Firewalls And The Difference Between Hardware And Software Firewalls

Firewalls: An Overview A firewall is a security system 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 (like the internet) to prevent unauthorized access, malware, and cyberattacks. Firewalls come in two main types: hardware firewalls and software firewalls . 1. Hardware Firewalls 🔹 What is a Hardware Firewall? A hardware firewall is a physical device that sits between a network and the internet. It inspects and filters network traffic before it reaches individual devices. 🔹 Key Features & Benefits: ✔ Network-Wide Protection – Secures all devices in the network at once. ✔ Dedicated Security Appliance – Does not consume system resources on individual machines. ✔ Better Performance – Handles high traffic volumes efficiently. ✔ Customizable Rules – Advanced settings for traffic filtering, VPNs, and intrusion prevention. 🔹 Co...