What is one primary benefit of using a firewall?

A primary benefit of using a firewall is that it monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewalls act as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. They analyze packets of data based on predefined security rules, allowing administrators to define what traffic should be permitted and what should be blocked. This capability is essential for preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information and protecting against various cyber threats, such as malware and hacking attempts. By effectively managing network traffic, firewalls help maintain the integrity and security of the network environment, which is crucial for organizations relying on digital communications and data exchange.

Increasing internet speed is not a function of firewalls, as their primary role involves traffic management and security rather than performance enhancement. While firewalls can prevent unwanted traffic that may degrade performance, they do not directly increase the speed of internet access. Similarly, firewalls do not block all internet traffic; rather, they selectively allow or deny traffic based on the established rules. Lastly, while firewalls contribute to overall network security, they do not replace antivirus software, which serves a different purpose in detecting and neutralizing malware on devices. Firewalls and antivirus programs work together to create a comprehensive security strategy.