Which of the following is a primary function of a firewall?

The primary function of a firewall is to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Firewalls act as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, such as the Internet. By establishing a set of rules, firewalls can effectively prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and ensure that potentially harmful traffic is blocked. This protection is crucial for maintaining the security of an organization's data and preventing attacks such as hacking, malware distribution, and other cyber threats. Firewalls can be implemented as hardware devices, software applications, or a combination of both, allowing for flexible security solutions tailored to specific needs. Why Other Options are Wrong: A) While some firewalls can integrate encryption features, their primary role is not data encryption. B) Monitoring network traffic is a secondary function; the main purpose is to control access. D) Data backup is typically handled by backup systems, not firewalls. E) User account management is managed by identity and access management systems, not firewalls.