7 Reasons To Use Cloud Firewall Solutions in Public Offices

Introduction

The country's cloud-first policy encourages the gradual switch to virtual environments for building its IT infrastructure. It is based on the premise that cloud computing centralizes processes, including network communications and data storage, and thus makes operations more streamlined and efficient. Consequently, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) continuously addresses the risks and vulnerabilities of relying more on cloud-based platforms and applications. 

 

One method that can help shield online networks in the Philippines is using a cloud firewall solution. This specific firewall type provides a strong, protective layer designed for the cloud's unique privacy and security requirements. It also works optimally whether your office uses a hybrid or full-cloud setup, making it a flexible cybersecurity option that can help you keep up with the increasing complexity of threats. 

 

Are you still on the fence about adopting cloud-based security into your office systems? Read this article by InfoBahn Communications, Inc. to learn why you should go ahead with the upgrade.

 

Top 7 Reasons You Should Use Cloud Firewall Solutions in Your Office  

Why should you use cloud firewall solutions for your office? The quick answer is so you can keep up with the government's cloud-first policy. The nationwide IT strategy likely includes you anyway, as it covers all Philippine agencies and instrumentalities, from executive departments to state universities and colleges. 

 

A central focus of adopting cloud firewall solutions into your IT systems is to hire a third party to set up the protection for you (especially if your office lacks an internal cybersecurity team). The external cloud firewall providers will deliver advanced network security services and will offer you the following benefits:

 

Offers Solid Security  

Traffic that enters your cloud environment comes from different sources, such as public networks, tenants, and virtual data centers. A cloud firewall provides multiple filters to address this, ensuring no malicious traffic (e.g., malware or dubious bot activity) infiltrates your network. Cloud security also has features that make them, at times, more resilient than on-premise firewalls, including centralized access management, end-to-end encryption, and redundancy. 

 

Additionally, partnering with reliable vendors to handle the cloud firewalls and traffic through them will help boost your office's network security. These experts will protect your systems from threats and provide insights and recommendations for improvement, both securing your department and preparing you for future risks.

 

Provides 24/7 Support  

Cloud firewall solutions in the Philippines offer 24/7 support to shield your office from threats. This constant availability is essential, as most cyberattacks occur when you least expect them. The 24/7 capability is also possible as these solutions do not solely rely on human resources; many security events are detected and documented with the help of pre-programmed responses and AI. Only the most urgent, complex incidents may require hands-on intervention.

 

Furthermore, specific government departments, such as emergency responders, must be reachable at all hours of the day. If you run or work in these agencies, you know that consistent uptime is crucial for these departments to continue serving the public.

 

Enables Efficient Monitoring   

A cloud-based firewall solution comes with an easy-to-use platform where detection, documentation, and analysis are readily available for your viewing. The speed at which the solution tracks and records security events expedites the retrieval of data you need to analyze and make informed decisions about your office's cybersecurity. 

 

In case of widespread attacks, an efficient monitoring system can provide a detailed incident report that authorities can use to aid investigations. Moreover, your department can refer to this report to develop future mitigation plans. Thanks to the firewall solution's reliable monitoring capabilities, you can quickly generate documents that can help you assess your errors and review your progress, ultimately helping your department make better cybersecurity-related calls in the future.

 

Deploys Timely Updates  

Unlike on-prem firewalls, cloud firewalls deploy updates much faster and automatically. Furthermore, developers roll out these improvements promptly to keep up with the increasingly complex threat landscape. Automatic, timely updates allow your office to stay on top of upgrading cybersecurity defenses and keeping threat actors in check. 

 

With automatic updates, you can be assured that your systems have initial protection from the latest threats. Knowing that the updates are handled by your solutions vendor also helps you rest easy and focus on more essential agency tasks.

 

Saves Office Space  

Cloud firewall solutions operate in virtual data centers, so you do not have to build a dedicated room to set up racks and servers to keep them running. With IT experts' help, you can integrate these network shields into your system much faster, often without hampering day-to-day operations, as deployment is mainly done online. 

 

Allows Easy Scalability  

Because cloud firewalls do not require on-site installation, you can adjust the size of the solution according to your present needs. You may be increasing your department outposts nationwide and need extensive security solutions. At other times, you may want to scale down operations to follow regulatory updates, which means downsizing your virtual protection. These frequent adjustments are possible because the firewall is not physically tethered to your office.

 

Reduces Operational Costs  

Cloud web application firewalls can help you save on operational expenses. The cost of on-prem firewalls — physical infrastructure, power and HVAC, and on-site services — is non-existent with cloud-based solutions. You also need not worry about expanding a physical data center should you need to increase your network bandwidth. Cloud-based security solutions often only require a monthly or annual fee, and the providers will handle everything.

 

Conclusion  

As government offices in the country gradually transition to a cloud-first environment for their operations and data storage, it is paramount to rely on cloud firewall solutions to ensure your operations in the Philippines are secure. Whether you are running an agency under the executive department or encoding student information in a state university, a reliable firewall for the cloud-based tools and systems you use will protect your tasks and assets from unwanted downtime and unauthorized access. 

 

Using cloud-based firewall solutions means your office enjoys many benefits, including solid security, 24/7 support, efficient monitoring, timely updates, easy scalability, and lower operating costs. Of course, these advantages are only within reach if you partner with the right solutions provider.

 

Contact our experts from InfoBahn to learn more about the cloud firewall solutions we offer!