firewall
/ˈfaɪə.wɔːl/ IELTSAcademic
noun
- 1.
A firewall is a security system that controls traffic between a computer network and the internet. It helps block unwanted access and allows safe data through.
- Our office firewall blocked the suspicious website.
- Turn on the firewall before connecting to public Wi-Fi.
- 2.
In a computer system, a firewall can also be software or hardware that filters network traffic. It is used to protect devices and servers.
- The router has a built-in firewall.
- The server firewall stopped the attack.
Adinary Nuance
A firewall is not the same as an antivirus. A firewall controls network access, while antivirus looks for and removes malicious software. It is also different from a proxy, which can hide or route traffic rather than mainly block it.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tường lửa
- Spanish
- cortafuegos
- Chinese
- 防火墙
- Japanese
- ファイアウォール
- Korean
- 방화벽
Etymology
Firewall first meant a wall that stops fire from spreading. In computing, the word appeared in the late 20th century, because it protects a system in a similar way.
Common phrases
firewall settingsfirewall protectionfirewall softwarefirewall rule
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is firewall a software or hardware term?
- It can be both. Some firewalls are programs, and some are separate devices.
- What is the difference between a firewall and antivirus?
- A firewall controls incoming and outgoing traffic. Antivirus checks for harmful files and software.
- Is firewall common in business writing?
- Yes. It is very common in IT, security, and business writing.