What is The Secret Behind Secure Access Service Edge? Read more about this FWaas software application hosted remotely and accessed over the Internet.
The Secret Behind Secure Access Service Edge
FWaaS (Firewall as a service) is a software application that is hosted remotely and accessed over the internet. This remote access service allows system administrators to remotely manage and administer network security processes. This is through a firewall, routers, and switches.
The web-based interface allows for a more convenient way to manage the firewall, router, or switch. So, the web-based interface is a more user-friendly way for IT personnel to manage the device. Thus, it reduces the learning curve of how to use a command line interface.
FWaaS can be used in conjunction with a command line interface or any other management system that you may use. So, FWaaS provides reverse proxy protection for outbound traffic. Also, it can be used to add a layer of security to your network.
Gateway Security Appliance
FWaaS can be used as a Gateway Security Appliance or integrated with an existing Security Appliance. One of the best features of FWaas is its ability to integrate with existing infrastructure. This is without having to change the existing configuration.
The web-based management interface can be accessed from a laptop, desktop, or mobile device. So, FWaaS is an ideal solution for small and medium-sized businesses. These are for those who do not have the capability or resources to implement an in-house firewall.
Hence, it uses a command line interface. Also, it provides a low-cost alternative for large organizations that want to offload the management of the firewall to a third party.
How Does FWaaS Work?
FWaaS is a web-based application and runs on Linux operating system. So, the application is installed on a virtual machine that is hosted by the service provider. Also, the virtual machine acts as a reverse proxy and manages all internet traffic through the network firewall, router, or switch.
The web-based interface acts as the administrator’s console to manage all aspects of the firewall. Also, through router or switch including security policies, user authentication, and access control lists. This allows for easy customization of network security settings and policies as well as centralized management of multiple devices remotely.
A typical deployment scenario would be for an organization to host their firewall device at their data center. But still want to centralize access and management of that device over the Internet. With FWaas, an organization can deploy its firewalls on-premise but still provide centralized management over the Internet.
Another deployment scenario would be for an organization that does not have a firewall device. But still wants to protect their network from cyber attacks, intrusions, malware, and unauthorized access. With FWaas they can have cloud-based protection without having to purchase or maintain any hardware or software at their location.
The application uses central management technology called OpenVPN. It provides secure VPN tunnels over the Internet between the customer’s Security Appliance and the service provider’s Security Appliance hosting FWaas.