Unified threat management (UTM) refers to a network solutions (single security appliance) that integrates the capabilities of several security products into one all-inclusive security console. The all-in-one solution is much easier for an organization to manage than several different security solutions, reducing the complexity. This is most popular among small businesses because it provides an affordable alternative to purchasing each security solution separately. UTMs are commonly used in branch offices, home offices, banking, retail, and midsize companies.
UTM devices are often packaged as network security appliances that can help protect networks against combined security threats, including malware and attacks that simultaneously target separate parts of the network.
UTM helps to mitigate a lot of challenges network administrators face such as; securing the network from viruses, malware, or malicious attachments by scanning the incoming data using Deep Packet Inspection. Preventing attacks before they enter the network by inspecting the packet headers, also prevents access to unwanted websites by installing enhanced web filtering. It also provides ability to update automatically with the latest security updates, anti-virus definitions, and new features so that minimal manual intervention is required beyond initial set-up and enable administrators to manage a wide range of security functions with a single management console.
UTM solutions provide additional benefits for companies in strictly regulated industries. Appliances that use identity-based security to report on user activity while enabling policy creation based on user identity meet the requirements of regulatory compliance such as HIPPA, CIPA, and GLBA that require access controls and auditing that meet control data leakage.