As digital technologies develop, the number and complexity of cyberattacks also increase. Today, not only large corporations, but also small and medium-sized businesses are the targets of cyberattacks. In recent years, especially, ransomware and phishing attacks have caused serious damage to companies of all sizes, both financially and in terms of reputation.
One of the first steps to protect your business in such an environment is to install a strong and properly configured firewall. But firewall What is it and how does it work?
What is a firewall?
A firewall is a security system that monitors, controls, and filters all traffic going into and out of your network. Its main purpose is to allow trusted connections and block malicious access.
Simply put, a firewall is an electronic security guard standing at the door of your office, checking everything that comes and goes. It only allows access to those who have the correct “permission.” It immediately blocks unauthorized access attempts.
Why is a firewall important?
Without a firewall, your network and servers could be exposed to an attack at any time. This can result in the following risks:
- Data loss. Customer information, financial documents, and internal correspondence may be leaked.
- Financial loss. The disruption of operations and recovery costs resulting from cyberattacks can create a serious financial burden.
- Loss of reputation. A security gap can lead to a decrease in trust among customers and partners.
Small and medium-sized businesses in particular often put security measures on the back burner, thinking, "Who needs our data for what?" However, the main target for cybercriminals is poorly protected systems, not their size.
Modern firewall technologies
Classic firewall systems mainly filtered traffic based on its IP address and port number. Modern firewalls have more features:
- Traffic analysisDetects anomalies by monitoring network activity.
- Application-based control. Manages access permission to certain programs and applications.
- Real-time alerts. It sends notifications immediately when suspicious activity is detected.
- Integrated antivirus and anti-malware. It prevents malicious programs at the initial stage.
- VPN support. Provides secure remote connections.
Types of firewalls
There are several types of firewalls available to suit business needs:
- Hardware Firewall. It is installed as a physical device and provides overall network protection.
- Software Firewall. Runs as software on computers and servers, providing protection at the individual device level.
- Cloud-based Firewall. Managed over the cloud, suitable for large-scale businesses.
- Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW). In addition to traditional firewall functions, it provides application-level analysis, intrusion prevention (IPS), and deeper security capabilities.
Risks without a firewall
Not having a firewall is like leaving your office with an open door. Sometimes, an attack may not directly target your system, but it can result in long-term monitoring and data collection. This means that all of your business's internal data is at risk.
Our recommendation
If you want to grow your business, you need to protect it first. A firewall is your reliable shield in the digital world.
Choosing the right firewall and configuring it correctly minimizes the risk of cyberattacks and keeps your network secure. It is important to choose a solution that is appropriate for the size, scope, and security requirements of your business.
If you are looking for professional support regarding firewall solutions, now contact us and let's determine the right security strategy for your business together.
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