When you connect your computer (or your office network) to the Internet, there is very often a device that stands as the single greatest protection between you and malicious users: a firewall. A firewall prevents Internet traffic from the outside getting to you, while allowing your outbound traffic (web surfing, email checking) to communicate with the Internet at large.

Firewalls severely limit inbound communication to your computer, allowing only standard/approved communication and communications you initiated. While these devices aren’t necessary for you to connect to the Internet, without them, your computer and entire network can be vulnerable to attacks from users trying to get info from, or even take control of, your computer. A firewall does not always protect you from viruses you may get through downloading files from websites or opening suspect email, but it serves as the first line of defense against active attacks.

The complexity of firewalls goes well beyond what’s described here, and firewalls are only one component of a truly safe and secure networking environment. We recommend that all of our customers and users take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their information safe at all times, starting with a firewall.