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Firewall is a programmable filter that stands between your internal IT systems (like computers and servers) and the outside world, like the internet. It examines all data packets — or small chunks of information — that attempt to enter or leave your network, comparing them against a list of safe rules. If the rules aren’t met, the firewall blocks them. This prevents threats like hacking, identity theft, malware, and cyber fraud from getting into your network.

For example, if a hacker infiltrates a government agency’s firewall, they can use it to access the entire agency’s network. The hacker can then move between the various agencies by exploiting any open pathways that are available, putting other networks at risk as they do so. Firewalls can help prevent such attacks by ensuring that all traffic is checked before it’s allowed into or out of a network, as well as limiting the number of open pathways in a network.

Firewall rules can be centralized and automated to ensure consistent application across the network. This reduces the margin for error and allows security teams to respond proactively to anomalies and security incidents as they occur. Differentiating responsibilities and instituting processes that allow only certain people to make changes to firewall configurations further mitigates risks of unauthorized or accidental rule changes. Continuous monitoring of firewall logs provides valuable insights into the nature of incoming and outgoing traffic, allowing security teams to respond quickly to suspicious patterns.