Hardware vs Software Firewalls: What’s the Difference?

Security is a top priority for any business, and when it comes to keeping your network safe, understanding the difference between hardware and software firewalls is critical. Both types of firewalls work to block threats and protect your devices, but they do so in different ways. A hardware firewall, like the Meraki MX firewall, is a physical device that filters traffic coming in and out of your network. On the other hand, a software firewall is a program installed on your computer that monitors your internet activity. Knowing how these two types of firewalls work can help you choose the best option for your security needs. Let’s start by comparing their pros and cons.

Hardware Firewalls

3 Advantages of Hardware Firewalls

• They are capable of covering an entire network, which makes them valuable and cost-effective in locations where there are many computers.
• Hardware firewalls are less likely to be attacked by malware as their operating systems are separate from the well-known operating systems that are popular with hackers.   
• They are a step ahead of the software firewall because the software is installed on a server or network, but the hardware is found even before the router.    

The Cons

• They require an IT-skilled person.
• It is not cost-effective when you want to upgrade because numerous devices need replacement.
• The hardware devices require extra space.

Software Firewalls

3 Advantages of Software Firewall

• They are affordable as there are some you don’t have to pay for, and some professional and corporate brands have user licenses that allow you to cover all systems on a network. 
• For those who travel a lot, software firewalls are convenient because they are installed on your computer and thus keep your laptop secure wherever you go.
• Software firewalls also have an advantage over their hardware counterpart on the count that they are capable of monitoring and refining network outbound traffic.

The Cons

• They need to be installed in each device independently
• Software firewalls don’t work on gaming consoles and smart TVs
• Heavy software packages sometimes result in the poor performance of systems

Differences Between The Two Firewalls

1. Installation – Software firewalls are installed directly on each device in the network, while hardware firewalls are separate devices installed outside the system, typically connected to the network’s main entry point.
2. Operation – Software firewalls run on the individual system they are installed on, using that system’s resources. In contrast, hardware firewalls operate independently of any specific device, protecting the entire network from external threats.
3. Blocking –  Software firewalls allow you to block specific content based on keywords, which can help filter out unwanted material. Hardware firewalls, on the other hand, focus on blocking entire websites or domains, making them effective at stopping malicious sites from accessing your network. 
4. Requirements – To protect all devices on a network, software firewalls need to be installed on each individual system. With a hardware firewall, a single device can secure the entire network without needing individual installations.
5. Configuration – Software firewalls are generally easier to set up and configure since they are often designed for individual users. Hardware firewalls can be more complex to configure, requiring a deeper understanding of network settings. 
6. Flexibility – Software firewalls offer more flexibility, allowing you to customize protection for specific applications on each device. Hardware firewalls, however, have a more standardized approach, offering broad protection without the same level of application-specific control. 
7. Protection – Software firewalls protect individual systems but may not cover other devices. In contrast, hardware firewalls protect the entire network at once, ensuring that all connected devices are secured. 
8. Cost  – Software firewalls are generally more affordable and cost-effective to install on a single system. However, if you have multiple devices with varying operating systems, the expenses can add up. Hardware firewalls usually require a higher upfront investment but provide a cost-efficient solution for securing an entire network over time. 

Inbound and Outbound Firewalls

If a firewall is set up for the sole purpose of monitoring incoming traffic, it is referred to as an inbound firewall, whereas one set up for monitoring outbound traffic is an outbound firewall. Even though most firewalls are designed to monitor and filter just the incoming traffic, some firewalls do both. The reason most are only concerned with incoming traffic is because there is the assumption that threats on the network come from outside.  

It is undoubtedly important to monitor incoming traffic; however, there are instances where it would be beneficial to monitor outgoing traffic. Say, for instance, a virus has penetrated the network already through inbound traffic and would now want to leak information about the organization out there on an internet connection. This is where an outbound firewall would be useful. This just goes to show you that it is equally important to monitor and refine both outbound and inbound traffic to avoid similar breaches. 

Is a Firewall Enough?

Even though they are fully capable, firewalls are not always effective against all threats. At times you will need human consideration and some security software to further improve your security. 

Installing a firewall still means you might be subject to spoofing or social engineering attacks, where, for instance, a malicious user impersonates a client to access unauthorized information. In such a case, your firewall may not prevent the attack, but email monitoring software may come in handy. 

It is important to remember that firewalls are not always a hundred percent secure. Even with all these software and security measures, it’s advised that all network users should be vigilant and enhance their knowledge as far as cyber security is concerned.

Takeaway

If you are on the fence about which firewall to get, it might help to have another look at your unique requirements. You might consider a software firewall to be the best option for you if you are looking for budget and user-friendliness. They are also great for small enterprises and home users. However, if you want to protect a bigger network, you might benefit from a hardware firewall offering more intricate security requirements.

Joshua White is a passionate and experienced website article writer with a keen eye for detail and a knack for crafting engaging content. With a background in journalism and digital marketing, Joshua brings a unique perspective to his writing, ensuring that each piece resonates with readers. His dedication to delivering high-quality, informative, and captivating articles has earned him a reputation for excellence in the industry. When he’s not writing, Joshua enjoys exploring new topics and staying up-to-date with the latest trends in content creation.

Author