Do I need a firewall?

[Str8UpKiller]

I hear tons of people swear by them. I don't even know that much about them and have never had one before. I've been on a static IP for about 2 years and many people tell me I should get one to help secure my computer. I don't have file sharing on or anything so what can someone possible do? I don't open any attachments or run any macro's without knowing exactly what they are first. Wouldn't a firewall just hog system resources and actually SLOW down your connection due to the constant monitoring of traffic to and from the computer? Also are they hard to setup? Thanks for helping a newbie out.

 

[IBhacknU]

<< Wouldn't a firewall just hog system resources and actually SLOW down your connection due to the >>


I don't think a good firewall does this.

I got a bunch of info on firewalls from here. Check it out, I think you'll find it helpful!

 

[Ulfwald]

If you can locate an old 486 machine, you can youse the Freesco router/firewall found here, I am trying to set it up now, and everyone I talk to says it is excellent, easy to set up.

Freesco Router

 

[Pepsi90919]

I use the free version of ZoneAlarm for my cable connection. I used it while I was on dialup too.

And no, it doesn't slow a thing down. It's useful to see what connects when too.

 

[Str8UpKiller]

Thanks for the links. I think I'll try out Zonealarm and see how it works!

 

[bigbootydaddy]

so if you dont have certain options on like file sharing,ipx,and netbeui is it stil necessary

 

[nateholtrop]

Get a firewall fiewalls rule! I swear my fake id on them!!


Nate

 

[Batti]

bigbootydaddy, there are dozens of open ports besides those on an out-of-the-box Windows system. You really should use something like ZoneAlarm or a Linksys-type router if you have multiple PC's.

 

[Wangel]

I use Blackice. Rated number one by hackers and pirates. Here is their web site for info. It isn't that expensive!

Blackice Web Site Click Here

 

[Str8UpKiller]

So if you don't have more then one pc you don't think its worth getting one?

 

[Pepsi90919]

It's free and small. Just get it already.

 

[Shuxclams]

Linux IPMASQ.



SHUX

 

[Susan]

I use ZoneAlarm for my cable internet and I must say that I find it quite useful. It alerts me more often to the fact that MYcomputer is seeking another.

Upon first installing Windows Me, isn't it strange that I realized that IE was trying to connect to another...