Modern Approach of Firewall in Local Network

Abstract

In modern society, computer networks are increasingly used across a wide range of activities. According to data provided by CISCO, in 2020 the number of users and devices connected to the Internet reached 50 billion. While initially computer networks were used primarily for file sharing, email, and reading news, today they serve many more purposes—such as online conferences, medical appointments, online shopping, remote learning, gaming, social media platforms like YouTube and Facebook, Wikipedia, and more. Given this widespread expansion, hundreds of billions of dollars are invested annually in computer network infrastructure. To ensure proper functionality and user convenience, a high level of security is essential. Without proper protection, users and companies risk losing money, personal data, or intellectual property, which would erode trust in these technologies. As a result, investments in cybersecurity are critical: better security protocols are being developed, network equipment and operating systems are becoming more secure, cybersecurity experts are being trained, and users are being educated on how to interact safely in a digital environment. One of the key protection methods in network security is the use of firewalls. Firewalls can be implemented in various ways: on servers to protect the local network from external access (and vice versa), on networking devices such as routers, or built into modern operating systems. Additionally, certain applications that require high levels of security may include their own dedicated firewalls, known as next-generation firewalls (NGFWs). UDC: 004.056.52:004.732; JEL Classification: D85, L86.