With severe threats emerging across the digital world, businesses are more concerned about strengthening their defenses. As per PWC reports, in 2024, about 79% of business executives are planning to increase their cybersecurity expenditures.
One of the best investments in this aspect is upskilling your workforce. Corporate training programs can help create cybersecurity awareness and implement the best measures to protect your business. Education Nest offers advanced cybersecurity training programs that provide the best learning path for your employees.
The two most common strategies used for network protection are Firewall and Antivirus. Their primary goal is to secure the business architecture; they are two distinct solutions used for different purposes.
So, What is the difference between Firewall and Antivirus? How can they help your business? Read on to find out.
What is a Firewall?
A firewall helps in monitoring and filtering the network traffic to prevent unethical behavior and practices. It creates a barrier between the internal and external networks based on specific security rules defined by the organization.
This network security tool also restricts the business network to authorized users only. It is used as the first layer of defense and is available in hardware, software, or combined forms.
What is Antivirus?
An antivirus can scan the entire system to identify potential threats and malicious software and take necessary protective measures to combat them. It also warns about dangerous emails, codes, links, websites, or attachments and protects online accounts.
As businesses use different digital devices for their daily operations, they are at constant risk. Cybercriminals find it easier to invade these systems and launch attacks with viruses, malware, and spyware.
Difference between Firewall and Antivirus Software
As discussed, firewall and antivirus software are both used to protect the business’s digital infrastructure. But there are some key differences between them:
Operations
Firewalls are designed for the network layer. It checks the incoming data packets to filter out suspicious content and prevent them from entering the internal business network.
On the other hand, antivirus systems operate on the device level and check for malicious content and other vulnerabilities.
Protection
Firewalls protect the business network from external threats. They do not check for internal attacks. So, if, by chance, any unauthorized user bypasses their network coverage, firewalls cannot block internal attacks.
However, antivirus software can protect the system from both internal and external threats. They scan for existential threats, internal vulnerabilities, external malicious software, and viruses. Thus, they offer complete protection.
Design
Firewall systems are customized as per the business requirements. Since different businesses have different criteria to restrict network access, they can set up rules and policies accordingly to prevent unwanted intrusions.
But, antivirus software checks behavioral patterns for known malware signatures and malicious threats to identify issues in the system. If they encounter any newly discovered threats, they may not be able to perform the same action.
Combining Firewall and Antivirus
So, a firewall system shields the network and prevents unauthorized users from accessing the system. Whereas antivirus software checks for viruses and also blocks them or removes affected files or programs from the system.
For a robust cybersecurity strategy, it is ideal to combine both firewall and antivirus systems. They can address both external and internal threats effectively and thus extend complete protection. Together, they can safeguard your digital world effectively.
With advanced corporate training programs, you can help your workforce understand cybersecurity concepts effectively. Check out the best courses on cybersecurity from Education Nest to equip your employees with the required skills and expertise.
For more details, reach out to us today!
References:
- https://www.pwc.com/bm/en/press-releases/pwc-2024-global-digital-trust-insights.html
- https://educationnest.com/
- https://www.cisco.com/c/en_in/products/security/firewalls/what-is-a-firewall.html
- https://www.verizon.com/articles/internet-essentials/antivirus-definition/
- https://educationnest.com/courses/
https://educationnest.com/courses/corporate-training-programs/
