Firewall
A firewall is a network security system that acts as a barrier between a trusted network (like a private network) and an untrusted network (like the internet) to control incoming and outgoing traffic. It works by monitoring and filtering data based on predefined security rules, allowing legitimate traffic while blocking potentially harmful connections to prevent unauthorized access and other threats.
How it works
Acts as a security guard: Think of a firewall as a security guard at the entrance of a network. It checks the "ID" (data packets) of everything trying to enter or exit and decides whether to allow or block it based on a set of rules.
Uses security rules: These rules can be based on various factors like IP addresses, ports, protocols, and keywords to determine if traffic is safe or suspicious.
Filters traffic: Firewalls filter traffic, monitoring both incoming and outgoing data. They can block malicious patterns or prevent sensitive data from leaving the network.