Technology
What is A firewall?
A firewall is a security system that monitors and controls what data is allowed in and out of a network or device. Acting like a guard at a gate, it blocks suspicious or unauthorized traffic while letting safe traffic through.
See it, don’t just read it.
Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains a firewall.
Key things to understand
- 1It controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.
- 2It blocks unauthorized or suspicious connections.
- 3It can be hardware, software, or both.
- 4It's a first line of defense in cybersecurity.
Frequently asked questions
- What does a firewall do?
- It monitors network traffic and blocks unauthorized or dangerous connections while allowing safe ones.
- What's the difference between hardware and software firewalls?
- Hardware firewalls protect whole networks at the gateway; software firewalls run on individual devices.
- Do I need a firewall?
- Yes — firewalls are a basic, essential layer of protection against online threats.