


Between clients and the backend network, the WAF acts as a middleman. Of course, the reverse proxy arrangement is the most popular and generally the most efficient. Unlike a proxy server, a Web Application Firewall (WAF) is typically installed in front of the backend network it is designed to secure from malicious attack. How Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) Work Additionally, like most intrusion prevention systems, a web application firewall has security policies that filter any incoming traffic. These days, a WAF is crucial for safeguarding not only traditional backends like websites but also other applications and services, like HTTP/S-based RESTful APIs used by mobile applications.Ī WAF is a security solution and an essential component of web applications. However, the function of WAFs grew along with the adoption of HTTP/S. Website protection was the main purpose of WAFs in the past. Ideally, it is a network appliance that defends online applications against assaults such as: What is a Web Application Firewall?Ī Web Application Firewall (WAFs)assists in securing online applications by screening and keeping track of HTTP traffic between a web application and the Internet.

Let’s look at what application firewalls are and how they work. While a web application firewall is not meant to defend against all types of attacks, it is a great tool to have in your arsenal. However, a web application firewall (WAF) prevents malicious traffic from accessing web applications. Application layer attacks or DDoS (Denial of Service Attacks)are the leading cause of breaches.
