When deploying the Palo Alto Networks NGFW on NSX, what is the order of modules packets go through when coming to an application VM from VMs on different hardware?

In the context of deploying the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) on VMware NSX, the correct option details the flow of packets as they traverse the various network components before reaching the application virtual machine (VM).

When packets are sent from VMs on different hardware to an application VM, they first travel through the physical network infrastructure. This initial stage sets the groundwork for how packets are transmitted across disparate systems. Once packets enter the virtualized environment, they pass through a virtual switch (vSwitch), which handles the intercommunication between virtual machines located within the same network segment.

The order from this point involves security mechanisms that scrutinize traffic for threats or policy compliance. The inclusion of both the NSX firewall and the Palo Alto Networks NGFW into the data pathway showcases the layered approach to security. In this sequence, the packets first encounter the NSX firewall, which applies its security rules. After this initial layer of defense, the packets are directed to the Palo Alto Networks NGFW, which further inspects and filters them based on more advanced features, such as application awareness and threat prevention.

Finally, once the packets have been examined by both security layers, they are routed to the application VM for processing. This comprehensive flow ensures that