Security is paramount for companies, even on their mobile devices. But how do you ensure that your employee 's Android device is secure?
Do Android devices have firewalls that help to protect the device from unwanted security threats?
In this article, we'll learn more about Android firewalls, how to set them up, and how Android firewalls work can with Android device management.
Does Android Have a Built-In Firewall?
Android devices do not have firewalls by default, which means that additional security features, like network firewalls, must be separately obtained. One reason why Android devices do not have firewalls as a standard is because of the intended use of an Android device.
People using their Androids are personal cellphones or tablets do not run their devices as a server. Additionally, home Wi-Fi and mobile data are a solution to most insecure connections, and most users use their devices through these means. However, these solutions may not be enough in some scenarios.
But what about people using their devices for work? If there is a higher level of data stored on the device, shouldn't you have a firewall on your Android device? We'll discuss this in a later section.
What is an Android Firewall?
First, let's define what an Android firewall is.
An Android firewall is a security feature that allows you to control which devices have access to the internet or not. By doing this, you are limiting which applications can connect to your device via the internet.
Just like a firewall on a computer, using a firewall on an Android device is a way to safeguard the device against security threats.
Because there is no default firewall application on Android, users who want a firewall on their device must download a third-party app to have a firewall on their phone or tablet. In our next section, we 'll break down how to set up a firewall on your Android device.
How to Access and Check Firewall Settings in Android?
First, download a third-party firewall app from the Google Play Store. Go to 'Settings' > 'Accessibility' in Android for the firewall app so as to activate the firewall feature.
Then, open the app. Find 'Firewall' icon and tap the three dot in the upper right corner.
Now you can change and configure firewall settings.
How to Set Firewall in Android Devices
In this section, we 'll walk you through step by step how to set up an Android firewall.
First, you must download and install a third-party firewall app. There are many Android firewall apps available on the market, so be sure to do your research to decide which one is best for your use.
Note : Applications meant for personal use may not be as functional for enterprise needs, and vice versa.
Then, open the firewall app. Tap the three dot in the upper right corner. As an example, options usually contain: View log; Show rules; Set custom script; etc.
To configure firewall settings, open 'Set custom script' to paste your rules.
Android Firewall Rules in Android Enterprise Device Management
Through Android Enterprise Device Management, you can set up Firewall Rules which will determine which incoming or outgoing network traffic is allowed or blocked on Android devices within the enterprise.
IT admins who are setting up their networks for Android Enterprise devices should configure their firewall rules carefully. These rules should include allowing certain IP addresses, ports, protocols, and applications. More information on Google recommendations for IT admins can be found here.
Parameters to Configure Rules
There are four parameters in which you can set and limit firewall access through the Firewall Rules. These parameters are:
- IP Addresses
- Ports
- Protocols
- Applications
Tools to Help Configure Firewall Rules
If you require assistance with configuring firewall rules, there are a couple of different ways that you can more easily configure these rules. Both options include using an external application or service:
Third-party Firewall Applications
There are many third-party firewall applications available on the market that might be helpful in enabling firewalls on your enterprise 's devices. These applications are great for enhancing the security of Android devices meant for work use and securing data. Enhanced security is paramount to work devices and overall company security.
Some of these applications may have set rules already, making the firewall rule configuring process easier for IT admins.
Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions
Another option to help expedite this process is to use a mobile device management solution, also known as an MDM. MDMs are great for enhancing security as they help connect all devices together and enforce set rules. Currently, only Samsung devices support using MDM to configure Android firewalls.
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Benefits of Using Firewall on Android
By having a firewall on your Android device, you can have better control over the security features of your device. Firewalls protect against unique threats and eliminate attacks that Android devices can be vulnerable to.
Control Network Access
With control over network access, companies are able to subvert most opportunities for external security threats. As this is the area where Android devices are most susceptible to threats, controlling network access is a must.
Manage Data Usage
Another area in which installing a firewall on Android devices is helpful is controlling the data that networks and applications have access to. For businesses, this is an essential function and may make installing firewalls on company Android devices a must-do.
Enhance Security
Finally, Android firewalls help to enhance overall device and data security against bad actors. Whether these actors may gain access to the device via a network connection or through an app, installing an Android firewall is a successful method of enhancing device security for a company.
