In this blog post, we will define what secure web gateways are. Also, we will find out its key functions and benefits.
Let Us Define Secure Web Gateways
A secure web gateway refers to software that regulates inbound HTTP and HTTPS traffic. And it blocks any potential cyber threats. A key function of a web gateway is to protect an enterprise network from malware, spyware, and viruses.
Moreover, it also can prevent the theft of proprietary information and intellectual property. And also other confidential data by hackers.
The Internet has become a major business platform for many enterprises. Having a secure web gateway protects the organization’s IT infrastructure from websites that are designed to steal personal information. As well as credit card and bank information, or invade the privacy of its employees.
Moreover, web gateways also ensure that web-based applications are used safely internally and externally. This is via various network devices (routers, switches, firewalls). Further, it offers protection against zero-day attacks (attacks using previously unknown vulnerabilities). It is always difficult to detect zero-day attacks as they are designed to bypass current security measures.
Additionally, it also prevents an organization’s sensitive data from being accessed by employees who use their own devices to access email. As well as social networking sites, video conferencing services, etc. Then, it provides visibility into employee activities. So it is easy to identify those who attempt to access company resources inappropriately.
Types of Secure Web Gateway
There are various types of web gateways available on the market:
- Secure Web Gateways for Intranet. This works as a border controller or application layer firewall for the enterprise intranet. It also protects the internal networks from unauthorized access and malicious applications from the Internet. Then, it can be configured to allow only authorized traffic and block all others. Moreover, it detects malware at the web application level. This is via pattern matching technology based on signatures/patterns of known malicious traffic/applications. It then integrates with antivirus software for complete protection against all cyber threats.
- Secure Web Gateway for the Internet. This type provides a high level of protection against all cyber threats through stateful inspection technology. Stateful inspection means that the device scans the content on both inbound and outbound traffic. This detects unknown malware before it enters an enterprise’s network. Also, it monitors inbound traffic for malware activity at the network level through signature-based detection technology. Or heuristic-based detection technology based on behavioral analysis engines or anomaly detection algorithms.
So, when choosing which type of web gateway to deploy, the network administrator should take into account the type of network connectivity and level of protection required. And also, the volume of traffic to be inspected.
Further, it is also important to know how the device will be managed. So that it can scale up as more applications are added to the network.
Conclusion
A secure web gateway protects an organization’s IT infrastructure from websites that are designed to steal personal information. As well as confidential data by hackers. And it ensures that web-based applications are used safely internally and externally.