A network firewall monitors all the traffic on a computer system, protecting it from malicious internet attacks. It can also be used to protect private networks and intranets.
Investing in a network security firewall can be an effective way to increase cybersecurity, especially for businesses and organizations that deal with sensitive data. It can help prevent cyber-attacks that lead to breaches and loss of data.
Protects Your Company’s Data
Firewalls act as your business’s first line of defense and help keep external threats, malware, hackers, and more from damaging entire databases and systems. They also prevent unauthorized websites from getting access to your network. It is important because if these unwanted sites are allowed into your system, they can steal sensitive information, cause slow system performance or even bring down the whole network.
It is essential for all industries, including hospitals, schools, and factories, to keep cyber criminals from targeting their vulnerable systems. Investing in a good network firewall security solution can also protect you against cyberattacks initiated by remote employees. It’s because the same laws and standards that govern your four walls should be upheld outside of them.
It’s recommended that your company’s firewall include a comprehensive set of features to ensure your network is protected from every angle. For example, your firewall should allow you to set up rules limiting bandwidth usage so employees can focus on their tasks and avoid being distracted by non-work-related websites. Additionally, your firewall should block ports commonly used by viruses and malware to enter the system, such as Port 445 (used by the WannaCry ransomware) and Port 80 (used by cryptocurrency-mining software).
You can choose several firewall solutions depending on your business’s needs and budget. The most popular are NGFW and UTM solutions, which offer advanced security functionalities such as gateway anti-virus, web filtering, and DLP. If you’re interested in a more straightforward firewall security solution, you can also opt for a single-console management platform and role-based access for your team.
Prevents Unauthorized Access to Your Systems
Firewalls monitor data entering your network and computers to ensure nothing harmful slips in by accident. A well-managed firewall will also provide details about the traffic on your system. It can help you troubleshoot problems and find solutions for security issues. This information can also help you enforce business policies on internet usage and prevent employees from visiting websites that harbor viruses and malware.
The threat of cyberattacks is a reality that affects businesses of all sizes. The majority of small firms fail after a cyberattack or nearly half. Installing a firewall is the greatest initial step, but investing in network security is essential. A firewall is a software that guards networks against malware, viruses, and hackers by keeping track of all incoming data and ensuring nothing unwanted or harmful reaches your company’s digital infrastructure.
Unlike traditional firewalls, next-generation firewalls (NGFW) and UTM devices can detect signatures that match known attacks. It enables them to thwart hacking efforts as soon as they start, avoiding harm and maintaining the functionality of your company’s systems.
Common risks that can interrupt your digital operations include viruses, spyware, Trojan horses, and other harmful software applications. These programs can infiltrate your systems through phishing attacks that trick unsuspecting employees into clicking on links. A managed firewall will block access to sites known to install these harmful programs on the computers of anyone who visits them.
Prevents Virus Attacks
Virus attacks are among the most dangerous cyber threats because they can cause system slowdowns and data loss. Firewalls can prevent them by detecting the presence of malware and spyware – programs designed to infiltrate your systems, control your devices, and steal sensitive information. A firewall can also prevent employees from accessing websites that harbor viruses and other malware by blocking them. It is helpful to avoid the waste of time employees often spend searching for unsuitable sites online or clicking on phishing emails that send them to malicious sites.
In addition to blocking suspicious sites, a managed firewall can help you monitor and manage your company’s bandwidth by controlling the amount of data that goes to different websites, apps, and programs. It can also prioritize certain activities over others, like your VoIP phone service or video conferencing applications. Using a firewall, you can ensure that these applications receive the bandwidth they need without worrying about lag times and choppy calls or meetings.
As new technologies evolve, hackers and criminals will continue to develop ways to break into your business’s network. While IT technicians work around the clock to protect your devices and valuable data, attackers are constantly looking for ways to get in, steal confidential information, and bring your operations to a halt. Investing in a network security firewall is an affordable way to prevent these attacks and protect your customers’ data.
Prevents Social Engineering Attacks
While high-quality cybersecurity training is necessary to prevent social engineering attacks, investing in network firewall security also helps. Firewalls are one of the best ways to block spyware systems, which hackers often use to access business networks and steal data. Firewalls also alert staff to potential threats and help prevent malware from spreading to other computers within your business.
Cybercriminals use a variety of tactics to target small businesses, which tend to spend less money on cybersecurity than larger companies. A successful attack on a small business could mean losing customer data, stealing company assets, and even bankruptcy. Investing in network firewall security helps protect your business against various online dangers and is especially important for small businesses that rely on their customers’ private information.
Investing in network firewall security is essential for any business, regardless of size or industry. It provides a critical layer of protection against DDoS attacks, malware, and data breaches. A company that prioritizes its security will also build trust with its customers and can provide a strong selling point when competing for new clients. If your business is interested in implementing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, the team at Kirbtech can provide guidance and support.