Network Security Appliance
Network Security Appliance (Firewall)
Our approach
What Are Firewalls, and Why Do You Need Them?
At its core, a firewall is a security system that acts like a gatekeeper for your network. It filters incoming and outgoing traffic based on a set of rules, blocking unauthorized access and identifying suspicious activity before it becomes a threat.
Firewalls come in two main types:
Software Firewalls
Hardware Firewalls
The Power of Layered Security
While firewalls are vital, no single tool can protect against all threats. That’s why businesses need a multi-layered defense strategy, with firewalls playing a central role alongside:
- Antivirus & Anti-malware
- Email filtering
- Web content filtering
- Intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS)
- Patch management
- Employee security training
Think of your security like a castle: the firewall is the outer wall, designed to stop attackers before they even get close.
Benefits of Combining Hardware and Software Firewalls
When used together, hardware and software firewalls offer complementary protection:
- Network-wide protection + individual device control
- Secure internet traffic + control over internal app behavior
- Detection of both inbound threats and unauthorized outbound traffic
This combination gives businesses a more complete picture of what’s happening in their network—and better tools to stop problems before they start.
Expert Configuration Matters
Expert configuration of firewalls is essential because a firewall’s strength lies not just in the hardware or software itself, but in how it’s set up to protect your specific environment. Misconfigured firewalls can leave critical ports open, allow unauthorized access, or block legitimate traffic, causing operational issues or exposing your systems to cyber threats.
Experts understand how to tailor firewall rules to your organization’s needs, balancing security with performance. They stay current on evolving threats and best practices, ensuring your firewall is both secure and compliant with relevant standards. In short, expert configuration turns your firewall from a basic barrier into a proactive defense system.
MainStream Technologies: Your Security Partner
At MainStream Technologies, we implement and manage firewalls as part of a layered security strategy that fits your business. From advanced firewall configurations to 24/7 monitoring, we help keep your data, users, and systems safe—without slowing you down.
