What action helps ensure that private network addresses remain hidden from the internet?

Implementing a DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a strategic approach in network security that helps to ensure that private network addresses remain hidden from the internet. A DMZ acts as a buffer zone between a trusted internal network and an untrusted external network, often the internet. By placing public-facing servers (like web servers) in the DMZ, organizations can manage and control the traffic that comes into contact with their private network.

When a DMZ is used, external users access resources that are intentionally exposed in the DMZ, while the internal private addresses are shielded behind firewalls. This configuration allows for better security management because it limits direct access to the internal network, which helps to protect sensitive internal IP addresses from being visible or accessible from the internet.

The other options do not effectively achieve the primary goal of hiding private network addresses. Strong passwords enhance individual account security but do not conceal network addresses. Disabling all external communications would limit the functionality of the network significantly and is impractical for most organizations. Regularly updating software is crucial for security maintenance but does not pertain directly to hiding network addresses from external access. Thus, the design choice of implementing a DMZ is the most appropriate and effective means of achieving the goal of protecting