Contribuição do firewall PfSense para segurança da informação e controle de acesso em redes corporativas de pequeno porte

Abstract

Information security has become a fundamental element for protecting digital assets and ensuring the continuity of organizational operations in a scenario marked by increasing cyber threats and growing dependence on information technologies. In this context, firewalls play a strategic role in protecting corporate networks, enabling access control, data traffic filtering, and the implementation of security policies. Among the various solutions available, PfSense stands out as a widely used open-source platform for network management and protection, offering advanced firewall, routing, virtual private network (VPN), monitoring, and traffic segmentation features. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze how the use of the PfSense firewall can contribute to increased security and access control in small corporate networks through the use of low-cost hardware. Regarding methodology, the research is characterized as basic, with a qualitative approach, descriptive and exploratory objectives, developed through bibliographic research. Data collection was carried out through the analysis of books, scientific articles, academic papers, and technical documents related to information security, firewalls, open-source software, and the PfSense platform. The results showed that firewalls are essential mechanisms for protecting computing environments, acting to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate digital threats. It was also found that the Open Source model offers advantages related to transparency, flexibility, and cost reduction, favoring its adoption by organizations with limited resources. Regarding PfSense, it was found that the tool combines robust security functionalities and can be implemented on low-cost equipment, presenting itself as a technically efficient and economically viable alternative for small businesses. It is concluded that PfSense represents a relevant solution for strengthening the security of corporate networks, contributing to access control, information protection, and improved information security management in organizational environments.