What is a secure web gateway? What are some of the reasons why companies need to consider using this tool today? Find out below.
What Is a Secure Web Gateway?
A secure web gateway (SWG) refers to a server that is placed between an intranet and the Internet. This is a tool that has firewall rules and proxy services that are often used to block or limit traffic and maintain security.
Then, there are several types of SWGs, including the following:
- Managed. When you use this type of SWG, it is managed by the hosting company. This means that you do not need to configure this tool on your own. Instead, the hosting company will do it for you.
- Virtual. A virtual gateway is a type of secure web gateway that runs on virtual machines. So, this means it does not need many resources for installation.
- On-premise. This is the most common type of SWG. It has a dedicated server or appliance that runs on the company’s own data center. Then, this kind of SWG is mostly used by large enterprises. Because they need more security than small businesses do.
- Virtual private network (VPN). A VPN is a technology that allows people to access a private network over a public network such as the Internet. VPNs are often used by businesses to allow their remote employees. This is to securely connect to their intranets and access their applications when they are outside of their offices. A VPN may also be used in conjunction with an SWG. So that the traffic can be encrypted before it reaches the internet. Thus, making it impossible for hackers to view or understand the data. An SWG may be used as part of a VPN or instead of one.
How Do Web Gateways Benefit Companies?
An SWG can help protect an organization’s data from unauthorized users who try to hack into its servers or computers. This may be through malware and other malicious programs. Because it controls all traffic that enters and leaves a network through firewalls and proxy servers.
Thus, this means that only trusted users can access specific resources while others are blocked from accessing them.
SWGs help companies in many ways. Firstly, it helps them prevent cyber attacks. Hackers are often able to gain access to networks through malware. But, an SWG will block this threat and prevent hackers from accessing your network.
Moreover, an SWG can also block intruders from penetrating a company’s servers. A hacker may be able to get past the firewall of a company’s server. But, with an SWG in place, this threat is eliminated.
An SWG can also keep employees safe from phishing attacks. For instance, phishing emails often contain malicious links and attachments that can cause harm to your system. An SWG will warn you when you are about to click on a link that might infect your computer. Thus, protecting you from cyber attacks and other malicious programs.
Conclusion
As you can see, companies need to maintain their security today. And, using an SWG is one way to do this. This tool is often used by large enterprises. However, small businesses can also benefit from an SWG.