What is the purpose of a Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in network security?

The purpose of a Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in network security is to isolate network elements exposed to external attacks. A DMZ functions as a buffer zone between an internal network and untrusted external networks, such as the internet. It typically contains public-facing services like web servers, email servers, and other applications that need to be accessible from outside the organization's secure network.

By placing these services in a DMZ, the internal network is protected from direct exposure to potentially harmful external traffic. If an attacker compromises a service in the DMZ, they face additional barriers to accessing the internal network, thereby mitigating the risk of a successful attack on more sensitive data or systems. The DMZ effectively compartmentalizes different parts of the network, allowing for increased security controls and monitoring around externally facing services while safeguarding internal resources.