What device filters network traffic to enhance overall security and performance?

A firewall is a critical device that filters network traffic, playing a significant role in enhancing both overall security and performance. Firewalls operate by establishing a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, such as the Internet. They monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. This filtering capability ensures that only authorized traffic is allowed through, which reduces the risk of cyber threats, unauthorized access, and potential data breaches.

By filtering packets of data, firewalls can effectively block malicious traffic while allowing legitimate communication to flow, thereby improving network performance. They can also provide additional features such as logging, alerting, and intrusion detection, further bolstering network security and operational efficiency.

While endpoints, laptops, and MAC addresses are important components of a network, they do not inherently provide the same level of filtering and security as a firewall. Endpoints and laptops can be targets of attacks themselves and need protection but are not devices designed specifically to filter traffic. MAC addresses are part of the networking protocol that identifies devices on a network but do not function as security measures. Thus, the firewall is the correct answer as it is the dedicated device designed to enhance security and optimize network performance through traffic filtering.