Description: The mode of operation refers to the configuration of a firewall that determines how it processes traffic. This concept is fundamental in network management, as it defines the rules and policies that the firewall will apply to incoming and outgoing traffic. There are several modes of operation, such as packet filtering mode, where the firewall examines each data packet individually, and stateful inspection mode, which keeps track of the state of connections and allows for more informed decisions about traffic. Additionally, some firewalls operate in proxy mode, acting as intermediaries between users and the services they are trying to access, providing an extra layer of security. Choosing the right mode of operation is crucial for ensuring network security, as each mode has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of performance and security level. Therefore, understanding how each mode works and its implications is essential for network administrators looking to protect their systems from external threats.
