Why you need a Firewall even if you use a VPN
A VPN keeps your data private, but without a firewall, you’re still vulnerable. Here’s why you need both for complete security.
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) makes you invisible online, right? Not quite. While a VPN is an excellent tool for protecting your privacy, it doesn’t mean you’re 100% secure. That’s where a firewall comes in. Many people assume that a VPN and a firewall do the same thing, but they actually serve very different purposes.
If you’re relying only on a VPN for security, you’re leaving yourself vulnerable to threats that a firewall is specifically designed to block.
Let's dive into why these two tools aren’t interchangeable and why using both is your best bet for staying safe online.
Content Partner
What Does a VPN Actually Do?
A VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for anyone to snoop on your online activity. Your ISP (Internet Service Provider), hackers, and even government agencies have a tougher time tracking you because your real IP address is masked.
Think of a VPN as a secure tunnel for your data. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network, for example, a VPN ensures that your browsing activity is protected from prying eyes. It’s particularly useful for hiding your IP address, preventing ISPs from tracking your browsing habits, securing your data on public Wi-Fi, and bypassing geo-restrictions on websites and streaming services
But while a VPN protects your data in transit, it doesn’t protect your actual device. That’s where a firewall comes in.
Content Partner
What a Firewall Does (That a VPN Doesn’t)
A firewall acts as a gatekeeper for your network, monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic. Unlike a VPN, which focuses on privacy and encryption, a firewall is all about security. It actively blocks unauthorized access, preventing hackers, malware, and phishing attacks from reaching your system.
Firewalls work by filtering traffic based on predefined security rules. They can block suspicious connections, prevent malware from reaching your system, stop unauthorized access to your network, and even enforce security policies on connected devices.
While a VPN keeps your internet activity private, a firewall ensures that malicious threats don’t slip through the cracks. If you have a VPN but no firewall, you’re still at risk of cyberattacks. There are a handful of firewall services you can consider for your device safety, including; Bitdefender, Norton 360 Deluxe, Panda Dome, and so much more.
Why You Need Both a VPN and a Firewall
A VPN and a firewall complement each other rather than replace one another. Here’s why using both is essential:
- A VPN protects data in transit, but it won’t stop malware: If you accidentally download a malicious file, a VPN won’t prevent it from infecting your device. A firewall, on the other hand, can detect and block harmful traffic before it even reaches you.
- A firewall blocks threats, but it doesn’t hide your activity: A firewall won’t stop your ISP from seeing what websites you visit or prevent hackers from tracking your IP address. A VPN does.
- Using both creates a stronger security shield: Think of a VPN as a lock on your personal information and a firewall as a security guard keeping threats out. Together, they offer a much stronger defense against cyber threats.
Kelechi Edeh
Conclusion
For the best security setup, consider using both a VPN and a firewall in tandem. Many cybersecurity suites offer both tools in one package, ensuring that you don’t have to choose between privacy and security. If you’re serious about protecting your online presence, don’t rely solely on a VPN. A firewall is just as crucial, if not more so, when it comes to keeping your devices safe from cyberattacks.
A VPN and a firewall aren’t interchangeable because they serve different purposes. A VPN encrypts your data and hides your online activity, while a firewall acts as a barrier against unauthorized access and cyber threats. Using one without the other leaves gaps in your security.
