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Firewall Vs Proxy: Unraveling the Key Distinctions

December 04, 2023 , ,

Firewall Vs Proxy: Unraveling the Key Distinctions 

Although they function differently, a firewall and a proxy both restrict or prevent connections to and from a network. A proxy reroutes communication, but a firewall filters and stops it (via ports or unauthorized applications that try to gain unauthorized access to our network).

Firewall Vs Proxy: Unraveling the Key Distinctions
Fig 1.1- Firewall Vs Proxy

⚡ What is Firewall ? 🔥🔥

Firewalls are basically residing in the network and use for Primary filtering ( it can be physical appliances or VMs) that work at both the network and application layers. Firewall provide a platform for the features/functionality needed for network security like VPNs, NGIPS, Anti-Malware Protection.

We have different types of Firewalls- Stateful Firewalls, NGFW and UTM.

Next-generation security should not abandon proven stateful inspection capabilities in favor of application and user ID awareness by itself. Comprehensive network security solution needs include Firewalls, next-generation Firewalls (application inspection and filtering) and next generation intrusion prevention systems (context aware).The Firewall often is the conduit from which other defense components combat the threats that face the network

⭐Related : Stateful Firewalls: Stateful Inspection and NAT
⭐Related : Understanding Firewalls: Types and Operational Flow

⚡ What is Proxy ? 📜

A proxy server functions as a bridge between client devices and the internet. It is used for a variety of objectives, including boosting performance, increasing security, and giving anonymity. Proxies function at the application layer (Layer 7) of the OSI model. They intercept and redirect client requests to servers and vice versa. Proxies can inspect, change, or cache material throughout this process.

Between users and the internet, a proxy server acts as a gateway. Because it stands between end users and every webpage they view, it is often referred to as an intermediate server. Online activity seems to be originating from a different location when using a proxy server, which has its own Internet Protocol (IP) address. Protecting your devices against cyber risks, it is configured similarly to firewalls or web filters. 

⚡ Firewall Vs Proxy.. Key Distinctions

Although firewalls and proxies serve different objectives, they can work in tandem to provide a holistic security approach. Firewalls are concerned with network traffic control and security, whereas proxies give an extra layer of content screening, caching, and anonymity for internet users.

Based on a set of rules or regulations, a firewall filters incoming and outgoing traffic. Specific IP packets can be blocked or allowed based on their source, destination, port, protocol, or content. A firewall operates on the OSI model's network and transport levels, and it can also utilize encryption to safeguard data transfer. 

A firewall can be either a physical equipment or a software programme. A firewall is used to define the network's perimeter and to prevent assaults from outside sources.

In a network, a proxy server works as a middleman between a client and a server. It receives client requests and passes them to the server, and vice versa. A proxy server can also store server answers to increase network efficiency. 

A proxy server operates on the OSI model's application layer and can change requests or answers based on the application protocol. A proxy server might be a dedicated server or a piece of software. A proxy server is used to offer the client with anonymity and privacy by concealing the client's IP address from the server.

here's go with the comparison and the difference between Firewall and Proxy