Overview
NOTICE: Pitt IT is replacing Cisco ASA firewalls used by University departments with Palo Alto firewalls. Your department may be required to undergo a guided firewall migration. Learn more.
Palo Alto Networks is the official firewall technology of the University of Pittsburgh — offering advanced data security and protection against viruses, spyware, and application vulnerabilities.
Palo Alto Benefits
Palo Alto Next-Generation Firewalls provide University departments safety from external threats by utilizing industry-leading features, including:
- Enhanced application security
- Network malware protection that identifies new malware in minutes and automatically generates protective measures that are delivered to subscribers within an hour of detection
- DNS threat protection
- IPS protection through a two-pronged approach to stopping attacks:
- App-ID automatically blocks unwanted applications
- NSS-approved IPS engine scans user-specified applications for vulnerability exploits
- Data Filtering and File Blocking
- Increased encryption safety with GlobalProtect VPN access
Campus networks can also utilize Palo Alto firewalls to offer increased security with Private IP addressing, Active/Active redundant firewall configurations, and identity-based security policies that provide more control over security measures.
Detail
Department Migrations to Palo Alto Firewalls
Pitt IT is implementing Palo Alto Networks firewalls — replacing Cisco ASA technology — to maintain the University’s safety against evolving cyber threats. This process includes migrating all University departments over to Palo Alto firewalls.
- If your department currently uses Palo Alto firewalls — no action is needed.
- If you are unsure of your department’s firewall, contact Pitt IT for guidance.
- If your department does not use Palo Alto firewalls, request a guided migration from Pitt IT.
Request your migration or submit firewall-related questions via the Technology Help Desk with the following information:
- “PALO MIGRATION REQUEST” as the subject line
- @pitt username
- Department
- VLAN name (if possible)
Every department migration is supported and guided by our experts, who will ensure a smooth and timely process tailored to your departmental needs. No network downtime is expected and Pitt IT is available to answer questions before, during, and after a migration.
Pitt IT urges all University departments to complete their migrations to Palo Alto firewalls as soon as possible. Cisco has announced end-of-sale and end-of-life dates for Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA) releases.