The tools used to stop illegal access to private networks are called network firewalls. A firewall, which can be either software or hardware, is a security solution for computers or other devices that are linked to a network. Incoming and outgoing traffic, or the volume of data flowing over a computer network at any given time, is tracked and managed by it.
Protecting an internal network by isolating it from the external network is the main function of a network firewall. An inner network is just a network established within an organization, and an outer network is a network outside of an inner network’s coverage area.
Types of Network Firewalls
Packet Filters
By keeping an eye on incoming and outgoing packets and deciding whether to allow them to pass or stop depending on the source and destination Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, protocols, and ports, this technique is used to regulate network access. Another name for this firewall is a static firewall.
Stateful Inspection Firewalls
Controlling the flow of data packets across a firewall is another usage for this kind of packet filtering. Another name for it is dynamic packet filtering. These firewalls are able to determine whether or not a packet is part of a certain session. It only allows communication if and only if two endpoints have a completely established session; otherwise, it will prevent communication.
Application Layer Firewalls
These firewalls are able to analyze information from the OSI model’s application layer, such as an HTTP request. Unsafe applications are immediately blocked if they are discovered to be potentially dangerous or capable of damaging our network.
Next-generation Firewalls
We refer to these firewalls as intelligent firewalls. These firewalls are capable of carrying out all the functions of the other kinds of firewalls that we have already studied, but they also include extra features like integrated intrusion prevention, cloud-delivered threat intelligence, and application awareness and control.
Circuit-level Gateways
A circuit-level gateway is a type of firewall that operates between the transport and application levels, including the session layer, of an Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) network model and offers security for User Datagram Protocol (UDP) and Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) connections.
Software Firewall
One kind of computer software that operates on our computers is the software firewall. By alerting us about the potential danger of opening a specific email or attempting to browse an insecure website, it defends our system against external threats like malicious assaults and unauthorized access.
Hardware Firewall
A physical device used to impose a network border is called a hardware firewall. This firewall can analyze incoming and outgoing network traffic and impose access rules and other security policies since all network links that cross this border go through it.
Cloud Firewall
These network devices are cloud-deployed and software-based. This cloud-based firewall guards against unauthorized access to a private network. A cloud firewall filters data at the cloud level, in contrast to a typical firewall.
Hardware Firewall vs Software Firewall
A hardware firewall is a separate physical device placed between a network and its connected devices. It monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on set security rules. Setting up a hardware firewall requires skilled personnel for proper installation and ongoing management.
In contrast, a software firewall runs on a server or virtual machine. It operates on a security-focused operating system, typically using standard hardware resources. Software firewalls can often be quickly implemented using cloud automation tools.
Firewalls, both software and hardware, are essential for network security. Deployment contexts and particular demands determine which option is best.
Working of Firewalls
Our network’s incoming and outgoing traffic can be managed and tracked via firewalls. Our network receives data in the form of packets, which are tiny units of data. Because it is difficult to determine whether a packet is safe for our network or not, hackers and intruders have a tremendous opportunity to inundate our networks with spam, malware, viruses, and other threats.
Capabilities of Modern Firewalls
Firewalls have been an essential component of network security since their inception. Firewall deployment techniques and capabilities have evolved along with technology.
These developments have led to the emergence of numerous firewall kinds, which can occasionally be perplexing. The functions of various firewalls can be distinguished by examining their form, location inside the network, data filtering methods, and the things they protect. To guarantee efficient network security, organizations may require a variety of firewall kinds. It’s also critical to keep in mind that a single firewall solution may have several different firewall functions.
Advantages
Network traffic is monitored and analyzed by a network firewall, which determines whether or not the packets or information moving through our network are safe. By doing this, it protects our network from potentially damaging harmful traffic.
Stop Hacking: Maintaining firewalls in our networks and using the internet securely are more crucial in a world where everyone is tech-savvy.
Stops Viruses: Since viruses can originate from any source, including spam, insecure websites, and other threats, it is crucial to have a robust defense system (in this case, a firewall). A virus attack can quickly take down a whole network. A firewall is essential in such a scenario.
Improved Security: If the goal is to periodically monitor and analyze the network and create an environment free of viruses, malware, and spam, a network firewall will improve our network’s security.
Boost Privacy: We can create a trustworthy network by safeguarding it and improving security.
Disadvantages
Cost: The price of a firewall might vary depending on its nature; typically, hardware firewalls are more expensive than software ones.
User Restrictions: Due to its robust security measures, user restrictions may be detrimental to large enterprises. Even if an operation is required, a firewall may prevent personnel from performing it.
Problems With Network Speed: Because firewalls must keep an eye on every packet that travels across the network, this might cause the network to lag or hinder necessary processes.
Maintenance: As networking technology advances, firewalls need to be updated and maintained constantly. The number of new viruses that can harm your system is always growing.
Conclusion
To sum up, network firewalls are crucial devices that shield our networks and PCs from intrusions and online dangers. Firewalls come in various varieties, each with a distinct function and range of protective levels. The particular needs and security requirements of your network will determine which firewall is best for you.