A Web Application Firewall (WAF) is a specialized security solution designed to protect web applications by filtering, monitoring, and blocking malicious traffic to and from a web service. Operating at the application layer (Layer 7 of the OSI model), WAFs help defend against common web-based attacks such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), file inclusion, and cookie poisoning, which traditional firewalls may not detect. By inspecting HTTP/HTTPS traffic between the user and web application, a WAF enforces security policies that help prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and application-level vulnerabilities.
WAF solutions are critical for businesses that rely on online platforms and APIs, as they ensure the confidentiality and integrity of customer data and digital services. Whether deployed on-premises, in the cloud, or as a hybrid model, WAFs provide real-time threat mitigation, DDoS protection, bot management, and compliance support for standards like PCI DSS. With a WAF in place, organizations can confidently deliver digital services while minimizing the risk of exploitation and downtime.
