What is a primary characteristic of a firewall?

A primary characteristic of a firewall is that it provides a certain fire-resistance period. This means it is designed to withstand fire for a specified duration, which helps prevent the spread of fire between different sections of a building. By containing a fire within a certain area, firewalls play a crucial role in safeguarding lives and property by delaying the progression of the fire and providing occupants with more time to evacuate or for firefighters to arrive.

Firewalls are typically constructed using materials that are capable of resisting high temperatures and are subjected to rigorous testing to ensure they meet safety standards. This feature is fundamental in both commercial and residential buildings, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. The other options presented do not accurately represent the function or purpose of a firewall, emphasizing the importance of understanding its fire-resistance capability.