A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules). It establishes a barrier between a trusted network and an untrusted network, such as the Internet, and decides whether to allow or block specific traffic based on a defined set of security rules. Firewalls can be hardware, software, software-as-a-service (SaaS), public cloud, or private cloud (virtual) .
Firewalls are categorized as a network-based or a host-based system). Network-based firewalls are positioned between two or more networks, typically between the local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN), and their basic function is to control the flow of data between connected networks). Application firewalls that hook into socket calls are also referred to as host-based firewalls).
Firewalls are necessary parts of any security architecture and take the guesswork out of host-level protections and entrust them to your network security device. They are intended to secure private networks and provide protection against outside cyber attackers by shielding your computer or network from malicious or unnecessary network traffic. Firewalls can also prevent malicious software from accessing a computer or network via the internet.
Overall, firewalls play an important role in preventing cyber attacks, protecting sensitive data, and maintaining the privacy and security of computer systems and networks.
