Business

Why You Need A Firewall on Your Business Computers

15 November 2022

A firewall is a common term used in the IT industry, but many people don’t know why they need it on computers.

So why use a firewall? 

It serves as the first line of defence against hackers, malware and unauthorised access to your devices and network. 

Your computer is likely using a built-in firewall right now, or you might be using a third-party one. However, if you own a business, you need to ensure your firewall works effectively.

In these cases, you should hire an IT specialist like Redpalm to configure your firewall for better security. It massively reduces the chances of your company devices getting hacked, making your business more secure.

However, that isn’t the only reason your business needs a firewall. There are several ways a well-configured firewall can make it easier for your business to work effectively.

In this article, we’ll look at why a firewall is a necessary component for your business’s cyber security.

1. Prevents Unauthorised Remote Access

One of the worst things that can happen to your company is an outsider having complete remote access to your data. It can lead to leaks, and in the worst-case scenario, you can lose control and access to your data.

Understanding why you need a firewall is the first step to protecting your data. With a correctly configured firewall, you can disable remote desktop access on your company devices. This prevents hackers from secretly taking over your computer from a different device.

However, people can still access your company’s computers through remote access. This means that you should be cautious about potential hackers asking for your data through email or by taking control of a former employee’s account.

Therefore, you need to hire a reliable IT service like Redpalm, which can offer you complete cyber security. Additionally, our experts can explain why you need a firewall and how it can provide you with advice on how you can improve the security of your data.

2. Provides More Security for Old PCs

If your business still has computers with Windows 7, your company is more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Some of these operating systems don’t have an in-built firewall.

While the best solution is to upgrade your PC, you can hire Redpalm to make the necessary firewall configurations to keep your data secure. Additionally, you can install a third-party firewall to bring more security to your old PCs.

This gives you the time and security needed to upgrade your devices later in the future. Fortunately, Redpalm can help you get new devices for your company, along with the necessary software licences.

3. Block Unsuitable Content with a Firewall

While the main purpose of a firewall is to block malware and remote access, they’re capable of other functions. A firewall also gives you the ability to block specific online destinations on your computer devices.

This massively reduces the chances of your employees entering unsafe websites that could have hidden malware. However, in certain parts of the UK, content blocking is managed by the ISP.

This means that you need to notify the ISP if you want to disable any blocked content. Fortunately, Redpalm can help you while configuring the firewall for your business.

4. Boosts Workplace Security with a Router Firewall

A firewall doesn’t necessarily have to be software built into your company’s devices. You can opt for a hardware firewall built into your company’s router.

You can access the firewall setting by filling in the administrator credentials for the router. Once you sign in, you can review all the firewall options and make the necessary changes.

This ensures that your data stays secure, even after someone has access to your router. Additionally, it gives you more control over your cyber security and makes it difficult for hackers to access your network.

5. Monitors Network Traffic

A firewall allows your organisation to monitor traffic based on specially defined rules. With a firewall, every connection request is checked to make sure it’s safe and any cyber threats are stopped before they can reach your system. 

Firewalls act as security guards, helping you track large data transfers and any unknown devices attempting to connect to your network. 

They also help you control access by allowing only authorised applications or users to communicate through the network. This ability to spot red flags and address potential threats early on is one of the main reasons why you need a firewall. 

6. Prevents Hacks and Data Loss

IT technicians and antivirus software developers work tirelessly to keep hackers from accessing your business’ private data

However, without a firewall, your devices and your data are exposed and vulnerable. If a cybercriminal were to gain access to your network, it could lead to data leaks, fraud, and reputational damage. 

Firewalls serve as a barrier between your business computers and cybercriminals looking to exploit network vulnerabilities. They block unauthorised access attempts to prevent hackers from gaining entry into your systems. 

A firewall also guards against malware and phishing attacks to prevent data theft or corruption. Blocking harmful connections and maintaining the integrity of your digital assets is one of the biggest reasons why you need a firewall. Investing in a reliable firewall is the key to preventing costly downtime and potentially permanent data loss. 

Contact Redpalm for Firewall Configuration and Other Cyber Security Services Today

Firewalls offer protection against cyberattackers and allow you to shield your devices and network from any unnecessary or malicious network traffic. 

Now that you’re aware of the benefits of having a well-configured firewall for your business, you’ll need someone reliable for the job. That’s where we can help.

Redpalm features IT experts with years of experience in the cybersecurity industry.

Additionally, we also provide services like IT services, technology procurement, hybrid IT and more. We strive to make your business more secure from hackers and malware with our services.

Are you struggling to choose a service that can make your business more secure? You can book a free consultation with our IT experts to learn how you can secure your business data. 

To learn more about our services, you can email us at info@redpalm.co.uk or call us on 0333 006 3366 today.

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