A web application has become the best alternative for an ecommerce website. The reason is that, like websites, it is more than just a machine structure. In other words, it gives life to your digital storefront. The popularity of this software has also invited threats in the form of cyberattacks.
According to cybersecurity experts, these apps are vulnerable to SQL injections, cross-site scripting (XSS), file inclusions, and other similar threats. This is where a web application firewall (WAF) comes in to protect this valuable business asset. It is a state-of-the-art security tool that keeps various cyber-intrusions at bay. If you are not previously familiar with WAFs, keep scrolling down.
This guide will answer the top six frequently asked questions about web application firewall.
Answering Frequently Asked Questions about WAFs
A web application firewall is an evolved form of the traditional firewall that safeguards web and mobile apps from cyber threats. It is instrumental in monitoring, filtering, and blocking harmful traffic that might be dangerous for your application. It is important to know the basics of WAFs if you want to leverage their potential.
Let’s focus on answering the most common frequently asked question about WAFs:
1. What is a Web Application Firewall?
A firewall has long been one of the best security solutions to defend websites against malicious actors. However, with the evolution of web applications, a whole new type of threat has emerged. To tackle such an issue, a web application firewall was launched.
It is basically a software that helps solidify the security of your web applications. In essence, it is a layer 7 defense that focuses on filtering the traffic between your app and the outdoor environment. It is critical to choose the right WAF for better security. Businesses contact reliable cyber security companies in UAE to achieve the milestone.
2. What is the Difference between a WAF and a Firewall?
People often confuse these two types. In reality, a web application firewall is different from a conventional firewall. Both of these solutions serve different purposes in the landscape of cybersecurity. The basic differences lie in their protocols, types, internet layer, working mechanism, and attacks they can prevent.
For example, a network firewall usually operates at the 3, 4, and 7 OSI layers. A WAF, on the flip side, provides layer 7 security. Secondly, a traditional solution typically helps safeguard networks and computers against unauthorized access. A web application firewall shields apps from web-related cyberattacks.
3. What Are the Types of Web Application Firewalls?
There is a general perception that this cybersecurity solution exists in a single form. On digging deeper, you will come to know that there are three prime types of WAF used for varying reasons. These are explained in the table below:
|
Software-Based WAF |
Cloud-Based WAF |
Hardware-Based WAF |
|
It operates either as an agent or as a virtual appliance. It can be hosted both locally and in the cloud environment. |
This type of firewall is hosted in the cloud environment. Users do not have to physically or virtually install a CWAF. |
As the name shows, it is a hardware version of WAFs. You will need to install an HWAF locally on the network. |
4. Why Do You Need a WAF?
There is no doubt that web applications provide businesses with the best solution to interact with and engage their target audience. Despite this benefit, these online storefronts are not immune to threats. Cybercriminals can find several vulnerabilities, loopholes, and weaknesses to fulfill their malicious agendas.
A web application attack can lead to multiple problems. You can lose sensitive data, client information, and business credentials. As a result, various financial, reputational, and legal implications can become a headache. In order to steer clear of such undesired circumstances, you definitely need a web application firewall.
5. What Attacks Are Blocked by WAF?
After knowing why a WAF is necessary for your organization, it is time to focus on the types of potential cyberattacks it can prevent. It acts as a first line of defense between your digital assets and intrusions. Here is the list of the most common incidents that a web application firewall can block:
- DDoS Attacks
- Man-in-the-middle Attacks
- SQL Injections
- Remote Code Execution (RCE)
- Cross-site Scripting (XSS)
- Server-side Request Forgery (SSRF)
In addition to the above infiltrations, it is also equipped to avert the threat of business logic attacks, clickjacking, and HTTP request smuggling.
6. How to Choose the Right Web Application Firewall?
It is the most important thing to do. Opting for a weak or incorrectly configured firewall can cause multiple issues. First of all, it might not be able to safeguard your online storefront against certain types of cyber intrusions. Secondly, it will also negatively impact the performance and speed of your app.
To make an informed decision, consider factors like detection techniques, working mechanisms, customization, and scalability. You should also analyze its effect on the app’s performance and integration capability. Reaching out to a reliable service provider is also crucial. You can contact credible cyber security companies in UAE to pick the right web application firewall.
Get the Best Web Application Firewall for Your Business
Protecting your web app is crucial for a better brand image, reputation, and success. A web application firewall can be the best solution for this purpose. It works by filtering bad traffic and keeping cyberattackers at bay. It is important to choose WAF carefully for this purpose. Contact a trustworthy cybersecurity company now to get the best web application firewall for your business.
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