As a fundamental aspect of an enterprise’s cybersecurity infrastructure, it’s important to regularly assess the effectiveness of your firewall in protecting your network. This blog will delve into five essential questions every organization should consider when evaluating firewall security. Whether you are an IT professional or a business owner, these questions will provide a valuable checklist for ensuring the robustness of your firewall security.
Q1: Should I Use On-Premises or Cloud-Based Deployment?
Organization must consider several factors when deciding between on-premises and cloud-based firewall deployment. On-premises deployment offers direct control over the firewall and the ability to customize its configuration to the organization’s specific needs. However, it also requires the acquisition and maintenance of hardware, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Cloud-based deployment, on the other hand, offers the advantage of reduced hardware and maintenance costs and the ability to scale the service as needed. It is also well-suited for Internet of Things (IoT) monitoring and security, as it offers a centralized location for managing and securing the often dispersed and numerous IoT devices within an organization. Ultimately, the decision between on-premises and cloud-based deployment will depend on the specific needs and resources of the business.
Q2: How Often Does The Firewall Provider Release Firewall Security Update Patches?
Your firewall software needs to be up-to-date to protect your network from the latest threats. Outdated software may have vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers or malware, such as viruses, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
For example, if a hacker discovers a vulnerability in an outdated version of your firewall software, they may be able to breach your network and access sensitive data. To prevent this type of breach, it is recommended to regularly update your firewall software to ensure that it is equipped to protect against the latest threats.
Normally, your software should download and install security patches and updates by daily. It is advisable to verify that your auto-update settings are enabled. You can also contact your provider to inquire about any planned updates for your firewall software. Most Next Generation Firewalls should have a consistent update schedule to avoid any security issues.
Q3: How does my Firewall Affect my Remote Access Systems?
As more and more employees work from home or other remote locations, the need for secure remote access systems becomes even more important. These systems must be able to protect company data and systems from potential threats while still allowing authorized users to access them remotely. By understanding how your firewall impacts your remote access systems, you can ensure that your company’s data and systems remain secure, even when accessed from multiple locations.
Q4: What Level of Monitoring Do I Need ?
There are two main types of firewall monitoring that you should consider: back-end monitoring and user activity monitoring. Back-end monitoring involves continuously monitoring your network for potential threats and vulnerabilities, while user activity monitoring involves reviewing the actions of individual users on your network to detect any unusual or potentially malicious behavior.
By combining these two types of monitoring, you can get a comprehensive view of your network security and identify potential threats before they can cause damage. Finding the right balance of tracking for your organization is essential, as too much monitoring can hinder productivity, while too little can leave your network vulnerable to threats.
Q5: How Equipped am I to Handle Current Cyber Threats?
As cyber threats evolve and become more sophisticated, it’s essential to assess your organization’s readiness to handle these threats regularly.
According to recent malware forecasts, the number of malware attacks is expected to continue increasing through 2023 and beyond. This can include implementing additional security measures, such as multi-factor authentication, as well as regularly training employees on cybersecurity best practices. Staying up-to-date on the latest threats and taking proactive steps to protect your organization ensures that your firewall security can effectively defend against potential attacks.
In conclusion, protecting your organization’s network with a reliable firewall is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of your business. When evaluating potential firewall solutions, it’s important to consider the 5 questions outlined in this article to ensure that you choose the right solution for your needs.If you are looking to improve your firewall security, consider choosing a reliable and trusted provider such as Palo Alto Networks. AceTeam is an authorized reseller for Palo Alto Networks, and we can help you find the right firewall solution for your organization. Click here to know more about Palo Alto Networks or contact AceTeam for more information.