A firewall is a dedicated appliance, or software running on another computer, which inspects network traffic passing through it, and denies or permits passage based on a set of rules.

Any machine connecting to the Internet should utilize a firewall.  There are two types of firewalls. Software firewalls usually run on PCs. Hardware firewalls are separate devices designed to efficiently protect computers. They are usually used by businesses, organizations, schools and governments. All firewall protection creates a barrier between the computers and the Internet. Firewalls should be configured to filter out unauthorized or dangerous information and prevent intruders from scanning and retrieving personal or sensitive information from the computer. Periodically check your firewall manufacturer’s web site for product updates and patches.

For more information, click to read the Beginners Guide to Firewalls.

Cyber Security Tips are provided by Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC), http://www.msisac.org

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