What is the primary focus of requirement 1 in PCI DSS?

The primary focus of requirement 1 in PCI DSS is the installation and maintenance of a firewall configuration to protect cardholder data. This requirement is essential because firewalls are critical components in securing network boundaries and controlling traffic between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks. By establishing robust firewall configurations, organizations can prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive payment information from potential threats.

Maintaining a proper firewall setup is a foundational aspect of network security in the context of PCI DSS. It ensures that only legitimate traffic can reach cardholder data environments, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches that could expose sensitive information. This control is the first line of defense against potential attacks and supports the overall security architecture mandated by PCI DSS requirements.

While auditing, encryption, and the adoption of a zero-trust model are significant components of a comprehensive security strategy, they do not specifically address the core intent of requirement 1, which is solely focused on the firewall's role in protecting cardholder data.