What is the function of the user authentication feature in Sophos XG Firewall?

The user authentication feature in Sophos XG Firewall serves the critical function of verifying the identity of users before granting them access to network resources. This process ensures that only authorized individuals can connect to the system and utilize its services, thereby enhancing security by preventing unauthorized access.

When users attempt to access the network, they must provide valid credentials, which are then checked against a list of permitted users. If the credentials are authenticated, the users gain access according to the permissions assigned to them. This functionality is essential in maintaining a secure environment, as it allows organizations to manage user access effectively and protect sensitive information from potential breaches.

In contrast, other choices address different aspects of network security and performance. While encryption is vital for securing data in transit, it does not involve user identification. Monitoring application performance pertains to the analysis of app behavior rather than user access. Blocking unauthorized access attempts is an outcome of effective authentication, but it is not the primary function of the authentication feature itself.