What is the purpose of a firewall in a network?

The purpose of a firewall in a network is to control incoming and outgoing network traffic. This is achieved by establishing a set of security rules that dictate what data can enter or leave the network. Firewalls serve as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet, ensuring that only authorized traffic is allowed through while blocking potentially harmful or unauthorized access attempts.

By analyzing traffic based on predetermined security rules, firewalls help protect the network from threats such as malware, hacking attempts, and data breaches. This functionality is essential for maintaining the integrity and security of networked systems, making it a critical component in any network infrastructure. Through this control of traffic, organizations can better protect their sensitive information and reduce the risk of cyber attacks.

Other options provided do not reflect the primary function of a firewall. Speeding up internet access is more related to bandwidth optimization rather than security measures. Storing data backups relates to data management practices rather than traffic control. Managing user access levels is typically handled by authentication systems rather than the firewall itself, although firewalls may enforce certain access controls based on user profiles.