Having an online presence is vital for almost every business, more so for a website that handles personal data regarding staff, clients and finances. Not just that, but several businesses operate solely online, making their website their primary point of contact for customers, making it vital that it’s safe, operational and protected at all times. 

What is a web application firewall?

Although your website should have an SSL certificate, there is always more that you could do to increase the security of your site, which is where a web application firewall is vital. This is because the firewall filters and blocks targeted, malicious traffic on the world-wide-web from being able to reach your web application.

How does it protect your server?

  • Blocks malicious traffic

As mentioned, the primary purpose of a web application firewall is to block malicious traffic from being able to reach your web application. This may include hackers who are purposely searching for unprotected web applications, or it could also be a bot attack for the same purpose.

  • Intrusion detection system

Specialist intrusion detection systems are often installed to help filter through the web traffic to expose any unauthorised activity. By doing so, this can then be blocked, but also reported so that appropriate measures can be further implemented. 

  • Blocking DDoS attacks

Although DDoS attacks aren’t necessarily designed to infiltrate your intellectual property, an attack will involve sending a massive amount of web traffic towards your website application with the attention of overwhelming the application so that it becomes offline and unreachable for others. 

  • Removes potential XSS and SQL injections

SQL injections are one of the most common forms of attacks, primarily because they can go unnoticed unless it’s expressly apparent. This is because the attacker adds a structured query language code to a web form, where they will then create an additional box to gain access to authorised access. 

XSS injections are a similar example, though they target scripts embedded in a page that is executed on the client-side, enabling the infiltrator to take information straight from the client.

Why you need to use a web application firewall

  • Project your business’s intellectual property

Many hackers often attack web applications to gain sensitive business information, which they will then use to blackmail the business, expose or sell to a third-party organisation. As a result, a web application firewall will aid with preventing this by detecting the hackers, their attacks and blocking them. 

  • Protect client data

Business data isn’t the only information that can be exposed, as many websites handle a wealth of client information. This can include credit card information, personal details and much more, which is why it’s key that your web application is protected appropriately. 

  • Protection from legal action

Laws and regulations regarding security and protection are becoming a large focus, meaning website owners may be liable to legal action if they are found to not have the appropriate security measures.

Contact the experts

Now that you understand the importance of having a web application firewall, you should contact the experts, catalyst2. Based in the UK, we are one of the most reputable web hosting service providers thanks to our exceptional solutions and first-class customer service. So, whether you require assistance with web application firewalls, SSL certificates or email hosting, we are certain our team can assist. 

To get the process started, we recommend calling our team today on 0800 107 7979. By doing so, you can speak to one of our specialists who will be more than happy to provide additional details, as well as address any questions that you may have. Alternatively, we suggest emailing sales@catalyst2.com with your query and contact details, where you can then expect a reply within a single working day.