What does SSL Decryption enable in PAN firewalls?

SSL Decryption enhances the ability of Palo Alto Networks firewalls to monitor and analyze encrypted traffic, which is crucial for effective security management. When SSL Decryption is enabled, the firewall can identify and inspect the data contained within encrypted streams, allowing it to detect potential threats hiding within the encryption. This is particularly important since a significant amount of internet traffic is encrypted, making it a common vector for malware and other illicit activities. By decrypting this traffic, the firewall can apply the same security policies and protections it uses for unencrypted traffic, thus maintaining the integrity and security of the network.

The option that states blocking all encrypted traffic without inspection does not enable the firewall's security capabilities since it would prevent the analysis of potentially harmful data. Improved performance of non-encrypted traffic while significant is not a direct function of SSL Decryption, as this feature primarily focuses on security rather than performance enhancements. Lastly, the option regarding the encryption of outgoing traffic is unrelated to the decryption function, as SSL Decryption pertains to inspecting, rather than encrypting, traffic flows. Therefore, the correct choice emphasizes the core benefit of SSL Decryption: enabling thorough visibility into encrypted traffic for security inspection.