Firewalls

Section 4 of the Cyber Essentials Evendine set it all about Firewalls and how they are used in the organisation. This section is an introduction to firewalls.

What is a Firewall?

A ‘firewall’ is hardware or software that creates a barrier between a ‘trusted network’ (your business) and an ‘untrusted network,’ like the internet. Firewalls protect you from a variety of threats, such as malicious software accessing your computer or network. A firewall can also help prevent Denial of Service (DoS) attacks..

How does it work?

Firewalls check all incoming traffic based on a number of pre-set rules. These rules are used to filter out anything malicious or suspicious. They also help prevent attacks on your network.

Why do I need one?

Firewalls are, quite simply, a crucial first line of defence from a cyber-attack.

Without one, you will allow every connection into your network from anyone. You can’t detect incoming threats and, as a result, could leave your devices vulnerable to malicious users.

I’m ok, I’ve got a firewall

A firewall shouldn’t be your only method of defence. There are a few things you should do to help protect your business and its data. As we’ve said in other blog posts there are five key controls that you need to implement to ensure you are keeping your information safe. Firewalls are just one method of defence, you need to use all the controls correctly to ensure you have a good defence against cyber criminals. All of these are covered within Cyber Essentials, here are the five controls you should have in place:

Cyber Essentials 5 Basic Controls
Cyber Essentials clearly sets out five basic security controls that can protect organisations. By implementing the 5 basic controls you can help prevent cyber attacks on your business.
firewall icon

Control 1

Use a firewall to secure your internet connection.

secure device

Control 2

Choose the most secure settings for devices and software.

secure device

Control 3

Control who has access to your data and services.

Malware protection

Control 4

Protect yourself from viruses and other malware.

keep secure

Control 5

Keep your devices and software up to date.

in2secure and Cyber Essentials
in2secure is a Certified Body for Cyber Essentials; the UK government scheme that covers all the fundamentals of cyber security. We’ve completed the assessment ourselves and help other businesses who want to get certified in Cyber Essentials