Nowadays, cyber threats are increasingly common, and IT companies are facing a growing challenge to protect sensitive data. VPNs and firewalls have become key tools in combating threats and ensuring network security. In this article, we will look at how these technologies protect corporate data, what their functions are, and how they can be used in the context of IT outsourcing and critical infrastructure protection. How do VPNs and firewalls protect corporate data?
Table of Contents:
- What is a VPN and how does it work?
- Application of VPN in companies
- How do firewalls work?
- The use of firewall in the protection of corporate networks
- VPN and firewall – how do they work together?
- Threats that a VPN protects against
- The role of the firewall in protecting against malware
- Virtual private networks and the IT industry
- IT security: challenges for companies in Poland
- Frequently asked questions
What is a VPN and how does it work?
VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that allows users to securely connect to the network, even if they use public or unprotected Internet connections. In fact, a VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and the VPN server, which protects transmitted data from interception by cybercriminals.
How does a VPN work?
A VPN uses various encryption protocols, such as OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, or WireGuard, to hide your data from unauthorized parties. Every Internet connection that goes through the VPN is secured, meaning that third parties can’t see what sites you’re browsing, what data you’re sending, or what files you’re downloading.
Application of VPN in companies
Many IT service providers, including Warsaw-based IT company RAMSDATA, offer comprehensive VPN solutions to help companies protect employee and customer data. VPNs are one of the more popular solutions in the business sector, allowing remote access to company resources in a secure and confidential manner.
Remote working and data security
In the pandemic era, remote working has become commonplace, and companies have faced the problem of protecting the data of employees connecting to company networks from different locations. VPNs have proven to be an ideal solution, allowing employees to securely access company documents and applications without risking privacy.
How do firewalls work?
Firewall is a device or software that monitors and controls network traffic. Its job is to block suspicious connection attempts and filter data entering and leaving the network. Firewalls are an essential tool for protecting against cyber threats such as DDoS attacks, phishing and ransomware.
Types of firewall
There are two main types of firewall:
- Hardware firewall: is a physical device connected to the network that acts as a barrier between the company’s network and the Internet.
- Software firewall: is an application installed on a computer or server that filters network traffic.
The use of firewall in the protection of corporate networks
IT systems in companies use advanced firewalls to provide protection against malicious attacks. Software manufacturers are creating increasingly sophisticated solutions to effectively detect and eliminate threats before they reach sensitive data.
Web firewall
Web firewall (Web Application Firewall, WAF) is a tool used to protect web applications from network attacks. It works by monitoring and blocking unauthorized attempts to access applications, thus protecting customer data and internal company systems.
VPN and firewall – how do they work together?
Firewall and VPN are two technologies that work together to create a comprehensive data protection system. VPN provides a secure Internet connection, while firewall blocks unauthorized attempts to access the network. As a result, companies can protect their data both during transmission and inside the network.
The use of VPNs and firewalls in IT companies.
Polish IT company RAMSDATA sp.zo.o. implements firewalls and VPNs in its systems to ensure the highest level of security for its customers. Software such as CheckMK or OPSWAT is used to monitor and manage networks, minimizing the risk of attacks.
Threats that a VPN protects against
Virtual private networks protect against many threats, including:
- Data Capture: VPN connection encryption protects users from having their data visible to third parties.
- Man-in-the-middle attacks: a VPN protects against attacks in which an attacker intercepts data sent between two parties.
- Location tracking: The VPN hides the user’s IP address, making it impossible to track the user’s location.
The role of the firewall in protecting against malware
Firewalls protect against:
- Malware: Firewalls block attempts to introduce malware into the corporate network.
- Brute force attacks: the Firewall can identify and block unauthorized access attempts through brute force attacks.
Virtual private networks and the IT industry
The IT industry is increasingly deploying VPNs as an essential component of data protection. Network security is a priority for IT service providers, who offer advanced protection systems that integrate both VPNs and firewalls. Companies using IT services in Warsaw can count on comprehensive support in protecting their networks.
Virtualization and security
Virtualization technology is becoming increasingly popular, and VPNs are essential for protecting remote servers and virtual environments. They allow companies to securely manage cloud computing, protecting data from cyber attacks.
IT security: challenges for companies in Poland
Companies operating in Poland face a growing threat of cyber attacks. In practice, cybercriminals are increasingly targeting small and medium-sized companies, which may not have the right tools to protect their systems. In such cases, IT outsourcing becomes a solution that allows companies to focus on their core activities, leaving security issues to specialists.
IT Outsourcing
Outsourcing IT services, especially for data protection, allows companies to benefit from the expertise of cyber security experts. Providers of such services offer end-to-end support, including the installation and management of VPNs and firewalls, which ensures that companies have complete data security.
Ransomware and data protection
Ransomware is one of the most dangerous threats facing companies. In fact, firewalls and VPNs are the first line of defense against such attacks, protecting corporate data from encryption and ransomware.
Frequently asked questions
1. how does a VPN protect corporate data?
The VPN creates an encrypted connection between the user and the server, which protects data from interception by third parties.
2. is a firewall necessary in a corporate network?
Yes, a firewall is a key tool in protecting a company’s network, as it blocks suspicious traffic and protects against outside attacks.
3. can a VPN replace a firewall?
No, VPN and firewall perform different functions. A VPN protects data as it is transmitted, while a firewall monitors and controls network traffic.
4. what threats does the firewall block?
The firewall actually protects against threats such as malware, brute force attacks and unauthorized access attempts.
5 Should small businesses use a VPN?
Yes, small businesses that are concerned about protecting the data of their customers and employees should invest in a VPN to protect their Internet connections.
