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

What is the name of the device used to secure a network's perimeter?

1. Switch

2. Hub

3. Modem

4. Firewall

The correct answer is: Firewall

The device used to secure a network's perimeter is known as a firewall. A firewall acts as a security barrier that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. By examining data packets sent to and from a network, firewalls can prevent unauthorized access while allowing legitimate traffic. This makes it an essential component for safeguarding networks against threats such as hackers, malware, and other cyber attacks. In contrast, switches and hubs primarily focus on facilitating communication within a network rather than securing it. A switch directs data traffic within a local area network (LAN) by determining the best path for data transfer, while a hub is a basic device that connects multiple Ethernet devices, making them behave as a single network segment. A modem, on the other hand, is used to connect a network to the Internet and modulate the signal for transmission but does not provide the security features that a firewall does. Therefore, while all the devices mentioned play roles in networking, only the firewall is specifically designed for perimeter security.