What best describes the functionality of the Firewall Protection Module?

The functionality of the Firewall Protection Module is best described as allowing only traffic that is explicitly permitted. This reflects a fundamental principle of firewall operation known as default denial or deny-all mode. In this approach, the firewall evaluates incoming and outgoing network traffic based on a set of defined rules. If the traffic matches a rule that permits it, the firewall allows the traffic to pass. If not, the traffic is blocked, hence enhancing network security by ensuring that only authorized communication occurs.

This focus on explicitly permitted traffic aligns with the model of proactively controlling what can and cannot access the network, preventing unauthorized access and potential threats. This strict approach to traffic filtering is crucial in maintaining a secure environment against various network-based attacks.

Other options describe actions or functionalities that do not fully represent the core purpose of a firewall. For instance, blocking all traffic without exception would render the network inoperable, while merely monitoring and logging does not provide any prevention capabilities. Additionally, while connecting to external threat intelligence sources is beneficial for enhancing security posture, it is not a primary function of the Firewall Protection Module itself.