# How do outbound-only reverse tunnels improve security?

Outbound-only reverse tunnels improve security by ensuring that no ports are open to the public internet. Instead of a remote user connecting directly into the network, a secure connector inside the environment initiates an outbound connection to a trusted proxy. This setup effectively hides the network from search engines and scanners, eliminates the vulnerabilities associated with inbound port forwarding, and works seamlessly across network address translation and non-public internet protocol environments. Learn more about the [advantages of an outbound-only network](https://www.agilicus.com/compare/).

For more information, see [Industrial Cyber Security Best Practices](https://www.agilicus.com/white-papers/industrial-cyber-security-best-practices/).