What’s an External Firewall?

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An external firewall is a security software tool that is located on a device other than a computer’s hard drive. This type of firewall is often loaded onto network devices that are themselves connected to multiple computer workstations, such as network servers, routers, and even network switches. Using an external firewall can not only help limit the influx of data from external sources but can also be useful in controlling the type of data flowing from a workstation and from outside the corporate network.

The concept of an external firewall is different from that of an internal firewall. Most computer systems have a firewall that is either part of the software for the operating system or is a software program loaded by the end user onto a desktop, laptop or other internet capable device. These internal firewalls are usually configured to protect the system from virus invasions or to function as a filter that prevents certain types of data from being received from the Internet or through email clients. This type of firewall can also help with these same functions, but provides an extra layer of security by working with internal protocols to enhance the screening process. By using an internal and external firewall strategy, all connected devices plus the network itself offer a higher degree of protection.

Another benefit of the external firewall is that the security tool can also help prevent data from being directed off the network. This can be especially important in terms of preventing the acquisition and distribution of proprietary information to unauthorized parties. In the event that a network is breached, the firewall may still be able to prevent the recovery of certain data and also the use of compromised user accounts to open, copy and send encrypted data files for security. For this reason, it is not unusual for companies to secure their networks with both internal firewalls on each computer and an external firewall that helps protect the movement of data into and out of the network.

Adding an external firewall is a relatively simple task. Firewalls of this type are compatible with a number of different devices, making it easy to find several options that will work with any server, switch or router. Although most require some adaptation to ensure that the level of protection is optimal while there is no reduction in the sharing and receiving of other types of data, a competent member of the information systems team can easily configure the firewall to best suit.

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