Difference between revisions of "IT Infrastructure Security"
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== Understanding Firewalls == | == Understanding Firewalls == | ||
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| + | Much like a firewall in real life protects parts of a buildings from a spreading fire, an IT firewall protects computer systems from the dangers posed by an internet connection. A firewall is essentially a component located between a computer or a network of computers and the internet. The specific purpose of a firewall is to prevent unauthorized access to the computer systems it is configured to protect. Firewalls take the form of software, hardware or a combination of both and are not limited to use by large companies. Any one who owns a computer (including home users) that is connected to the internet for even short periods of time should have a firewall configured. | ||
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| + | A good security strategy should consist of multiple layers of protection and in such a scenario, the firewall is typically the first line of defense. | ||
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| + | Firewalls fall into three main categories - ''Packet-filtering'', ''Proxy-service'' and ''Stateful-inspection'' firewalls, each of which will be covered in detail here. | ||
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| + | == Packet-Filtering Firewalls == | ||
Revision as of 17:03, 21 February 2008
IT security is a multi-discipline subject requiring a number of different skills sets and knowledge areas. A key area of knowledge which is vital for any security specialist is a clear understanding of IT infrastructure and how it relates to the creation of a comprehensive security strategy.
In this chapter of Security+ Essentials we will look at the various components that comprise the IT infrastructure of an organization. Some of these components are specifically designed to provide security (such as firewalls), whilst others a simply necessary to meet the needs of an IT operation (such as routers and switches).
Understanding Firewalls
Much like a firewall in real life protects parts of a buildings from a spreading fire, an IT firewall protects computer systems from the dangers posed by an internet connection. A firewall is essentially a component located between a computer or a network of computers and the internet. The specific purpose of a firewall is to prevent unauthorized access to the computer systems it is configured to protect. Firewalls take the form of software, hardware or a combination of both and are not limited to use by large companies. Any one who owns a computer (including home users) that is connected to the internet for even short periods of time should have a firewall configured.
A good security strategy should consist of multiple layers of protection and in such a scenario, the firewall is typically the first line of defense.
Firewalls fall into three main categories - Packet-filtering, Proxy-service and Stateful-inspection firewalls, each of which will be covered in detail here.
