Constantly Evolving Cyber Security Landscape
The cyber security threat landscape is constantly evolving, with new and sophisticated threats emerging regularly. Traditional firewalls typically rely on static rule-based filtering, which may not effectively detect and prevent advanced malware, zero-day exploits or targeted attacks, leaving businesses open to attack. This is where a managed firewall comes in.
For small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), having a managed firewall is crucial for several reasons:
1. Network Security
A firewall acts as the first line of defence against unauthorised access and potential cyber threats. It monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, filtering out malicious or suspicious activities, and helps prevent unauthorised access to sensitive data. This is particularly important for SMBs that may not have dedicated IT security personnel or robust cybersecurity infrastructure
2. Protection from Cyber Attacks
SMBs are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals due to their relatively weaker security measures compared to larger enterprises. A managed firewall helps protect SMBs from various types of cyber-attacks, including malware, ransomware, distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, and intrusion attempts. It helps safeguard sensitive information, customer data, and intellectual property, reducing the risk of financial loss, reputational damage, and legal issues
3. Compliance Requirements
Depending on the industry and location, SMBs may be subject to specific compliance regulations such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), or General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). A managed firewall helps meet these compliance requirements by implementing necessary security measures, maintaining audit logs, and ensuring data protection.
4. Continuous Monitoring and Maintenance
Managing and updating a firewall can be complex and time-consuming. With a managed firewall, SMBs can benefit from continuous monitoring, maintenance, and patch management by experienced IT professionals. This ensures that the firewall remains up to date with the latest security patches and configurations, reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing overall network security.
5. Scalability and Flexibility
As SMBs grow and evolve, their security needs may change. A managed firewall provides scalability and flexibility, allowing businesses to adapt their security measures to the changing threat landscape. Managed service providers can offer customised firewall solutions tailored to the specific requirements of the SMB, ensuring optimal protection without the need for significant investments in hardware, software, and specialised expertise.
6. Focus on Core Business Functions
By outsourcing firewall management to a managed service provider, SMBs can free up their internal resources and focus on their core business functions. Rather than spending time and effort on firewall configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting, SMBs can rely on experts to handle these tasks, allowing them to concentrate on growth, customer service, and strategic initiatives.
In Summary
In summary, a managed firewall provides SMBs with enhanced network security, protection against cyber threats, compliance adherence, continuous monitoring and maintenance, scalability, and the ability to focus on core business functions. It is a cost-effective solution that offers peace of mind and helps safeguard the business’s critical assets in the increasingly complex digital landscape.
How MPS can help with Managed Firewalls for SMBs
Partnering with global leader of cyber security solutions and services Fortinet, MPS is able to design, deliver and support a managed firewall solution to meet the needs of any business.
Our experienced IT and cyber security specialists can work with you to analyse your current IT landscape and operational needs, highlight potential vulnerabilities and make recommendations as to the key steps to be taken to reduce the risks to your business.
