Abstract: A method of processing data traffic at a firewall has been developed. The method prevents unauthorized access to a computer system by first receiving a SYN request for access to a destination in the system at a firewall. Upon receipt of a SYN request, the firewall sends a reply with an SYN/ACK message with changed packet information within the SYN/ACK message. The firewall receives an ACK message in reply to the SYN/ACK message. After the ACK message is authenticated by the firewall, the SYN request is recreated and forwarded to the destination in the system.

Abstract: A method of remotely managing a firewall has been developed. The method includes receiving a control data packet at the firewall from a remote location. Next, the control data packet is analyzed to determine if the control data packet is authorized to access the firewall. Finally, an authorized control data packet is allowed to control the firewall.

Abstract: An intelligent firewall that prevents unauthorized access to a system has been developed. The fire wall does not use a communication address. It receives a data packet and analyzes it to determine its final disposition. Finally, the firewall handles the data packet according to its final disposition.