firewall

American  

[fahyuhr-wawl] / ˈfaɪərˌwɔl /

Or fire wall

noun

1. a partition made of fireproof material to prevent the spread of a fire from one part of a building or ship to another or to isolate an engine compartment, as on a plane, automobile, etc.

2. a person, thing, or event that acts as a barrier or protection against something undesirable.

   The new employee handbook should create a firewall against unethical business conduct.

3. Digital Technology.  an integrated collection of security measures designed to prevent unauthorized electronic access to a networked computer system.

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firewall British  

noun

1. a fireproof wall or partition used to impede the progress of a fire, as from one room or compartment to another

2. computing a computer system that isolates another computer from the internet in order to prevent unauthorized access

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firewall Scientific  

/ fîr′wôl′ /

1. A software program or hardware device that restricts communication between a private network or computer system and outside networks.

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firewall Cultural  

1. A means of separating a computer network from outside networks for security purposes. A server outside an organization's own network may be used to funnel all incoming and outgoing traffic to assist in keeping out viruses, as well as to prevent unauthorized outsiders from gaining access to a network.

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Etymology

Origin of firewall

An Americanism dating back to 1750–60

Example Sentences

A VPN adds an extra layer of security, especially when working outside a corporate firewall.

From Salon

Ruter said it is addressing the vulnerability by developing firewalls and delaying the signals sent to the vehicles, among other solutions.

From The Wall Street Journal

They contain servers, storage systems and network equipment like routers and firewalls, along with the necessary power and cooling systems to operate them.

From BBC

It was a deviation from standard procedures during a routine firewall upgrade that caused the outage, Optus said after the incident.

From BBC

Her assertions aside, if there had been anything left of the once-strong firewall between the department and the White House – long considered sacrosanct by presidents of both parties – it is now gone.

From BBC