What does a Next Gen firewall combine with traditional firewall functions?

A Next Gen firewall enhances traditional firewall functions by integrating advanced security features, most notably intrusion prevention and deep packet inspection. Unlike a traditional firewall, which primarily focuses on filtering traffic based on predetermined preset rules, a Next Gen firewall actively analyzes the data packets traversing the network.

Intrusion prevention is crucial as it allows the firewall to detect and respond to potential threats in real-time, blocking harmful traffic before it can infiltrate the network. Deep packet inspection goes a step further by examining the contents of data packets, looking for malicious code or anomalies that simple header analysis might miss. This combination of functions enables a more comprehensive defense against sophisticated attacks, ensuring not just perimeter security but also in-depth visibility into the traffic patterns and behaviors within the network. Thus, the integration of these capabilities greatly enhances an organization's security posture in today’s complex threat landscape.