What technology allows for the separation of different network segments to improve security?

The correct response highlights the concept of segmentation as a fundamental practice in network architecture that enhances security by isolating different parts of a network. Segmentation allows administrators to create separate network segments, each with its own security policies and access controls. By doing so, if one segment is compromised, the attacker cannot easily access other segments.

This method can involve using virtual local area networks (VLANs), subnets, or even physical separation of networks. For instance, a financial application and a guest Wi-Fi network can be segmented to ensure that the guest users cannot access sensitive financial data or internal resources, thereby mitigating risks and controlling user access based on defined criteria.

Other technologies such as firewalls and VPNs do play roles in network security but focus more on protecting the network's perimeter or securing communications across insecure channels rather than providing a method for internal network segmentation. Proxies serve to mediate access to the internet and can help monitor traffic or enforce policies, but they do not inherently create a segmented architecture within the network itself.