Written by D. Gowen
Attacks on home networks are currently increasing during the coronavirus pandemic due to unprotected networks. Most individuals do not understand the importance of a firewall or what it does. A firewall sits between the end user and the open internet. All traffic is flowing in and out without any criteria for filtering or blocking.
Most businesses have understood the need to implement security through firewall protection. Home users need to do the same. Either way, if you are a business or working from home (WFH) or personal use at home – everyone needs a firewall.
Ransomware Attack
An example of a threat your home or business network is susceptible to is a ransomware attack. With this type of intrusion, the cyber criminal accesses your system and holds your data hostage by encrypting it. This prevents you from accessing your data.
Guess what? Now your ability to work or remain productive is impacted. The criminals then ask for a monetary payment to allow you to regain access to your data. Even if you are desperate and pay the ransom – there’s no guarantee they will unencrypt your data – after all, they are criminals.
Prevention of ransomware attacks is facilitated via a properly configured firewall. However, no prevention is ever 100% guaranteed. Sometimes ransomware attacks come in through emails that are malicious in nature. When users click on unknown links for example, various threats may result.
Therefore, security is complex with multiple layers of solutions. Proactive threat reduction is the first line of defense and that includes a firewall.
If a ransomware attack should occur, you could out smart those cyber criminals with your strategic backup and restore plan which has been capturing copies of your data regularly right? Maybe you aren’t doing that either. If not, another part of your security and continuity plan for sure!
However, a firewall should always be your first line of defense for maintaining effective security and the prevention of an array of known types of cyber risks.
Wi-Fi Attacks
What about when you travel away from home and are using a public Wi-Fi? The danger of public Wi-Fi is again that it is open and unprotected between you and the internet leaving you susceptible to cyber threats.
Besides the afore mentioned ransomware, other threats include the interception of your passwords, theft of data stored on your device, which may lead to identity theft or sale of your information to even more criminals on the dark web. Not to mention viruses, malware, spy bots being loaded onto your devices without your knowledge.
Virtual Private Network
How can a firewall installed to protect internet usage when at home or the office protect you while remote and using public Wi-Fi? The use of a secure VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection will allow you to login to your firewall to ensure you have the firewall between you and the internet.
This provides the same protections as if you were once again at home or at the office working inside your network as usual. Another advantage while traveling is that the secure VPN connection can allow you access to data, applications, or other resources from devices at your home or the office.
Implement a Firewall now
Although the need is evident, the competencies required to design, configure, and implement a firewall effectively requires much expertise. AKAVEIL Technologies has decades of experience, skills, and knowledge in the evolution of cyber security practices and standards. In addition, we have carefully chosen SOPHOS as our security partner.
SOPHOS provides ongoing research and knowledge in the cyber security arena which ensures their products are up to the most current specifications for your protection. We understand security posturing for optimal protection, prevention, and detection. Contact AKAVEIL and let us lead you to a stress free and secure user experience. www.akaveil.com/security