software or hardware that limits certain kinds of access to a computer from a network or other outside source. Commonly used to thwart hackers and limit virus infection.
a link in a network that relays only data packets clearly intended and authorized to reach the other side. Firewalls are helpful in keeping computers safe from intentional hacker attacks and from hardware failures occurring elsewhere. They can be implemented in hardware or software.
Since 2005, a software firewall has been built intoWindows. Software firewalls are also included with many antivirus packages.
metaphor for any strictly enforced legal separation of activities. For example, in a securities firm, underwriting and investment banking activities are separated from the firm's research and brokerage functions by a firewall, to avoid conflicts of interest. The glass-steagall act created a firewall between commercial banking and investment banking until it was eliminated by the financial services modernization act of 1999.
a partition of fireproof material intended to contain an outbreak of fire to a limited area.
Example: Figure 69.a legal barrier in a financial institution to prevent losses in one department from affecting another department.
Example: Figure 70.software or hardware that protects an individual computer or a network from intrusion.
Example: Corporate intranets often include firewalls that protect users from potential damage by computer hackers but also make it difficult for users to access Usenet newsgroups or log onto certain Web sites.
