---
title: "Great Firewall — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "The Great Firewall is China's system for blocking and monitoring internet content. It's the CED's go-to example of authoritarian media control in Topic 3.7."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/great-firewall"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Comparative Government"
---

# Great Firewall — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

The "Great Firewall" refers to the extensive censorship and surveillance system implemented by the Chinese government to control and restrict access to certain websites, social media platforms, and online content within China.

## Review

### Related Terms

- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A technology that allows users to bypass restrictions imposed by the "Great Firewall" by creating a secure connection to servers located outside of China.
- [Censorship](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/censorship): The practice of controlling or suppressing information, ideas, or artistic expression deemed inappropriate or harmful by those in power.
- Social Media Surveillance: The monitoring of social media platforms for gathering information about individuals' activities, opinions, and potential threats to maintain social control.