In what way does a firewall enhance network security?

A firewall enhances network security primarily by filtering network traffic based on rules. It acts as a security system that controls what data packets can enter or leave a network based on predetermined security rules. This filtering process involves evaluating incoming and outgoing traffic against a set of rules that specify which types of traffic are allowed or blocked. By effectively managing this flow of data, a firewall helps protect a network from unauthorized access, malware, and other potential threats.

This capability is crucial for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the information within a network, as it prevents harmful traffic from infiltrating and potentially compromising sensitive data. The rules can be tailored to meet specific security requirements, enabling organizations to enforce policies that align with their unique risk profiles.

The other options do not capture this primary function of a firewall effectively. For instance, increasing internet speed is not a role of a firewall; in fact, the additional processing required for filtering may slightly impact speed, though the security benefits vastly outweigh this. Providing physical barriers relates more to physical security measures than to what a firewall accomplishes in a digital context. Encrypting data transmissions is a function of encryption technologies, not firewalls, which focus on traffic management rather than securing the data content itself.