Firewall network security is a critical component of safeguarding computer networks from unauthorized access, malicious attacks, and data breaches.
Here's a concise overview of firewall network security:
Definition: A firewall is a network security device or software that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet.
Types of Firewalls:
Packet Filtering Firewalls: Examines packets of data as they pass through the network and makes decisions to allow or block based on criteria like IP addresses, port numbers, and protocols.
Stateful Inspection Firewalls: Maintains the state of active connections and makes decisions based on the context of traffic flows, offering enhanced security compared to packet filtering.
Proxy Firewalls: Act as intermediaries between clients and servers, inspecting and filtering traffic at the application layer, offering granular control but potentially introducing latency.
Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW): Integrate traditional firewall functionality with advanced features such as intrusion detection/prevention, deep packet inspection, and application-level filtering.
Functions:
Access Control: Determines which traffic is allowed to pass through the firewall based on predefined rules.
Traffic Monitoring: Analyzes network traffic patterns to detect anomalies and potential security threats.
Intrusion Prevention: Blocks malicious traffic and activities to prevent unauthorized access and attacks.
Logging and Reporting: Maintains logs of network activities and security events for auditing, analysis, and compliance purposes.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) Support: Provides secure remote access to internal networks over the internet through encrypted tunnels.
Deployment:
Perimeter Security: Positioned at the network perimeter to protect internal networks from external threa