What is the primary function of a firewall in information technology?

The primary function of a firewall in information technology is to protect networks from unauthorized access. Firewalls serve as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. They monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. By doing so, firewalls help prevent unauthorized users, hackers, and malicious software from gaining access to sensitive information and resources on a network. This protective capability is essential for maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data, making it a critical security component in any IT infrastructure.

In contrast, enhancing system speed and performance, storing user credentials securely, and managing server configurations, while important aspects of IT management, do not align with the primary role of a firewall. These functions are typically handled by other systems and security measures designed for those specific tasks.