As networks grow and become more connected to the internet, protecting them from threats becomes essential. In IB Computer Science, this protection is explained using firewalls. Students are expected to understand what a firewall is, what it does, and the difference between hardware and software firewalls.
Firewalls are a key part of network security questions and are often assessed in scenario-based explanations.
What Is a Firewall?
A firewall is a security system that:
- Monitors network traffic
- Controls what data is allowed to enter or leave a network
- Blocks unauthorised or suspicious activity
Firewalls work by applying a set of rules to network traffic. These rules decide whether data packets are:
- Allowed through
- Blocked
- Logged for monitoring
In IB Computer Science, firewalls are described as a barrier between trusted and untrusted networks.
Why Firewalls Are Needed
Firewalls are used to:
- Prevent unauthorised access
- Protect sensitive data
- Reduce the risk of attacks
- Control network traffic
Without a firewall, a network connected to the internet would be exposed to:
- Malware
- Hacking attempts
- Data theft
Firewalls are one of the first lines of defence in network security.
