Nftables
Save
Nftables, or netfilter, is a framework that provides raw access to the Linux kernel networking layer. It is a dynamic packet filtering and network address translation (NAT) tool, and it is considered the successor to the iptables framework. Nftables provides a number of benefits over iptables, including the ability to create much more complex rulesets, the use of sets and maps to store data, and the ability to use expressions to evaluate conditions.
How Nftables Works
Nftables operates in userspace, where it sets up a database with two main tables: the filter and nat tables. Any inbound or outbound network traffic is matched against these databases continuously. The tables can contain a combination of set and table entries. The firewall evaluates each packet’s characteristics against the rules and system information in these tables to determine whether the packet should be allowed, denied, or altered. The rules in these tables are programmed directly into the Linux kernel, providing significant performance advantages over iptables.
Why Learn Nftables?
There are many reasons why you might want to learn Nftables:
- Nftables is a powerful tool. It can be used to create complex firewall rulesets, perform NAT, and manage traffic shaping.
- Nftables is efficient. It uses a kernel-based approach that makes it very efficient, even when handling large amounts of traffic.
- Nftables is flexible. It can be used to configure a wide variety of networking devices, including routers, switches, and firewalls.
- Nftables is open source. This means that it is free to use and modify.
