Why Your Small Business Needs A Firewall

Small businesses may think they are immune to cyber attacks because of their size, but they are actually just as much at risk as larger corporations. According to the National Cyber Security Alliance, 43% of cyber attacks target small businesses. That is why it is essential for small businesses to have a firewall in place.

What is a firewall?

A firewall is a piece of hardware or software that is designed to prevent unauthorized access to a network or computer system. It acts as a barrier between the internet and a small business’s internal network. Firewalls are an important first line of defense against cyber threats.
Here are some reasons why small businesses need a firewall:
A firewall helps to protect against cyber attacks by filtering out malicious traffic before it reaches a small business’s network. This helps to prevent malware infections, hacking attempts, and other types of cyber attacks.
A firewall can prevent unauthorized access to a small business’s network. It can block incoming traffic from unknown IP addresses and prevent employees from accessing unauthorized websites or applications.
Many small businesses are subject to regulatory compliance requirements, such as HIPAA or PCI DSS. A firewall can help small businesses to comply with these regulations by enforcing security policies and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Firewalls can also help to improve network performance by reducing the amount of unnecessary traffic on a network. This can help to prevent network congestion and improve the speed and reliability of a small business’s network.
Small businesses are also at risk of insider threats, which occur when employees or contractors intentionally or unintentionally cause harm to a company’s network security. A firewall can help to prevent insider threats by enforcing access controls and monitoring network activity.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, small businesses need a firewall to protect their networks from cyber attacks, prevent unauthorized access, ensure compliance, improve network performance, and protect against insider threats.
With the increasing prevalence of cyber attacks, it is essential for small businesses to take proactive measures to protect their sensitive information and assets. A firewall is a simple and effective way for small businesses to improve their network security and reduce their risk of a security breach.

ICS can provide your business with a managed firewall solution. Learn more about how we can help. ICS Firewall Solutions