If you would like to know how to use the firewall, you should be able to figure out what exactly its purpose is first. Fortunately, this article will give you an idea as to what you can expect from using a firewall in terms of computer protection. If you want to learn more, please do not hesitate to read on.
What Is A Firewall?
A firewall refers to a specific type of Network Security System that monitors the traffic of data that comes into your computer through a particular set of rules applied. The firewall works in such a way that it sets barriers between a particular secured network channel, (your computer) as opposed to another presumably unsafe network.
History of the Firewall
In the literal sense, a firewall refers to a wall that was built to keep a fire enclosed within a building. The technology at the same name emerged during the 1980s. This was at a time when the Internet was still very new in terms of connectivity and global usage.
What Are The Different Types Of Firewall Based on Function?
There are two different types of firewalls that can be used to protect your computer. These are as follows:
The hardware-based firewall
Software-based firewall
The former can be treated as an appliance that would be part of the computer installation itself. It can also serve as another type of server for that specific network. The software-based firewall can run on general purpose machines.
What Is The Most Commonly Used Type Of Firewall Services?
The most commonly used type of firewall would be these software-based firewalls. This is because they offer protection from public internet access and the dangers that come with it. A lot of routers that are usually tasked to pass on electronic data wirelessly often have a built in firewall component to begin with. This was done to prevent a possible wireless security breach in the future. In addition, a lot of known firewalls can also perform basic routing functions.
Various Types Of Firewalls According To Specific Location
Network Layer/Packet Filters: This type of firewall words such a way that it prevents unknown data packets to pass through the network without matching any established list of protocols and information. This works via low-level IP protocol stack. If a specific piece of data matches the established lists of protocols, if they did that it would be allowed to travel wirelessly into your computer.
Stateless Firewalls: These specific types of firewalls require a lesser amount of memory. Because of this, it can work faster compared to a network layer filters. One advantage of using this as part of your network security system is that it will be able to filter network protocols that have no concept of sessions.
How Are These Firewall Types Different From Newer Ones?
Modern firewall technology allows the system to filter traffic in your network using simple attributes such as:
IP addresses
Available ports in your computer and many others.
This is exactly the reason you would not have to worry about your computer’s safety and security as high as you install it properly working firewall in your computer. With all the technological advances that man has experienced in recent years, a firewall has become one of the necessities when it comes to computer installations. Knowing the specifics about firewalls can help you decide which network to use in the future.
