What is a Firewall? Why is it important?
Firewall is a system used to ensure network security. It acts as a digital filter, monitoring incoming data packets to your computer over a network. In simpler terms, it serves as a security barrier. Firewall is crucial in enhancing security measures as individuals and organizations are constantly under threat in the online world. It is designed to protect computers and networks from various cyber dangers, making its usage highly important nowadays. In the following sections, we will explore the question of why firewall is important and provide an overview of its basic working principles.
What is a Firewall?
A firewall, which translates to “güvenlik duvarı” in Turkish, is a system used to ensure network security. Individuals and organizations are always at risk on the internet, necessitating increased security measures. Firewall serves to protect computers and networks, shielding them from potential harm. Therefore, the use of firewall is highly important today. In the continuation of our guide, you can find detailed answers to the question “Why is firewall important?” Now, let’s take a look at the basic working principle of a firewall.
How Should Server and Network Infrastructure Selection Be Made?
How Does a Firewall Work?
A firewall examines data packets coming to your computer over a network. In simpler terms, it acts as a digital filter. Consequently, any data packet that could endanger your system is detected and blocked by the firewall. Generally, firewalls are used to block any harmful software that may come to your computer over the internet. This way, your personal or company data is protected within an additional security layer.
Firewall ensures controlled and secure data flow by managing network traffic according to configured rules. Therefore, data flow is inspected by the firewall. Nowadays, firewall usage can be combined with proxy.
Firewalls operate differently depending on their types. The types of firewalls can be listed as follows:
- Packet filter firewall
- Circuit-level firewall
- Application-level and proxy firewall
Why Is Firewall Important?
Because ensuring digital security depends on the precautions every company must take. Companies or individuals who fail to ensure digital security become vulnerable to various attacks. Firewall, in this regard, constructs a fortress for you. Each data packet arriving at the fortress gate is inspected by the firewall before being allowed inside. This way, any data that could jeopardize security remains outside the fortress walls.
Firewall protects you against unauthorized remote access by virtue of the explained operation. Through the use of a security barrier, you can secure your devices such as computers, tablets, or phones against third-party access.
Firewall not only protects you against threats but also provides necessary warnings. Thus, if you unintentionally take an action that could harm your security, the firewall sends you a message beforehand. Although modern operating systems typically include basic firewall features, using a proxy firewall is crucial for a more advanced security system.
With a firewall, you can learn what is dangerous and what is safe. Additionally, you can use a firewall to provide a safer internet experience for your children. This way, your children are protected within a preventive barrier against potentially dangerous websites. As seen, a firewall not only protects you but also safeguards your loved ones.
