Overview

KerioControl Firewall as a Service (FWaaS) offers a dynamic licensing model tailored for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and distributors. This model provides flexibility to support varying numbers of devices and appliances while aligning billing with usage. However, understanding its unique "user = 5 devices" structure is essential to avoid unexpected charges.

Information

1. Licensing and Billing Basics

• User Definition: 1 user = 5 devices.

• Billing Formula: Monthly billing is based on the peak number of devices connected during the month, divided by 5.

  Examples:

  • 75 devices ➝ 15 users (75 ÷ 5)

  • 3 devices ➝ billed for minimum 5 users

• Minimum Charge: Always billed for at least 5 users, even if fewer devices are connected.

• Zero Devices: No charge if no devices are connected.

2. Licensing Models

A. One License Per Appliance

• Each firewall appliance is licensed and billed individually.

• Devices connected to that appliance determine its billing.

• Minimum charge of 5 users per appliance, even if only 1 device connects.

Example:

• Appliance A: 3 devices ➝ 0.6 users ➝ rounded up to 1 ➝ billed for 5 users

• Appliance B: 6 devices ➝ 1.2 users ➝ rounded up to 2 ➝ billed for 5 users

B. One License for Multiple Appliances

• A single license covers multiple appliances.

• Billing is based on total peak device usage across all appliances.

• This model is often more cost-effective.

Example:

• 5 Appliances with a combined 75 devices ➝ 75 ÷ 5 = 15 users ➝ billed for 15 users

• If total devices = 15 ➝ billed for 5 users (minimum)

3. Billing Report Details

• License Key: Identifies your license.

• Appliance Details: Unique Reminder IDs for each appliance.

• Users to Pay: Based on total or individual device counts.

• Real-Time Monitoring: Use AppManager for usage visibility.

• Future Feature: GFI AppManager will soon include billing reports.

4. Avoiding Unexpected Charges

• Monitor Usage: Regularly check device connections.

• Set Limits: Restrict users below the max bundle size (up to 10,000 users).

5. Best Practices

• Implement Controls: Use network policies to manage device access.

• Stay Updated: Regularly review reports and connect with GFI for help.

• Proactive Licensing: Adjust licenses to prevent disruptions or extra costs.

Summary

KerioControl FWaaS licensing is flexible and scalable, but requires careful monitoring due to its "1 user = 5 devices" billing logic. Understanding whether to license per appliance or across multiple appliances can help MSPs minimize costs and improve efficiency.

FAQ

1. What happens if I only connect 1 device to an appliance?
You’ll still be billed for the minimum of 5 users, covering up to 25 devices.

2. Can I save money by using one license for multiple appliances?
Yes. Combining multiple appliances under one license helps consolidate device counts and often reduces total billed users.

3. How can I track real-time device usage?
Use GFI AppManager to monitor device connections. Billing report integration is also planned in future updates.