However, one newer and more modern technique to update your security is by adding a firewall to your network. A firewall is designed to block any unexpected or unwanted connections trying to get to your network. Large amounts of data both enter and leave your network on a daily basis, so a firewall will check the content of this data passing thorough it. This truly enormous quantity of data is split into chucks, technically known as ‘packets’ before being sent through a network. Firewalls are used to check that these data packets abide by specific rules set up about what is allowed in to your network. This helps to protect you against unauthorised access to a computer system from an attacker looking to steal your data, cause damage or even control your systems. It effectively creates a safety barrier between your internal network and any incoming traffic, and it blocks anything potentially malicious.
Now, most operating system will have a basic software firewall within it, which most definitely should be turned on. However, you can also buy hardware security firewall devices too, which sit on your network perimeter. It is best to have both types, so that you have layers of protection guarding your data. Now, typically the router you receive from your InternetService Provider i.e. SKY or BT, will have some limited firewall capability. However, if security is something that is important to you and you really want to protect your organisation or even your family, then nothing compares to installing a dedicated firewall security device.