Web Application Firewall: What is it and Why is it Needed?
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The Internet is not only cat videos and memes, but also a huge space where cyberattacks happen more often than it seems. To protect web applications from hackers, there is such a tool as a web application firewall (WAF). If you've ever heard of things like SQL injections or cross-site scripting, but didn't understand what it is, we'll try to explain it in simple terms.
How does a WAF work and protect websites?
A WAF is a digital "guard" for websites and web applications. Its job is to check all requests that come to the website and block anything suspicious. Think of it as a filter that doesn't let anything harmful through, like hacker attacks, viruses, or suspicious data. For example, a WAF can prevent attempts to inject malicious code into your favorite website through an input form or other potential vulnerabilities. A WAF works at the highest level of Internet communications, meaning it protects a website at the application level, where a regular antivirus is powerless.
The main feature of a WAF is to create a barrier between the website and the outside world. Every time someone tries to send a request to the site, the WAF checks it and decides whether to let it through. It's like face control at a club that doesn't let suspicious people in.
WAF protects against:
- SQL injections. This is a way for hackers to access the site's database through forms or URL strings. WAF will not allow malicious commands to be passed to the database.
- Cross-site scripting (XSS). Malicious code that can be executed on the user's side. WAF blocks such scripts and protects your data.
- Cross-site request forgery (CSRF). Attacks in which a user accidentally performs dangerous actions on the site (for example, transferring money). WAF checks requests and blocks suspicious ones.
- DDoS attacks. This is when thousands of bots or hackers simultaneously load the site until it crashes. WAF can limit the number of requests, protecting the site from being overloaded.
WAF works based on security policies that determine what to block and what to allow. There are two main approaches:
- Blacklist. WAF blocks all traffic that looks suspicious or matches known attack patterns. It's like a security guard at a club who doesn't let in anyone who hasn't passed face control. It can effectively protect a site from known threats, but it may not cope with new types of attacks.
- Whitelist. Here, the opposite principle applies: only traffic that has been approved in advance is allowed through. It's like a private party where only trusted guests can get in. This method is safer, but requires more time to configure, because each request must be pre-checked.
Modern WAFs typically use a hybrid approach: a combination of black and white lists for maximum protection.
There are several types of WAF:
- Network WAF. This type is installed on physical equipment, usually on the server side. It works quickly and with minimal latency, since it is located close to the source of requests. But this option requires large investments in equipment and its support, and this is not always convenient for small and medium-sized companies.
- Host WAF. It is integrated directly into the web application software. This type of firewall is cheaper than a network one, but it takes resources from the server itself, which can slow it down. In addition, a hosted WAF requires time and effort from engineers to configure and maintain.
- Cloud WAF. The most popular and easy-to-install option. To start using it, you just need to reconfigure the DNS server, and that's it. This type of firewall is inexpensive, as it is paid for as a service (monthly or annually). Cloud WAF is constantly updated, protecting against new threats without extra effort. The only downside is that part of the control is transferred to a third-party company.
Why should an ordinary user know about WAF?
At first, it may seem that WAF is a topic exclusively for developers and security specialists, but this is not so. Here's why it is important to understand what a WAF is:
- Protecting your data. WAF protects websites where you leave your data: be it online stores, social networks or banking services. This means that your passwords, card details and other information are safe.
- Security of online platforms. A website that has fallen under attack is not only inconvenient, but also dangerous. Websites that use WAF are resistant to failures and attacks, so you can be sure that your favorite services will work without interruptions.
- A conscious choice. Knowing that WAF protects websites from attacks, you can choose safer resources for online shopping, communication or work, which helps to avoid leakage of personal data.
WAF is not just a technical tool, it is your reliable guard in the digital world. It protects web applications from many threats, ensuring security for both developers and end users. With flexible settings and different protection models, WAF can prevent serious attacks and protect data from intruders.
Private VPN server and WAF: an effective tandem
Using a private VPN server significantly enhances security on the Internet. If WAF protects the site from attacks, then a private VPN server encrypts your connection, making it anonymous and inaccessible to interception. Together, these tools create a complete protective circuit: WAF blocks external threats to the site, and VPN protects your personal data, creating a safe space for working on the Internet.
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