Why are internet firewalls suddenly getting so much attention?
Two factors have caused the attention. Firstly, the media has widely reported the business effects of some computer hacker assaults on major web sites. Secondly, and more importantly, the advent of cheap, high-bandwidth, full-time internet access via DSL and cable modem has changed the landscape. In the days when most access was by dial-up phone lines a hacker had little chance of going after a site because connection was for a limited time and at a constantly changing internet address. The constant connections of DSL, leased lines, and cable modems give hackers more opportunity to penetrate.
