What is the role of firewall in network security?

Firewalls play a critical role in network security by acting as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. Their primary function is to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Firewalls examine each packet of data passing through them and decide whether to allow or block it based on factors such as source and destination IP addresses, port numbers, and the type of protocol used.

By enforcing these rules, firewalls help prevent unauthorized access to or from the network, protect against various cyber threats such as malware and hacking attempts, and ensure that sensitive data remains secure. They serve as the first line of defense in safeguarding network resources and maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information transmitted over the network. Additionally, firewalls can be configured to log and report suspicious activities, providing valuable insights for network administrators to identify and respond to potential security breaches.