A cyber attack.

And rightly so, cyber attacks are up 69%, according to the 2020 Internet Crimes Report provided by the FBI. In addition, two-thirds of small and medium-sized businesses had their security compromised, according to a report by the Ponemon Institute.

Cybercrimes infographic via FBI ICR 2020

We’ve talked about the importance of implementing layered security. A vital element includes a dependable firewall that protects your business and clients from a damaging attack on your organization. 

So how can a Firewall protect your business? Let’s first discuss what a firewall does.

What Does a Firewall Protect? 

Think of a firewall as the main door to your network that secures all of your data for the business (client information, credit card data, financial data, and so on).

A firewall program allows internet traffic to travel to and from your business network while examining the packets (signals containing information). The firewall protects the network by flagging and filtering out malicious information. 

Protection that could save your small business from being a victim of a security breach. 

Need help protecting sensitive data and information for your small business? Let Us Help you. 

Now that you have a better understanding of what a firewall does let’s dive into how a firewall protects your small business.  

Not All Firewalls Protect the Same

Most business owners believe their network is safe from the internet provider they sign-up with. An example of a provider would be AT&T.

An internet service provider supplies a customer with a modem/router, but these modems only have some firewall capabilities.

You may think you are protected, but unfortunately, not at the level that can help fully protect your business. Maybe that’s how 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses. 

But don’t worry, we share what a reliable firewall system should have, read below. 

What Functionalities Should a Firewall System Have? 

You may be asking yourself, “What should I look for in a firewall system?”

We have your answers. 

We list the functionalities for a business-grade level firewall. The features range from standard protection to an upgraded level of security that may require a subscription.  

1. Antivirus Feature

Protect your business from harmful attachments and links by ensuring your firewall has an antivirus function included in the system. A sophisticated antivirus feature can help protect your business’s sensitive data and emails. 

2. Content Filtering 

This function allows for the filtering of unauthorized sites not approved by the company’s administrator. You can decide which websites or platforms are not allowed to enter into the business network, like social media or pornographic sites. 

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

With VPN functionality, mobile device users and remote sites can securely access internal network resources. With more and more businesses allowing employees to work from home, this essential function promotes productivity, collaboration, and data sharing.

4. Wifi Encryption 

A firewall/router with a highly encrypted wifi connection can provide n extra layer of security to your small business network.

5.  Gateway Services 

The enhanced services provide sandboxing (another virtual environment that examines the data packet before sending it to your computer). This also includes protection for zero-day attacks and offers a much more security-laden examination of your data coming and going out of your network.  

A Firewall is Not a Set It and Forget Type of System

Unfortunately, most small businesses don’t realize the significance of maintaining a firewall until too late. 

We have seen this happen way too many times. After a firewall is installed, it’s forgotten. 

But to maintain the level of security and functionality of a sound firewall system, it has to be updated regularly.

Just like how your smartphone needs an update throughout the year, a firewall system needs an update too.

A Cyber Security Strategy Includes Firewall Protection

An experienced IT expert or firm will be your best solution to review your firewall’s capabilities and help determine if it meets the security needs of your business.

Have a trusted IT firm provide you with a thorough cyber security strategy (and firewall system) to secure your organization.

Want help with your cyber security strategy? Contact us for a free consultation.

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