A firewall is the front door of your business network. It decides what traffic is allowed in and out, and a modern next-generation firewall (NGFW) also blocks malware, risky websites and intrusion attempts. This guide explains what a business firewall does, what to look for and how to choose one.
What Is a Next-Generation Firewall?
Traditional firewalls allowed or blocked traffic based on IP addresses and ports. Next-generation firewalls add deeper inspection, combining several security functions in one device:
- Application control: allow or limit apps such as social media, streaming or file sharing.
- Intrusion prevention (IPS): detect and block known attacks.
- Anti-virus and anti-malware scanning of web and email traffic.
- Web filtering by category to block malicious or unwanted websites.
- SSL/TLS inspection to find threats hidden in encrypted traffic.
- VPN for secure links between offices and for remote staff.
Signs Your Business Needs a Better Firewall
- You are relying on the basic router supplied by your internet provider.
- Staff work remotely or you have branches, plants or warehouses to connect.
- You have had ransomware, virus outbreaks or suspicious logins.
- Your firewall is out of support or its security subscriptions have expired.
- Internet is slow because there is no control over bandwidth use.
How to Choose a Business Firewall
- Size it correctly: check “threat protection throughput” with security features switched on, not just the headline firewall speed.
- Count users and connections: include remote VPN users and future growth.
- Plan for subscriptions: next-generation features usually need an annual security licence.
- Consider dual internet lines: many firewalls can load-balance and fail over between ISPs.
- Think about management: a firewall is only effective if someone keeps it updated and reviews its alerts.
Popular Firewall Brands
We work with Fortinet FortiGate, WatchGuard and Cisco firewalls, and recommend models based on your users, internet speed, branches and budget.
Logging and Compliance
Indian organisations are expected to report certain cyber security incidents to CERT-In promptly and to retain system logs. A properly configured firewall with log retention makes it much easier to investigate incidents and meet these expectations.
Firewall Services from Altn Technology
We supply, install, configure and manage firewalls for offices, factories and multi-site businesses, including VPNs between plants and head offices. See our firewall security services and managed network services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a hardware firewall better than software on each PC?
You need both. A network firewall protects the whole office at the internet edge, while endpoint security protects each device, including laptops used outside the office.
How often should firewall firmware be updated?
Apply security updates as soon as practical after testing, and review the configuration at least every few months.
Need Help Setting This Up?
Altn Technology sets up and manages business email and security for companies in Panipat, Karnal, Ambala, Chandigarh, Mohali, Baddi and across India. Request a quote or call +91 79880 20649.