Windows XP - Choosing a Firewall...

[Lyte]

Windows Firewall (Windows Vista and Windows XP Service Pack 2 only)
If you use Windows Vista or Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), you have a firewall built in and turned on by default.

To learn more about the Windows Firewall that comes with Windows Vista and Windows XP SP2, read Understanding Windows Firewall.

Tip: If you haven't downloaded Service Pack 2, visit our Protect Your PC section to learn how to get it.

If you are using Windows XP and you choose not to download Service Pack 2, you'll still have access to the Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) that's built into Windows XP, but you'll need to turn it on.

Note: The Windows Firewall and the Internet Connection Firewall are not available as a stand-alone package. They are also not available for other operating systems (for example, Apple Macintosh or Linux) or for versions of Windows other than Windows Vista and Windows XP.

Software Firewalls
Software firewalls are a good choice for single computers, and they work well with Windows 98, Windows Me, and Windows 2000. (Windows Vista and Windows XP has a built-in firewall, so an additional firewall is not necessary.)

Pros

• Does not require additional hardware.
• Does not require additional computer wiring.
• A good option for single computers.

Cons

• Additional cost: Most software firewalls cost money.
• Installation and configuration might be required to get started.
• One copy is typically required for each computer.

Hardware Routers
Hardware routers are a good choice for home networks that will connect to the Internet.

Pros

• Hardware routers usually have at least four network ports to connect multiple computers together.
• Provide firewall protection for multiple computers.

Cons

• Require wiring, which can clutter your desktop area.

Wireless routers
If you have or are planning to use a wireless network, you will need a wireless router.

Pros

• Wireless routers allow you to connect computers, portable computers, personal desk assistants, and printers without using wiring.
• Wireless routers are excellent for connecting notebook computers to the Internet and networks.

Cons

• Wireless devices broadcast information using radio signals that can be intercepted by someone outside of your home (with the right equipment).
• You might have to pay for extra equipment.
• Not all wireless routers come equipped with a built-in firewall, so you might have to purchase one separately.

Start using a firewall today! Connecting to the Internet can create dangers for the unaware computer user. Using a firewall can help reduce your risk.

Installing a firewall is just the first step toward safe surfing online. You can continue to improve your computer's security by keeping your software up to date, using antivirus software, and using antispyware software.

[crafterz]

Wireless devices broadcast information using radio signals that can be intercepted by someone outside of your home (with the right equipment).

Theres always WEP keys and other things to protect you.

[Lyte]

Originally Posted by crafterz

Theres always WEP keys and other things to protect you.

Can you provide more info on that? Maybe add (to this thread) an additional lil tutorial regarding WEP keys?

Lyte

[crafterz]

a WEP key, is an encrypted key that protects a wireless signal, its usually set when you set up the signal, most software will walk you through it. Then, andyone picking up the signal will have to enter the WEP key to gain access to it. I believe its a 16 number Hexidecimal Key.

[Lyte]

Kewl, so it's like part of the software that comes with the wireless router??

Lyte

[crafterz]

Well, the drivers..let me give an example.

I have linksys, the drivers i installed on my computer came with software to let me see all the wirless signals in my area. It tells me which are protected. Mine is protected. The first time i accessed it, i have to enter in a WEP key to gain access to it.

Its basically protection from people breaking into your system, you can encode any signal for the wireless router with a WEP key, i THINK. But, i think most software for the router come with instuructions for them anyways.

[Lyte]

Good to know! I'm hoping to get wireless with my laptop soon and definately need my data protected!

Thanks!

Lyte

[firestorm]

It's more than just your data, what some hackers do is drive around looking for hotspots in a neighborhood. They will then go through your connection to do the dirty work, when their done, they disconnect, and drive away. Leaving you with the trail.

[Lyte]

Originally Posted by firestorm

It's more than just your data....

Yeah... and sometimes they just want free internet.

Lyte

[firestorm]

true dat

[Timmy]

Great tutorial. That really explains some things. I think I will go out and fix up my shoddy firewall right now