The Firebox X Edge And Your Network - Watchguard Firebox X15 User Manual

Introduction to Network Security
Firewalls use access policies to identify and filter different types of information. They can also control which
policies or ports the protected computers can use on the Internet (outbound access). Many firewalls have
sample security policies, and users can select the policy that is best for them. With others, including the
Firebox, the user can customize these policies.
Firewalls can be in the form of hardware or software. A firewall protects private networks from unauthorized
users on the Internet. All traffic that enters the trusted or protected networks must go through the firewall.
The firewall examines each message and denies those that do not match the security criteria or policies.
In some closed, or default-deny firewalls, all network connections are denied unless there is a specific rule to
allow the connection. To deploy this type of firewall, you must have detailed information about the network
applications required to meet your organization's needs. Other firewalls allow all network connections that
have not been explicitly denied. This type of open firewall is easier to deploy, but it is not as secure.

The Firebox X Edge and your Network

The Firebox X Edge controls all traffic between the external network and the trusted network. The Edge also
includes an optional network interface that is separate from the trusted network. Use the optional network for
computers with mixed trust. For example, customers frequently use the optional network for their remote
users or for public servers such as a web server or email server. Your firewall can stop all suspicious traffic from
the external network to your trusted and optional networks.
The Firebox X Edge e-Series is a firewall for small and remote offices. Some customers who purchase an Edge
do not know much about computer networks or network security. The Edge provides wizards and many self-
help tools for these customers. Advanced customers can use Edge Pro appliance software's advanced
integration features and multiple WAN support to connect an Edge to a larger wide area network. The Edge
connects to a cable modem, DSL modem, or ISDN router.
The web-based user interface of the Firebox X Edge lets you manage your network safely. You can manage
your Edge from different locations and at different times. This gives you more time and resources to use on
other components of your business.
8 Firebox X Edge e-Series