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Internet Firewalls in Cybersecurity Explained

Internet firewalls act as barriers between secure internal networks and untrusted external networks like the internet. They regulate incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules. There are different types of firewalls, including packet filtering, stateful inspection, proxy, and next-generation firewalls. Firewalls are important for preventing unauthorized access and inhibiting the spread of malware, but they also have limitations such as management challenges, potential for false positives/negatives, and limited protection against internal threats. A multi-layered approach to cybersecurity is needed, using firewalls along with tools like antivirus software, updates, user education, and secure passwords.

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Luna Kim
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67 views2 pages

Internet Firewalls in Cybersecurity Explained

Internet firewalls act as barriers between secure internal networks and untrusted external networks like the internet. They regulate incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules. There are different types of firewalls, including packet filtering, stateful inspection, proxy, and next-generation firewalls. Firewalls are important for preventing unauthorized access and inhibiting the spread of malware, but they also have limitations such as management challenges, potential for false positives/negatives, and limited protection against internal threats. A multi-layered approach to cybersecurity is needed, using firewalls along with tools like antivirus software, updates, user education, and secure passwords.

Uploaded by

Luna Kim
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

The Role and Implications of Internet Firewalls in Cybersecurity

Name: LI ZHIGUI ,LI XIANGYU


Subject: MSIT 626 ICT
Submitted to: Prof. Alet Fabregas

I. Introduction
The increasing prevalence of digital activities has been accompanied by an upsurge in
potential cyber threats, making network security a top priority. A fundamental aspect
of network security is the internet firewall, which serves as a critical line of defense.
This report provides a comprehensive understanding of internet firewalls, including
their functionality, types, advantages, and potential limitations.

II. Understanding Internet Firewalls


Internet firewalls act as network security systems, regulating incoming and outgoing
network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Their function is to create a
barrier between a secure internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the
internet, offering a shield against potential cyber threats.

III. Types of Internet Firewalls


1. Packet Filtering Firewalls: These inspect packets of data based on surface-
level information like IP addresses, packet type, and port number, to verify
their compliance with the firewall's ruleset.
2. Stateful Inspection Firewalls: These track active connections and use the state
of these connections as part of the inspection process.
3. Proxy Firewalls: These serve as intermediaries, preventing direct contact
between both sides of the firewall and providing an additional layer of
security.
4. Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs): NGFWs blend traditional firewall
technology with added features such as encrypted traffic inspection, intrusion
prevention systems, and application awareness.

IV. Importance of Firewalls


Firewalls are integral in preventing unauthorized access to private networks. They are
particularly vital in securing sensitive information in businesses and institutions where
sensitive data exchange is routine. Additionally, firewalls can inhibit the spread of
malicious software to other devices within the network.

V. Limitations of Firewalls
Despite their essential role, firewalls also exhibit certain limitations:
1. Management Challenges: Large networks may require complex firewall
configurations, which can be challenging to manage and maintain.
2. False Positives and Negatives: Firewalls, based on their set rules, may
sometimes block legitimate traffic or allow harmful traffic through.
3. Inefficiency Against Internal Threats: Firewalls mainly safeguard against
external threats and may offer limited protection against threats originating
within the network.

VI. Conclusion
Firewalls, while being an integral component of network security, should be part of a
multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. A comprehensive security strategy should
also include antivirus software, regular updates and patches, user education, and
robust password policies. As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations must stay
vigilant, leveraging tools such as firewalls and constantly updating their security
measures to safeguard their digital resources.

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