Linux may be the only open-source project to have changed the world on such a large scale. Although its consumer market is small, it is much bigger than it appears. Linux firewalls provide powerful features to enforce security policies, block malicious traffic, and protect against unauthorized access.
Linux is everywhere. It is on your phone as Android and on the servers that run the Internet itself. It is even in your router. It is not only ubiquitous in the consumer market, but it is also everywhere else. which brings us to the point of this post: security.
People who wish to harm a product can easily target it when millions of people use it. Most attacks are carried out remotely via the internet. A strong firewall for critical applications is therefore necessary.
Top 5 Linux Firewalls for Network Security
We will look at the top Linux Firewalls so that you can know your options and protect your network from any threats.
1. Iptables
Iptables is pre-installed on most Linux distros. It isn’t the most feature-rich, but it is one of the safest.
Iptables has no interface since it’s a command-line utility. It is a command line utility, so you’ll have to learn it to configure it. You can use a GUI solution that works with iptables, like Ubuntu’s Uncomplicated Firewall, to make it easier.
Iptables is a very simple program. It analyzes packets to see if any of the rules are met. If none are found, the default behavior is used.
Iptables firewall is “good enough” if you don’t need a lot of bells and whistles. Iptables are a good choice if you are looking for something that you can set up and forget about.
Also read: Who is Better For Security: VPNs vs. Firewalls vs. Antivirus
2. Monowall
Monowall has been optimized to run on even the smallest computer specifications. It only requires 16 MB. This performance comes at a cost, however – It is a basic firewall that doesn’t have many features.
Monowall provides QoS by default. This allows you to control all traffic that passes through it. You can prioritize some connections over others- not only do you need a firewall that is fast, but one that is also secure.
Monowall is no longer being actively developed as of February 2015. However, it can still be downloaded.
3. pfSense
pfSense was built using Monowall – the developers basically took the Monowall open-source project and built it on top. Monowall is no longer in development, but pfSense continues to be actively developed.
Monowall has all the features that pfSense offers, plus some. Multi-WAN and hardware failure are examples of this. Other advanced features of pfSense make it extremely useful for network administrators that demand more from their firewalls.
The firewall is one of the most powerful, but it’s also difficult to use. The interface is designed to be easy to use, but it has a steep learning curve.
4. Zentyal Server
Zentyal does not have a specific firewall – it was originally designed to be an email server but has evolved into much more. Zentyal is a fully-fledged server that can also be used for business.
Zentyal’s base is Ubuntu Server LTS. You are installing an operating system when you install Zentyal. You can also do all the things you would on Ubuntu. Zentyal is a fully-featured server that has everything you need.
Zentyal is the firewall for you if you are able to handle all of the options and features that it offers. Zentyal comes with a DNS server and a DHCP Server, as well as an email server, a Domain Controller, and more.
Also read: Top 10 Malware Removal Software
5. ClearOS
ClearOS is based on CentOS and, like Zentyal, it can be used for much more than just a firewall.
ClearOS’ interface is what makes it special – you can tell that a lot has been done to make it simple. Although it’s simple, it is still complex and requires you to be able to do what you’re doing.
ClearOS is easy to install for novice users. ClearOS offers advanced users all the features they need. ClearOS makes everything simple, even the installation.
Conclusion — Top Linux firewalls
When it comes to the top Linux firewalls, there are several notable options to consider. Some of the top choices include iptables, Monowall, ClearOS, and pfSense. Each of these firewalls offers robust security features and customizable configurations, making them reliable choices for protecting your Linux systems.
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