GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies Practice Test

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a firewall?

1. To enhance application performance

2. To allow unrestricted access to the internet

3. To monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic

4. To provide secure file storage

The correct answer is: To monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic

The purpose of a firewall is primarily to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Firewalls are a critical component in network security as they act as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the Internet. By regulating traffic, firewalls can prevent unauthorized access to networks and resources, mitigate various types of attacks, and enforce security policies. This functionality is central to maintaining the integrity and security of a network. Other choices do not align with the fundamental role of firewalls. Enhancing application performance is more related to load balancing or optimizing network configurations rather than the primary function of a firewall. Allowing unrestricted access to the internet contradicts the firewall's purpose of controlling and restricting access. Lastly, providing secure file storage pertains more to data management solutions rather than the network traffic management performed by firewalls.