What is the main function of a firewall in network security?

The main function of a firewall in network security is to monitor and control network traffic. Firewalls act as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. They enforce security policies by allowing or blocking data packets based on predetermined rules. This helps prevent unauthorized access and potential threats from entering the network.

Firewalls can inspect incoming and outgoing traffic, making decisions based on various factors such as source and destination addresses, protocols, and port numbers. This capability enables organizations to protect sensitive information and maintain the integrity of their networks against various cyber threats, such as hackers and malware.

While antivirus protection, data backups, and encryption are all critical components of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, they serve different purposes. Antivirus software is designed to detect and remove malicious software, data backup solutions are intended to create redundant copies of data to prevent loss, and encryption is used to secure data so that only authorized users can access it. However, none of these functions replace the essential role that a firewall plays in managing and securing network traffic.