Fast, broadband Internet connectivity (T1, T3, ISDN, DSL, cable) makes it possible for anyone with enough computer savvy to remotely access any computer on a company’s network, as well as an individual’s home computer. Once into a computer, these Internet raiders can view and steal data, take control of programs and web sites, and otherwise wreak havoc on companies, government agencies, educational institutions, media outlets, and more.

Firewalls are programs and hardware that act as security guards to provide varying levels of protection. For instance, they can prevent unauthorized log-ins from outside sources, filter information coming through Internet connections, and / or permit only e-mail traffic to pass through. Firewalls also can provide a logging and auditing function which gives summaries about what kinds and amount of traffic passed through it, how many break-in attempts occurred, and so on.

Firewalls, however, are not good protection against viruses because there are too many viruses, with the numbers and types increasing daily. A quality anti-virus software that the user updates frequently is still the best defense against viruses.