If I have a Router in my Office, do I still need a Firewall? - Business

The question is a complex one and there is no easy answer. So let's start with some basics. Any office network should have a firewall. If it doesn't, then all the data that is stored in the computers can be accessed, stolen or deleted by hackers and viruses. You may think that there is nothing of interest in your network so no one will want to access it. Unfortunately, most nefarious characters online hack into other systems not because they want something specific but just because they can.

So now that you know you want firewall protection, the question is what kind of firewalls to install.

Hardware Based Firewalls or Routers

If you are using products such as Cisco routers in your office, chances are that they already have firewall protection capabilities included within it. This implies that not only does the router work to transfer data from one network to another; it acts as a filter against unwanted or dangerous data on the Internet. It can be configured to prevent users in your office from accessing particular sites, downloading certain applications or sending certain types of data. It is a good idea to study what firewall capabilities your router has and whether it meets your business requirements.

Software Based Firewalls

Software based firewalls work slightly differently from hardware based ones. It complements the functions of the router but provides added benefits. It enables the administrator to restrict access to printers so that data cannot be printed and stolen from the office. It can restrict downloading of unnecessary and at times dangerous applications by employees. Its most important feature is the antivirus scanning it performs, so that in case a file containing a virus passed the router, it can be blocked before it reaches the server.

Combining the Two

It is always recommended to supplement the protection offered by one type of firewall with the additional safety offered by the other. This will provide added security to your network and data. However, they will only consistently work if they are constantly maintained. Maintenance implies upgrading and updating both the hardware and software firewalls so that they are always abreast with the latest versions of malware and viruses out there in the Internet.

Sonicwall firewalls and other Sonicwall products, Cisco Switches, Cisco Firewalls, Cisco Telephones, telephone systems or telephones from Mitel Phones and switches when bought online can give you excellent savings and can significantly lower the cost of ownership.

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