PTA Launches Major Firewall Upgrade to Strengthen Cybersecurity

PTA Launches Major Firewall Upgrade to Strengthen Cybersecurity

 November 10, 2025  

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has initiated a large-scale firewall renewal and upgrade project aimed at bolstering the country’s digital defense systems and improving protection against modern cyber threats.

According to early estimates, the project’s budget ranges between Rs. 40 million and Rs. 120 million, depending on the model selection, software subscription period, and overall deployment scope.

Enhanced Security and Network Visibility

Once fully implemented, the upgraded firewall system will provide greater visibility, control, and resilience for Pakistan’s telecom and digital infrastructure.

The project involves upgrading network security systems at the PTA Headquarters as well as regional offices nationwide. This includes the procurement and installation of next-generation firewalls (NGFWs), renewal of key software licenses, and full integration with PTA’s data centers and monitoring units.

New Firewall Capabilities

The new system will include a range of advanced cybersecurity features, such as:

• Intrusion prevention systems (IPS)

• Malware and ransomware protection

• Web filtering and VPN security

• SSL traffic inspection

• Centralized network management

These features will allow the PTA to detect intrusion attempts, block unauthorized access, and monitor network traffic in real time, providing a stronger defense against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.

Integration and Coordination with National CERT

A major highlight of the project is its planned integration with the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT). This connection will enable real-time threat intelligence sharing and faster response to cyber incidents across government and telecom sectors.

Phased Implementation Plan

The firewall upgrade will be executed in multiple stages, including:

1. Assessment of existing systems

2. Procurement and installation of new hardware

3. Configuration and testing of security modules

4. Training and capacity building for PTA’s IT teams

In addition, the project includes a post-deployment maintenance phase to ensure 24/7 vendor support, regular security patches, and ongoing performance optimization for the next three to five years.

A Step Toward a Safer Digital Pakistan

The PTA’s firewall upgrade marks an important milestone in Pakistan’s cybersecurity modernization efforts. With the country’s increasing reliance on digital services, the initiative aims to strengthen national cyber resilience and ensure secure, uninterrupted connectivity for millions of users.