Dear Valued Client,

The National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) introduces Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS), a centrally managed cybersecurity service for all MDAs consuming NITA-U IP and Data Centre services.

FWaaS provides enterprise-grade network protection without requiring MDAs to procure hardware, licenses, or manage complex security infrastructure.
 

What is Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS)?
FaaS is a cloud-based firewall solution hosted and managed by NITA-U. It protects government networks by automatically detectng and blocking cyber threats, malicious traffic, and unauthorized access before they reach MDA systems.
 

Each MDA receives a dedicated firewall instance, centrally hosted but locally controlled.
 

What Problems Does FWaaS Solve? (Simplified Use Cases)

1. Protects Government Systems from Hackers
Before: Government platforms were exposed to attempted cyber attacks.
With FWaaS: Malicious and suspicious traffic is blocked before reaching MDA systems.
2. Prevents Staff from Opening Harmful Websites
Before: Unsafe websites and links could compromise systems.
With FWaaS: Known malicious and unsafe websites are automatically filtered.
3. Controls Unwanted Applications
Before: Risky or unauthorized applications could expose sensitive data.
With FWaaS: MDAs can allow or block applications based on their security needs.
4. Enables Secure Remote Work
Before: Remote access introduced security risks.
With FWaaS: Secure, zero-trust access ensures only authorized users connect remotely.
5. Isolates Systems to Stop Spread of Attacks
Before: A breach in one system could affect others.
With FWaaS: Each MDA network is securely segmented to contain threats.

What MDAs Receive (At No Cost)
- Dedicated firewall instance
- Protection against cyber threats and malicious activity
- Visibility and control over network usage
- Ability to manage security rules and policies
- Knowledge transfer to MDA ICT teams
- Ongoing technical support from NITA-U
- No hardware, licensing, or maintenance costs\

How It Works
- NITA-U deploys a dedicated firewall instance
- ICT teams receive hands-on training
- MDAs manage their own security policies
- NITA-U provides continuous platform support

Interested in Joining?

MDAs wishing to onboard or obtain more information may contact:
FWaaS@nita.go.ug or ugsupport.go.ug/support-portal/

National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U)
Palm Courts, Plot 7A, Rotary Avenue (Lugogo Bypass), Kampala
+256 417 801 049 | www.nita.go.ug