What is the purpose of a firewall in a network?

A firewall serves a crucial role in network security by monitoring and controlling network traffic. Its primary purpose is to act as a barrier between an internal network and external sources, such as the internet. By doing so, it helps to prevent unauthorized access and potential threats from entering the network while allowing legitimate traffic to pass through.

Firewalls can be configured with specific rules and settings that dictate what kind of data is allowed or denied entry. This ability to filter and manage network requests ensures that harmful data such as malware or hacking attempts are blocked. Additionally, firewalls can log data about network traffic, which aids in security monitoring and forensic analysis in case of breaches.

In contrast, options that suggest increasing data transmission speed, providing wireless connectivity, or storing backup data do not align with the primary functionalities of a firewall. These functions are managed by other network devices or systems. Therefore, the choice emphasizing the monitoring and control of network traffic accurately highlights the foundational role of firewalls in maintaining network security.