Web Application Firewall

Definition ∞ A Web Application Firewall (WAF) is a security solution that monitors, filters, and blocks HTTP traffic to and from a web application, including those interacting with blockchain services. It protects against common web vulnerabilities like SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and denial-of-service attacks, which could compromise user interfaces or data access. The WAF acts as a protective shield between users and the web application. It enhances the security posture of digital asset platforms.
Context ∞ The discussion around Web Application Firewalls in the crypto space focuses on securing the centralized front-ends that often serve as access points to decentralized protocols. A key debate involves the effectiveness of WAFs against sophisticated, evolving cyber threats and their potential for single points of failure. Critical future developments include integrating AI-driven threat detection and moving towards more decentralized front-end architectures. News frequently reports on security breaches where the absence or inadequacy of WAFs played a role.