Inside Tufts

University Information Technology

Information Security

Managed Firewall Service

What is a a firewall?

A firewall is a device which filters network traffic between two or more points. When properly configured, it acts as a barrier to hostile or unwanted network traffic, and protects hosts and networks behind it from intrusions and attacks.

Why do I need or want a firewall?

Nobody is interested in my data, I don't need a firewall

What does the Managed Firewall Service offer?

How do I contact the Network Security Team for an evaluation meeting?

firewall

Why do I need or want a firewall?

If you or your department is responsible for information whose loss, corruption, or unauthorized publication would cause your group or the University a significant loss, and this information is stored on computers connected to the Tufts data network, then a firewall may be a worthwhile investment. The Network Security Team, a working group within Network Engineering, can help you assess your need for a firewall. We will work with you to analyze the legal implications of theft or corruption of your data, as well as the monetary costs of data loss or theft. You can then decide based on this cost/benefit analysis if a firewall is a good fit for your needs.

Nobody is interested in my data, I don't need a firewall

This is a very common misconception. Unfortunately the majority of attackers are not targeting your computer for its data, they perform sweeping scans of entire networks looking for vulnerable computers which they can compromise and use for staging further attacks. The damage done to your system and data is incidental, but can be severe. Additionally, data stored on your computer may reveal personal information about you, including usernames and passwords for other more sensitive systems.

What does the Managed Firewall Service offer?

The TCCS Managed Firewall Service offers a turn-key solution for installation and maintenance of a firewall.

Once you make your decision to invest in a firewall, the Network Security Team will sit down with you to determine exactly what size and capability you need in a firewall. The Network Security Team will also work with you to develop a firewall ruleset that complies with both Tufts Acceptable Use Policy, and your own departmental policies.

Features and Benefits

  1. 24x7 monitoring: Off hours support on nights, weekends and holidays.
  2. Guaranteed responsiveness: Each client's specific escalation procedures are well documented and followed precisely. Your Service Level Agreement (SLA) ensures that you are notified when and how you specify.
  3. Trained professionals: The Security Team is comprised of dedicated security staff whose main concern is computer security.
  4. Lower cost of ownership: Network Engineering manages your firewalls, saving time and money by reducing staffing, training, and maintenance costs.
  5. Analysis of firewall events: Uniquely correlated with local security information gathered by other Network Security tools.
  6. VPN access when needed between offices spread out across different campuses.
  7. End-to-End firewall support: We support the complete lifecycle of your firewall. From installation to retirement, the NOC Security Team is available to offer expertise and counsel.

How should I contact the Network Security Team for an evaluation?

Send email to firewall@net.tufts.edu or
call 7-2550 and ask to speak with a member of the Security Team to schedule a firewall evaluation.