Western Governors University (WGU) ICSC2211 D684 Introduction to Computer Science Practice Test

A firewall's primary function is to control incoming and outgoing network traffic. It acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. By implementing security rules, firewalls can inspect traffic and determine whether to allow or block certain data packets based on predefined criteria. This helps protect networks from unauthorized access, cyber threats, and attacks by filtering harmful traffic while permitting legitimate communications.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe typical firewall functions. While a firewall may influence network performance indirectly by regulating unwanted traffic, its main purpose is not to increase speed. Firewalls also do not store large amounts of data or execute programs, as they focus on monitoring and controlling the flow of data rather than handling it in the same way that a server or data storage system would.