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These days, every business uses the internet. Because of that connection, the potential of a cyber attack is greater than ever. You need a way to protect the data of both your company and your customers. That’s why a firewall is so important.
A firewall is an online security system that protects your network from getting hacked. While antivirus software protects you from malicious programs, also called malware, having a firewall is also vital to the security of your business. Here are some reasons why.
A Firewall Doesn’t Let Hackers In
A good firewall is routinely tested using penetration tests. Also called pen tests, these are simulated cyber attacks to see where the vulnerabilities are. For example, if you use Amazon web services, cybersecurity professionals run AWS pentesting to ensure there aren’t any weaknesses in your firewall.
A firewall works like a shield to keep hackers out. It’s like having good fencing around your home. That fence from Timber Ridge Fence Company keeps invaders out so long as it doesn’t have any openings. Just as you would check your fence for holes, it’s also wise to implement regular pentesting.
A Firewall Keeps Viruses Out
Although a firewall is like a fence, it also works as a filter. It keeps out those harmful communications that mess with your computer. A firewall is designed to let the good things in and the bad things, like viruses, including ransomware, at bay.
A Firewall Keeps Your Workers Away From Unwanted Sites
Every time your employees are on social media for purposes other than business, you lose money. You can configure your firewall to keep workers away from these time wasters. Your firewall can also protect your employees from visiting sites that are known to phish for data.
Schools frequently use firewalls on the computers they issue to students to keep them from accessing inappropriate sites such as those offering pornography or gambling.
A Firewall Limits the Bandwidth Your Employees Can Use
The more people using your company’s bandwidth, the slower the internet becomes. When your employees spend time on sites that they shouldn’t, they waste valuable bandwidth you could be using for work-related purposes. Tasks take longer to accomplish because the internet is slower.
Installing a good firewall limits the amount of bandwidth going to those sites that aren’t work-related. It’s a more efficient use of your internet.
A Firewall Protects Your Company When Employees Are in the Cloud
Storing your information in the cloud saves you money, but it also makes you vulnerable to hackers. Your firewall protects that data by making sure no malicious code is attached to it.
A Firewall Can Be Configurated With a VPN
A virtual private network protects hackers from accessing your personal information. It encrypts that data so that outsiders can’t hack in to read it even if you’re using the public internet. Configure your VPN to work with your firewall, and you have even greater protection.
As more businesses get connected through the cloud via the Internet, it’s wise to add security such as a firewall.
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