Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Certified Network Security Administrator (PCNSA) Practice Exam

What is the function of a security policy in Palo Alto Networks firewalls?

1. To define NAT rules

2. To manage device settings

3. To allow or deny traffic based on defined criteria

4. To monitor network performance

The correct answer is: To allow or deny traffic based on defined criteria

The function of a security policy in Palo Alto Networks firewalls is primarily to allow or deny traffic based on defined criteria. Security policies are fundamental components of the firewall that determine how network traffic is handled. These policies evaluate incoming and outgoing packets against specified conditions, such as source and destination IP addresses, application types, users, and data types. When traffic matches the defined criteria of a security policy, the firewall will either permit it or block it, thereby controlling access to and from the network. This dynamic and granular control is crucial for enforcing organizational security requirements, ensuring that only legitimate traffic is allowed while potential threats are mitigated. Through security policies, administrators can tailor the network's security posture to align with business needs and compliance mandates, thus optimizing both protection and usability. Other options like defining NAT rules, managing device settings, or monitoring network performance are separate functions that do not directly pertain to the primary role of security policies. While these functions are essential for overall firewall management and operation, they do not encapsulate the core purpose of a security policy.