Firewalls operating at which OSI layer can make policy decisions based on the actual content of messages-such as specific URLs or the payload contained inside HTTP requests-rather than only on IP addresses or port numbers?
Firewalls that work at the application layer (layer 7) perform deep packet inspection. They can parse application-specific data like HTTP headers, URLs, and message bodies to allow or block traffic. Firewalls limited to the transport layer (layer 4) evaluate only header information such as IP addresses and TCP/UDP ports, while layers 3 and 2 concern routing and data-link functions and do not examine application content. Therefore, layer 7 is the only layer listed that provides content-aware filtering.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What are the main functions of a Layer 7 firewall?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What is the difference between Layer 7 and Layer 4 firewalls?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are some common threats that Layer 7 firewalls can mitigate?