Is secure web gateway a firewall? Or are they two different things? If you are confused between the two, then read this blog.
Is Secure Web Gateway a Firewall?
A secure web gateway (SWG) is a security device whose main purpose is to provide a secure internet connection to the users. It provides a layer of security between the internal network and the external network, thus protecting the internal network from cyber threats. The SWG can be considered a web firewall.
Further, it is more than just a firewall it works similarly to a firewall. Like a firewall, it filters the traffic but it also protects the data that is sent over the internet by encrypting it. This means that the data sent over the internet is protected from hackers. The SWG also provides authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) services to the users and it also restricts access to the internet.
Moreover, the purpose of both is the same. That is, providing a secure connection to the users but they differ in their working methods and features. An SWG works on both inbound and outbound traffic, filtering all the traffic that comes through it. Whereas a firewall filters only inbound traffic.
So, we can say that SWG can be considered a firewall but it also works like an application delivery controller (ADC). It provides many additional features than just acting as a firewall or ADC.
Why Do You Need a Secure Web Gateway?
SWG is used in a corporate environment where there is a need of securing the network from any unwanted access. An SWG protects the network from hackers and other malicious attacks. Also, it provides a layer of security to your internal network that is not provided by a firewall.
On the other hand, the firewall can be configured to filter the traffic to protect the internal network but it cannot encrypt the sensitive data and restrict access to the internet. This means that using SWG along with firewalls offers better protection to the internal network.
Also, we now live in a world where companies constantly face cyber-attacks and this is why a secure web gateway is a must for every enterprise. So, SWG can be considered a firewall but it is not a replacement for a firewall. It offers many additional features than just filtering the traffic.
For example, it can be used for SSL offloading, URL filtering, content filtering, and many more. Also, in some cases, when the firewall cannot be used then you can use an SWG instead of the firewall.
Furthermore, there are different types of SWGs like the reverse proxy web gateway, application delivery controller, etc. So, based on the need you can choose one that suits your requirement.
Final Words
In conclusion, in a world that focuses on technology and all businesses depend on the internet, there is a need for securing the internet connection. This is where SWGs come into play. They are used to secure the internet connection by filtering the unwanted traffic and providing a secure connection to the users. Also, it protects the data from being stolen by encrypting it.