What is the primary use of a firewall in network security?

The primary purpose of a firewall in network security is to control incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewalls act as a barrier between an internal network and external networks, monitoring and filtering the data packets that travel through them. By setting specific rules and policies, firewalls can allow or deny traffic based on factors such as IP addresses, ports, and protocols. This capability is essential for preventing unauthorized access to the network and protecting sensitive information from potential threats or breaches.

Understanding this role is crucial for any cybersecurity analyst, as effectively managing network traffic is a foundational element of maintaining overall network security. While analyzing data packets, encrypting sensitive information, and managing user access are also important components of security measures, they do not capture the core function of a firewall, which is primarily about creating a controlled entry point for data traffic in and out of a network.