8 Essential Steps to Configure a Managed Firewall

As cyber threats continue to increase in frequency and sophistication, not only companies are becoming more vigilant to cyber security but also protecting their business from attacks has become a critical priority. One of the most effective ways to secure your network is by configuring a managed firewall – a managed web application firewall. A well-configured firewall controls and monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules, securing your business from malware, viruses, and unauthorized access. In this article, we'll discuss the steps you need to take to configure a managed firewall.

Step 1: Assess Your Network Security Needs 

Before you can configure a managed firewall, you need to determine your organization's security requirements. This includes identifying the types of traffic you need to allow or block and the level of security you need. Make sure you consider your organization's security policies and compliance requirements when assessing your network security needs. Technically speaking, there are various types of web application firewalls (WAPs) available in the market, each of them functions differently with their nuances.

More on the types of WAPs: Reasons You Should Use Web Application Firewall

Step 2: Choose the Right Firewall (types of WAF)

Once you have identified your security needs, you need to choose the right firewall. Factors to consider include scalability, performance, and ease of management. It's essential to choose a firewall that can grow and adapt as your business evolves. While it is significant to choose the right managed firewall, it is confusing for laymen to fully comprehend the difference between each of these “managed security services”.

3-mins read: Main Types of Managed Firewalls & Common Issues

Step 3: Install the Firewall

Install the firewall in a location that provides maximum protection for your network. Make sure the firewall is configured to monitor all incoming and outgoing traffic. This ensures that the firewall is in the best position to detect and block any potential threats.

Step 4: Configure the Firewall

Once the firewall is installed, configure it to meet your security requirements. This involves setting up rules to allow or block specific types of traffic, such as web traffic, email traffic, and file transfers. Ensure that the firewall is configured to log all traffic for auditing purposes. This provides you with valuable insight into your network traffic, which can help you identify potential security threats.

Step 5: Set Up VPN Access

If your employees need to access your network remotely, set up a virtual private network (VPN) connection. A VPN connection encrypts all data transmitted between the remote computer and your network, ensuring secure data transmission. This is an essential step for securing remote access to your network.

Extended reading on VPN types: 5 Reasons Your Company Should Choose a Suitable Private Network

Step 6: Test the Firewall

Before you put your firewall into production, undergo a test to ensure it is configured correctly. Test it to ensure that all traffic is being monitored and logged correctly, and that the conditions are working as intended. This helps to identify any potential configuration issues before they become an actual security risk to the companies.

Step 7: Monitor the Firewall

Once your firewall is in production, monitor it regularly and closely to assure it is functioning correctly. Monitor logs for suspicious activity and configure alerts to notify you if any unauthorized access attempts are detected. Regular monitoring helps to identify and respond to potential security threats promptly. It is also possible to hire a managed security service provider to help the companies in advance.

Step 8: Update the Firewall

Finally, keep your firewall up to date with the latest security patches and updates. This ensures that your firewall is always up to date with the latest security features and protects your network from new and emerging threats. Failure to update your firewall will leave your network vulnerable to the latest threats.

Conclusion

Configuring a managed firewall is an essential step in securing your business against cyber threats. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your firewall is configured correctly and provide maximum protection for your network. Remember, network security is an ongoing process, and you must continually monitor and update your firewall to keep your network secure.