How to Pick a Business Firewall

Firewalls keep unauthorized users out of an organization's network. To pick the best protection for your enterprise, you must research the different types of firewalls and evaluate them against the context of your network's needs.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Evaluate your current network infrastructure and decide how the firewall will fit. Determine if you want perimeter protection, or to simply segment a portion of the network. Note how many interfaces the firewall must provide for subnets and DMZs. Consider how many users will need concurrent sessions. Ascertain whether you need VPN support and integration with mail servers or sharepoint devices.

2. Determine what type of protection you need. You must implement of policy regarding what type of traffic you will restrict. Don't buy any more protection than you need. Most basic routers can provide simple filtering tasks. However, they're also the least flexible and most vulnerable to exploits.

3. Decide whether you want a software or appliance firewall. Software can run on existing computers and servers. Appliances are easier to install and maintain since you don't have to maintain the server software and operating system. They are more expensive.

4. Check out the interface (or operating system) of the firewall. It should be supported by your IT staff. For example, the interface should use a language they're already familiar with or one that is easy to learn.

5. Consult with an industry specialist if you still have questions or don't know how to proceed with your selection. Choosing, configuring and maintaining a firewall can be difficult for a small or inexperienced IT staff.

6. Compare the specs and data sheets of various firewall products to get a better understanding of firewall technologies and what kind of security is best for your organization. Read user and industry reviews.