What device applies rules to HTTP conversations to protect against common attacks like SQL injection?

A Web Application Firewall (WAF) is specifically designed to monitor, filter, and protect HTTP conversations between web applications and users. It applies a set of customizable rules to identify and mitigate common application-layer attacks, such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and other vulnerabilities.

When web applications are exposed to the internet, they become potential targets for various attacks that exploit flaws in the application code or logic. A WAF analyzes incoming traffic and can block malicious requests while allowing legitimate requests to pass through. This proactive approach is crucial because traditional firewalls typically focus on network and transport layers, which do not account for threats at the application level.

In contrast, an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) primarily monitors network or system activities for malicious actions, but it does not directly intervene in the HTTP request/response process like a WAF. A Network Firewall operates at a lower level in the OSI model, dealing primarily with packet filtering and does not have the capability to understand application-specific threats. Content Filtering Systems can restrict or control content accessed by users but lack the in-depth inspection necessary to defend against targeted application attacks like SQL injection.

Therefore, a Web Application Firewall is essential for protecting web applications from sophisticated attacks that specifically target vulnerabilities in