sophos Firewall](https://www.g2.com/products/sophos-firewall/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (869 reviews)
- [Check Point Next Generation Firewalls (NGFWs)](https://www.g2.com/products/check-point-next-generation-firewalls-ngfws/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (595 reviews)
- [Netgate pfSense](https://www.g2.com/products/netgate-pfsense/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (326 reviews)
- [Zscaler Internet Access](https://www.g2.com/products/zscaler-internet-access/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (291 reviews)
- [WatchGuard Network Security](https://www.g2.com/products/watchguard-network-security/reviews) — 4.7/5 stars (268 reviews)
- [FortiGate-VM NGFW](https://www.g2.com/products/fortigate-vm-ngfw/reviews) — 4.6/5 stars (250 reviews)
- [SonicWall Next Generation Firewall](https://www.g2.com/products/sonicwall-next-generation-firewall/reviews) — 4.1/5 stars (154 reviews)
- [Check Point Quantum Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)](https://www.g2.com/products/check-point-quantum-intrusion-prevention-system-ips/reviews) — 4.4/5 stars (69 reviews)
- [Barracuda CloudGen Firewall](https://www.g2.com/products/barracuda-cloudgen-firewall/reviews) — 4.5/5 stars (52 reviews)

---
## Top Discussions

### Palo Alto Networks Cloud NGFW

No discussions available for this product.

### Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls

- Title: [What is Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall used for?](https://www.g2.com/discussions/what-is-palo-alto-networks-next-generation-firewall-used-for) — 1 comment
  > **Top comment:** "It is an enterprise firewall solution which provides secure connection between two zones with features of firewall, IPS, Antivirus, DDOS protection, SSL..."

---
**Source:** [G2.com](https://www.g2.com) | [Comparison Page](https://www.g2.com/compare/palo-alto-networks-cloud-ngfw-vs-palo-alto-networks-next-generation-firewalls)