IoT Firewall: Definition, Features, Advantages and Disadvantages

Published on: February 18, 2024

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8 min read

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For German Version

The emergence of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has benefited several industries, including wearables, smart homes, and healthcare equipment. However, in order to safeguard these devices and the data they gather, this increased interconnectedness calls for strong security measures. An integral part of Internet of Things security is the IoT firewall, which is responsible for protecting networked devices from any online attacks. In this article, we will cover the following topics related to the IoT firewall:

• What is an IoT firewall?
• How does an IoT firewall work?
• What are the types of firewalls for IoT devices?
• What are the advantages of an IoT firewall?
• What are the disadvantages of an IoT firewall?
• What is the importance of an IoT firewall?
• What are the impacts of the IoT firewall on network security?
• What is the best IoT firewall?
• What is the difference between an IoT firewall and a regular firewall?
• How should you Implement IoT Firewalls?
• How Zenarmor Helps IoT Firewall Security

What is an IoT Firewall?

One type of security measure designed to safeguard data flow and communication between IoT devices and the wider network is an IoT firewall. Its primary responsibility is to monitor and manage the traffic that enters and exits these devices in order to lower the possibility of cyber threats such as DDoS assaults, illegal access, and data breaches.

Firewalls for the Internet of Things examine data flow from linked devices to identify security threats, anomalous trends, or unapproved entry attempts. For example, an Internet of Things (IoT) firewall in a smart home monitors gadgets like cameras and thermostats, looking for unusual activity that could indicate a security issue. This preserves user privacy and aids in the prevention of cyber threats.

IoT firewalls control data flow inside an Internet of Things system in addition to monitoring data flow. To regulate communication between the aforementioned devices and external networks, they employ encryption, traffic filtering, and access control rules. A firewall, for instance, makes sure that only authorized devices and apps may communicate with machinery in the context of industrial IoT.

How does the IoT firewall Work?

IoT firewalls function by using a variety of security measures to safeguard networks and linked devices. Let's examine some of the essential components in more detail so that you can comprehend the process better. The main components of an IoT firewall are outlined below:

• Inspection and filtering of packets: Packet inspection and filtering are two of the core features of Internet of Things firewalls. In order to enable the firewall to make decisions based on specified rules, this entails closely examining the data packets that go to and from linked devices. Each packet's source, destination, and content are examined by the firewall to decide whether to allow or prohibit transmission. For example, the firewall can stop a packet in its tracks if it comes from an unauthorized source or has questionable content. This prevents possible assaults like distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks.
• Identification and mitigation of intrusions: IoT firewall functionality is dependent on its ability to detect and prevent intrusions. These systems are made to recognize unusual activity and take appropriate action in case it indicates a potential or current security breach. They are able to detect anomalous traffic, attempted intrusions, and other indicators of possible dangers by employing sophisticated algorithms and pattern recognition. The firewall can take immediate action, such as isolating the device or notifying security staff to investigate, as soon as a danger is detected.
• IoT protocol application-layer filtering: IoT firewalls are equipped with unique functionality for application-layer filtering that is tailored to the many types of connected devices and how they communicate. This enables the firewall to monitor and control traffic in a manner appropriate for the intricate nature of the Internet of Things connectivity, ensuring that only approved and permitted exchanges take place.

What are the Types of Firewalls for IoT devices?

Firewalls for Internet of Things devices come in a variety of forms, each with unique features and applications. A few of the IoT firewall types are as follows:.

1. Network firewalls: Network firewalls stand at the gateway, protecting linked devices much like sentries. They keep an eye on and manage the flow of data into and out of the network. Located at the edge of the network, they use predefined rules to filter data according to IP addresses and ports, among other criteria. Network firewalls provide centralized control and a clear view of network traffic, making them helpful in Internet of Things settings with numerous linked devices.
2. Cloud-based firewalls: Cloud-based firewalls use cloud services to safeguard devices that are connected. They provide scalable and centralized defense against cyberattacks and unwanted access when managed in the cloud. IoT device-specific cloud-based firewall solutions are available from major cloud providers such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. For example, inside the AWS environment, Amazon Web Services WAF protects Internet of Things applications from frequent online threats.
3. Host-based firewalls: Host-based firewalls are installed directly on individual IoT devices, whereas network and application firewalls are mostly concerned with network traffic. Inbound and outgoing network traffic that is unique to the host device on which they are installed is monitored and filtered by these firewalls. Devices can be successfully shielded by host-based firewalls against malware, illegal access, and other harmful activity. Additionally, they enable businesses to adopt customized security guidelines for every device, meeting a range of security needs. For example, Microsoft Windows' Windows Firewall allows users to establish rules for both incoming and outgoing traffic, providing an additional line of protection for devices that are connected.
4. Embedded IoT firewalls: Embedded firewalls are designed for networked devices with constrained processor and memory capacities. They provide minimal security without sacrificing functionality since they are directly integrated into the device's operating system or firmware. One such is the Mocana IoT Security Platform, which provides a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity functionalities, such as inbuilt firewall capabilities, for a range of networked devices.
5. Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW): NGFWs combine application control, IPS, and business firewall features using a multilayered architecture. This kind of firewall, designed with the future in mind, blends conventional firewall functionality with cutting-edge security features like application awareness, deep packet inspection, and intrusion prevention.

What are the Advantages of IoT Firewall?

IoT devices are particularly challenging to safeguard against internet attacks because of their lightweight design. Because of this, IoT firewalls are a useful ally that might greatly improve the business security of the corporation as a whole.

• Enhanced protection: By limiting unwanted access to IoT networks and devices, IoT firewalls help to increase network security. This might be particularly significant when IoT devices carry out essential corporate tasks. For instance, an IoT firewall may be used by a manufacturing organization to improve business continuity and stop hackers from interfering with it.
• Increased visibility on the network: IoT devices can be challenging to detect as well as protect. Due to the possibility that network managers may not fully comprehend the organization's network, they pose a significant danger to the company. Since it is nearly hard to protect against unknown threats, an IoT firewall can serve as a tracking system and flag unusual activity that can point to a security breach.
• Assistance for compliance: IoT firewalls, like other cybersecurity solutions, may help with industry compliance and data privacy legislation enforcement. IoT firewalls can assist organizations in adhering to data security regulations in sectors where IoT devices are directly utilized to collect sensitive customer information.
• Simplified network administration: Networks may be divided into smaller subnetworks using IoT firewalls, after which different access control and security rules can be put in place. IoT firewalls help overcome this design problem and offer improved security because IoT devices are hard to govern and oversee by design.

What are the Disadvantages of IoT Firewall?

Although installing a firewall on linked devices provides a number of security benefits, there are additional issues and concerns that must be taken into accoun. The major drawbacks of IoT firewalls are listed below:

• Variety of devices: The vast array of devices, each with unique operating systems, communication protocols, and functionalities, makes it challenging to develop a universal security solution that caters to the unique requirements of every single device.
• Restricted resources: Because many linked devices have little amounts of RAM and computing power, IoT firewalls must be small and effective in their design.
• Problems with interoperability: To guarantee smooth integration and all-encompassing protection, IoT firewalls must be interoperable with a wide range of devices and protocols.
• Quick adjustments: It is challenging to maintain current security protocols due to the rapid growth of technology and the constant introduction of new gadgets. Firewalls need to quickly adjust to new features, technologies, and security threats.
• Problems with standardization: The absence of uniform security protocols throughout the Internet of Things sector makes it more difficult to implement consistent security measures, which may cause compatibility problems and impede the development of a single security framework.
• Integration with the current system architecture: It might be difficult to integrate IoT firewalls with current security and IT systems. Compatibility problems might occur, necessitating thorough preparation and testing to guarantee a smooth integration without jeopardizing system security.

What is the Importance of the IoT Firewall?

IoT gadgets are infamous for having inadequate security. Typical threats to IoT security are as follows:

• Legacy Operating Systems: It's possible that IoT devices are using out-of-date operating systems. They can thus be exploited using known vulnerabilities in the public domain.
• Absence of Built-In Security: Unlike desktop computers, the majority of IoT devices do not come with built-in firewalls or antivirus software. Attackers will find it simpler to take advantage of these systems and install malware on them as a result.
• Difficult Patch management: How recently have you updated the software in your lightbulb? Ensuring the security of any software requires resolving functional and security challenges. IoT devices are susceptible to assault since they are not updated frequently enough.
• Weak Passwords: It's typical for IoT devices to be deployed without the default password being changed, and they may have hardcoded passwords that are unchangeable by users. Once the public learns these credentials, attackers may easily access devices that are susceptible to compromise.
• Insufficient Physical Security: Numerous Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets, such cameras with an internet connection, are made to be used in both public and private spaces. Attackers may be able to go around and overcome a device's security measures if they have physical access to the device.
• Use of Insecure Protocols: Although most Internet traffic stays away from using insecure protocols like Telnet, IoT devices do not follow this rule. It is simpler for hackers to get login credentials and take advantage of weak protocols when these protocols are used.

IoT devices pose a serious security risk to their owners as well as the networks in which they are installed because of these security flaws. IoT firewalls reduce the effect of a hacked device and make devices harder to attack, which helps to control this risk.

What are the Impacts of the IoT Firewall on Network Security?

By limiting unwanted access to IoT networks and devices, IoT firewalls help to increase network security. This might be particularly significant when IoT devices carry out essential corporate tasks. For instance, an IoT firewall may be used by a manufacturing organization to improve business continuity and stop hackers from interfering with it.

What is the Best IoT Firewall?

Many businesses focus on offering IoT firewall solutions, meeting the particular security requirements of IoT ecosystems. The well-known IoT firewalls in the market are listed below:

1. Zenarmor: The Zenarmor NGFW is easy to deploy on any platform with a network connection because of its appliance-free, all-in-one, all-software, lightweight, and simple architecture, whether it is physical hardware or virtual.

   Zenarmor NGFW is one of the best plugins for the OPNsense firewall that provides advanced and contemporary features. Zenarmor NGFW is essential for managing an L4 firewall, which includes all open-source firewalls, such as pfSense software, OPNsense, RHEL, Ubuntu, and Centos, etc., and offers features such as application control, network analytics, and TLS inspection.

   Zenarmor has a Device Identification feature that automatically discovers and identifies all connected devices on the network, providing an overview of their details, such as hardware vendor, operating system, name, hostname, IP addresses, and MAC addresses, with the ability to group these devices into their respective categories.

   Zenarmor is a suitable ally for enterprises looking to protect their IoT devices and data. Zenarmor simplifies IoT security management, reduces costs and complexity, and improves user experience and productivity.

2. Cisco: In terms of networking and cybersecurity, it leads the world. Cisco provides cutting-edge firewall solutions as part of a complete IoT security platform. Their Internet of Things (IoT)-specific firewalls are intended to protect linked devices, impose rules, and give insight into IoT traffic.

3. Palo Alto Networks: This business is well known for producing cutting-edge firewall solutions. Their Internet of Things firewall solutions use behavioral analytics and machine learning to identify and stop sophisticated attacks that aim to compromise connected devices.

4. Armis: Offering a specialized IoT firewall solution made to protect linked devices and the networks they are connected to, it specializes in Internet of Things security. Real-time threat response, anomaly detection, and continuous device monitoring are the three main pillars of Armis' strategy.

5. Fortinet: It is a well-known cybersecurity company with products made to fit different security requirements. IoT installations are shielded from changing threats by Fortinet's IoT firewall solutions, which offer secure access, threat protection, and network segmentation.

6. Check Point Software Technologies: Check Point has a reputation for providing all-inclusive cybersecurity solutions. They provide centralized management, secure networking, and enhanced threat protection in their IoT firewalls. Check Point places a high priority on fixing device vulnerabilities and shrinking attack surfaces.

How to Choose an IoT Firewall?

IoT device adoption in the workplace is growing in popularity. For cybersecurity, selecting the appropriate IoT firewall is essential. A poor or incorrect choice of IoT firewall might result in financial losses, data breaches, and cyberattacks. The following advice will help you select the ideal IoT firewall for your company's requirements:

• Think about the attributes: Select an IoT firewall based on whether it meets your own requirements. Among the most important characteristics to search for are intrusion detection, granular policy controls, and deep packet inspection.

• Scalability: Scalability is important because if your company develops, you may need to deploy more IoT devices. Thus, pick an IoT firewall that can grow with your IoT security requirements.

• Assess the reputation of the vendor: Select a reputable supplier to get an efficient IoT firewall. Seek out suppliers who offer top-notch customer service, have a track record of success with IoT security, and often release software patches and upgrades.

• Verify Integration: Integrating an IoT firewall with your current network architecture shouldn't be too difficult. Additionally, pick an IoT firewall that works with the devices you employ and supports a variety of protocols.

What is the Difference Between an IoT Firewall and a Regular Firewall?

Conventional firewalls regulate traffic between specified locations, such as workstations and servers, using port numbers and IP addresses, with the goal of safeguarding centralized networks. They aren't designed to manage the particular security issues that IoT devices present. Think of a classic packet filtering firewall as a gatekeeper that controls traffic entering a facility through a single entry, permitting or prohibiting access depending on predetermined standards, such as identity cards.

Imagine a situation where voice assistants, security cameras, and smart thermostats are all connected. The varied and constant communication patterns of these devices may be difficult for a standard firewall to monitor and regulate, which might result in security vulnerabilities. Standard firewalls are designed for a single entry point. This is where IoT device firewalls come into play, providing specialized defense for their complex communication network.

Some unique aspects of IoT firewalls are as follows:

• Granular control: Internet of Things firewalls provide specific device control by recognizing and thwarting certain risks, such as illegal access to sensors or other devices.
• Protocol awareness: They are aware of the many Internet of Things (IoT) communication protocols, such as MQTT and CoAP, and are able to monitor and filter specific traffic to increase security.
• Activity analysis: IoT firewalls, in contrast to traditional firewalls, continually examine device activity in order to proactively identify and stop security vulnerabilities in IoT infrastructure.
• Efficiency and scalability: Built for Internet of Things networks, they function effectively in settings with many devices while maintaining security and avoiding application lag.
• Segmentation: Traffic segmentation keeps critical systems apart from potentially dangerous ones by dividing devices into distinct network zones. This reduces the effect of security issues and prevents attacks from spreading.

How should you Implement IoT Firewalls?

It is never easy to install an IoT firewall with a single click. For the deployment to go well and produce the intended outcomes, there are a number of procedures involved and certain business preparations that must be made. IoT firewall implementation steps are given below:

1. Determine the gadgets: One of the preparations before putting the IoT firewall into place is figuring out which IoT devices are in use. This might have an impact on the whole design process: you could desire more stringent network segmentation based on the quantity of IoT devices or their dangers. Remember that gadgets like smart thermostats and security cameras might also be categorized as Internet of Things devices.

2. Evaluate the dangers: Every Internet of Things device has some dangers and weaknesses. But not every one of them presents the same risks to the safety of a company. Because of this, it's critical to ascertain the type of data the device gathers and calculate the possible consequences of device breach.

3. Pick the suitable firewall option: Selecting a firewall that meets business requirements comes next, when you have a better understanding of the IoT devices on the internal network. IoT network firewalls or converting IoT devices to include inbuilt firewalls will be the possibilities, as was previously suggested.

4. Setup and examination: Depending on your business case, the chosen firewall should be set to contribute to the security of the enterprise. This might imply many things. This involves specifying access controls for every device and traffic filtering rules. To make sure every configuration functions as it should, it should be extensively tested in a secure setting.

5. Turn on the firewall: The Internet of Things firewall may be installed throughout the network when the testing is complete. It does not, however, imply that the procedure is over. Regular monitoring and planned maintenance are essential for a firewall to function properly and offer sufficient defense against security threats.

How Zenarmor Helps IoT Firewall Security

Because of their susceptibility to illegal access, which can jeopardize their operation, data confidentiality, and user anonymity, Internet of Things devices pose serious security risks. IoT security is therefore essential to guaranteeing the dependability and safety of IoT applications and systems.

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), a cloud-based architecture that unifies network and security services into a single platform, is one of the newer approaches to IoT security. Users may benefit from secure and scalable connections, threat avoidance, identity and access management, and data security by utilizing SASE to safeguard IoT devices.

Learn about Zenarmor, the innovative SASE solution built to provide unmatched security for your IoT devices! Zenarmor goes above and beyond to protect your devices from even the most sophisticated encrypted attacks, assuring your peace of mind, with its powerful packet inspection engine. Zenarmor enables enterprises to create and execute rules across all IoT devices and locations with ease. It is easily deployed and administered from a cloud-based platform. Furthermore, it seamlessly interacts with and works with the IoT platforms, apps, and gadgets you already have. Accept the unparalleled adaptability it offers, meeting the varied and heterogeneous IoT device ecosystem.

Organizations utilizing SASE to safeguard their IoT devices and data should consider Zenarmor. Zenarmor offers a mechanism to guarantee your safety and security at all times. Think of it as your online version of the neighborhood watch, except friendlier. It functions by projecting its shielding energy to the very edge, where it is most required. However, don't worry, handling all of these small parts is rather easy! Everything is gathered in one convenient location in the cloud. It's similar to having a neat workstation for IoT security. Thus, with Zenarmor, not only can businesses improve their security posture, but users and administrators also benefit from a seamless and welcoming experience.