While estimating ROI using Palo Alto Networks VM-Series Estimator, which two parameters are considered?

When estimating ROI using the Palo Alto Networks VM-Series Estimator, considering the number of firewalls to be deployed is crucial. This parameter reflects the scale of the deployment, which directly influences the potential return on investment. By determining how many virtual firewalls are needed, organizations can assess the cost savings associated with using a centralized virtual infrastructure versus managing multiple physical firewalls. The number of deployed firewalls also impacts aspects such as maintenance costs, operational efficiency, and resource allocation, which are all integral to calculating a complete ROI picture.

In contrast, while the other parameters may have some relevance in broader financial analysis, they do not directly align with the specific objectives of the VM-Series Estimator. The amount spent on physical firewalls may provide context, but it is not a fundamental metric for evaluating the benefits of the VM-Series within the estimator's framework. Similarly, the quantity of data to be inspected is more about workload characteristics rather than the financial implications of firewall deployment. Lastly, the number of IT staff needed pertains more to operational staffing levels and does not directly factor into the ROI calculation concerning the deployment of firewall solutions. Therefore, focusing on the number of firewalls is fundamental to the ROI evaluation process with the Palo Alto VM-Series Estimator.