A/An ______ is software used to maintain the security of a private network.

Correct option is C

· A firewall is a security system (software or hardware) designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network. By monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules, it helps safeguard a system from threats such as hackers and malicious software. Therefore, among the given options, a firewall is the software used to maintain the security of a private network.
· Malware: Harmful software
· Encryption: Secures data using codes
· Clickbait: Misleading online content