Network Security Questions

  • Thread starter Thread starter Treebeard
  • Start date Start date
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Treebeard

I have a small network with one Windows 2003 Server and 5 Worstations(3 XP,
2 98SE) all with norton antivirus.

We also have a VPN connection to a remote network.

All computers are connected to a switch. A DSL router is connecte to the
switch also to provide internet connection for all computers.

Right now we have no firewall.

Questions:

1) Do we definitely need one.

2) What's the best way to go:
a- Put another computer(with two network cards) in the net as a Proxy
server running winproxy or some other software. Will this interfere with the
VPN?
b- replace the switch with some type of hardware that will provide a
firewall.

Any other suggestions?

All responses are appreciated.

Jack
 
The dsl router is providing basic protection via nat/pat. Depending on what
it is, you may want to upgrade to a true SPI device. Netgear makes a true
SPI firewall/router for about $80 and for a little more you can get their
model that has eight ipsec tunnel vpn endpoint capability [I personally use
it] that works fine in a home or small office roll. If you want more
advanced capabilty, especially on controlling outbound traffic, then the
Sonic Wall Soho 3 would be something to look at. --- Steve

http://www.netgear.com/products/prod_details.asp?prodID=140&view=
 
Thanks!

Steven L Umbach said:
The dsl router is providing basic protection via nat/pat. Depending on what
it is, you may want to upgrade to a true SPI device. Netgear makes a true
SPI firewall/router for about $80 and for a little more you can get their
model that has eight ipsec tunnel vpn endpoint capability [I personally use
it] that works fine in a home or small office roll. If you want more
advanced capabilty, especially on controlling outbound traffic, then the
Sonic Wall Soho 3 would be something to look at. --- Steve

http://www.netgear.com/products/prod_details.asp?prodID=140&view=

Treebeard said:
I have a small network with one Windows 2003 Server and 5 Worstations(3 XP,
2 98SE) all with norton antivirus.

We also have a VPN connection to a remote network.

All computers are connected to a switch. A DSL router is connecte to the
switch also to provide internet connection for all computers.

Right now we have no firewall.

Questions:

1) Do we definitely need one.

2) What's the best way to go:
a- Put another computer(with two network cards) in the net as a Proxy
server running winproxy or some other software. Will this interfere with the
VPN?
b- replace the switch with some type of hardware that will provide a
firewall.

Any other suggestions?

All responses are appreciated.

Jack
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