What is the primary function of a firewall in a network?

The primary function of a firewall in a network is to monitor and control network traffic. Firewalls serve as a security barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. They analyze incoming and outgoing traffic based on predetermined security rules, allowing or blocking data packets based on the defined criteria. This functionality is crucial for protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access to or from the network. By filtering traffic, firewalls help mitigate threats and maintain the integrity of the network, ensuring that only legitimate communications are allowed while suspicious activities are denied.

In contrast, providing wireless connectivity is not the function of a firewall, as it does not facilitate communication methods like Wi-Fi. Recovering lost data pertains to backup and recovery solutions, not firewall functions, while enhancing system speed is more associated with network performance optimizations rather than security measures.