Explainer: The role of firewalls in modern cybersecurity

Firewalls now play a larger role in a world where cyber-attacks are growing more sophisticated. These days, they play a crucial role in more comprehensive security plans that often include intrusion detection systems, encryption, and antivirus software.

Furthermore, firewalls are now able to defend against more than just conventional network perimeters thanks to the growth of cloud computing, mobile technology, and the Internet of Things (IoT). For example, cloud-based firewalls protect cloud environments by keeping an eye on user-cloud traffic flowing between cloud services.

The Basics: What Is an Internet Firewall?

A security system that keeps an eye on and regulates incoming and outgoing network traffic in accordance with pre-established security standards is known as an internet firewall. It serves as a wall between an untrusted external network, such the internet, from a trusted internal network. A firewall’s main function is to stop illegal users from accessing or leaving a private network while still enabling lawful communication.

How Does a Firewall Work?

A network administrator can configure a set of rules that a firewall uses to filter traffic. These rules can be based on a number of different things, including protocols, ports, IP addresses, domain names, and even certain keywords. The firewall compares data packets against these rules when they try to enter or exit the network. A packet is either refused or blocked depending on whether it satisfies the requirements or is allowed through.

There are various kinds of firewalls that function at various network tiers and offer various degrees of security:

Packet-Filtering Firewalls: The most fundamental kind of firewalls are called packet-filtering firewalls. Upon examining packets, which are data units transported between computers, they determine whether to permit or prohibit them by taking into account the protocol, port number, source and destination IP addresses.

Stateful Inspection Firewalls: These go one step further by monitoring the status of connections that are actively in use and making decisions according to the traffic’s context. They can identify, for instance, whether a packet is an attempt to create a new connection or if it is a component of an existing one.

Proxy Firewalls: Firewalls with proxies serve as a bridge between users and the internet. The proxy firewall retrieves the content on behalf of the user, filters it, and then sends it along when the user requests access to a website. By keeping the user from coming into direct contact with potentially dangerous content, this provides an additional degree of security.

Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs): Cloud flare defines it as a “security appliance that processes network traffic and applies rules to block potentially dangerous traffic”.

These cutting-edge firewalls incorporate extra functions like application awareness, intrusion prevention, and deep packet inspection together with standard firewall features. Older firewalls might miss sophisticated threats that NGFWs can identify and stop.

Why Are Firewalls Important?

Firewalls are essential for several reasons including data protection and prevention of unauthorised access into businesses.

Protection from External Threats: The first line of defence against viruses, hackers, and other online dangers is a firewall. Unauthorised access is prevented, so averting possible breaches that can result in data loss, theft, or corruption.

Control Over Network Traffic: Network administrators have control over what enters and leaves the network thanks to firewalls. This control aids in preserving the network’s integrity by permitting only legitimate and safe traffic.

Regulatory Compliance: As part of their cybersecurity protocols to safeguard confidential data, firewalls are mandated by law in certain sectors. Respecting these rules helps companies stay out of trouble with the law and keep their customers.

Monitoring and Logging: Firewalls often include logging features that record details about traffic passing through them. These logs can be invaluable for diagnosing issues, analyzing attacks, and ensuring that the network is functioning securely.

A Vital Tool for Digital Security

An internet firewall serves as a key security solution that protects networks from a variety of cyber attacks. It is much more than just a barrier. One cannot emphasise how crucial firewalls are to keeping networks safe, effective, and compliant as the digital landscape changes. In an increasingly linked world, protecting digital assets requires a well-configured firewall, whether it is installed in a household or large organisation.