Firewalla has released Firewalla App 1.66 for Early Access users, introducing new features targeting network security, parental controls, AI-driven insights, and performance monitoring.
Device security
One of the main updates in this release is Device Active Protect, a feature aimed at implementing Zero Trust networking principles by automatically learning the trusted behaviours of devices on a network. Rather than require users to set up manual access rules, this feature restricts device access to only what is required, with all other activity blocked by default.
Firewalla App 1.66 reflects our ongoing mission to make enterprise-grade networking and security accessible to families and small businesses. From Zero Trust protections to AI-assisted performance insights, this release combines cutting-edge technology with everyday usability, according to Firewalla co-founder and CEO Jerry Chen.
Parental controls
The update also introduces a new parental control tool called Disturb. This function seeks to address concerns over excessive internet use by simulating poor network connectivity within selected apps. The design is intended to encourage users, particularly children, to take breaks without the need to shut down internet access altogether.
Threat protection enhancements
Firewalla has expanded support for its intrusion detection and prevention capabilities, deploying a multi-engine IDS/IPS model, including integration of Suricata, an open-source threat detection engine. This option is available to users with the Firewalla Gold Pro device, enabling faster and potentially more accurate identification of security threats on the network, complementing Firewalla’s own detection engines.
AI-based network insights
Firewalla App 1.66 introduces enhancements to FireAI, the platform’s built-in AI assistant. With this version, the assistant can now analyse network events and provide real-time troubleshooting suggestions. The aim is to help users better understand and resolve performance issues as they arise, potentially lowering the technical barrier for managing complex home and business networks.
Performance and usability updates
The new app also includes improved data usage tracking for customers operating multiple WAN connections. Dual-WAN users can now independently monitor, set limits, receive alerts, and access individual usage reports for each connection, providing more granular control over network bandwidth and costs.
Further updates in version 1.66 include enhanced IPv6 support, more descriptive VPN labels for easier management, WAN capability improvements, refinements to the user interface, and several bug fixes addressing previously reported issues.
Platform availability
The update is currently available in Early Access for both iOS and Android mobile platforms. Some features require the corresponding Firewalla Box version 1.981. Support for hardware devices including Gold Pro, Gold SE, Gold, Gold Plus, Purple, and Purple SE is scheduled to follow shortly.
The company stated that these updates are intended to provide home users and small businesses with tools commonly found in enterprise environments, focusing on a simplified experience through the mobile app. Firewalla devices and their app offer firewall management, VPN access, parental controls, and intrusion detection as part of their core functionality.
