what is a firewall

A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet, by filtering and blocking unauthorized or malicious traffic. Firewalls help to protect networks from cyber threats, such as malware, viruses, and unauthorized access, and help to safeguard the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data.