Packet Filtering Firewall:
A packet filtering firewall is like a security guard for your computer network. It decides which data packets can enter or leave based on specific rules.
How it works:
- It looks at the source and destination addresses of the data packets.
- It also checks the type of data (protocols) and the specific door it’s trying to use (ports).
Advantages:
- Simplicity: Easy to set up because you only need simple rules – allow or deny.
- Transparency: Users don’t need to know about it; it works quietly in the background.
- Speed: It operates quickly compared to other methods.
- No Special Configuration: Users’ computers don’t need special settings.
- IP Address Protection: It shields internal computer addresses from the outside.
Disadvantages:
- Can’t Check Application Data: It can’t look inside the actual data to see what application is being used.
- Complicated Setup: Setting up the rules correctly can be tricky.
- Lack of Authentication: It doesn’t verify if the person or system sending data is who they say they are.
- No Alerts: It doesn’t warn you if something suspicious is happening.
- Not Great with Some Protocols: It’s not the best for certain types of internet applications.