Access to e-mail and other Internet resources is very much a necessity for conducting business and accessing information. However, along with the convenience that network connectivity brings, it also raises serious security concerns. With always-on connections such as cable modems and DSL lines, Internet users need to be increasingly vigilant of security issues, as network traffic coming into the computer can cause damage to files and programs even when the user is away from the computer and the computer is idle. In a system that is not protected with any security measures, malicious code such as viruses can infect systems and cause damage that may be difficult to repair. Unscrupulous characters on the Internet are always snooping around trying to find open computers from which they can steal personal files, personal information or create other forms of mischief. The loss of financial records, e-mail, customer files, can be devastating to a business or to an individual.

What is a Firewall: Firewalls are tools that can be used to enhance the security of computers connected to a network, such as a LAN or the Internet. A firewall separates a computer from the Internet, inspecting packets of data as they arrive at either side of the firewall ? inbound to, or outbound from, your computer ? to determine whether it should be allowed to pass or be blocked.

Firewalls act as guards at the computer's entry points (which are called ports) where the computer exchanges data with other devices on the network. Firewalls ensure that packets that are requesting permission to enter the computer meet certain rules that are established by the user of the computer. Firewalls operate in two ways, by either denying or accepting all messages based on a list of designated acceptable or unacceptable sources, or by allowing or denying all messages based on a list of designated acceptable or unacceptable destination ports.

Although they sound complex, firewalls are relatively easy to install, setup and operate. This article will provide a brief introduction to firewalls. This is not intended to serve as a review of specific firewall products. Rather, it will serve as an overview of what firewalls are, how they work, the different types of firewall technology and their suitability for small office/ home office and personal computer users.

USmibn can implement a parameter hardware firewall solutions for your business network which will keep it safe and secure from unauthorized users.Our experienced security consultants can analyze your business requirements and implement a solution that will meet your organizational security needs.