Firewalls are a tried and trusted form of cybersecurity. However, with changes around what success looks like for your organization’s security policy, many are left wondering what role they can play in a true Zero Trust framework.
Below, we’re covering everything you need to know about firewall vulnerabilities in your current security policy, as well as offering insight about how you can better manage any vulnerabilities they bring to your current, pre-existing framework.
What are firewalls?
A firewall is a form of network security that polices network traffic to determine if it is “friendly” or risky. Your device or security system will come equipped with a pre-defined list of rules that define what “friendly” traffic looks like. If any sort of breach or risk is detected, your firewall will trigger the next step in your cybersecurity defense stream.
Can firewalls be integrated into a Zero Trust cybersecurity system?
Not all firewalls can be seamlessly integrated into your Zero Trust cybersecurity system. However, there are some exceptions. Firewalls can be safe to use with proper Zero Trust Network Access factors applied across all iterations and forms, which can assist you in controlling team member access for both cloud and native applications.
However, firewalls without this fail safe in place can be more of a vulnerability than an asset.
What risks can you expect with firewall use in a Zero Trust system?
Zero Trust systems are a relatively new cybersecurity concept – especially compared to the more traditionally used firewall strategy. VPNs and firewalls so commonly found in the remote working landscape weren’t necessarily designed with Zero Trust compatibility in mind, which can leave you open to some serious risks in your security strategy. Below are just a few risks you can expect to see with the use of incongruent firewalls in your current Zero Trust system.
1. User error & system abuse
If your users encounter inconsistencies or inefficiencies in your systems, you run the risk of two main problems: lack of productivity or system abuse. If your apps and fail safes are not used correctly or are bypassed in some way, your cybersecurity system cannot defend as it is designed to. This can result in breaches and lost costs.
2. Exposed IPs and security concerns
Depending on the type of firewall in play, you may experience exposed IP and security concerns across your organization. This risk would far outweigh the benefit that you could expect to see from most firewall options for your organization.
Support your cybersecurity structure with CHIPS
Looking to optimize your business’ cybersecurity framework? Reach out to the team at CHIPS. Our team of specialists have been able to create custom security measures and strategies for companies like yours for over 20 years – and without a single instance of failure or breach. For more information and to get started today, please visit our website.
