Why network firewalls and mainframes are still security favorites

Network firewalls and mainframes are old technology, but despite calls over the years to do away with one or the other, they remain in widespread use. As to why, just ask IT professionals who manage large networks.

"We have three times the amount of firewalls than seven or eight years ago," says Andrew McCullough, lead infrastructure security architect in the information security and compliance department at Motel 6.

Firewalls used to be assigned mainly to the perimeter of the network, but over time Motel 6 has been building up defenses internally to protect against attacks on Web applications and databases, plus conforming to Payment Card Industry rules to protect cardholder data. That has meant more firewalls that can handle higher bandwidth, and Motel 6 uses the Crossbeam X-Series platform, which can also support intrusion-prevention systems and antivirus filtering.