Routers for business: what features are critical for network security?

A secure and efficient network is the foundation of any modern company. Business routers play a key role in providing stable Internet access, protection against cyber attacks and managing network traffic. Choosing the right router for a business is crucial, as an improperly secured network can become an easy target for hackers, ransomware or phishing.

Unlike standard home routers, business routers offer advanced features such as an enterprise-class firewall, network segmentation, VPN, threat detection systems (IDS/IPS) and support for managing multiple Internet connections. In this article, we will discuss what features a business router should have and what to look for when choosing one.

Key findings

• Business routers provide greater security, stability and control over network traffic than standard home devices.
• Key features of the routers for businesses include firewall, VPN, VLAN, IDS/IPS and DDoS protection.
• Network security should be a priority, so choose routers with built-in traffic filtering mechanisms and advanced access policies.
• RamsData offers professional advice on the selection and implementation of business routers, tailored to the specifics of your business.
• By deploying a modern router, the company can increase its resilience to cyber threats and optimize network performance.

Table of contents

1. Why is it critical to choose a business router?
2. Key features of routers for business
3. Firewall and protection against cyber attacks
4. VPN and secure remote access
5. Network traffic management and VLAN segmentation
6. How to choose the best business router?
7. Frequently asked questions

Why is it critical to choose a business router?

A router is the centerpiece of any network infrastructure. It is responsible not only for delivering the Internet, but also for managing traffic and protecting against threats. For companies that support multiple connections, process large amounts of data or allow remote work, choosing the right router affects the performance, security and stability of the network.

Failure to provide adequate security can result:

• DDoS attacks that can cripple a company’s operations.
• The seizure of customer and employee data, leading to violations of RODO and other regulations.
• Hacking into networks and installing malware.

That’s why it makes sense to invest in business-class routers that offer advanced protection and management features.

Key features of routers for business

1. enterprise-class firewall – provides protection against unauthorized network access.
2. VPN (Virtual Private Network) – allows employees to securely access company resources from outside the office.
3. IDS/IPS (Intrusion Detection and Prevention System) – detects and blocks suspicious network activity.
4.VLAN Segmentation – allows you to divide your network into different zones, such as for finance, IT and visitors.
5. QoS (Quality of Service) – allows you to prioritize network traffic, such as video conferencing or ERP systems.

Firewall and protection against cyber attacks

A business-class firewall is one of the most important features of a router, allowing:

• Internet traffic filtering – blocking dangerous sites and suspicious connections.
• Control access to company resources – the ability to restrict access to sensitive IT systems.
• Protection against DDoS attacks – preventing server overload and hacking attacks.

Advanced business routers, such as solutions from Palo Alto Networks, offer next-generation firewalls (NGFW) that further analyze network traffic in real time.

VPN and secure remote access

More and more companies are using remote work, which means employees need to have secure access to company resources. VPN-enabled routers allow encrypted connections and secure data transferred between employees and company servers.

The most popular VPN protocols used in business routers are:

• IPSec VPN – high level of security, often used in corporations.
• SSL VPN – easier configuration, access from a web browser.
• L2TP VPN – a good alternative for smaller companies.

Network traffic management and VLAN segmentation

VLAN (Virtual LAN) segmentation allows the separation of different company departments within a single network, which increases security and efficiency. For example:

• The finance department can only access accounting systems.
• The IT department manages servers and network equipment.
• Guests have access to the Internet only, with no access to the corporate network.

Network traffic management also allows prioritization of applications, such as ERP systems and video conferencing, preventing slowdowns in critical business operations.

How to choose the best business router?

1. Determine the company’s needs – number of users, types of connections and security requirements.
2. Choose a router with a business-class firewall – providing protection against attacks and filtering traffic.
3. Check VPN support – if your company uses remote working, a VPN is essential.
4. Bet on flexibility and scalability – choose a solution that can be easily expanded.
5. Consult the experts – RamsData will help you choose the best solution.

Frequently asked questions

Is a home router suitable for a business?

No, home routers do not offer a sufficient level of protection and management of network traffic.

Does a business router protect against hacking attacks?

Yes, provided it has a built-in firewall and IDS/IPS system.

Is it worth investing in a VPN-enabled router?

Yes, especially if the company uses remote working.