A firewall is the first line of defence when the network is under attack. With the increase of the complexity of the network, having strong protocols of the firewall is integral. Firewall rule set analysis becomes integral when it comes to dealing with the network security problems.

Analysis of the firewall delves into both inbound and outbound traffic. The inbound firewall monitors the incoming data packets and takes care of the forbidden websites and disallowed connections.

On the other hand, the outbound firewall investigates the outgoing traffic, which originates from within the source.

The rules of the firewall help in analyzing the network securities and enhance the data protection during times of increasing cyber threats.

Reasons for performing the firewall rule set analysis

Constantly monitoring the firewall rules is very essential. The major reason is the dynamism in term of network security loopholes which increase the risks of potential attacks.

It is important to understand that the configuration of the rules is not a one-time activity. Instead, it is a progressive and continuous task, that needs monitoring on a consistent basis.

The quality of the policy determines the protection of the network against malicious attacks.

With the complexity of the network, the protection protocols are also getting complicated. What it suggests is that the interdependence of the rules and protocols has made the network security more optimized.

Most of the protocols have an inter-dependent nature. A change in any one of the rules will lead to alterations in the other rule, thus a simple error can trigger a domino effect.

Thus, it becomes pertinent that the security officers do thorough research on the firewall rule set analysis for different networks. Simulation of any additional rule in the rule set needs is possible through analyzer software, before implanting the same in live-network.

Identifying the best firewall rule analyzer

It is important to identify the right firewall rule analyzer which can help in performing deep-seated analysis of the changes in the firewall. Understanding the impact of a new rule in the network security through the rule analyzer reduces the risks of a domino effect in case of any errors.

Certain features of the perfect rule analyzer include:

1.    Easy comparison between the default rule base and the newly introduced rules.

2.    Performing the rule order analysis in a simpler way, such that the check for anomalies and complexity measurement is easy to perform.

3.    Threat identification across three levels of service, application level, and interface level.

4.    Identification of the banned IP address as set forward by the new rules.

5.    Assessment of the risks and its analysis across multiple levels.

The main aim of the rule set analysis while designing the network security policies should be:

1.    Threat identification

2.    Comprehension of the risks of the firewall rules

3.    Elimination of the anomalies

4.    Optimization of the new rule.

It is important to note that regular review of the policies is mandatory to make the required changes such that they stay relevant in today’s times. Moreover, the automation of security management tools is the right way to keep up with the changing network dynamics.