In cybersecurity, what is the role of a firewall?

The role of a firewall in cybersecurity is to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. By acting as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, firewalls help protect systems from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and potentially harmful traffic. They can filter traffic based on IP addresses, protocols, and ports, allowing or blocking data packets according to the configured settings. This traffic management is essential for maintaining the security and integrity of networked systems.

In contrast, managing user credentials focuses on identity and access management, while encrypting sensitive data is primarily about protecting data confidentiality. Regular system updates are crucial for maintaining software integrity and security but are not part of a firewall's specific function. Understanding these roles highlights why controlling network traffic is central to a firewall's purpose in a cybersecurity framework.