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Security Fundamentals & Crypto · Foundational

Host-Based Firewall

Software firewall running on an individual endpoint that filters traffic to and from that host.

Definition

Host-based firewalls such as Windows Defender Firewall, iptables/nftables, and macOS Application Firewall protect devices on any network and can restrict lateral movement. They can filter by application as well as port. They complement network firewalls in a defense-in-depth design.

Example

New-NetFirewallRule -DisplayName 'Block SMB' -Direction Inbound -Protocol TCP -LocalPort 445 -Action Block

Exam tip

Host-based firewalls protect laptops off the corporate network and limit east-west spread.

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