Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET) Practice Exam

What is the main purpose of a firewall in network security?

1. To scan for malware

2. To filter incoming and outgoing traffic

3. To manage user access

4. To encrypt data

The correct answer is: To filter incoming and outgoing traffic

The main purpose of a firewall in network security is to filter incoming and outgoing traffic. A firewall acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. By establishing a set of rules and policies, a firewall monitors and controls the data packets that are allowed in and out of the network. This filtering process helps to prevent unauthorized access, malware exploitation, and data breaches by allowing only legitimate traffic while blocking potentially harmful connections. While other security measures, such as malware scanning, access management, and data encryption, are crucial components of a comprehensive security strategy, they serve different roles. A firewall is specifically designed to manage traffic flow rather than address malware detection, user permissions, or data confidentiality directly. Its effectiveness in controlling network traffic is central to maintaining the integrity and security of the network.