Good performance, responsive support, and an easy setup
Product version discussed: A200, A3800
Summary
We use Hillstone A-Series devices in office and public cloud environments, benefiting from excellent antivirus and VPN capabilities, along with strong data security features. However, improved integration with third-party security systems for enhanced cooperation would be advantageous.
Pros
"The antivirus is very good. "
Cons
"It would be helpful if they could integrate more with third-party security systems. "
What is our primary use case?
We use these devices in the office or in the public cloud environment to protect networks.
How has it helped my organization?
The antivirus, data security, and mailbox capabilities have been very useful to our clients. They are integral in terms of preventing threats.
What is most valuable?
The antivirus is very good.
It has VPN capabilities that are quite useful.
The data security features available to users are quite good.
What needs improvement?
It would be helpful if they could integrate more with third-party security systems. Often, a client will have deployed multiple security solutions into their network and the different brands need to cooperate together. There needs to be more integration freedom.
For how long have I used the solution?
I've been using the solution for two years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
The stability has been good.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
We use the product for small and medium-sized businesses. Their scalability is good. They have a lot of choices based on their performance. Even on one unit, they have multiple ports to support customers so that they can connect to different devices. I'd rate the scalability nine out of ten.
How are customer service and support?
Technical support is okay. We get technical support from HQ and they respond rapidly and give us a lot of good advice.
How would you rate customer service and support?
How was the initial setup?
It's an easy product to deploy. I'd rate the ease of deployment eight out of ten. I didn't have any initial difficulties when setting it up.
The time it takes to set up varies between a half day to a full day.
Usually, we build it with the customer about their network according to their requirements. We'll discuss everything with the engineer and install the devices in their network. After the installation and the conversion, we will test the features and the functions. If all the systems and the features are running well, then we will switch to production.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
The solution is cheaper than other Western brands. The pricing is reasonable. There are costs for the hardware as well as the license.
What other advice do I have?
I'm a technical consultant. I work with different versions of the solution.
I'd rate the product eight out of ten. The performance is good, and they have multiple models to choose from, so you have options for various requirements. The customer can select a suitable model that takes into account their traffic and likely growth over the next two to three years.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
Hybrid Cloud
If public cloud, private cloud, or hybrid cloud, which cloud provider do you use?
Alibaba
*Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer: consultant