Hardware and Software Firewalls

In computer language, firewall refers to a security measure that is set up to authorize who can and cannot access your network or computer. It is necessary in order to keep viruses off of your system. These firewalls can be established as hardware or as software.

The name "firewall" was originally used in reference to a certain type of wall. Firewalls are walls in a building built to prevent a fire from spreading to other areas. This is a parallel to firewalls built to prevent viruses from spreading throughout a network or computer.

A software firewall is something downloaded and installed on each individual computer. It determines what is and is not allowed to enter your computer. Software firewalls are effective, but should not serve as your only security.

You are allowed to change the settings on your software firewall. Because of this, your firewall may be more lenient on what it allows in. However, you may also increase the security on your firewall which can be a benefit for certain circumstances.

A hardware firewall is built into a physical object that protects your whole network. These are very important even if you already have a software firewall. You don't want to leave your software firewall to defend itself against the entire internet. It is especially needed for a network with multiple systems attached or an intranet.

Hardware firewalls can be compared to a locked building while the software firewalls serves as a locked safe. While a safe can protect your money, you don't want to leave your door unlocked. Both protections are needed to ensure your computers remain safe.

The most common form of hardware firewalls are known as router firewalls. Router firewalls are built into wireless routers to protect your personal network. They are fairly easy to set up, but you should learn more about them to make sure they are working properly.

A computer can be a great asset to your life, but will need proper protection if connected to the internet. Firewalls are there to serve as a barrier between your computer and the rest of the world. Both hardware and software firewalls are needed so you can be sure your computer is secure.

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