CASP+ Definitions: Internet Gateway

An internet gateway is a network device that serves as the entry and exit point for traffic between a local network and the internet. It is an important component of network security because it can help to protect against a wide range of cyber threats.

The internet gateway typically serves as a firewall and router, controlling the flow of traffic between the local network and the internet. It can also provide other security features such as intrusion detection and prevention, virtual private networking (VPN), and content filtering.

One of the key functions of the internet gateway is to control inbound and outbound traffic, using rules and policies to determine which traffic is allowed to pass and which traffic should be blocked. This can help to prevent cyber attacks such as denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, malware infections, and unauthorized access to network resources.

The internet gateway can also provide secure remote access to the local network through the use of VPN technology, which allows authorized users to connect to the network from outside the organization. This can help to improve productivity and collaboration while maintaining a high level of security.

Overall, the internet gateway is an important component of cybersecurity, and is widely used by organizations of all sizes to protect their network infrastructure and data from cyber threats.