What is the primary purpose of a firewall?

What is the primary purpose of a firewall?

• A. To encrypt internet traffic for security
• B. To control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules
• C. To provide high-speed internet access
• D. To manage user authentication across networks

Answer: (B)

The primary purpose of a firewall is to control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. A firewall acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. By establishing a set of rules, firewalls can selectively allow or block traffic, serving as a critical line of defense against unauthorized access and threats. This functionality is essential in maintaining the security and integrity of networks, ensuring that only approved communications are allowed while potentially malicious traffic is denied. This role is fundamental to network security practices, as it helps to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and systems. Firewalls can operate at various levels, such as packet filtering, stateful inspection, or application layer filtering, further enhancing their role in traffic management and security enforcement.

The primary purpose of a firewall is to control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. A firewall acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. By establishing a set of rules, firewalls can selectively allow or block traffic, serving as a critical line of defense against unauthorized access and threats. This functionality is essential in maintaining the security and integrity of networks, ensuring that only approved communications are allowed while potentially malicious traffic is denied.

This role is fundamental to network security practices, as it helps to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and systems. Firewalls can operate at various levels, such as packet filtering, stateful inspection, or application layer filtering, further enhancing their role in traffic management and security enforcement.