ISLAMABAD — Pakistan Internet Firewall Upgrade is officially underway as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) embarks on a major nationwide project to reinforce its cybersecurity infrastructure and protect critical digital systems from emerging online threats.
The estimated cost of the project, according to official estimates, is likely to fall within the range of Rs. 40 million and Rs. 120 million, depending on the type of next-generation firewall (NGFW) models chosen, the duration of software subscriptions, and the overall scope of implementation.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Digital Shield
According to officials, the Pakistan Internet Firewall Upgrade is valued between Rs. 40 million and Rs. 120 million, depending on the selected next-generation firewall (NGFW) models, subscription duration, and implementation scope.
Once deployed, the Pakistan Internet Firewall Upgrade will provide PTA with broader visibility, control, and resilience across Pakistan’s telecom and digital infrastructure—networks increasingly targeted by sophisticated cyberattacks.
This plan includes a comprehensive revamping of the Network Security Framework at PTA Headquarters and its regional offices, inclusive of the procurement, installation, and integration of modern NGFWs. The upgrade also entails renewing essential software licenses and linking the new system with PTA’s data centers and network monitoring units.
Next-Generation Firewall Capabilities
The upgraded system will incorporate advanced security features such as:
- Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to detect and block malicious activity in real time.
- Web and content filtering to restrict harmful or unauthorized sites.
- Anti-malware and ransomware protection to stop digital infections before they spread.
- VPN and SSL inspection for secure communication and encrypted traffic analysis.
These will go a long way in protecting Pakistan’s national Internet infrastructure from hacking attempts, data breaches, and sophisticated cyber intrusions, and enhance the capabilities of the regulator to effectively monitor, analyze, and respond to threats in real time.
Integration with National CERT and 24/7 Vigilance
One of the key highlights of the project is the integration with the National Computer Emergency Response Team, or National CERT, for real-time information sharing and rapid coordination in case potential cyber incidents occur.
The system will also be equipped with unified management consoles for centralized control and active-passive failover configurations to provide for network continuity in case of technical failure or in conditions of cyber emergency.
Related: PTA to Enforce Data Localization and Enhanced Cybersecurity for Telecom Operators
A Step Toward National Cyber Resilience
It will be implemented in phases: starting with the detailed evaluation of PTA’s present network structure, followed by acquisition of the equipment, configuration of the system, and extensive performance testing.
The project includes a post-deployment maintenance phase to ensure sustainability, with vendor support on a 24/7 basis, and continuous updating of the software for the next three to five years. Also, PTA intends to conduct capacity-building sessions for its IT staff in cybersecurity and operations.
