What is a characteristic of internal bastion hosts in terms of network communication?

Internal bastion hosts primarily act as intermediaries or gateways for communication within a secured internal network. Their main role is to enhance security by serving as a controlled point where internal systems can connect and communicate safely. By facilitating communication within the internal network, these hosts can effectively manage and monitor traffic, restrict access to sensitive data, and isolate threats before they spread.

This characteristic is crucial as it allows for segmented communication in a way that reduces the risk of internal attacks and vulnerabilities. Internal bastion hosts might also interact with external networks, but their primary focus is on maintaining secure internal communications. The option describing the requirement for direct internet access implies unnecessary exposure to external threats, which conflicts with the bastion host's role in ensuring security and controlled connectivity.