What do successful businesses and IT leaders always keep in mind? The answer: secure and reliable network connectivity. This factor plays a vital role in achieving business goals.
Nowadays, such network connectivity relies on two technologies. These are Multiprotocol Label Switching MPLS and firewall security solutions.
It is critical to choose the right options for MPLS services for business and firewall security. The right choice can make all the difference. Here is a comprehensive guide to the issues.
Understanding MPLS
MPLS creates dedicated, private connections between business locations via a service provider network. Think of it as a virtual highway for enterprise traffic that bypasses the public internet.
MPLS offers several benefits with an internet leased line connection:
- High Performance: Dedicated connections ensure low latency and consistent performance. These are ideal for real-time applications like video conferencing and VoIP.
- Reliability: MPLS networks are highly reliable. They have built-in redundancy mechanisms for optimal uptime.
- Security: It offers a more secure environment compared to the public internet.
In short, MPLS improves network performance by ensuring predictable and efficient routing. It reduces latency and provides better control on how to prioritise traffic.
Understanding Firewalls
Firewalls defend businesses against cyber-threats. They are essential to help protect an enterprise against leaks, data loss, and other malicious actions.
Firewalls filter incoming and outgoing traffic based on pre-defined company policies. Here are some of their functions:
- Malware: Firewalls block malicious software like viruses, worms, and ransomware from entering the network.
- Unauthorised access: They can prevent unauthorised users and devices from accessing network resources.
- Data breaches: Firewalls can help prevent sensitive data from leaving the network in an unauthorised manner.
Choosing the Right MPLS Option
Various factors come into play when choosing the right MPLS solution. First, business needs and budgets should be analysed.
Next, an analysis of network traffic is crucial. For example, MPLS excels in handling applications demanding real-time performance and high bandwidth, such as video conferencing and VoIP.
MPLS is also ideal for connecting geographically dispersed locations. Companies with widespread offices will find it essential.
MPLS providers typically offer a suite of services for a hassle-free performance. These include site-to-site connectivity, QoS management, network monitoring, security features, and scalability options.
It is important to be clear about enterprise needs and choose a provider that matches them.
Selecting the Appropriate Firewall
Different firewalls offer varying levels of security features. The right choice depends on the industry and the need for data sensitivity.
A good starting point is to consider the number of users, devices, and applications accessing the network. The firewall can be chosen based on the level of network complexity. The IT team should also find it easy to manage and configure.
Many modern firewalls are cloud-based. These offer several advantages. For example, Airtel’s secure internet firewall solutions offer:
- Complete Security: The firewall promises comprehensive protection against malware, ransomware, and other security threats. It safeguards an enterprise’s MPLS network from a wide range of cyberattacks.
- End-to-End Managed Services: By opting for Airtel’s managed services, a company can rest assured that the firewall will be monitored, managed and updated. The company’s IT resources can then be utilised to focus on core business functions.
- Flexibility: Airtel’s solution caters to diverse business needs. It can be customised for specific security requirements and network configurations.
- Encrypted Modes for Greater Safety: Airtel offers encrypted connections within the MPLS network. This mode adds an extra layer of security for sensitive data transmission.
For Best Results, Integrate MPLS and Firewall Security Solutions
MPLS and firewalls are complementary technologies. MPLS provides a secure transport channel, while firewalls ensure that only authorised and safe traffic flows through the network. In this way, they work together to create a robust, secure network environment.
MPLS can be seen as a dedicated tunnel specifically built for certain business traffic. This tunnel reduces the risk of encountering malicious actors and unauthorised access attempts.
Meanwhile, firewalls act like security guards at the entrance and exit points of the tunnel. They check incoming traffic based on predetermined security policies to help prevent malware, hacking attempts, and data breaches.
Firewalls also monitor outbound traffic. They prevent sensitive information from leaking out. This feature is essential for businesses handling confidential data or adhering to compliance regulations.
Many vendors offer combined MPLS and firewall solutions. It simplifies management by offering a single interface to monitor and manage both aspects of network security. This approach saves time and resources. It reduces the hassle of managing separate solutions.
A provider like Airtel employs encryption, access controls, and intrusion detection systems to ensure the security of Shared VPN and MPLS connections. It also adheres to industry standards and best practices.
The result is that enterprise data is kept safe and sound with an internet leased line connection.
In Conclusion: What to Keep in Mind
Choosing the right MPLS and firewall solutions is crucial for secure and reliable network connectivity in today’s business environment.
MPLS creates a dedicated, private network connection for high performance, reliability, and security. It is ideal for real-time applications and geographically dispersed locations.
Firewalls act as the first line of defence. They filter traffic and protect enterprise data against malware, unauthorised access, and breaches.
The right choices of MPLS and firewall solutions are based on industry needs, network complexity, and ease of management. Cloud-based options simplify management and ongoing updates.
MPLS and firewalls security work best together. MPLS provides a secure tunnel, while firewalls make sure that only authorised and safe traffic flows through it. Integrating both solutions creates a robust security environment.
Before choosing MPLS and firewall solutions, network traffic should be analysed and business needs assessed. Get in touch with Airtel to find out how their MPLS services for business offer comprehensive security, managed services and flexibility.
Apart from that, if you are interested to know about Tips for Enhancing API Security then visit our Tech category.
