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

Which of the following is a core feature of next-generation firewalls?

1. Static packet filtering

2. Application awareness

3. Session management

4. Network address translation

The correct answer is: Application awareness

Next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) are designed to provide advanced security features beyond traditional firewalls. Application awareness is a core feature of NGFWs as it enables the firewall to identify and control applications regardless of the port used for communication. This capability allows organizations to enforce policies based on applications, thereby providing deeper visibility and better control over network traffic. With application awareness, the firewall can distinguish between different applications and apply varying security rules, which enhances the overall security posture by allowing or blocking traffic based on the specific risks associated with particular applications. This feature aligns with the increasing complexity of network traffic and the growing use of applications in enterprise environments, making it an essential component of modern cybersecurity strategies. By focusing on the applications themselves rather than just the ports or protocols they use, next-generation firewalls can better protect against sophisticated threats and ensure compliance with organizational policies.