What is the purpose of a firewall in a network?

The purpose of a firewall in a network is primarily to restrict access to data and resources based on predetermined security rules. Firewalls are designed to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic, acting as a barrier between a trusted, secure internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the Internet. By using a set of rules, a firewall can block unauthorized access to sensitive data and prevent malicious traffic from infiltrating a network. This protective measure is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of networked systems and sensitive information.

While enhancing data processing speed, optimizing storage capacity, and facilitating communication between devices are important aspects of network management, they do not align with the specific security function that a firewall serves. Firewalls are focused on safeguarding networks rather than improving performance or facilitating connections among devices.