Firewalls
Hackers are constantly trying to launch attacks against computers connected to the Internet. Firewalls are designed to 'hide' your computer when it goes online, thus helping to protect it (and your privacy).Your computer is just one machine among the millions connected to the Internet at any given moment. And a moment is all it takes for a hacker to get in.
Install a good firewall solution
Firewall Frequently
Asked Questions for Home
Users If you already have a non-Microsoft firewall on your computer, you should continue to use it. If you do not have a firewall, then you have a choice. If you want a simple firewall that is very easy to configure, then you should use the Windows XP Internet Connection Firewall. If you want more advanced control over the traffic that passes through your computer, and you also want to block outgoing traffic (that is the traffic from your computer out to the Internet) then choose a personal firewall from another company. 2 . How does Microsoft Windows Firewall, part of Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), compare with third-party host-based firewalls?Obviously, the Windows Firewall installed by XP Service Pack 2 falls short of the standard of protection expected of commercial firewalls. However, true commercial firewalls aside, according to Jeff Fellinge, information security officer at media compnay aQuantive, the Windows Firewall is "...still not as robust as many third-party host-based firewalls (also called 'consumer grade personal firewalls') such as those from Zone Alarm, Symantec and McAfee. The problem is: most of those products will also cost you money (albeit a lot less than the commercial grade firewalls). The built-in Windows Firewall is free. Microsoft recognised that a lot of computer users are going "bare," with no firewall at all. They included the Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) in Windows XP to remedy that situation - never claiming that it was the "best" personal firewall available - and upgraded ICF to the Windows Firewall in SP2. Those who are able and willing to spend money for a more full featured firewall should do so. Meanwhile, the Windows Firewall is a whole lot better than nothing. 3. I have Windows XP. Can I use a firewall other than the built-in Windows XP Internet Connection Firewall?Yes. Windows XP users who want different features in a firewall may use a hardware firewall or a software firewall from another company. The vendors listed below offer firewall products compatible with Windows XP.
8. I have Microsoft Windows XP with the software firewall enabled, so do I need a hardware firewall as well?Yes, if you're on a high-speed Internet connection, it is preferable to have a combination of both software and hardware firewall. ConclusionInstalling a firewall is just the first step toward safer safer surfing on-line. You can continue to improve your computer's security by keeping your software up-to-date and maintaining a current antivirus software subscription. To visit related topics in our Privacy & Security FAQs.
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