EVOLUTION OF FIREWALLS AND THE USE OF NEXT-GENERATION FIREWALL (NGFW)

Abstract

This article analyzes the evolution of firewalls and the consolidation of next-generation firewalls (Next-Generation Firewalls – NGFW) as central elements of information security. The objective was to identify the limitations of traditional models and demonstrate how NGFW overcome these weaknesses through features such as deep packet inspection, intrusion prevention, visibility into encrypted traffic and application control. The research, of a bibliographic and exploratory nature, showed that NGFW expand protection against cyber threats, promote operational efficiency and reduce costs by unifying multiple resources on a single platform. It was also found that its adoption favors the implementation of zero trust policies and strengthens organizational resilience. Despite the benefits, limitations related to configuration complexity and the need for specific professionals stand out. It is concluded that NGFW represent a milestone in contemporary cybersecurity, responding to the demands of increasingly complex digital environments.