Firewalls are an important tool for protecting data on traditional desktop computers and mobile devices.
A firewall is firmware or software capable of managing traffic entering and leaving a network or device. It provides end-user devices with an additional layer of security that contains rules about what traffic is allowed in and out.
In homes and businesses, firewalls block unwanted incoming traffic from hackers attempting to infiltrate the network or take advantage of open ports or known vulnerabilities in an Internet-connected device. But as more and more users depend on mobile devices and connect to Wi-Fi and public networks, adopting a mobile firewall to protect devices is increasingly important as a first line of defense against cyberattacks.
As the popularity of remote working grows, so does the security risk of connecting to unsecured networks where hackers hide. When a mobile device connects to a compromised network, hackers may be able to capture traffic entering or leaving the device. Penetration testing tools such as those available in the Kali Linux distribution offer hackers an easy way to execute Wi-Fi attacks. They can pose as legitimate public networks, and when a victim connects to them , all traffic can be routed to the attacker. In turn, the attacker can analyze all traffic to harvest private data such as web traffic, passwords, and other sensitive company information.
How do mobile firewalls work?
A mobile firewall eliminates certain attacks from network threats to which a mobile device is susceptible. It works like a traditional hardware firewall, but in this case it is a mobile device, which can connect to cellular networks as well as Wi-Fi. Using an app installed on device, a mobile firewall manages the traffic flow in and out of a mobile device. It offers much of the same functionality as desktop and server firewalls; the difference is that it works on mobile devices and is much easier to manage and configure. A firewall application can also ensure that any connection made to a company’s network or other services hosting private data is secure using a virtual private network (VPN) feature.
As the popularity of remote working grows, so does the security risk of connecting to unsecured networks where hackers hide.
Application-based mobile firewalls typically offer the following features:
web filtering capabilities that may block certain content that may be malicious or unwanted;
ability to block all incoming traffic and any attempt to exploit a known vulnerability in the device or mobile operating system;
Automatic VPN to allow the mobile device to connect and transmit information securely;
ability to block known threats such as malware and other malicious attacks;
Internet traffic controls to manage and enforce browsing policies;
ability to stop data usage within any data usage limitations;
custom Internet rules about the type of traffic allowed in and out;
app traffic controls to block streaming or unwanted app usage;
ability to block spam or phishing links from emails and SMS; and
traffic monitoring and reporting.
One factor to consider with a mobile firewall is the operating system of the device it will be installed on. Android and iOS are dominating the market, and the wide range of attacks and malware discovered on many Android apps has caused many IT administrators to push for the use of mobile firewalls on Android devices, especially in preventive measure to guarantee the security of the company’s data.
4 Mobile Firewall Apps for Business
When considering firewall protection to secure mobile data within organizations, IT administrators can choose from a variety of products available in the market today. Factors to keep in mind when considering these options include the operating systems the apps run on and whether they offer additional data privacy features.
AFWall+
This Android-based app allows IT teams and users to limit which apps can access a company’s network. It can monitor all traffic flowing, regardless of the type of network it originates from. IT can use the app to manage policies for any external storage within the device and support multiple profiles including Work, Home, and other desired user configurations. AFWall+ can also send notifications of new app installs.
NetProtector Firewall
This firewall app works similarly to some of the other popular firewalls in the Google Play store, giving IT teams control over outbound and inbound traffic to all of their apps and supporting Wi-Fi or cellular for each application. It also supports VPN connections, manages data usage, and blocks any unwanted incoming traffic to the device.
Firewall + VPN Guardian
Guardian is a popular firewall app for iOS devices. The app blocks malicious IP addresses and websites, in addition to preventing unwanted apps from collecting personal information. It can also notify users of any attempts by services or applications to establish unwanted connections. The firewall feature can block all unwanted connections to location trackers and offers IP masking to hide the device identity as well.
ZoneAlarm Mobile Security
An option for Android and iOS devices, ZoneAlarm Mobile Security provides comprehensive security software that protects against advanced cyberattacks. With a focus on protecting personal data, the app can block internet attacks and offers zero-day phishing protection to protect credentials while users browse the internet. The app can validate every link a user opens in real time against Check Point ThreatCloud, which tracks when a specific URL may be malicious.
As security threats continue to lurk online and corporate employees increase their personal use of mobile devices, IT must carefully consider mobile device protections. Firewall apps are an ideal frontline defense that can ensure the protection of corporate data and block threats available on public Wi-Fi networks and any potential apps that may contain malware.
