What is the function of a firewall in network security?

The function of a firewall in network security is to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. By implementing a set of rules, firewalls act as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. This capability allows organizations to restrict access to sensitive information and resources while allowing legitimate traffic through.

Firewalls inspect data packets passing through and make decisions on whether to allow or block them based on the defined security policies. This helps to prevent unauthorized access, protect against cyber attacks, and ensure that only authorized users can access specific resources. The proactive nature of firewalls in filtering traffic is fundamental to maintaining the overall security posture of a network.

Other choices do not align with the primary function of a firewall. For instance, storing encrypted data securely relates to data storage solutions, antivirus protection deals with identifying and mitigating malware threats, and managing user access permissions pertains to identity and access management protocols rather than the core role of a firewall.