What does a 'static route' typically entail in a firewall setup?

A static route in a firewall setup refers to a fixed path for traffic that has been manually configured by the network administrator. This route does not change over time and remains the same unless the administrator modifies it. Static routes are crucial for directing packets to specific networks or destinations based on predetermined routing rules, providing reliability and predictability in network traffic management.

Static routes are often used in scenarios where the network topology is stable or when there are specific routing requirements that cannot be met by dynamic routing protocols. By defining a static route, administrators can ensure that traffic takes the desired path, allowing for improved control over how data flows through the network.

In contrast to dynamic routes, which can adjust automatically based on network changes and conditions, static routes require manual configuration and do not adapt to changes in the network. This makes them ideal for certain applications where controlled and consistent routing is necessary.