Information Systems and Computer Applications CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is the primary function of a firewall?

1. To monitor user traffic

2. To prevent unauthorized access

3. To control data traffic

4. To encrypt transmission

The correct answer is: To prevent unauthorized access

A firewall is designed to prevent unauthorized access to a private network or computer system. It acts as a protective barrier between the internal network and external networks, such as the internet. This means that option A, monitoring user traffic, is not the primary function of a firewall. While a firewall does monitor traffic, its main objective is to block any traffic that is not authorized to enter the network. Option C, controlling data traffic, is also incorrect as it implies that the firewall is responsible for regulating the flow of data within the network, whereas its main purpose is to regulate traffic entering or leaving the network. Option D, encrypting transmission, is also not the primary function of a firewall as its main purpose is to control access, not encrypt data. Therefore, the correct answer is option B, preventing unauthorized access.