What are secure web gateway or SWG security solutions? How can your company benefit from using this solution? Find out below.
SWG Security Solutions
SWG security solutions refer to a network appliance that provides the functionality of a firewall, VPN, and intrusion prevention. The device is usually installed between the Internet and the local area network (LAN).
The solution is mainly used to protect the internal corporate resources from external attacks. Such as viruses, worms, and other malicious software. It also serves to block unauthorized access from within the company’s network.
Then, an SWG can be defined as a network appliance that serves as an effective tool for securing sensitive data over public networks. It performs security functions such as authentication, encryption, decryption, and others on web services and applications.
Moreover, an SWG typically sits at the intersection of a company’s private network and a public network such as the Internet. Some of its other features include caching of frequently-accessed content, load balancing, and transparent proxying. Using an SWG will significantly increase the security level of your company’s web communications.
Additionally, the function of an SWG is to monitor all traffic passing through it to filter out any malicious content. To do this, it uses software that aims to detect offensive content or even misuse of information. Such as passwords or credit card numbers before they can spread further into the internal network.
Further, an SWG can be installed either in front or behind an existing firewall to strengthen security measures against possible cyber attacks. In case your company already has an existing firewall but still needs more protection against cyber attacks, you can install a new one in front of the old firewall. This is to significantly improve its capability in blocking threats before they reach the internal network.
SWG Security Solutions Benefits
With several benefits for both consumers and businesses alike, it is no wonder that many organizations are now considering installing SWGs in their networks.
For example, consumer organizations may opt for SWG solutions to protect their clients’ sensitive information. While business companies may install these devices to ensure that their employees are not breaching any corporate policy.
Then, an SWG is used by companies not only to protect their clients. But also themselves from possible liability arising if their customers’ information is stolen by hackers who use their website for illegal purposes.
Moreover, other advantages include:
- lower cost compared to other security solutions;
- ability to allow some applications while blocking others;
- easy installation;
- high performance without affecting other applications;
- decreased usage fees compared with other security solutions; and
- protection against industrial espionage.
All these benefits can drive businesses to consider an SWG security solution for their sensitive information. Many organizations today are using this solution to protect their valuable resources from possible cyber attacks.
Conclusion
While there is no doubt that the benefits of an SWG security solution are many, you should also know its limitations. Several vendors offer SWG solutions. But if you wish to have the best services, it is recommended to choose only reliable providers in the market.