The First Line of Defence: How Firewalls Protect Your Network

 

 

Malware is malicious software. It is designed to disrupt or cause harm. Malware comes in many forms, including viruses, worms, trojans and ransomware.

 

How to help prevent malware:

  1. Keep your software up to date
  2. Use strong passwords
  3. Avoid suspicious links and downloads.
  4. Ensure your firewall is deployed and configured.

 

What is a firewall?

A firewall is your network’s security guard. Like a doorman at a building, it controls who comes in (incoming traffic) and who goes out (outgoing traffic), ensuring only authorised users and information get through.

 

Here’s how a firewall operates in a business environment:

  1. Keeps an Eye on Traffic: The firewall constantly monitors data packets flowing through your network. These packets contain information being exchanged between devices, like sending emails or accessing company software.
  2. The Rule Book: The firewall has pre-defined rules set by your IT team. These rules act like a rule book, deciding whether a packet gets the green light or gets blocked.
  3. Lets the Good Guys In: Safe traffic, like business applications or emails, is allowed through based on the rules set.
  4. Keeps the Bad Guys Out: Malicious traffic, like viruses, hacking attempts, or unauthorised access tries, is blocked by the firewall.n

 

Why Viatel chose Fortigate firewalls?

Fortinet FortiGate Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) provide full visibility into

and across geographically distributed hybrid networks, delivering consistent and

coordinated end-to-end security protection for users, devices, applications, and

data for ultra-scalable security-driven networks.

  • Security Effectiveness: FortiGate firewalls consistently rank high in independent tests. They offer a layered security approach that goes beyond basic firewalls, including intrusion prevention, application control, and deep packet inspection.
  • High Performance: FortiGate firewalls are known for their ability to handle large volumes of traffic without sacrificing security. This is thanks to their custom-designed security processors.
  • Scalability: FortiGate firewalls come in a wide range of sizes, making it easy to find one that fits the needs of your business, whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise.
  • Ease of Management: FortiGate firewalls offer a centralised management console that makes it easy to configure and manage your security policies across your entire network.
  • Integration: FortiGate firewalls integrate seamlessly with your existing network to create a comprehensive security fabric that protects your entire IT infrastructure.

 

Firewalls come in many different flavours, but their main job stays the same: protecting your business network from unauthorised access and data breaches. By filtering traffic, they’re a vital first line of defence in your overall cybersecurity plan.

 

 

Take the first step towards a secure network with Viatel Technology Group.

Get in touch with us by emailing at hello@viatel.com to discover how our advanced solutions, including Fortigate firewalls, can provide robust protection for your organisation.