Firewall Definition

A firewall is a computer software or a hardware device acting as a gatekeeper designed to keep our computers safe from hackers, or anyone wanting to have a look in our computers. It acts by monitoring all internet traffic incoming and outgoing of our computers.

They not only control the passage of this traffic but inspects it, making sure it is safe and do not contain viruses, spyware, or other malicious software.

Firewalls control internet traffic in two ways: Packet Filtering and Stateful Inspection.

Packet Filtering

A Packet is a chunk of data and it contains the IP address of the computer where data comes from and a destination address.

What’s an IP Address?

It is an identifier for your computer. The format of an IP address is a 32-bit numeric address written as four numbers separated by periods. If the Firewall recognizes the Packet and its IP Address, or its Internet Protocol Address, it allows the Packet to pass.

The Stateful Inspection

The Stateful Inspection method looks at some data in the Packet and compares key chunks of data to a large area that contains known, trusted information, to see if it is safe or if your computer is expecting the data. It allows safe passage of data if all seems well. The Stateful Inspection method is preferred since it checks the data that have passed through your computer before.

Hardware Firewalls

Hardware Firewalls are devices that are designed to run software Firewalls. What is the advantage of using this hardware device? One big advantage of having a Hardware Firewall is that the computer doesn’t have to do any work. The hardware running the software does all the work, thereby leaving the CPU in the computer free to undertake the other tasks. As the the CPU, or Central Processing Unit is released from performing firewall tasks, it is able to run at its best performance.

Common Threats to Your Computer

Hackers use many creative ways to access or abuse your computer when it’s not protected. This can range from being able to view or access your files to actually running programs on your computer. These programs take the different forms known as trojans, spyware, virus, etc.

Viruses

A virus is one of the most well known threats. A Virus is a small file which reproduces itself on other computers. They can be harmless or as malign to be able to wiping your hard drive. Firewalls may not protect you from all viruses. So, it would be worth your while to invest in good anti virus software as added protection.

Nowadays there are many options available for firewall protection. Most of them are easy to install, they are affordable and, in many cases, firewall software is offered together with antivirus protection. You can test your firewall by going online and visiting a security site. Go to www.grc.com and give their free Shields Up security test a try. If the firewall passes, you will have the comfort of knowing your PC will have that added protection from someone stealing your credit card information or any valuable information. If you have not invested in a firewall, don’t wait to give one a try. Your critical files, programs and personal information will be much safer.

Check Our Recommended Software To Keep Your Computer Safe

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