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Nov 21st, 2008, 10:43am
   Mischel Internet Security Forum
   Internet Security
   Firewalls (Moderators: Helena, Gavin_Coe, Magnus)
   Firewall newbe		 « Previous topic | Next topic »
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Linda
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Firewall newbe
« on: Jan 28th, 2004, 1:48am »		 Quote Quote  Modify Modify
Hello again! Smiley I would like some advice from you people on firewalls. I have winXPHomeSP1. I am now using the built in firewall. In your honest opinion, what kind of firewall is good for a not to savvy computer person like myself? I have looked at alot of them, but don't know which one is good for me. BTW, I am a proud owner or TH. I love it!  Thank You-Linda
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Walter
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Re: Firewall newbe
« Reply #1 on: Jan 28th, 2004, 4:07am »		 Quote Quote  Modify Modify
Hi Linda,
 
When it comes to firewalls and anti-virus programs it can get confusing. I am not familiar with the built-in firewall that comes with Win XP. I take it you feel you need better protection? If you do find another one you like, I guess it is no problem to disconnect from that one, so that there are no conflicts between the two?
 
There are quite a few firewalls out there & most of them have their strong supporters. The best thing to do, IMO, is have an idea in your mind what you are looking for, then see which one best seems to fit your criteria.
 
For example, when I started learning about firewalls I decided I wanted one that was a. easy to use, b. did not use a lot of my computer memory (RAM), c. had a good rating (offered good protection), and--maybe most importantly--d. "played well" with the other software programs on my computer.  
 
So, if you decide you really want another firewall, I strongly suggest you trying it out, like using a "trial" version of one (if possible), before purchasing.
 
At the moment, I'm using OutPost (OP), free version. I like it, but I feel I've finally learned enough about firewalls so I'm thinking of either "upgrading" to the paid OP version, or possibly buying (after a trial period) 1. 8Signs or 2. Zone Alarm Pro, or 3. Look 'n' Stop; I think all 3 allow a 30 day trial period.  
 
If you have not yet done so, I would suggest reading these threads, found here in this Firewall forum:
--"for beginners with firewalls,"
--"firewall links," and
--"Firewall Choice for Educational Users."
 
Also, if you have not yet done so, I would suggest reading this firewall link, found at Wilders:
http://www.wilders.org/firewalls.htm
 
You might have to simply download & install & try out one or two, to see which one you like best. IMO, I think a good one to begin learning with is the Zone Alarm (ZA) "free" version.  
 
There are several others available I believe that are also free for personal (not business) use.
 
[Not knowing your knowledge level, these threads & the Wilders link might be too basic for you Or you might have already read them?]  
 
Post back here if you have more questions. As with most matters of internet security, there are quite a number of knowledgeable folks here.   Smiley
 
Maybe some others will chime in with their opinions, too.  Wink
« Last Edit: Jan 28th, 2004, 4:35am by Walter » IP Logged
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Re: Firewall newbe
« Reply #2 on: Jan 28th, 2004, 10:24am »		 Quote Quote  Modify Modify
Zone Alarm has a Free Firewall, it also can be upgraded to Zone Alarm Plus or Zone Alarm Pro depending upon your experience or needs.  Zone Alarm Programs are application and component based, which is easier for newbies.  A debatable point is the WinXp firewall which has no outbound protection, which some feel is necessary.
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mozar
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Re: Firewall newbe
« Reply #3 on: Jan 28th, 2004, 10:37am »		 Quote Quote  Modify Modify
   Hello  ,  Linda
 
    First  , I  agree  completely  with Walter  orientation - read and test .
 
    My  contribution , concerning  your  case .
 
   If  youl'll  pay  for  a  software  FW  , during  your  30 days  trial  period send  to  the  developer  an  e-mail  with  a concrete  question  about  their   FW , try it three times .
  If  you  do not receive  any  answer  go  to another  FW .
 
   I've  tried  all  software firewalls  ( only BitGuard I didn't )and , one time , I had  three or  four  simultaneous valid licenses .Why ? Because  I  was so  irritated  with  the absolute  lack  of  support  that  I  simply  abandoned  the  FW  I  was  using  and  install  and registered another one and  ... it  happened  again .  
 
   You  have to  receive  profissional support  ,  Linda  .
 
   Don not   accept  no  answers  or  machine  answers .
 
 
        Regards ,
 
                           mozar
 
P.S. : I  use XP but never activated its FW , but  one thing I can say about  its LOG  : it is the worst I've ever seen ( saw some screens time ago ) .
   In  my opinion  , the  FW's  LOG  is  an  essential  tool .
 
 
 
 
« Last Edit: Jan 28th, 2004, 1:05pm by mozar » IP Logged
Linda
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Re: Firewall newbe
« Reply #4 on: Jan 29th, 2004, 12:28am »		 Quote Quote  Modify Modify
Thank You, You all have been very helpful! Smiley
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