Firewalls and Internet Security

Preventing Unauthorized Access to Your Network From the Internet
Business users of the Internet want to use this tool to improve their operations (do things better, faster, cheaper), increase their revenue by attracting new customers, or improve the relationship with their existing clients. However, the Internet, like any other society, is plagued with the kind of individuals who enjoy the electronic equivalent of eavesdropping, graffiti, stealing, or plain and simple harassment. When you have real business to get done how do you protect your sensitive or proprietary data on the Internet? Usually, a firewall's purpose is to keep the undesirables out of your network and away from your data while still letting you get your job done.

Key Considerations
When selecting how to protect your Internet access, keep in mind that every business has a unique configuration and unique needs. These needs range from simply preventing access from unauthorized persons to encrypting your data as it flows through the Internet to prevent eavesdropping. You need to decide what is most important to you and your business. You may want to consider the following attributes:

	Consider who you want to secure your network from
	Provide secure access to files for associates on the road or at home
	Make certain your hosted web site is secure and separate from your production network
	Provide for notification of your IT staff if unauthorized entry is suspected
	Have the notification reach you via E-mail, pager or even contact a Tushaus associate
	Monitor your firewall's performance to ensure you are being protected
	Consider if the monitoring should be outsourced to provide 24 x 7 oversight

Solutions

Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server 2004 is the advanced application-layer firewall, virtual private network (VPN), and Web cache solution that enables businesses to easily maximize existing IT investments by improving network security and performance.

Symantec™ Client Security 2.0 small business product provides powerful, multi-layer security in one easy-to-manage solution. With Symantec defending your business, you can count on up-to-date protection against viruses, hackers, and blended threats, along with world-class support.