Which component implements the steering rules when deploying the Palo Alto Networks NGFW on NSX?

The correct answer is that the NSX firewall inside ESXi implements the steering rules when deploying the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) on NSX. In a virtualized environment, especially with NSX, the NSX firewall acts at the hypervisor level, which allows it to inspect and control traffic efficiently before it even reaches the virtual machines.

The NSX firewall is specifically designed to integrate with the NSX architecture, providing an optimal way to apply security policies. It utilizes the concept of distributed firewalls, enabling security rules to be applied at the VM level rather than relying solely on traditional perimeter-based security. This approach ensures that traffic can be dynamically inspected and directed based on defined steering rules, enhancing security while maintaining performance.

This integration is crucial for responses that require quick adaptation to changes in the network environment. By having the firewall directly in the hypervisor, it leverages the NSX infrastructure to enforce policies seamlessly across all workloads, making it an essential component for correct and effective deployment of the Palo Alto Networks NGFW within NSX frameworks.