What is the Difference Between a VPN and a Firewall?

November 8, 2022

There are two essential elements for network security a firewall and a VPN. What is the difference, you ask? The difference is one blocks bad stuff from getting to your technology devices, and the other keeps the bad stuff from knowing your online location and activities.

Current times require a robust security system that protects your online data from theft. Protection from data theft is the utmost priority when surfing the world wide web. We safeguard our homes; we need to safeguard our technology devices. We must be ultra-conscious not just of our concrete surroundings but also of our abstract surroundings, such as the internet.

Employers mostly use a VPN to let employees securely access their companies' remote servers from remote locations. People use VPNs for personal reasons when searching websites and using free Wi-Fi while having a bite to eat at a local cafe. Companies and people use firewalls to protect our computers and other technology devices.

What Exactly Is a VPN?

A VPN, virtual private network, hides your device's IP address. Routing your network connection through a remote server, it works for you and protects you from hackers trying to find your location along with other valuable data. It is essentially used with free public Wi-Fi by encrypting your online traffic and information during Internet transit. One may consider this a private line to securely access a network from any location.

However, a VPN does not protect your technology devices against viruses. A VPN cannot block viruses; combining a VPN with a firewall and antivirus software is your ideal defense. This is where you need to combine a VPN and a firewall to block viruses against intruders that want to steal your personal data.

Young businesswoman working on his laptop in the office

What Exactly Is a Firewall?

A firewall, an antivirus software, automatically attacks any incoming or outgoing traffic that could virtually harm your device or steal your private information. Firewalls allow you to set security preferences and rules to monitor your technology devices and block or erase any viruses. There are two types of firewalls:

Hardware or Network Firewalls

This type of firewall is a physical device that routes your information securely and safeguards your connection between your computer and the internet. There is one disadvantage to this type; it often requires professional support for configuration and maintenance.

Software Firewalls

This software firewall, a security system, gives you control when accessing the internet and programs on your devices. Your OSs (computer operating systems) may come with a primary built-in firewall feature; if not, they are available for purchase and downloaded through computer stores or trusted online stores.

Choosing a VPN or Firewall

Not much choice here; you need both! Small Enterprise Technology (SET) can help you hide from harmful online stuff by setting up a firewall along with a VPN. No harm will be done to your internet speed or connection, not even while using public Wi-Fi. Nevertheless, using one is not good enough to protect you when visiting potentially harmful sites.

You do not have to be a computer wizard or a technological wizard. Small Enterprise Technology provides our clients with a secure profile that can be set up to automatically detect all your devices, therefore, providing you with a professional, first-class customer experience to protect you from all internet intruders.

Cyber security internet and networking concept

Why Choose Small Enterprise Technology?

Small Enterprise Technology was founded to provide its clients with a professional, first-class customer experience. Their goal is to be your technology partner, not just another IT helpdesk. Reach out to a customer representative with any further inquiries. To learn more about how Small Enterprise Technology can help your business stay protected from data leakages and loss, call or contact us today to get started!