PfSense Firewall as an Open-Source Option for Computer Network Security in Catholic Schools in Santa Ana

Abstract

The aim of this research is to investigate hardware and software security tools, as well as the policies and practices used by Catholic schools in the department of Santa Ana to maintain computer network security. The study proposes the PfSense Firewall as a free and open-source tool for network access security that can be implemented using low-cost equipment.

This was a descriptive study in which the characteristics and advantages of the PfSense Firewall were analyzed and described. Surveys and interviews were mainly used as instruments to collect information related to network security. The researchers directly consulted personnel in charge of IT areas and also reviewed literature related to the proposed firewall system and recommended security policies and practices.

The study found that Catholic schools do not implement dedicated security systems such as firewalls because they require advanced knowledge of computer network operation and communication protocols used by the specific tools configured within them.