Which type of firewall is a pc or server with firewall software running on it?

A network security solution, a hardware firewall is designed to protect an organization’s network boundary by being deployed in inline mode. This means that the physical network cables over which traffic can cross this boundary are connected to ports on the “inside” and “outside” of the firewall.

When traffic enters a network firewall, it is subjected to security inspection and may have multiple different controls applied to it. At a high level, firewalls commonly are configured to block certain types of traffic from crossing the network boundary. This can help to block traffic over any unused or undesirable ports from entering the network and to stop certain types of traffic from leaving the network (such as traffic that could leak sensitive data).

Beyond this, many firewalls also have additional access controls and security inspection capabilities. They may be able to apply signature detection or machine learning to traffic to identify malicious content and to apply access controls for certain resources. All of these filters and protections help to secure the network and the systems connected to it against exploitation.

Software vs Hardware Firewalls

Hardware firewalls are not the only available firewall option. An organization may choose to deploy a software-based firewall as well.

The main difference between a hardware firewall and a software firewall is that the hardware firewall runs on its own physical device, while a software firewall is installed on another machine. A common example of a software firewall is the firewall built into most operating systems like Windows and macOS. These OS firewalls are bundled with the operating system and can run on any compatible hardware.

However, these OS firewalls are not the only options for software firewalls. Like hardware firewalls, software firewalls are also offered as standalone solutions. An organization can purchase and deploy these firewalls in locations where a hardware firewall may not be a viable option, such as in cloud environments.

Key Benefits of Hardware Firewalls

Hardware firewalls, deployed as physical appliances, provide a number of benefits compared to software firewalls, including:

• Consistent Security: Software firewalls installed on different computers can all be configured differently. Unless an organization can implement and enforce a consistent security configuration, software firewalls may be disabled or have varying levels of security. A hardware firewall, on the other hand, provides consistent protection to all devices protected by it.
• Standalone Protection: A software firewall likely runs on the protected computer. This means that it takes up resources that could otherwise be used for other purposes. A hardware firewall runs on its own hardware, meaning that increases in traffic volume or security requirements do not impact the performance of the protected machines.
• Simplified Management: With a software firewall, each computer needs to be individually configured, managed, and updated to provide strong protection against cyber threats. A hardware firewall, on the other hand, is a single appliance that protects the entire network. Any updates or configuration changes that are required can be applied once and will instantly apply to all devices protected by the firewall.
• Improved Security: A hardware firewall runs on its own dedicated hardware instead of relying on the resources of the computer where it is installed. This can help to protect it against attacks designed to exploit the underlying operating system or the programs running alongside it.
• Centralized Visibility: Running independent software firewalls on each device within an organization’s network means that the security team either lacks complete network visibility or must put in extra effort to aggregate and assimilate information from all of the various devices. A hardware firewall centralizes all network monitoring and logging in a single appliance.

Which Kind of Firewall is Right For You?

A big decision to make is whether to use a hardware or software firewall to protect a network. Both of them have their own advantages and disadvantages and the right choice depends on an organization’s unique situation and use cases.

Beyond the choice of a physical firewall appliance and a software-based firewall, it is also important to select a firewall that provides the features necessary to protect the organization against cyber threats. To learn more about what to look for in a firewall solution, check out this buyer’s guide. You’re also welcome to schedule a demo to learn about how Check Point’s next-generation firewall (NGFW) solutions can help to improve your network security.

Ultimately, we all know that a firewall protects computers and data within a network, by blocking any malicious files attempting to gain access to the network or any individual device. But what many don’t know, is that there are different types of firewalls, all designed with specific strengths and weaknesses. Ask yourself, what do you really know about software firewall, hardware firewall, network firewall, and their natural progression to next generation firewall?  For the network security minded reader, it’s important to know the subtle (and sometimes not to subtle) differences between the different types of firewalls, and what configuration will best protect your network from cyber threat.

In its most basic form, a firewall blocks network connections, be it website, email or files transfer, based on pre-set security policies put in place by network administrators. Firewall in all its forms is ultimately designed to protect data at rest and in transit. A firewall will also log data about network traffic, allowing administrators to closely monitor all activity, and stop attacks before they start. There are several different types of firewalls to choose from.

Why do Enterprises need Firewall?

It’s a common misconception that only large or multi-national enterprises need firewall. While this might have been true once, the rapid progression of cyber threat makes the use of a firewall non-negotiable for enterprises of all size. The recent pandemic has also done its part to move enterprises toward a more cloud-first, or digital cyber security strategy. The most recent “Cost of a Data Breach 2021” Ponemon study found that the cost of data breach rose to $4.24 million USD this year, proving that the need for network firewall is real and pressing.

A good firewall will go far beyond protecting your network from cyber criminals and hackers. Firewalls are used to collect security data on prevalent risks, and automate your protections. It also helps companies maintain compliance standards and fix networking issues that affect productivity. Finally, a good firewall will restrict access to potentially dangerous connections to unsafe sites using your network.

What is Software Firewall?

Software firewall is a firewall that is installed on a computer or server, and tasked with network security. It works with a wide variety of other technology security solutions to provide more robust and cohesive security for enterprises of all sizes.

When a software firewall is installed on a server, it opens up like an umbrella of protection over all other computers connected to the network. It is able to monitor both incoming and outgoing traffic for potential risk or suspicious user behaviour, and also makes setting security policies much easier, faster and more flexible.

This type of firewall is fast becoming in the solution of choice for many reasons. Enterprises love the lower initial cost with few restrictions on the number of devices to be protected. This type of firewall is also critical as it requires very little space (as a computer program), and can be installed remotely on any number of devices. It’s far different from its counterpart, the hardware firewall, which has many unique elements in its own right.

What is Hardware Firewall? 

Hardware firewall is positioned between the network and devices, allowing traffic to funnel through the firewall for a close inspection and analysis. A hardware firewall, a term often interchangeable with network or next-generation firewall, protects the network gateways for an enterprise.

Hardware firewall is physical hardware, installed between network elements and connected devices, and is tasked with filtering traffic for cyber threat to the network or devices. Filtering out unauthorized or suspicious users based on traffic analysis is one of the biggest benefits of hardware firewall.

Hardware firewall is most often used by enterprises that need a higher level of security for all users and devices, and for safe connection to vital company data in any environment.  Some enterprises choose this route because they have highly skilled IT experts on their staff to manage the firewall and hardware, and those businesses who require more granular control.

Hardware Firewall vs. Software Firewall

It’s important to be as educated as possible on the differences as you make this important choice. Let’s explore a few of the biggest differences between the two types of firewalls.

ParametersSoftware FirewallHardware FirewallBroad vs. Granular ProtectionProvides granular protection for all individual devices within the network.Protects the network as a whole.Complex vs. SimplicitySimpler to set up, change, and maintain.Requires skilled staff, and physical proximity to the data center.High Cost vs. Low CostCost little to deploy and maintain.High initial investment in hardware, and a continued investment in skilled staff.Inconvenient vs. ConvenienceSoftware firewall is difficult to bypass, and has very little effect on user experience.Hardware firewall is often bypassed by employees seeking faster, more reliable connection or access to certain restricted sites.Expertise vs. UsabilitySoftware firewall is easy to use and designed to be easily managed by anyone.Hardware firewall require advanced IT knowledge to install and manage

Benefits of a Software Firewall

If you aren’t sure which firewall solution is right for your enterprise, take a closer look at the benefits of a software firewall.

• Lower Cost - As hardware firewall is an actual hardware appliance, it is more expensive to install initially. Software firewall generally starts with free trials, and a low monthly fee. Over time, costs will rise with subscription fees and expansion, meaning it’s vital to budget for both your current and future needs.
• Space Restraints - Hardware firewall, as a physical appliance, takes up space and requires a temperature-controlled environment and access to a great deal of power. Software firewall is, well – software, meaning it has no physical footprint.
• Easy Installation - While hardware firewalls require skilled staff to set up and maintain, software firewalls are often set up in a few clicks.
• Professional & Corporate Licencing – working with a enterprise-quality software firewall gives you access to multi-user licenses and can work with a wide variety of third-party security solutions.
• Regular Updates – while updating a hardware firewall requires skilled technicians with boots on the ground in your data center, software firewall updates are done on all devices with the click of a button.
• Security Monitoring – Unlike hardware firewall, software firewall is designed to incorporate with your existing security solutions, meaning it can monitor inbound and outbound traffic for potential threat.
• Flexibility – it can be configured to flexibly or stringently apply security policies, and can easily pivot as security needs arise. The ability to limit access to particular applications or programs is another benefit of this type of firewall.
• Tailored – as it’s installed on devices like PCs or laptops, software firewall is far easier to remove or update, and goes with the device anywhere the device goes, as opposed to forcing the device to connect through a hardware firewall that isn’t nearly as accessible outside the enterprise.

Why do Enterprises need Software Firewall?

Let’s take a look at some of the pain points that enterprises are using software firewall to overcome.

1. Risk of infiltration by hackers or malicious external users
2. User access to unauthorized or unsafe websites or applications
3. Malware and ransomware attacks
4. Bandwidth allocation issues
5. Risky virtual private network (VPN) access
6. Unlimited device access
7. A lack of network security automation and lack of skilled IT professionals

Why move to cloud?

Many incorrectly assume that being cloud-based means you don’t need to worry about firewall. This is entirely incorrect!  Your cloud hosting provider will protect your business in the same ways they protect all their other cloud-clients, but your business is unique, and your needs are too. Software firewall is perfect for a cloud-first or cloud-smart strategy, offering the flexibility and granular control you need in a cloud environment. Using several real-life examples, Forbes encourages cloud adoption due to reduced costs, scalability, security, reliability, fast deployment and availability.

Another benefit of moving to the cloud, is the ability to deploy more powerful Next Generation Firewall (NGFW). Gartner defines this type of firewall as a deep-packet inspection focused product, designed to prevent intrusion through careful application-level inspection using threat intelligence.

3 Best Open-Source Software Firewall Options

Going the open-source route is advisable when you are smaller, lighter and have the desire to explore all your options without a big investment. Many enterprises find that they start with an open-source software firewall, and progress to more robust protections. Cyber Security News says that these are 3 of the best open-source software firewalls:

1. PfSense – While it doesn't have web filtering, there are many options with PfSense. It can be installed on your VMs or hardware, or they have a preloaded option. The membership fees and support does cost $99 per year.
2. Untangle Firewall – Untangle can easily installed on VMs and hardware, with options for both free and paid applications, there are many options for any budget and skill level. Preloaded is also available with Untangle, along with the fun name.
3. OPNsense Firewall – OPNsense firewall has a versatile, web-based interface and numerous features. It’s a newcomer to the race for top-dog, but backed by inventor Manuel Kasper, it has moved quickly up the ladder.

Why work with Sangfor?

Sangfor’s Next Generation Application Firewall, or NGAF, is a powerful network firewall security device deployed to filter incoming and outgoing traffic for threats, secure the network from attackers, and provide security intelligence from outside the network. Sangfor NGAF provides a holistic view of the entire organizational security network, with ease of operation & maintenance for administration. For more information on how to work with Sangfor to achieve the highest quality network security on the market, visit us online at www.sangfor.com 

FAQ

What is Firewall?

A firewall is a network security device, physical or software, designed to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic from a network, stop malicious attacks and apply security policies and rules. It creates a barrier between your network and users, and the internet beyond.

What is Software Firewall?

Software firewall is installed on a computer or server, working with a wide variety of other IT security solutions to provide more robust and cohesive security for enterprises of all sizes.

What is Hardware Firewall?

Hardware firewall is a physical piece of equipment, positioned between the network and devices, allowing traffic to funnel through the firewall for a close inspection and analysis.

How do I protect enterprise IT Infrastructure?

Enterprises use software firewall to enforce IT infrastructure security policies, audit security data, and even to back-up data.

Do I need a software firewall if I have antivirus?

Yes, you want multiple layers of security for every device that enters your network. Anti-virus is becoming increasingly ineffective as malicious attacks become more sophisticated and common.

Does my SMB (Small and Medium Business) need a software firewall?

In a word, yes. The frequency of attacks against small and medium sized businesses is increasing. Attackers are focusing on smaller businesses with less robust security protections, and climbing the ladder to clients, users, customers or parent companies.

What are the 3 types of firewalls?

What type of software is firewall software?

Which type of firewall filters IP traffic between a pair of bridged interfaces?

Which firewall is best for PC?