Commonly confused

Firewall vs WAF

A network firewall filters ports and protocols. A WAF inspects HTTP application traffic for web attacks.

Firewall

A firewall acts as a digital barrier, controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It functions by inspecting data packets and deciding whether to allow them through or block them, much like a security guard at a building's entrance..

A firewall is a network security device that monitors and filters incoming and outgoing traffic based on security rules.

Full PathTerms™ definition

WAF

A Web Application Firewall (WAF) is a specialized security tool designed to protect web applications from malicious attacks. It acts as a shield between a web application and the internet, inspecting incoming HTTP traffic for suspicious patterns and blocking harmful requests.

A Web Application Firewall (WAF) protects web applications by filtering malicious HTTP traffic, preventing attacks like SQL injection and XSS.

Full PathTerms™ definition

Why it matters

People mix up Firewall and WAF in exam questions and job posts. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right control, process, or architecture choice.

How to remember the difference

A network firewall filters ports and protocols. A WAF inspects HTTP application traffic for web attacks.

Related exam lists