For my home network, I am still using the Time Capsule 4th Generation Router, from 2011.
I realized that I may have overestimated the security of this device, as it apparently does not have a Firewall – it only has NAT.
I am concerned about the security aspect, since my Time Capsule is connected immediately to my apartment building's fiber optic network, which provides Internet access.
Behind the Time Capsule, I have several computers with software firewalls, and iOS devices which I assume also have software firewalls. I have recently added some Philips Hue IoT devices.
I am not proficient enough in networks, to know how good protection the Time Capsule and NAT offers.
Question
Is it advisable for me to buy a Hardware Firewall to complement the Time Capsule for security reasons – especially when having some IoT devices?
About getting a new router
I haven't been planning to buy a new Wi-Fi router with better security features or integrated firewall, just yet, because I've been holding out in anticipation of getting a new MacBook Pro with Wi-Fi 6 probably within the next 2–3 years.
So I would ideally keep my Time Capsule for a while longer.
However, if Hardware Firewalls are hardly worth it for home users, I would perhaps consider getting a Wi-Fi 6 Router solution already – even though I can't use Wi-Fi 6 yet – if there are any ones available that also provide good security features or at least a basic firewall.