How can a WAF validate traffic before it reaches a web application?

A Web Application Firewall (WAF) validates traffic before it reaches a web application by using a rule-based filtering technique. This involves inspecting HTTP requests and applying predefined rules to identify and block potentially malicious traffic. The rules are designed to detect common web-based threats and vulnerabilities, ensuring that only safe traffic is allowed to reach the application. By analyzing parts of the HTTP conversation such as GET and POST requests, headers, query strings, and the body of requests, the WAF can effectively prevent data breaches and other attacks by blocking traffic that matches known malicious patterns12345.

References: The function and operation of WAFs are detailed in cybersecurity resources and align with the Certified Network Defender (CND) program’s objectives and documents. These sources explain how WAFs use rule-based filtering to protect web applications from various cyber threats12345.