What role does a firewall serve in a network?

A firewall plays a crucial role in monitoring and controlling network traffic, which is essential for maintaining security within a network. It acts as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. By analyzing incoming and outgoing data packets based on predefined security rules, a firewall can permit or block traffic accordingly, helping to protect the network from unauthorized access, potential threats, and malicious activities.

Additionally, firewalls can log traffic, providing valuable insights into network activity that can assist in identifying trends and potential security incidents. This functionality is critical for organizations that need to maintain data integrity, protect sensitive information, and comply with regulatory requirements.

In contrast, boosting internet speed, defining network topology, and assigning IP addresses do not fall within the primary functions of a firewall. These tasks are typically handled by other network devices and protocols, highlighting the specialized role that firewalls play in network security and traffic management.