What is a Firewall, and Why Do You Need It?
November 22nd, 2018 by admin
Do you use the internet in your business? If so, you need a firewall no matter what you do. Let’s take a look at what it is and how it protect you from threats.What is a Firewall?
In building construction, a firewall keeps a fire from spreading to different parts of a building. Computer network firewalls keep security threats from getting onto or spreading through your network. There are both hardware and software firewalls. Hardware firewalls are physical devices that provide protection between your network and the outside world. Software firewalls live on your individual computers and servers and use programs to block malicious software. If you have remote staff, you can use a VPN to make sure any data goes through your firewalls.Why Do You Need a Firewall?
A firewall is a key component of your network security. Even if you have other measures in place, there are still reasons why you need a firewall.Your Users Are Your Biggest Weakness
Your own users are your biggest weakness. No matter how well you train them, it's only human nature that they will bypass your security measures at some point. This may because they simply forget the importance of them. It might be because they've decided that they're too hard, and they they slow things down. It might even be that they’re actually trying to breach your network with some malicious intent. In other words, there are many ways/reasons for them to break through your security. A firewall blocks these kinds of carelessness and mistakes to keep your network safe even when your employees don't do everything you trained them to.Passwords Are Only a Roadblock
Part of your cybersecurity policy should include a robust password policy. This might include requiring special characters to make passwords harder to crack or requiring routine password changes. However, a password only works when it has to be entered. Think of it like a literal roadblock. If someone drives up to a checkpoint, they can be turned away if they don't have the password. But what happens if the roadblock is surrounded by acres of unguarded open fields? People who want to get in can simply get around the roadblock. Your firewall is the fence, guards, and other measures to ensure that no one can just go around your roadblock. And if they do, it also acts as the locked building doors and locked interior rooms to make sure they can't go any farther.You May Have Professional Obligations
If you're in healthcare, law, finance, or other fields where you have access to sensitive client information, you may have a professional responsibility to protect it. Failing to do so could mean large fines, a lawsuit, and possibly even losing your professional license. Your profession will likely have security compliance regulations that may specifically require a firewall. Even if they don't, firewalls help to protect against data breaches, ransomware, and other attacks. Avoid costly compliance violations and potential data breaches by preparing beforehand and securing your network.Let IPRO Help With Your Business Firewall
Our expert security team at IPRO can help your business secure its data (and future) by deploying the right kind of firewalls. Contact us today to get started on creating a more secure business.Posted in: Blog