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| 04 | 2006 |
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| Firewalls: Your network’s fortress of safety |
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Firewalls are a primary defense against computer viruses, worms and other malicious code. They build a secure fortress between your network and the outside world by creating controlled levels of connectivity between established zones. Hackers search for vulnerable computers, and firewalls prevent them from detecting you. This means that threats are stopped before they have a chance to enter your network.
The first step to setting up your firewall is to determine which system is best for you. There are three types: software, hardware and wireless firewalls. Software firewalls are the most popular choice for individual home users because they are easily installed, and most offer customizable web filters and privacy controls. Although software firewalls may also be installed on a dedicated server to protect an entire network, hardware firewalls offer the best protection for businesses.
Hardware firewalls are purchased as a stand-alone product and offer one of the strongest forms of protection from outside attacks. They are the most common firewall solution for large enterprise businesses. However, with the incorporation of firewalls into many broadband routers, they are quickly becoming the popular choice for home computers and networks.
Wireless firewalls enable you to connect wireless clients to your network safely.
Regardless of which type you use, a firewall will need to be setup for every connection to the Internet (wherever the local area network connects to the public network). Now that you have a firewall protecting the perimeter of your local private network, you may think you’re safe from threats. However, the fact is that most security problems don’t arise from outside attackers – they come from inside your own network. For larger businesses this means creating an internal firewall. Internal firewalls allow local area networks to be segregated into many isolated network zones to control the traffic between them.
These are merely the basics when it comes to setting up your firewall. There are numerous factors involved with selecting a suitable firewall, from the number of computers in your network to the level of security you require. To protect your information and prevent the consequences resulting from potential attacks to your network, an IT representative can quickly analyze your business and recommend the best solution to fit your needs and protect your enterprise. If you have questions on firewalls or other network security solutions, please contact a Brookfield Group representative.
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About The Brookfield Group
The Brookfield Group has become a leader in IT, ISP, ASP and web solutions by providing next level technology solutions managed by experts who give you peace of mind without the tech-talk. The company's services are customized to fit any enterprise-size businesses and include: IT project management; hosting solutions and maintenance; systems security and patches; telecommunications services, server and desktop setup, repair and applications; network infrastructure design; audio visual products; surveillance and security solutions; as well as a variety of other software, hardware, services and accessories. Located in Carmel, Indiana, more information about The Brookfield Group products and services is available at www.thebrookfieldgroup.com or by calling 317.524.6000.
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