If you are wondering… Yes, antivirus software is absolutely different to a firewall, but what does each one does? And are secure without one or both? Nowadays, and with the increase of the use of internet and technology, as well as working at home, stay safe and secure online is a bit complicated to achieve.

Due to there aren’t only threats inreasing complexity and frequency, but defence methods are also becoming threat-specific, making it very difficult to understand the diverse protections each security tool give and whether you really need them all or not.Two of the most security tools that creates confusion are firewall and antivirus software. Just due to the fact they’re often talked about together doesn’t mean they’re the same thing. Then, what’s the difference between a firewall and an antivirus? How do they work?What Is Antivirus Software?Recently we posted an article talking about what it a Antivirus Software, you can find the article in this link.But in short words, Antivirus Software is a software program created to isolate, detect, and remove malicious code (commonly known as malware) from a computer system.is a software program created to isolate, detect, and remove malicious code (commonly known as malware) from a computer system.What Is a Firewall?

Is a defensive barrier between your device and the outside world, even the internet.

Unlike antivirus, a firewall doesn’t neutralize malware that’s already on your device. It doesn’t scan your files. It’s a defence that monitors network data flow and analyse it for safety before it accesses your device.

There are two types of firewalls: software and hardware. The main objective of software firewall is protecting you from incoming digital attacks. In the other hand, the hardware version prevents others from physically accessing your device

Firewalls also work in the background. Although, they allow you some control over the rules to determine which data sources are allowed in and out through the internet.

How Does it Work?

A firewall is a filtration system. Similar to a metal detector you need to go through at the airport. But the scanning location is different, firewalls are related to antivirus software.

While network data is flowing into your device, the firewall scans it in small portions and compares its findings against a database of confirmed threats. The data segment is only allowed access if it passes all tests.

Firewalls as well as antivirus also need regular updates. If their security database doesn’t have the latest security threats, malware and malicious scripts can make their way through the wall and into your device.

Exits diverse ways firewall software can scan and regulate your network flow. They are based on in security and efficiency, but they also all have their beneficial use-cases like:

• Proxy Service: Protect your device by setting up a mirror version of your device and connects it to the web. Incoming data doesn’t come in direct contact with your device but stays isolated. This is one of the most secure firewall types.
• Packet Filtering: Firewalls that use packet filtering scan data in small increments. Every data packet gets sent through a several filters. Data packets that are identifies as threats are flagged and blocked, preventing them from accessing your device.
• Circuit-level Gateway: Instead of scanning the data itself, a circuit-level gateway firewall monitors Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) handshakes. Instead of scanning contents of incoming data packets, this firewall ensures the communication is safe and legitimate. It verifies the source instead of the data. While they’re quick and efficient, they need another security technology to prevent leaks.

Can You Stay Safe Without a Firewall?

Firewalls are a defensive measure. If you remove them, you need a replacement, even if it’s just more careful internet browsing. Without a firewall, malicious data packets can find their way into your computer.

However, talking about to firewall software, if your device isn’t connected to the internet, it’s safe to say you don’t need one.

Antivirus Software and Firewalls: Do You Need Both?

Antivirus software and firewalls work independently on securing your device differently and support each other in some cases.

If you’re looking for maximum security, keeping both active and in top condition is your best option.