What type of security controls are firewalls considered?

Firewalls are classified as technical controls because they are specific hardware or software solutions designed to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Their primary function is to protect networks by acting as barriers between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. Technical controls encompass a range of security measures that are implemented through technology, which includes not only firewalls but also intrusion detection systems, antivirus software, and encryption technologies.

The classification of firewalls as technical controls underscores their function in an organization's cybersecurity framework, where they serve as gatekeepers that enforce security policies and protect sensitive information from unauthorized access and threats. This distinction is crucial for understanding different layers of security mechanisms that organizations implement to safeguard their digital environments.