# An Overview of Distributed Firewalls and Controllers Intended for Mobile Cloud Computing
## 3 SDN, NFV, and CASB Technologies
### Mobile Cloud Computing (MCC)
#### 3.4.3 Vulnerability and Optimisation in MCC  
In the ever-changing and resource-limited environment of mobile devices using cloud services, vulnerabilities can arise due to several factors, including the diversity of operating systems, limited computing capacity, and fluctuating network connectivity. An effective function for distributed firewalls and controllers in MCC is crucial for reducing these security risks. Inadequate access control can allow unauthorised access to personal data, while insufficient encryption mechanisms might expose personal information during transmission. Moreover, inadequate monitoring and detection mechanisms can lead to delayed detection of security breaches, enabling unauthorised access by malicious actors. Limited network visibility and monitoring may further hinder the ability to recognise and mitigate emerging threats [61; 62; 63; 64; 65].  
Optimising MCC involves enhancing both security and performance through efficient distributed firewall and SDN controller function. A robust distributed firewall system is essential for protecting mobile devices and their data within the cloud computing environment. These firewalls should effectively filter and manage network traffic, ensuring that only authorised and secure interactions are permitted. The controller's role is necessary for managing and overseeing the distributed firewall system to provide centralised control and the coordination of security policies, rule enforcement, and traffic management across the network. This facilitates effective oversight and the management of firewall operations, ensuring that security protocols are uniformly implemented and regularly updated.  
Figure 5: Cloud security lifecycle.  
The controllers should continually adapt firewall rules by actively monitoring mobile device activity, assessing network conditions, and evaluating security protocols. It should dynamically adjust firewall configurations and access permissions based on real-time data analysis, threat detection, and user behaviour patterns. This adaptive approach optimises security measures by responding dynamically to emerging threats and network changes. By continuously updating security policies, the firewall system can effectively counteract evolving security risks and ensure robust protection against potential vulnerabilities. This proactive approach enhances the system's responsiveness to changing network dynamics and improves its ability to mitigate security threats in real time.  
Despite the existing solutions, the need for better performance arises from the growing complexity and sophistication of security threats, the increasing demand for seamless and secure mobile cloud experiences, and the continuous evolution of network technologies. By optimising MCC through effectively distributed firewalls and controllers, organisations can achieve improved security, enhanced user experiences, and optimised resource utilisation, ensuring a higher level of protection and performance that meets the evolving demands of the dynamic mobile cloud environment [66; 67; 68; 69; 70; 71].