What is a firewall

What is a firewall: An integral part of computer security :-

In the context of computer and network security, a firewall is a special device that prevents unauthorized access and helps to secure data. And it restricts network traffic and only allows data coming from reputable sources. Therefore, through this article, the types of firewalls, definitions, benefits, and their functions and rules for implementing them will be explained.

Definition of firewall (structure):-

A firewall is a security system that has been created to keep the network safe. Its main goal is to block unauthorized traffic and allow only the traffic that comes with the right credentials. It filters network traffic and monitors the data coming and going in the network.

Types of firewall :-

There are two types of firewalls: software firewalls and hardware firewalls. Apart from this, there are other types of network security.

1. Software Firewall:

A software firewall is a program that is applied to a computer or network. And it monitors the traffic and establishes security rules on the basis of that. It is suitable for personal computers and small networks. Windows Defender Firewall is an example of a software firewall.

2. Hardware Firewall:

A hardware firewall is a physical device that is at the access point of the network. It monitors network traffic and applies security methods to block or allow it. It is more efficient for large networks. Cisco or Juniper devices are examples of hardware firewalls.

3. NGFW Next-Generation Firewall:

Next Generation Firewall uses modern technologies and has to deal with more difficult threats. It includes traditional firewalls as well as deep packet inspection, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and other security features.

4. Web Application Firewall (WAF):

WAF is specifically designed for web application security. It works to prevent attacks on web applications by filtering web traffic, such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), etc.

Working of firewall :-

Firewalls work in a specific way. Its functioning is divided into three main parts:

1. Packet filtering:

In packet filtering, every network packet is checked according to its header information. And blocks it according to the security rules. And allows it. Packet filtering firewalls have both stateless filtering and stateful filtering.

2. Stateful inspection:

Stateful inspection is used to check the header of any data packet and the status of that packet. It makes the data very secure. Because it knows the traffic and its sequence.

3. Proxy Firewall:

A proxy firewall acts as an agent between users and the Internet. It browses the traffic and decides whether to allow it or not. It is more secure because it examines the traffic in more detail.

Benefits of Firewall :-

Firewall provides the following benefits, such as:

Security: Firewall prevents data theft and unauthorized access.

Monitoring: It monitors network traffic and identifies suspicious activities.

Customization: It allows customizing the security policy so that the right traffic can be allowed.

Data Integrity: Firewall protects data and maintains its integrity.

User Control: It gives the ability to control the actions of users on the network.

Ways to Implement a Firewall :-

There are many ways to implement a firewall. But the important thing is to choose the right firewall and configure it correctly.

1. Host-based firewall:

Host-based firewalls are installed in personal computers and control the entire network traffic. It is for personal use and provides security directly to the user system.

2. Network-based firewall:

Network-based firewalls are installed at the root point of the network and control the entire network traffic. It is used for large networks.

3. Cloud-based firewall:

A cloud-based firewall is provided by cloud service. And applications and data are secured on the basis of the cloud. Cloud computing is growing very rapidly. Therefore, the need for cloud firewall is also increasing.

Conclusion :-

A firewall is a part of securing computers and networks. Its job is to monitor network traffic. By using the right firewall, we can make our system secure. Using it, both data and network can be secured.