What is the main goal of implementing a firewall in a network?

The main goal of implementing a firewall in a network is to filter incoming and outgoing network traffic. Firewalls serve as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. They analyze traffic based on predetermined security rules and policies, allowing or blocking data packets to regulate the communication that can occur within the network.

This traffic filtering is crucial for protecting sensitive information and preventing potential threats from reaching internal systems. By controlling which types of data can enter or leave the network, firewalls help mitigate risks, such as unauthorized access, data breaches, and malicious attacks.

In the context of the other options, enhancing the physical security of devices relates more to physical security measures, secure storage for data does not pertain to traffic management, and preventing unauthorized software installations is more aligned with endpoint security rather than the primary function of a firewall. Thus, the essence of firewall implementation revolves around effective traffic management to secure the network's integrity.