An embodiment may include network controller circuitry to be comprised in a host computer that includes a host processor to execute an operating system environment. The circuitry may be coupled to the processor, receive at least one packet via a network, store at least one firewall filter parameter set, and execute, based at least in part upon the parameter set and packet, at least one firewall filter action involving, at least in part, the packet. The action may implement, at least in part, at least one firewall rule supplied by a firewall application to an interface of a driver associated with the circuitry. The application may be executed, at least in part, in the environment. The circuitry may generate and store the parameter set based at least in part upon at least one command from the driver. The command may be based at least in part upon the rule.