Should You Have A Firewall?
The term “firewall” is pretty common, and the chances are that you’ve heard it before, whether in regards to cybersecurity or on your favorite crime show. However, what exactly is a firewall, and should you have one? Read on to find out.
What is a Firewall?
A firewall isn’t a physical wall of fire, but it functions the same way in a digital sense. It’s a security feature that prevents unauthorized access to your computer and data. It also helps prevent malware and viruses from installing themselves on your device. Everything that comes through your network gets filtered through it, and as long as the firewall doesn’t see it as a threat, your tasks should be easily completed. Firewalls don’t function independently. You can program them to recognize trusted IP addresses and other sources so that your productivity never falters. Firewalls also come with different levels of protection that you can use depending on your needs. If you’re still unsure whether a firewall is a suitable addition to your cybersecurity, here are some benefits:
Benefits of Having a Firewall
Even if you have security practices in place already, human error still exists, and you never know when someone--including you--might make a mistake. Firewalls are a great way to layer your cybersecurity and take advantage of some other benefits:
Prevent Unauthorized Remote Access
Whether you have a personal or professional network, hackers are always looking for ways to gain remote access. This allows them to find sensitive data and use it however they want. They can even choose to delete important information and files that you need. If you implement a firewall as part of your cybersecurity measures, this is far less likely to happen.
Customizable
In addition to programming your firewall to recognize your trusted sources, you can also choose between firewall software and hardware. Both of these options come with their own pros and cons, so before you decide, do some research about which kind suits your needs the best. Software firewalls can be installed wherever you want them, and hardware firewalls can go with you if you need to connect them to different devices short term.
Make Daily Activities Safer
Utilizing a firewall helps make everyday tasks and activities safer. For example, if you accidentally click a malicious link in an email, a firewall can prevent a virus from infecting your device and network. It also prevents infiltration from outside sources if you or anyone else on your network does online gaming or other public server activities.
Content Filtering
If you want your network to stay SFW or kid-safe, your firewall can be programmed to block specific websites and activities from being accessed on it. This is the perfect way to keep your network free of the clutter that may overwhelm it and prevent children from seeing inappropriate content.
There are endless safety benefits that you can take advantage of by using a firewall, so if you don’t have one for your network, consider getting one asap. Hackers and malware are everywhere thanks to internet mobility, so add a firewall to your cybersecurity layers to keep your network and data that much more secure and protected. Contact us today to find out how we can help you secure your important data.