What is a Firewall?
A firewall can be defined as a special type of network security device or a software
program that monitors and filters incoming and outgoing network traffic based
on a defined set of security rules. It acts as a barrier between internal private
networks and external sources (such as the public Internet).
Firewall: Hardware or Software
A hardware firewall is a physical device that attaches between a computer
network and a gateway. For example, a broadband router. On the other hand, a
software firewall is a simple program installed on a computer that works through
port numbers and other installed software.
Functions of Firewall
As stated above, the firewall works as a gatekeeper. It analyzes every attempt
coming to gain access to our operating system and prevents traffic from
unwanted or non-recognized sources.
Since the firewall acts as a barrier or filter between the computer system and
other networks (i.e., the public Internet), we can consider it as a traffic controller.
Therefore, a firewall's primary function is to secure our network and information
by controlling network traffic, preventing unwanted incoming network traffic,
and validating access by assessing network traffic for malicious things such as
hackers and malware.
Importance functions of firewall
o Network Threat Prevention
o Application and Identity-Based Control
o Hybrid Cloud Support
o Scalable Performance
o Network Traffic Management and Control
o Access Validation
o Record and Report on Events