With an increasing number of cybercrimes every passing year, companies and individuals need to secure their information. But there are many challenges involved in understanding why a firewall is important for network security. A firewall is a security device that can help you safeguard your network and devices from outsiders. This is one of the main reasons why firewalls are important and how they act as a shield to protect your network.
The definition of a firewall
Before we get to the question of why a firewall is important for network security, let’s define a firewall. One of the advantages of a firewall is that it prevents unauthorized access to networks through software or firmware. Firewalls are used to secure a network.
The importance of firewalls is that they are used in enterprise and personal settings. This is a vital component of network security. Most operating systems have a basic in-built firewall. The main reason why a firewall is important for network security is that it offers better protection.
The advantages of firewalls
By now, we have understood why are firewalls important. Let us figure out the advantages of a firewall.
Monitor traffic
One of the major benefits of firewall is that it monitors the traffic passing through it. In the form of packets, information moves through a network. Each of these packets is examined by the firewall for dangerous threats. If, by any chance, the firewall is able to find them, it will immediately block them.
Protection against trojans
This is one of the major advantages of a firewall. Malware, especially trojans, is hazardous for any user. While you operate on your computer, a trojan quietly observes everything you do there. What information it gathers is sent over to the web server.
Obviously, you are not going to be aware of its presence until you notice the strange behaviour of your computer. In this case, a firewall will promptly stop Trojans before they harm the network. Eliminating trojans has to be an important aspect when it comes to figuring out why a firewall is important for network security.
Avert hackers
Hackers are constantly looking for computers in order to perform illegal activities. When hackers happen to find such computers, they will start performing malicious activities like spreading viruses. Apart from that, hackers can be known to people such as your neighbours who are looking for a stable internet connection.
The importance of firewalls is that they provide a secure connection. To prevent such incidents, it is a good idea to have firewall security.
Malware attacks
Though firewalls have the capability to block the basic types of trojans, they prove defenceless against other forms of malware. This malware can enter your system in the form of trusted data.
Though you may have a firewall, it is still recommended to have anti-malware software installed on your PC. The only way to remove them is through an anti-malware scan.
Complex operations
For a small business, the benefits of a firewall are easy to set up and implement. Though in the case of large organisations, it may not be the case. Firewalls for large organisations require a separate set of staff to operate them. These people make sure that the firewall is safe enough to protect the network from intruders.
In this discussion, you may have understood the definitions and advantages of firewalls. Cybersecurity is a booming field in today’s times. If you are looking to protect your network from ethical hackers, then installing a firewall is the right step.