firewall

firewall — noun

1. a hardware device or software program that checks data moving between a computer

1.名詞B1
釋義

a hardware device or software program that checks data moving between a computer or network and the internet, blocking anything it decides is dangerous or unauthorised

例句

Amihan installed a firewall on her laptop before using the public Wi-Fi at a café.

real-world scenario: public Wi-Fi safety

The company's firewall blocked an attempt to access its internal files from an unknown address.

passive construction: firewall blocked [attempt]

同義詞
  • security system

    broader term that includes firewalls, antivirus tools, and other protective measures

  • proxy

    a type of server that can act as a firewall by filtering traffic between a network and the internet

用法筆記

The computing sense is by far the most common meaning of 'firewall' in modern English. Learners at B1 level should learn this sense first — it appears frequently in workplace, academic, and general technology contexts.

常見錯誤

❌The firewall blocked the virus from entering my computer.
✅The firewall blocked the unauthorised connection attempt.
💡A firewall controls access and data traffic; it does not directly detect or block viruses. Antivirus software handles that role.

2. a wall made of fire-resistant material that divides a building or vehicle into s

2.名詞B2
釋義

a wall made of fire-resistant material that divides a building or vehicle into sections, so that a fire cannot easily spread from one part to another

例句

The apartment building has a fireproof firewall between each unit to slow any flames.

Building codes require a firewall between the garage and the main house in many countries.

collocation: building codes require a firewall

同義詞
  • fire barrier

    a more general term for any material or structure that stops fire from spreading

  • fire door

    a specific type of fire-rated door, not a wall, but serves a similar purpose

用法筆記

This is the original, physical meaning of 'firewall'. It is much less common than the computing sense but remains standard in construction, architecture, and vehicle-safety contexts.