Firewalls: Barbarians at the Gates

As they are plotting against you and going in for the attack, what is your strategy? How well are you at keeping them out? Are you putting too much stock in your firewall? According to Mick Johnson, a product marketing manager with Sensory Networks, "The definition of a firewall has changed over the years, compounding this issue, but most commercial 'firewalls' out there just don't dig deep enough into the network traffic to provide any real security. They'll certainly block a lot of basic attacks, but as soon as someone tunnels an exploit over HTTP or targets an older SMTP server, an enterprise can be considered completely unprotected (sensorynetworks.com)." Is one firewall enough to protect your network traffic?

Actually, when it comes to computer networks, one firewall is not enough. "There is no one-size-fits-all security solution, and most IT managers spend a large chunk of time creating multi layered, process-driven security strategies. . . ." as found in Elizabeth Millard's article called Weighing in on Security Services. Each firewall is different, and since there is such a wide range of firewalls to choose from (software programs to hardware devices), it's important to have the firewall protection you are looking for. For instance, irregardless of what firewall(s) you are using, if you have open unattended ports, you are undermining your
firewall(s).

Unfortunately, there is no single way for the barbarians to intrude into your computer network. Computer viruses are another huge predicament for networks today. Since there are 25 to 35 new viruses occurring everyday on the Internet, your virus software should be scheduled to update on a daily basis.

Genesis Global, Inc. provides a wide variety of security equipment. Cisco hardware and accessories, as well as other leading network equipment manufacturers, have much to offer. Cisco's PIX Firewalls and Adaptive Security Appliances brilliantly transform traditional network management into state-of-the-art secure communication networks where worms, hackers, and other threats are proactively controlled through the combination of firewall, application security, and intrusion prevention services.

To adequately secure your computer network, part of covering your basis is to hire a security consultant and have him or her take an assessment of your network vulnerabilities. Once you know where the gaps are in your software, firewall appliance, or business policies, you will be in a better position to fight the ongoing war of keeping the barbarians at the gates!

When you are ready to improve your network system, don't forget about Genesis Global's wide selection of new and used network equipment. If you need help in upgrading your security for your business network, the professionals at Genesis Global are happy to help. Give us a call at 1-800-908-9665 or email sales@genesisglobalinc.com and let us help you reduce your network vulnerabilities.

Give Genesis Global's Account Sales Managers a call at:
1-800-908-9665

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"Cisco believes the network is the platform for organizations to connect with their constituents and for individuals to connect with each other," said Dan Scheinman, senior vice president and general manager of the Cisco Media Solutions Group" (CMSG).