This thesis explores the problems that exist today with perimeter security in data communications specifically the disparate architecture that exists to mitigate risk. Currently there are many different components to the enterprise security perimeter that are not cohesive and do not collaborate well to form an efficient, scalable, operationally supportable gateway design. The thesis breaks down this problem by illustrating the shortcomings of current technologies. These illustrations are used in conjunction with published research and authored research to provide solid footing for the idea of a unified threat management or UTM model. In this model, threat prevention techniques are consolidated into a single logical operating environment that leverages advances in next generation firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, content filtering and antivirus technologies. The results of this investigation are provided in a matrix that shows strengths and weaknesses with a consolidated unified model
