Firewall Hardware
Firewall hardware is a physical gadget that is connected between computers in a private network and the internet and acts as the intermediary when accessing the internet. Basically, the firewall hardware resembles a server but has a set of instructions and protocol that scrutinize every packet of data entering and leaving the private network it's connected to. Essentially, the hardware firewall offers security in the private network and computers by blocking unauthorized access.
Firewall Software Vs Firewall Hardware
Firewall hardware has been in existence for the longest time. In fact, when you mention firewall, what comes to most people's minds is a router-like piece of gadget connected to your network line. Most people presume that firewalls are only necessary for larger organizations and businesses as they stand to lose the most. Unbeknownst to many is that even individual computers can be attacked especially because they're more vulnerable and possess some crucial information for cybercriminals. In lieu of this, firewall software has become more popular in the recent years. It offers a more personalized security for personal computers. That notwithstanding, the question of whether a firewall software is better than firewall hardware still lingers. Or does it?
i. Larger scope of protection
Firewall hardware offers security for the entire private network. Essentially, every data entering and leaving the network passes through it. All computers in the private network including the server are connected to the firewall hardware which then is connected to the internet. The entire network is therefore covered by the firewall and individual computers do not need to have their own firewall set up to enjoy protection. Furthermore, this allows for easier configuration for the entire network and customizing what each computer is allowed to access from the internet, therefore enhanced protection.
ii. Not affected by individual computers
Firewall software is installed on each individual computer. This means that should the computer run out of disk space or its CPU gets overwhelmed, the firewall software may become negatively affected. This means that protection could be cut short and leave you vulnerable. Firewall hardware, on the other hand, is a stand-alone gadget by itself. It's not affected by computers connected to it. Its only requirement is power. This means whatever happens with the computer, the firewall will still continue operating guaranteeing protection 24/7 to the network.
iii. Strict security than firewall software
As seen above, firewall hardware offers more protection especially when the private network involves more than a single computer. It covers a wide scope and is not affected by happenings on each individual computer. Furthermore, the hardware can be configured through a web page and its protocols adjusted to fit the organization's needs. Being a hardware, it possesses certain counter-attack measures should there be an attack by cybercriminals. For instance, it can initiate IP spoofing, prevent denial of service attacks, and also offer IP hiding for computers making them virtually invisible in the public network. It also has a limited number of ports. A port is opened only when there's a computer using it ensures that there are no unnecessary open ports which a cyber-attack could take advantage of.
Comodo Firewall Software
If you need a state of the art third-party firewall software and antivirus, then Comodo Firewall should be your go-to software. As a free firewall software with cutting edge technology, you're guaranteed maximum protection. It has won multiple top awards at the AV-TEST 2019 awards for its high scores in usability and protection and comes with added functionality such as antivirus, antispyware, anti-adware, rootkits, bots. You can have the free version or upgrade for as low as $29.99 a year and enjoy maximum security 24/7.
