An enterprise Firewall protects a network's resources by separating the enterprise's public Web server from its internal network. This barrier, typically having both hardware and software components, prevents computers from communicating directly with external systems, while providing internal users with secure access to the Internet. A Firewall most often consists of a computer that acts as a barrier through which all information passing between the networks and the external systems must travel. The Firewall software analyzes information passing between the two and rejects it if it does not conform to pre-configured rules. A Firewall that is well-configured and well-maintained is very difficult for hackers to penetrate. A poorly configured Firewall affords very little protection. The easiest way for attackers to breach Firewall security is to scan the Firewall and look for vulnerabilities, such as ports. The more stealthy the scan, the more dangerous it is. The most elusive scanners will not be noticed by the Firewall's intrusion detection system. These scans can be blocked at the border routers or by fine-tuning the Firewall's intrusion detection system. Firewalls protect against worms and viruses, but not Spyware. Spyware is hidden within accepted applications, then installs secretly on a user's PC when the application is launched. Click here to view our list of recommended Firewall software. |