Protecting the company’s network and computers from outside threats including malware and viruses is important to keep the data secure and protected. No matter how big or small a company is, cyber attackers are constantly on the lookout to exploit the weak security systems of businesses.
For this reason, having a strong IT strategy and network security is important to protect the data of your company and keep all the devices on the network secure.
There has never been a more important time for businesses to implement effective firewalls into their business operations because a firewall can protect the network from unauthorized access and external threats.
While antivirus software can help to protect your systems against unwanted files, a firewall prevents external threats from getting access to your system in the first place. Here are some of the top reasons why businesses should use firewall security.
Acts as a First Line of Defense
A firewall can be considered the first line of defense against hackers and external users because it protects your network and systems from unwanted and unauthorized users. A firewall monitors the incoming and outgoing traffic and guards your company against external dangers like malware and viruses.
It serves as a barrier between your network and the internet and prevents unauthorized and unwanted traffic from entering your network so that your privileged and sensitive data remains secure.
Lets You Block Access to Certain Websites
A firewall is also important for businesses because it allows you to block certain websites from being accessed by anyone on your network. With the help of a firewall, you can block inappropriate or malicious websites on your network so that even if someone tried to access those websites, they wouldn’t be able to do so.
This would not only block access to those websites but you can also block illegitimate downloads and minimize network exposure to malicious websites that can lead to viruses and malware making their way into your system. You can configure the firewall to block access to certain websites through the login page of your WiFi router.
Lets You Limit Bandwidth Usage
A firewall can not only protect your network but it can also allow you to limit bandwidth usage for certain programs and online activities. Through the firewall configuration, you can limit the amount of bandwidth available for certain types of online activities including streaming videos or downloading files.
By doing so, you can limit the network bandwidth for non-business activities and reserve bandwidth for higher-priority business traffic including reading useful articles on this website.
Secure Remote Access
Remote work has become quite common these days and businesses are looking for ways to secure remote access so that remote employees can access the company network without the network being compromised.
This provides another reason why businesses should firewall security, as a firewall can act as a barrier and ensure the security of the network so that the connections are secure and encrypted. Without a firewall, remote access is not secure and there is always the chance of the network being compromised.