A Firewall is a security device that monitors traffic moving both in and out of a network (often your office) and then permits or denies entry based on a set of security rules. Setting up a firewall creates a barrier between your internal systems and external malicious traffic, whilst allowing all legitimate traffic.
Structurally, firewalls can be software, hardware, or a combination of both. Software usually offers higher control within your network, whilst hardware firewalls are convenient and typically used to protect large segments of your network and block traffic well before it reaches any computers.
Firewalls are categorised based on their method of operations and using multiple different types can increase your layers of protection. This is a specialised piece of equipment, and you should get support from a trusted advisor when selecting a new one or upgrading.
Factors to consider when choosing your firewall include:
- What are the requirements e.g. do you need a guest WIFI, are there remote workers requiring access to office technology, what applications/software need to be externally available, etc.
- How will it be managed, who will do updates and will you need to make regular changes.
- What is the complexity, size, and sensitivity of the office you are protecting and therefore how much should you invest.
Build a firewall setup that fits the requirements considering these factors. You should plan to get regular external vulnerability scans of your firewall and make sure it has a health check annually.
