What is a firewall's primary role?

The primary role of a firewall is to monitor and control network traffic. Firewalls act as a barrier between trusted and untrusted networks by inspecting incoming and outgoing traffic based on predetermined security rules. This function is crucial for protecting networks from unauthorized access, threats, and vulnerabilities. By regulating data packets that enter or leave a network, firewalls help maintain the integrity and security of the internal network, ensuring that only legitimate traffic is allowed through while blocking potential malicious activity.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the fundamental purpose of a firewall. While storing and managing data is essential for various network components, it is not a function performed by firewalls. Enhancing website speed pertains more to content delivery networks or caching solutions rather than firewall operations. Conducting network surveys involves analyzing and mapping out network infrastructure, which is outside the typical scope of a firewall's responsibilities. Thus, the ability of a firewall to control network traffic is critical to maintaining security in any network environment.